August 20

Morning

These are the last words of David: “The oracle of David son of Jesse, the oracle of the man raised on high, the one anointed by the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel: — 2 Sam 23:1 BSB

Among the saints recorded in Scripture, David stands out with one of the most varied and instructive experiences. His trials and temptations are more diverse and numerous than most, making him a rich source of spiritual insight and an excellent type of Christ.

David experienced the trials of every rank and condition of life. He knew the burdens of royalty, having worn a crown. He understood the cares of the common man, having once held a shepherd’s staff. He knew the hardships of a wanderer, having hidden in the caves of Engedi. He dealt with the challenges of leadership, and even found that his own soldiers, the sons of Zeruiah, were difficult to manage.

David also experienced betrayal from close friends. Ahithophel, his trusted counselor, turned against him. He was wounded by his own household, with his children becoming his greatest source of sorrow.

Throughout his life, David was tested by both poverty and wealth, by honor and disgrace, by health and sickness. External temptations disturbed his peace, while internal struggles marred his joy. No sooner did he escape one trial than he would find himself in another. From the heights of triumph to the depths of despair, David’s life was a constant cycle of trials and deliverance.

Perhaps it’s because of this wide range of experiences that David’s psalms resonate so deeply with Christians today. Whatever state we find ourselves in—whether joyful or sorrowful—David’s psalms often capture the exact emotions we feel. His insight into the human heart comes from being taught in the school of personal experience. As we walk the same path of trial and growth, David’s psalms become “green pastures” for our souls. Let his example guide and encourage you today.

Evening

Next to them, Uzziel son of Harhaiah, one of the goldsmiths, made repairs, and next to him, Hananiah son of the perfumer made repairs. They fortified Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. — Neh 3:8 BSB

Jerusalem’s walls were broad and strong in its glory days, providing safety and distinction for its inhabitants. Similarly, the New Jerusalem—the Church—must be surrounded and protected by a broad wall of separation from the world. Yet, in these days, there’s a tendency to break down this sacred barrier, blurring the lines between the Church and the world. Many who profess faith are no longer strict in their holiness, and worldly influences are creeping in everywhere—through literature, entertainment, and general lifestyle. As the Church begins to resemble the world, the danger grows that the sons of God and the daughters of men will become indistinguishable. When that day comes, another flood of divine judgment may be imminent.

Beloved, let it be your aim to maintain the wall of separation. In your heart, words, actions, and even dress, strive to be distinct from the world, remembering that friendship with the world is enmity with God.

In Jerusalem, the city wall was also a place of retreat where people could look out upon the surrounding countryside. This reminds us of the Lord’s commandments, which give us freedom as we walk with Him. Even as we separate ourselves from the world and deny ungodliness, we are not confined or restricted. On the contrary, we walk in true liberty when we keep His precepts.

So come, dear reader, and meet with God in the way of prayer and meditation. As friends used to meet upon the city walls, meet with your God in these sacred moments. You have the right to walk upon the bulwarks of salvation because you are a citizen of the heavenly city, the New Jerusalem.