Joy Creed

Greetings 'Fan'-tastic Passengers,
 

In life, there are those who place their trust in the abundance of their riches, while strengthening themselves in their wickedness. They proceed to use their tongue to devise mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully, to slay the righteous.  Nevertheless, the righteous faithfully and steadfastly, anchors their trust in the mercy of God and flourishes, like a green olive tree.
 

In writing this Psalm, David was in great distress, as a result of the mischief that Doeg the Edomite, which was set over the servants of Saul, had done to him. Once again, David was on the run for his life and hiding in the cave of Adullam. The thing was made known to Saul by Doeg, of the favour that was shown to David by Ahimelech the priest.  Therefore, Nob, the city of the priests, was smitten by Doeg, at Saul's command, with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep (1 Sam. 22:18-19). Doeg not only performed this gross wickedness upon the land but went on to boasts himself in his lies, wickedness, and ultimate betrayal of David.
 

Nonetheless, in spite of the harsh cruelty that was handed out to David by Doeg and Saul, God caused David to celebrate His goodness, as he caused him to find hope and freedom, in a circumstance which was meant to harm him. Therefore, we hear David's declaration, as he says, he is like a green olive tree in the house of God (Psa. 58:8). Even though this was a very painful onslaught of the enemy to David, he kept his composure by trusting in the strength of his God.
 

The wicked, while they exalt themselves in lies, mischief and all manner of wickedness, spreading themselves like a green bay tree, bears no useful fruit. They have nothing good to offer anyone and is only setting themselves up for destruction (v.5). Doeg's nature and fate was of this evil sort. The righteous, on the other hand, is exalted by God.

This analogy of the green olive tree, primarily symbolizes faithfulness and steadfastness. No matter what weather condition the olive tree finds itself in, hot, dry, cold, wet, even rocky or sandy ground, this evergreen tree will live and produce fruit. The common saying is that, one can never kill an olive tree.  If you cut it down or even burn it, in its due season, its resilience will cause new shoots will emerge from its roots.
 

This portion of scripture, therefore, reminds us that no matter the weather condition of life that one may be facing, you should remain faithful and steadfast because you are as a green olive tree, in the presence of your God.
 

I encourage you not to choose the way of Doeg, in building your life on the fickle foundation of lies, riches and wickedness, which will surely fall, by the power of God.  Instead, detest the sin of lying, as it will only lead to ruin and build your life upon the rock-solid foundation of the truth of the Word of God, which abides forever and ever.  Give praise to God for ever because He has done great things on your behalf. Trust in His mighty and precious name, and wait patiently for Him to act in your situation. His name is a refuge and shelter for the oppressed. You can rest assured in the faithfulness of God to preserve you, in spite of all the malicious designs of the children of Satan, who obey the father of lies, in order to come against you.
 

Stay strong! Stay encouraged!
 

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