10
David’s Polar Confessions
Rod Shimabukuro[1]Be gracious to me, O God, for man tramples on me; all day long an attacker oppresses me; [2]my enemies trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly. [3]When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. [4]In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? Psalm 56:1-4
David’s lyrics describes the circle of encountering enemies to a trust in God, having experienced persecution and hardships. He was running for his life from Saul, into seeking refuge from Achish, King of the Philistines. I think this song was a faith posture by David of his desired trust in God. And his vulnerability as one who is afraid, wanting a foreign King - Achish to be his ally. A cave eventually became David’s hiding place.
“When I am afraid” says David. “I shall not be afraid” says David in another breadth. The polar confessions gives me the impression that David was struggling to identify with God. He wasn’t confused, but was holding onto a spirit of faith.
I haven’t been even close to the experiences of David. Yet I can relate to the idea of taking a faith posture when circumstances, people are against me. Or when I’m not experiencing victory. I look for allies in the world. Allies could be like security blankets - sedating the pain of reality. Brokenness is something I’d rather run from than embrace. I don’t need just positive confession, or to change my attitude - I need to spiritually identify, hold onto Who God is, what He says.
Dear Daddie, please help me to believe deeply, that You are for me - especially in times when I am troubled, being troubled, going through troubles!!! :) I confess my weakness to look at and live by circumstances, rather than by Your Spirit and Word. I want to hold onto and live by Your character and Person! I love You Dad, Jesus and Spirit of God!
