Post Lament – Psalm 108
Psalm 108 is a selective composite written/compiled by King David drawing nearly word for word from portions of 2 other songs (Ps 57:7-11) and (Ps 60:5-12). Ps 57 is an individual lament, Ps 60 is a community lament, yet interestingly, Psalm 108 can hardly be categorized as a mournful song, in fact, it has a decidedly triumphant tone with one brief interjection acknowledging prior discipline of the Lord upon the land (11). In this what the compilation process of these songs echoes the course of victory gained by the Messiah in history. Jesus' calling is one of trial unto triumph, suffering & sorrow unto glory! From our vantage point at any given time in history, the promises of God may appear obscured by various trials. The literary process and structure of Ps 108 reminds us that these difficulties will fade, and in the fullness of time only the glorious promises will remain. This course of sovereign history is pictured in communion at the Lord's table as well, while Rev 21:3-4 proclaims as much in ultimate terms stirring our faith to anticipate the glories of the new heavens and new earth. Ps 57 was written while David took refuge in a cave fleeing from the predations of Saul. Psalm 60 was written in the context of an extensive battle campaign seeking to drive back Israel's enemies. Yet the tone of confident victory in Ps 108 rests securely on the authority and renown of David's king. Perhaps Ps 108 reflects the manifold answers to the prayers of David later in His reign as Yahweh had proven Himself faithful to His anointed king time and time again. There is nothing like the testimony of the Messiah's victories manifest in history to quiet and convict the anxious souls and to encourage steadfastness of heart. Let us look to David's source of reassuring confidence...