May 1 –Lifting Up Our Cups

“What shall I render to the Lord For all His benefits toward me? I shall lift up the cup of salvation And call upon the name of the Lord.” – Psalm 116:12-13 (NASB)

The benefits we faith believers receive from the LORD are more numerous than what we can count or list. They are poured out upon His children because He is a merciful God, loving and without change. God needs nothing and puts no price on His free mercy and grace. Although many believe and strive to “be good enough” to earn God’s approval, such acts do nothing to secure their salvation.  The psalmist says something interesting “I shall lift up the cup of salvation.” This is the only place in the Old Testament where this exact phrase is used. It might have the meaning of ‘the cup’ in Psalms 16:5; 23:5; which speak of the circumstances God provides to the redeemed. In contrast may be Psalm 75:8  and the cup of God’s wrath. Drink offerings were part of thank offerings in:  Exodus 29:40-41.  More likely it refers to that part of the sacrifice included with his thank offerings. Both grain and drink both expressed thanks for having received salvation – which delivered them death. The cup is lifted up in praise to the LORD of Hosts.  Others hearing are edified, which is one of the purposes of public praise. 

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April 19 – Knowing His Plan

Simon Peter then, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear; …So Jesus said to Peter, “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?”- John 18:10-11 (NASB)

Things happen and we react. Maybe we’re primed for a response that is not the right response or time to act. When we do, we often learn quickly of our overreach just as Peter does the night Jesus is arrested. Jesus had just gone three torturous rounds in prayer about the cup he was facing. Now Jesus has to ask Peter if he was trying to divert God’s plan. Impetuous Simon Peter, of course—wielding a sword! Peter was no stranger to jumping right in with both feet. He had jumped out of the boat attempting to walk on water to Christ. He had spoken his mind thinking to rebuke Christ. He had offered to lay down his life for Christ and swore he would be true, always. But shortly after stepping up to defend Jesus, fear would grip Peter and he would deny even knowing Him. Our  impatience might push us to interfere with what God had declared, with His  plans. What God has declared; He will do. Let’s learn to put away our figurative swords. Let’s trust God’s plan as we understand it and, wait on His timing. Acting on God’s command is how we serve Him best.

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February 3 – Feasting Without Fear

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” – Psalm 23:5 (ESV)

In this verse the psalmist changes the illustration. Now the example is more about people, not sheep. In this verse the scene is a feast where a gracious host provides lavish hospitality. Under this metaphor the psalmist is rejoicing in the Lord’s provision. What was comforting to David was that this meal was set in the presence of his enemies. Despite the danger looming around him, the Lord spreads out a table for him, once again telling how God provides for him and for us. The image of anointing the head with oil indicates a host who has great appreciation and wants to make his guest feel refreshed.  Oil was soothing and aromatic.  Its scent was extremely pleasant.  This picture corresponds with the concept of a gracious host welcoming someone into his home. In view of the table and the oil, David knew that his lot in life was his cup which God was filling abundantly with His blessings. Our Lord cares about our ‘cup’ which is our life. Cups were important and precious as lives are precious and important to God. He wants to fill ours to overflowing with His grace and mercy and love. 

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