Passage Read: Psalm 136-139
Meditation Verses: 138:2-5
Thought
The psalmist praises the Lord for His love and faithfulness, out of which He has exalted His Name and His Word above all things. So He prays to the Lord for boldness and received it. Then he prays that all the kings of the earth would recognize how great is the Lord's Name and Word, so that they too would rejoice in them, singing the Lord's praises for His wisdom and ways. Why would he need boldness and stout-heartedness? Is he planning to speak of God's Name and Word? Does he fear an unwelcome reception? So he prays for the rulers and all others to receive the Truth with gladness?
Application
In my mind, it seems more likely that people will reject the Word rather than embrace it. So there is a great deal of trepidation in my heart when I think of proclaiming God's Word publicly. Private conversations are one thing, but preaching to strangers outside a church is quite another. But that's what advanced the Gospel more than anything else. I need boldness and stoutness of heart to just do it. Yes, I want people to repent and believe, but nothing will happen if nobody days anything!