Text: Psalm 18:7-15

In the material world, as seen in Physics 101, every action causes an equal reaction of the same quality, but again, that is in the material world. While we may function in this world, we are seated with Christ in the heavenlies (cf. Ephesians 2:6 DBY). Thus, what may be limited to principle in the material world may not be so in the spiritual. It was the material world that limited Nicodemus’ mindset as witnessed in his question, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”(John 3:4 ESV). And it was this way of thinking that ultimately prompted Jesus’ words, “What is impossible with men is possible with God” (Luke 18:27 ESV).

Within our text the word “then” is recorded twice, first in verse 7, “Then the earth reeled and rocked….” It was used in response to David’s prayer as his mind’s eye probably envisioned God’s power as seen in the Exodus. Spurgeon writes,

“There was no great space between the cry and its answer. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, but is swift to rescue his afflicted…Observe how the most solid and immovable things feel the force of supplication. Prayer has shaken houses, opened prison doors, and made stout hearts to quail. Prayer rings the alarm bell, and the Master of the house arises to the rescue, shaking all things beneath his tread.”

David cried unto the Lord in distress, then the Lord moved the earth; he called upon His name, then He came “swiftly on the wings of the wind” (Psalm 18:10).

Now notice the word to the Hebrews, “Let us then (italics mine) with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16 ESV). Just as David’s prayer preceded the “then” in Psalm 18, the Lord’s high priesthood, and more specifically His sinless life and ability to “sympathize with our weaknesses”, paved the way  for us to then draw near the throne of grace with boldness in prayer.

Pray boldly today for mercy and grace to cover your weaknesses and be prepared for the second “then” of Psalm 18, “Then the channels of the sea were seen” (v. 15); that is, the deep bottoms were seen when the Red Sea was divided which meant what seemed impossible to the Israelites, cornered and trapped, was possible through God. And it is possible for you too.