Maybe it’s just a “guy thing,” but have you ever witnessed a sporting event where the winner shouts in triumph, waving fists in the air? Game winning touchdowns are one example that comes to mind.
Meanwhile, the defensive players shake their heads in disbelief and pitifully walk off the field, heads down and shoulders slouched. This is about the best I can do with Psalm 41 for a cultural analogy.
In ancient days, if your enemy was shouting in triumph over you, it was because you were dead! The battle was lost, it was over. At least in football, you live to play another day.
What about integrity? Can I stand before God and man with a clear conscience? Did I play a fair game? Are my business dealings honest? Can I praise the Lord, no matter what happens? This is what God desires.
I don’t think that God promises that I will “triumph” in everything according to my desires. I won’t win every game, or make millions on every business deal. But I can say that God’s purposes will be accomplished and that God will triumph.
Through it all have I walked in integrity, and can I praise God in all things? Do I depend on the Lord and look to Him, as the baby seal in the picture depends on it’s mother?
Dear Lord, Many times I have fallen short, and have not walked in integrity. I look to you for help and strength, and I praise you in all things. I especially thank you that Jesus walked in integrity, and can offer forgiveness and salvation, which I now accept. Amen.
I hope you have been blessed by Psalm 41 and the accompanying image taken from the Psalm Daily Quotes ESV iPhone app. Please visit our blog, twitter, or Facebook page regularly and pass these posts on to friends that need an encouraging word.
