A Prayer for All Nations, Especially Our Own

Psalm 8:3-4 When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him,
and the son of man that you care for him?

Psalm 9:20 Put them in fear, O Lord!
Let the nations know that they are but men! (ESV)

As I read these words this morning just after reading the morning newspaper, I was struck with a profound awareness of the arrogance of humanity, especially those who are public figures of any stripe. Without naming names or pointing fingers at individuals (which would be unfair because of all those who would be left out), it is safe to say this is a chronic human malady. And, so that you will know, without question I am including myself and others who are “religious leaders.”

Stark Humility (Psalm 8): David considers only God’s creation, not even moving into the vast, infinite regions of all that God is in and of Himself. And with that limited view of only the heavens he is awestruck that the Creator of these things would give one nanosecond of thought to us little humans. And yet, he goes on to point out the place of high honor that the Creator God has given to us.

Demolishing Arrogance (Psalm 9:20): What could be more instructive and rehabilitating than for us all to become fully aware that we are humans. However, that this is exactly what we are and all that we are and all that we ever will be. Yes, nations, there is One Who is infinitely other than us. He is the Eternal, Creator God, before Whom we are mere men.

Selah: Pause & think!