First Priority (Psalms 81-83 / Romans 11)

In Psalms 81, we see that God's own people, Israel, did not always express their need for Him (v. 8-16). Yet in Psalms 83, we notice that Israel's need is great. Why is it that we often neglect that which we need the most (spending time with God, etc.)? Simply put, we have constructed up idols in our lives and we need to identify and break down that which we have put before God. In Psalms 82:1, 6, the term "gods" is used in reference to particular humans. These humans are judges, magistrates, and administrators that God Himself oversees. These humans do not possess the trinity (Hard Sayings of the Bible, p. 280) and are in no ways equal to God. In fact, God Himself will judge these "gods." Sometimes, our idols include that which was made in the image of God (humans) and not God Himself. These idols need to be cast down as well. Are you putting anyone or anything before God?

As a Gentile, I am always grateful for Romans 11. Gentiles have now been grafted into God's kingdom seemingly at Israel's expense (v. 25). How great the love of the Father must be to include people of all tribes and nations into His Kingdom that will never end (Rev. 7:9)!