Rabbi’s Reflections – Monday, March 11, 2024
Shalom,
The Psalms
An Introduction, Psalms 1 and 2
Part 11, Psalm 2:4
Psalm 2:4 He who sits in heaven laughs! Adonai mocks them.
Here is God’s response to the kings of the earth, as they rebel against His authority. In the previous verse we learned of their desire to “cast off restraint” symbolized by chains and ropes. Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no divine vision people cast off restraint, but blessed is the one who keeps Torah. Isn’t it interesting how two people can view identical circumstances so differently? One sees security, while another sees unwanted limitations.
The one who desires more of God views His commandments as security and comfort. Psalm 19:8 The Torah of Adonai is perfect, restoring the soul. The testimony of Adonai is trustworthy, making the simple wise. 9 The precepts of Adonai are right, giving joy to the heart. The mitzvot of Adonai are pure, giving light to the eyes. 10 The fear of Adonai is clean, enduring forever. The judgments of Adonai are true and altogether righteous. 11 They are more desirable than gold, yes, more than much pure gold! They are sweeter than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.
Contrary to that, the unrighteous view God’s commandments as the walls of a prison, a place of restraint. They fight against God in their desire to be free. The flesh is at war against the Spirit. Romans 8:7 For the mindset of the flesh is hostile toward God, for it does not submit itself to the law of God—for it cannot.
The choice is clear. It is a battle between foolishness and wisdom. Proverbs 12:15 A fool’s way is right in his own eyes, but the wise listen to advice. The wise choose to listen to the wisdom of God. Proverbs 9:10a The fear of Adonai is the beginning of wisdom. And one last verse… Jacob(James) 1:5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all without hesitation and without reproach; and it will be given to him. May that be you. Shalom shalom.
Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
1 Adar II Monday 11-Mar-24 Rosh Chodesh Adar II (Day 2)
Exodus 39:2-21 2 Kings 22 Psalm 137 Acts 5 Hebrews 12:15-29