THEOSISAugustine of Hippo
As we engaged deeply with the reading of the Psalm, let us remain attentive as the Lord discloses the mysteries that He has chosen to conceal in this text. Some truths in Scripture are intentionally hidden not to be denied, but to be revealed to those who earnestly seek them. Thus, if you approach Him with sincere devotion and pure intentions, He who understands your motives will make Himself known to you. We are all aware (and perhaps regretfully so) of those who grumble about God’s patience, lamenting the existence and influence of wicked individuals. They grieve over the prosperity of the unjust and their dominion over the righteous. In these circumstances, we see the unrighteous exulting while the virtuous endure suffering; the proud thrive while the humble suffer.
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Witnessing these injustices can lead some to despair and question the significance of their goodness, feeling as though God has turned His gaze away from their righteous deeds while assisting those who revel in sin. Ultimately, some may begin to emulate the wicked due to their visible success, not out of love for righteousness, but from fear of societal condemnation. In embracing evil thoughts, they may develop the pernicious notion that God disregards human actions and either treats the righteous and the wicked equally or, even worse, favors the evil while punishing the good. Such a belief, while harming none directly, inflicts the greatest harm upon oneself, which does not diminish God's sovereignty but rather leads to self-destruction.
This Psalm is marked as one of David, addressed on the fourth day of the week. It serves as a lesson in patience during the trials faced by the righteous, urging endurance in the face of ungodly prosperity. This theme of patience is woven throughout the Psalm. Why then is it associated with the fourth day? The first day of the week is the Lord’s Day; the second day is termed for the moon; the third day is named for Mars. Hence, the fourth day is referred to in various ways, including the day of Mercury by many in the Gentile and Christian world. However, I wish such naming would cease, for these terms have different interpretations across cultures, and a language fitting for Christians would better serve to express our faith. If custom leads people to utter names that their hearts reject, let them remember that the celestial bodies existed long before humanity and were only named after historical figures due to their earthly accomplishments, not their eternal significance. This deceptive custom, promoted by the adversary, has been countered by Christ, and thus, we refer to the fourth day as simply that, following the Lord’s Day.
Let us reflect upon the creation narrative in Genesis. On the first day, God created light; on the second, He formed the heavens; on the third, He designated the land and seas. The lights of heaven were established on the fourth day, with the sun governing the day and the moon and stars ruling the night. What significance does this have for the Psalm focusing on patience amidst the successes of the unrighteous and the suffering of the good? The Apostle Paul reminds us to engage in all activities without complaints or arguments, remaining blameless among a corrupt generation, shining as lights in the world while holding fast to the truth (Philippians 2:14-16).
Now, let’s turn to the Psalm itself. The Lord is a God of vengeance; He acts justly (Psalm 93:1). Do you doubt His ability to punish? He is not merely a God of vengeance but also of discipline. We may be tempted to complain about the absence of punishment for the wicked, but take heed, lest you find yourself among the condemned. When you witness a thief go unpunished, do not grumble against the Almighty for allowing such impunity. Instead, if you wish for justice, first examine your own heart and actions. If you desire correction for another, seek to correct your own faults towards both man and God. When you call for God's vengeance, be cautious that you are prepared for His judgment.
For indeed the day will come when He judges those who persist in their wickedness, ungrateful for His mercy and delayed judgment, gathering wrath for the day of reckoning, for He will reward each according to their deeds (Romans 2:4-6). Our refuge is found in our Savior; in Him, all the needy may place their trust. What does this mean? It signifies an unwavering confidence, without fear of indulgence in the corruptions of man. Like a compassionate healer, He has wielded the knife of His message to remove our ailing parts. Just as it was foretold, He fulfilled His role. Consider the weight of His words, as He admonished the scribes and Pharisees: “Woe to you, hypocrites!” For He feared no one, as He was truly a God of righteous judgment. He did not hold back in His words, that they might have a chance for redemption; otherwise, rejection of His healing would lead them to their rightful condemnation.
Who will stand against those who indulge in wickedness? Or who will take a stand for righteousness? They claim that the Lord doesn’t see, that He is unconcerned, that He is occupied elsewhere. These wicked believe their deeds escape His notice, presuming that if they flourish, they must be favored by the Almighty. Wretched are those who think He overlooks their actions; He sees not only their outward deeds but also their hearts, for God is aware that human thoughts are merely vanity. Yet, He who guides the nations and instructs mankind will surely hold them accountable for their ways.
Realize, dear brethren, that we should cherish our suffering, for it produces patience and righteousness within us. “Blessed is the man whom You chasten, O Lord, and teach him Your statutes” (Psalm 92:12). Consider the long-suffering of God who delays judgment until a pit is prepared for the proud. Therefore, do not rush to cast the sinner into judgment; He waits for the perfect time. Patience is necessary; the dreams of the proud cannot escape the coming judgment.
Rejoice, for the Lord shall not abandon His people. There is a promise of mercy for a remnant of the righteous who endure affliction. We are called to remain steadfast, knowing that righteousness shall eventually lead to justice. As the scriptural narrative unfolds, remember that God fosters our growth through trials and tribulations, teaching us through suffering that we may learn grace in the midst of adversity.
So heed these teachings, my brethren, as we strive to pursue righteousness and patience in the face of adversity, fortified by the promise that in time, justice shall prevail, and the kingdom of heaven awaits those who endure with faith.