"Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons, for they had rebelled against the words of God, and spurned the counsel of the Most High." - Psalm 107:10-11
What happens when we rebel against the Word of God, and despise His counsel? This verse describes the result of that decision. We become prisoners of our own sin, are enslaved by it and discover the terrible affliction in body and soul that our rebellion creates,
But it’s more than just coincidence; more than the natural result of our rebellion is involved. God actually takes a hand in this process, because of His love for us:
So He bowed their hearts down with hard labor; they fell down, with none to help.
(verse 12)
By God’s merciful design, we eventually find what a hard taskmaster sin is. We “hit bottom.” We discover our own helplessness.
So what’s the remedy? What is it that God hopes to accomplish with all of this?
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress. (verse 13)
This is what God was working to bring about in our hearts. God doesn’t just say, “You made your bed, now lie in it. I’m done with you.” He answers our prayer.
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart. (verse 14)
Jesus saves and delivers those who come to Him in repentance and faith. Our rebellion comes to an end and Jesus becomes Lord of our life. We are redeemed, forgiven, saved, and set free.
How can we respond to such grace?
Let them thank the Lord for His steadfast love, for His wondrous works to the children of man! For He shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron. - Psalm 107:15-16
Lord Jesus, You are my Savior and my Deliverer. Thank You for Your mercy and grace to me. Keep me close; never let me wander away from You. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles