Devotionals

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A MIXED METAPHOR


“To you I call, O Lord my Rock; do not turn a deaf ear to me” (Psa. 28:1). This constitutes a mixed metaphor, since rocks are not thought of as being able to hear. Even so, it provides provocative imagery. Such as recalls my association with a prime example from my childhood. This was a long, flat rock extending out into the river that flowed near our residence. I would from time to time sit on it, while enjoying the view.
What thoughts came to mind? The sturdy character of the rock, as it resisted the erosion created by the current. Other locations along the river bank were not so successful, by way of contrast. So that I had no concern over its failure to hold me.
Moreover, I was impressed by its permanence. As if waiting my return, to spend additional time in its company. Which brings to mind the saying, the more some things change, the more alternatives remain constant. It is a wise person who can distinguish between the two, and act accordingly.
Finally, as it provided a point of advantage, from which I could view the surrounding area. The foliage that appeared along the river bank, the water as it flowed relentlessly, a conspicuous inlet, on occasion one of my friends, and so on.
Even so, I do not recall having spoken to the rock. Or, if so, expecting that it would hear my words or respond in any way. It was decidedly not a rock with ears!
“For if you remain silent (like my rock of memory), I will be like those who have gone down to the pit,” the psalmist continues. Hence, without hope. While at the mercy of circumstances. All things considered, a dismal prospect.
“Hear my cry for mercy.” Have compassion on me. Given the situation which prevails, and my good intention. While forgiving of my former transgressions.
“Do not drag me away with the wicked.’ Such as “are like chaff that the wind blows away” (Psa. 1:4). Consequently, those who appear “as rootless, weightless, and useless” (Morris Inch, Devotions with David, p. 5).
“Repay them for their deeds.” In a just, but not vindictive manner. When they fail to repent of their wrong doing, and even delight in it.
“Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy.” Perhaps because of what has transpired since his initial plea, or if not, in anticipation of what will come to pass. In this regard, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for” (Heb. 1:1). For instance, “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as an inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going” (v. 8).
“The Lord is my strength and my shield.” As for the former, he enables the psalmist to undertake formidable endeavors. As for the latter, he provides protection against his adversaries. While giving rise to the saying, “One with God is in the majority.”
“My heart leaps with joy.” When cognizant of the Lord’s lavish provision, resulting in deliverance from sin, and the opposition of the wicked. First in one situation and then another, as one journeys toward the celestial city.
“The Lord is the strength of his people.” So that this is a legacy shared with others. As when Jesus enjoined his disciples to pray, “Our Father in heaven” (Matt. 6:9). Likewise, “give us today our daily bread.” An ample but not excessive provision. After which, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” Thus having set a precedent. Finally, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Not that God may tempt us, but that we may not be tempted in unfavorable conditions. Recalling another saying, “Prevention is the best cure.”
“Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.” Initially, deliver your people. From the forces of evil, from their own evil inclination, and from adverse circumstances. The exodus serving as a prime example, and setting a precedent for future generations.
Second, bless your inheritance. Such as is associated with obedience. Accordingly, “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth” (Deut. 28:1-2). In greater detail, “You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land. Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.”
Lastly, be their shepherd. By way of a confident response, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” (Psa. 23:1). As for those who share his confidence, there are times of spiritual refreshing, guidance to negotiate the exigencies of life, confidence in stressful situations, and a vibrant hope. In contrast, there are those who lack a spiritual vitality, suffer from a lack of guidance, seem at the mercy of adverse circumstances, and expect a dead end. Such appear to be some of the implications of this mixed metaphor.

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