Psalms 29

The Voice of the Lord

As we sat around the fire pit observing a gorgeous fiery orange sunlit sky, the sphere

that lit up our world was slowly retiring for the night. Above, the evening sky was fading into darkness and sparkling stars began to appear. I thought, “You ARE an amazing God.”

The fire was lit for everyone to enjoy, and as the cool of nightfall emerged it felt nice. The group was conversing quietly as the flames danced in silence as if happy to be warming and comforting us.

From out of the blackness that surrounded us, someone approached and dropped a few large pieces of wood, some kindling followed by a few squirts of fuel onto the gently burning fire. The blaze grew, eventually erupting into something fierce and loud. The flames were no longer dancing but pounding and reaching every which way. Everyone backed away in awe and fear. I listened as the voices of the small crowd grew louder and more forceful. I watched as their expressions became intense, almost vulgar.

This observer could no longer participate in the event. My mind took me back to the Bible, and the frequent reference it makes to God being mighty and powerful. This voice of the Lord that was gentle and peaceful, warming His children became a fiery threat due to disrespect.

Psalms 29; 7-8 “The voice of the Lord strikes with flashes of lightening.  The voice of the Lord shakes the desert.”

Psalms 29: 11 “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.”

As the fire was being treated respectfully, given the proper amount of wood and not violated in any way, it gently warmed the people surrounding it. They felt security and contentment to be in its presence. As too much fuel was added to the fire along with another change agent, it was nearly out of control and became dangerous. The people changed from comfortable to fearful.

The Lord is our strength and our salvation. He cares for us as we respect and follow his word.

As we stray and become lax in our commitment to Him, it’s like adding fuel to a fire that is already perfect.

Psalms 29: 1-2 “Ascribe to the Lord, O mighty ones,

Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.

Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;

Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.”

Read/Listen to Psalms 29