My Soul Waits for God Alone

That’s the title of the Psalm 62, which we read together in our morning faculty prayer meeting this morning. A timely message God gives us on behalf of all the families in Ukraine under the Russian invasion, and all the rest of the world that are watching the plight of the Ukrainians. The second verse: “He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.” A teacher at the prayer meeting shared about reading a letter written by a Ukrainian pastor who decided to remain in Ukraine to care for the wounded. Only those who completely trust in the Lord will have the peace and courage to do such a thing. The third verse: “How long will all of you attack a man to batter him, like a leaning wall, a tottering fence?… They take pleasure in falsehood. They bless with their mouths, but inwardly they curse.” A fit description of the Russian leaders. This verse tells us that a violent behavior begins deep in the root of taking pleasure in falsehood. They believe in falsehood so much that they have fooled themselves into believing that they are doing some good. Their seared consciences were formed in their childhood when falsehood was condoned and celebrated. Verse Ten: “Put no trust in extortion; set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, set not your heart on them.” An even more blunt description of the Russian leaders. Extortion and robbery. And a suggestion where those types of behavior come from: Setting our hearts on riches. But the Psalmist ends with these words: “Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God…For you will render to a man according to his work.” This Psalm is a poignant reminder of three truths: People who do not fear God will have no morals. They will take pleasure in falsehood, and their hearts will be set on riches. Those who do not fear God and have no morals will resort to violence. God is our only fortress. He has the power. And he will bring justice according to our work. The implications of all this for education is that Christian education is essential, both to prevent immorality and injustice, and to raise a generation who will trust in God as their fortress and who will effectively resist such tyranny and promote true justice and mercy.