Thursday, October 8, 2009
The Perfections of God
(Psalm 18:30-34)
David never lost sight of the perfectness of God. Being far beyond the comprehension of man, God seems indescribable in human terms. While none could ever adequately describe the majesty of God’s person, human terms are helpful in understanding God’s character—particularly as He relates to His children.
David employed human terms to express his experience with God. In verse 30, he states that “the word of the Lord is tried”—in other words, God’s word is trustworthy. Those who lean upon it have never found it to fail. He also describes God as a “buckler,” a shield of defense for those under attack. In similar fashion, God is a “rock,” a place of shelter and immovable security (31).
Beyond ascribing human terms to describe God’s character, David demonstrates the practical influence God has on believers who trust in Him. God is the giver of strength when I am weak; and He secures my pathway (32). He enables me to climb through treacherous terrain to heights of glory (33). And He gives me more power than I need to fight battles effectively (34).
For David, God was not an impersonal force dimly viewed and vaguely described. No, for David God was a personal Companion, Helper, Guide, and Friend. You see, God’s character should translate into the practical experiences of His grace as we trust in Him (30). What’s the difference between our experiences and those of David? God hasn’t changed; but maybe it’s a difference in our trust. You see, David knew God because he trusted Him. By learning to trust God, we learn to know Him.
