Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

Psalm 112 Devotional

Unafraid of Bad News

“He does not fear bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.”Psalm 112:7 (BSB)

Psalm 112 reads like a companion to Psalm 111. That psalm called the LORD gracious and compassionate (111:4). This one describes the person who fears him with similar words: gracious, compassionate, and righteous (112:4). The one who reveres God begins to resemble him. He lends freely, conducts his affairs with justice (112:5), and scatters gifts to the poor (112:9). Paul quotes that verse when urging generous giving (2 Corinthians 9:9).

The most striking line concerns fear. This person does not dread bad news, because his heart is steady, trusting in the LORD (112:7). The psalm does not promise he will never hear bad news. It says he will not be ruled by fear of it. His security rests not on circumstances, or even on his own goodness, but on the God he trusts, and light dawns for him in the darkness (112:4). A heart anchored in God can face uncertain news without coming loose, and it is free to open its hands to others.

To think about: What news are you afraid of hearing, and what would it look like for your heart to rest on God instead of on the outcome?

About Psalm 112: The Blessed Life of the God-Fearer

A companion alphabetic poem to Psalm 111 describing the person who reveres the LORD and delights in His commands. Such a person is generous to the poor, steady in trouble because he trusts God, and lastingly honored, while the wicked look on in frustration.

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