Deaf Cobras, Lying Lions, and Slimy Snails

O. T. #1254  "Deaf Cobras, Lying Lions, and Slimy Snails"
August 2, 2018
Psalm 58
Then at last everyone will say, "There truly is a reward for those who live for God; surely there is a God who judges justly here on earth." Psalm 58:11 NLT

LET IT GLOW

This incident came to my mind as I read about snakes. It's been over 40 years since this happened. (Forgive me if it is a repeat.) One morning I sat on the front step, enjoying the warm spring morning, when I noticed an unusual critter crawling on the ground beside me. It was the color orange and a little bitter than a worm. I though how cute and unusual it was. I even got a stick and messed with it a while. Then I went back into the house. Later, I found out it was probably a baby copperhead, a poisonous snake in our area. Was I ever grateful that the cute thing did not bite me. I said all that to say, not all things are as they appear. Today, we read of David comparing unjust judges with cobras. Let's see what is going on.

When the wicked are defeated, there will be no tears from the righteous congregation. A hearty amen is more likely to be heard. God is an avenger of wrong and a rewarder of  right, whether here or in eternity. Read verses 10-11.

Are we praying for our leaders to make decisions that are right?
What about our own self?

Here's some encouragement: Life Application Study Bible says the theme of this psalm is one of prayer and praise for God's saving help. God's constant love is our place of safety in a wicked world.
Is He our safe place?


LET IT GROW

(Righteousness) justice-do you rulers know the meaning of the word? Do you judge people fairly? No, you  plot injustice in your hearts. You spread violence throughout the land. (verses 1-2, NLT)

David makes a protest against unrighteous judges, silent ones, who deliberately perverted justice while pretending to uphold it. (verse 1) David Jeremiah

KJV uses the word righteousness, which means the right, moral or legal.

David pours it on, calling it as he sees it.
He describes wicked leaders and judges as:

• deaf cobras, which cannot hear their charmer's music, thus comparing them to rulers who ignore encouragement to righteousness; (sneaky snake, I call them)
• young lions with great teeth in huge jaws, who can tear you to shreds, so can the words of evil lying people;
• snails who leave slime where they have been, describing the deceivers as slick in their tactics.

What will happen to those scoundrels? Before their pots feel the thorns, God will take them away in a whirlwind of His wrath. Justice!

Falwell explains: This pictures the enemy encircling the camp, lighting thorns and briars under their pots to heat their celebration victory. but before they can partake of one morsel of food, God sends the whirlwind of His wrath to sweep away the fire, the pot, the meat, and those who would eat.

Are we aware of leaders who have their own agenda, lending a deaf ear to those who speak the truth?
Are we on the watch for lying lions and slimy snails?

Are we doing what is right in God's eyes?

LET IT GO

Do what is right, morally and legally.
Be aware of people like deaf cobras, lying lions, slimy snails.