OUR reading for the week concludes the first book of the Psalms — numbers 12 to 41 inclusive. All these save one bear in their various titles "A Psalm of David." What an insight is given us of the shepherd-warrior-poet's experiences! Whether keeping his flock under the shining stars, or leading them to pastures green; whether fleeing from Saul, whom he in kindness ever spared, or surrounded by implacable and treacherous foes; whether among the folly and wickedness of men, or on the field of victory marvelously delivered from his enemies, we find his songs instructive, devout, helpful, elevating, worshipful.
How David mistrusted his own strength, and exalted the power of God! What confidence he manifests in God's might and goodness! How assured is he of the ultimate overthrow of all wickedness, and the triumph of all good! What a song of triumph, for instance, is Psalm 18! What a song of instruction and devotion is Psalm 19! How often have souls been cheered and comforted by Psalm 20! Wonderful lessons of trust and confidence in God are every one. In every one we may read somewhat of the experience of Christ, "great David's greater Son." How fully are Christ's sufferings prophetically depicted in Psalm 22! We do not need to mention Psalms 23, 24, 25, 27, 32, 33, 34, 37, 38, 40. Thank God for the songs of Israel. They meet great needs in every condition in life.
