Bible Reading: Genesis 26 | Matthew 26 | Psalm 26
Devotional for February 5, 2025
Reading: Genesis 26 | Matthew 26 | Psalm 26
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Genesis 26
Genesis 26 renews the covenant initially made with Abraham with the seed of promise, Isaac. After the introduction to Isaac and the introduction to his two sons, we have in this chapter a confirmation that Isaac is indeed the son of promise. The parallels between the life of Abraham and that of his son are striking and reinforce the faithfulness of God to bring to Abraham's family line the seed of the woman who would crush the head of the serpent.
One commentator summarizes that observation as follows: First, the chapter opens with a reference to a famine in the land (26:1; cf. 12:10). That parallels Abraham's experience, foreshadowing what will happen to his younger son, Jacob. Second, Just as Abraham sought to deceive the Egyptian leaders, Isaac does the same (26:7; cf. 12:13; 20:2). Third, like his father, Isaac is blessed with material prosperity (26:13-14; Cf. 12:16; 13:6). Fourth, Isaac encounters a conflict regarding the land (26:20, 21; Cf. 13:7. Fifth, a covenant is made with the Philistine at Beersheba (26:26-33; Cf. 21:22-34).
What can we learn from these things? First, a family trait of deception began with Abraham, passed to Isaac, and, as we will see, is given to Jacob. The father's sins do indeed pass to the offspring unless something is done to interrupt that cycle. Second. The faithfulness of God is displayed through the ordinary events of our lives. That was true about Isaac, and it is true for us.
Matthew 26
Matthew 26 is one of the longest chapters in the gospel record. Contained within are the following items, all leading to the Savior's death, burial, and resurrection.
First, The plot to kill Jesus reaches a fever pitch from within the ranks of the religious leaders (26:1-5).
Second, Jesus is anointed at Bethany, demonstrating that Jesus would be buried in just a few short days.
Third, one of the twelve disciples, Judas, conspires to betray Jesus. Betrayal is a painful thing, and it was so for Christ. Although the Scripture needed to be fulfilled, it was still hard to endure. Many of us have had that happen from people we thought were friends. It happened to Jesus. It will happen to us as well.
Fourth, The Passover and the institution of the Lord's Supper are mentioned. The connection between the two should not be overlooked. Just as the institution of the Passover in Ex. 12 signified the redeeming work of God in delivering his people from Egypt, the Lord's Supper is a sign of the redeeming work of the Passover Lamb who frees his people from sin. The Passover foreshadowed the Lord's Supper and was reduced to simpler elements, reminding us of what was required to be rescued from sin.
Fifth, Jesus prophesies regarding the denial of Peter. That serves as a warning to us. Regardless of our zeal for the gospel and the Lord Jesus, if we are not careful, we, like Peter, can also succumb to a denial of Christ. We must always be on guard for the efforts of the Evil One. Sometimes, we are like Peter by living lives that deny our union and communion with Christ. We must always be on guard. Watch and pray lest you enter into temptation.
Sixth, Jesus takes the time to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane. That reminds us all to be people of prayer, especially when facing difficult decisions and circumstances. It also helps to demonstrate the entrance of the Great High Priest thematically into the Most Holy Place to commune with his Father in heaven.
Seventh, Judas's betrayal comes full circle. What he determined in his heart to do, he does wickedly with a sign of affection. The duplicity of Judas is something we are all prone to exercise if we are not careful. Seventh, the trial before the Sanhedrin convicts Jesus of crimes he has never committed. The trial itself violated Jewish law and was nothing more than a "kangaroo court." It was the proverbial hammer in search of a nail. The outcome was established long before any testimony was offered. Finally, the chapter closes with Peter's denial of Christ and the subsequent remorse he endured. That is a lesson to all of us, especially when we sin and functionally deny knowing Christ. We should grieve that sin and turn from it to him, who will graciously forgive.
Psalm 26
Various interpretations regarding this Psalm have been offered. Some see it as a prayer for vindication from false accusers. Others see it as an "entrance liturgy." Arguments can be made for either option. David appeals for vindication in 26:1. He mentions his refusal to abide hypocrites and people of falsehood in 26:4. He proclaims his innocence in 26:6. He refers to his integrity in 26:11. On the other hand, the house of the Lord is mentioned in 26:8 and the great assembly in 26:12. The Psalm has five stanzas.
26:1-3
This stanza highlights what appears to be a plea for vindication from unjust attacks or erroneous accusations offered by evil people. Three times, David proclaims his innocence by appealing to his godly character. First, he says, "I have walked in my integrity. Second, he says, "I have trusted the Lord without wavering. Third, he says, "I walk in your faithfulness." These expressions demonstrate a man who knows that the things said about him are evil and wrong. He doesn't offer these things in arrogance. He knows that his Christian life is grounded on the steadfast love of the Lord (26:3). We will be opposed by people. We will be falsely accused. We live in a fallen world. Those times are painful, indeed. They hurt and sometimes cause us to tremble and fear. We must trust the God of heaven in those times. He is not aloof to our concerns.
26:4-5
In this section, David proclaims his hatred of those behaviors that speak falsehood. He says that he "does not sit with men of falsehood." He is not interested in the lies of mere mortals. He doesn't abide their contempt for him. He adds that he hates the assembly of evildoers. Those who lie about us are indeed evil. There is no getting around it. What is interesting to observe is that these people appear to be close to him. We will face false accusations by the world. In some sense, that is not as difficult to endure. Yet, when it comes from those who name the name of Christ, it is much harder. Again, our confidence must be in Christ, who endured falsehood and lies from the religious of his day but entrusted himself to his Father throughout those times.
26:6-7
This section is simply a declaration of innocence. That is not arrogance. In the fear of the Lord, who knows everything, and in his presence, David declares that he is not guilty of these accusations. It is important to remember that we must examine our hearts in times of accusation and apparent falsehood to see if there is any wicked way in us.
26:8-10
In this section, David offers one path of relief during times of false accusations: Worship. The reference to the "habitation of your house" is a reference to the Tabernacle, the place of God's dwelling. In our distress, we must use the means God gives and draw comfort and strength from them. We must sit in his presence, allowing his grace to overshadow those things that bring distress. David adds a prayer for deliverance, pleading with the God of heaven for relief. We, too, must do the same. There is nothing ungodly about asking God to remove the problem. There is nothing wrong with asking our Just Judge to deal with those who lie about us. We must, however, always pray for their repentance and, if the Lord is not pleased to bring that, their judgment.
28:11-12
In this section, David asserts his commitment to walk with the Lord regardless of the outcome. He is determined to remain steadfast and faithful, even though everything around him is chaotic. He knows his God has him in his hands, and he will not be moved. He stands on the level ground of God's righteousness and uses this time of trial as an opportunity to grow in the Lord and praise him.
Applications:
False accusations are very unpleasant. Remember, they are false! They cannot and should not cause you to doubt your faithfulness. Do not be gaslit by others who try to lie about you and misrepresent facts. Trust the Lord to vindicate you.
When attacked, use the means of grace (prayer, the Word of God, the sacraments, and worship) to find relief and hope.