Such Enthusiasm

Psalms 7:1 (KJV) [[Shiggaion of David, which he sang unto the LORD, concerning the words of Cush the Benjamite.]] O LORD my God, in thee do I put my trust: save me from all them that persecute me, and deliver me:

(Proverbs 19 also read)

The footnotes and interpretations that are often offered by the editors of our translation can either make me want to punch them or laugh along with them at their creativity.  The NASB here has a footnote by the word “Shiggaion”.  Part of what it says is “wild passionate song.”  At this one I’m afraid I am left a little bit wondering about their interpretation.

I went and looked at the Hebrew in my software and the first thing it said is that the meaning is not really clear.  The word is only used twice in the Bible and neither one has a great explanation.  If you go back to the root word, it means to go astray, or to wander.  I guess I can see where they would take a shot in the dark at the meaning but it would be a little more honest just to share that we don’t know.

So?  Be careful when you read editorial comments about the scripture.  One caution has to do with the fact that every editor has his theological bias.  Be aware of what it is.  Compensate for it.  The other is that they don’t want to admit often that they don’t know.  As much as possible, let the scripture speak for itself. 

Context and Conditions

(Psa 7:10 KJV)  My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart.

(Proverbs 28 also read)

This is a clear promise of God but notice the context and conditions.

The context is one of persecution.  David is going through a rough time.  Enemies are after him.  He does not seem to be sure of victory.  He is calling on God, always a good thing to do.  He is looking at God to preserve him in the bad times.  This is not just the praise of the good times but a call for deliverance.

Equally important is the condition expressed.  God “saves” (3467) [yasha].  Notice that the Hebrew is very close to the Jewish name for Jesus, Yeshua, a form of Joshua.  Notice also that this is not a promise to everyone we calls on God.  It is for the “upright” (3477).  

These two points are important to us as we look at an uncertain future politically and socially.  Unrest is more normal that we think.  We have lived in a bubble of well being.  That is largely because of the upright hearts that have been active in this country.  Those times may be over.  The promise extends to those who are faithful.  It seems to me that we will come through the rough times either untouched or unbroken.

So?  Get upright, whatever that means to you at this point.  Repentance?  Discipline?  Personal growth?  You can fill in the blanks.  God will take care of His end.