Just Lost

    ¹⁴As sheep they are appointed ^(A)for Sheol;
         Death shall be their shepherd;
         And the ^(B)upright shall rule over them in the morning,
         And their form shall be for Sheol^(C)to consume
         So that they have no habitation. 
    ¹⁵But God will ^(D)redeem my soul from the power of Sheol,
         For ^(E)He will receive me. Selah.

This psalm talks to people who thinks their riches can save them from eternal separation.  The psalmist stresses that only those who know God intimately will be redeemed.

Although I don't support them I can see how people like the Pharisees got to the place of self-righteousness.  It's like how sheep lose their way one patch at a time, each generation loses the heard behind certain rules or customs and make it into something of an idol.  For example, I may setup some boundaries in my life preventing my heart from being led astray but then someone takes that and makes it his own, adding to the definition.  Like that communication game, the end result is very different to the original.

This passage reminds me that I need to be compasionate to those who have fallen away.  Some have chosen separation but many have just lost their way and their hearts are captive to lies and temptations.

Father God, help me be strong enough by the power of Your Spirit.  Strong to pray without judging or reservation.  I pray Lord that I may be a vessel You can count on, one that can be sent without hesitation.  Thank You Lord for Michelle and baby! You know my excitement, I pray for health and a spirit worthy of Your calling.  We are so blessed!  Thank You, Daddy, amen!