What can grow in plowed ground?
Have you plowed a field or garden plot lately?
Have you watched the blades cut through the soil cutting it, tilling it, cultivating it, until the hard surface is broken and deep?
Farming, growing, reaping are all images used in the Bible to represent spiritual truths.
Psalm 129 is no exception. The writer is lamenting the pain and violence of war that has been waged on the Israelites who had faced oppression many times by different forces.
“They have greatly oppressed me from my youth,” let Israel say; “they have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but have not gained the victory over me. Plowmen have plowed my back and made their furrows long. But the Lord is righteous, he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.” Verses 1-4. At this time, Jerusalem was being destroyed and the people would be taken into exile!
The image of lying on the ground, having a plow run over your exposed back, cutting deep furrows, blood pouring out of the rough tears and rips is horrifying!
But there is hope!
The Psalmist says the good Lord rescues him! The righteous God cuts him free from the wicked! In fact, these wounds echo the beating, wounding, stripes, and whipping of Jesus before He hung on the cross to suffer for all our sins and rose to provide salvation for the world.
But let’s think about these verses on a personal level.
We face enemies; those who hate God and work against all things Godly in our community and country.
We also face more personal difficulties and hardship in life. Christians are not immune to troubles and sorrow.
What can we do?
BELIEVE that God is a good, loving, powerful, and merciful God Who keeps His promises to us. There are around 8,810 promises in the Bible according to some sources. Research for yourself and find out what you can depend on.
PRAY for God’s help. Take your heartache, trauma, problems, and troubles to the Lord because He can help you. You can trust Him. Your private life won’t appear on FB from Him!
Don’t let the pain or trouble determine your life; God and good will Win in the end. See beyond the moment to your deliverance by Him. Listen to the testimony of other Christians who have gotten through with His power and help.
PRAY for your enemies or those who are hurting you. Let God guide you in your prayers depending on the source of your trouble.
Look FORWARD to God “cutting the cords” that bind you!
He can! From your being “plowed” can grow spiritual growth and a closer relationship to God.
