The Lost Scriptures – Wisdom Literature and Poetry

The Psalms of Solomon

 1 I cried unto the Lord when I was in distress [ ],

Unto God when sinners assailed.

2 Suddenly the alarm of war was heard before me;

(I said), He will hearken to me, for I am full of righteousness.

3 I thought in my heart that I was full of righteousness,

Because I was well off and had become rich in children.

4 Their wealth spread to the whole earth,

And their glory unto the end of the earth.

5 They were exalted unto the stars;

They said they would never fall.

6 But they became insolent in their prosperity,

And they were without understanding,

7 Their sins were in secret,

And even I had no knowledge (of them).

8 Their transgressions (went) beyond those of the heathen before them; They utterly polluted the holy things of the Lord.

These Psalms are composed in the style of the Psalms in the bible attributed to David. They deal with traditional Jewish themes – responsibility for one’s actions, a belief in the resurrection of the body, a deep concern for a life filled with goodness and piety. Although attributed to Solomon, he did not write them. In general these psalms are much like the canonical psalms. The same range of feelings and expressions is found – you will hear feelings from praise to lament, from seeking hope to thanksgiving. Overall, however, there is a sense of judgment in these psalms. The author in no way blames G-d for this judgment, for G-d is justified in every respect. The people have been incredibly sinful, “more sinful than the heathen” the psalmist will say. The blessedness of the righteous vs. the damnation of these sinners is dwelt upon at great length. The people have been led in this sinfulness by their leaders, men who wear the faces of godliness and sincerity, but who are “sinners” through and through. They are spoken of as home-wreckers who have taken advantage of their privileged status.

But G-d has not abandoned His people. God will avenge all who exalt themselves over and against G-d when, in reality, they are only instruments of G-d’s greater purpose. While the simple, righteous man who puts his trust in G-d will never be forsaken. Thus G-d has a faithful remnant which will be honored and preserved.

My friends, G-d has not abandoned nor forsaken us – those who believe and trust in G-d’s promises – for as the psalms teach, G-d is justified in every respect. It is humanity who is led astray by their human leaders and decisions. Every day we need to pray for our leaders – the leaders of our country, our state and our churches. It is through prayer that we can have the most impact – for G-d hears all of our prayers.

Pastor Dave