Context and Conditions

(Psa 7:10 KJV)  My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart.

(Proverbs 28 also read)

This is a clear promise of God but notice the context and conditions.

The context is one of persecution.  David is going through a rough time.  Enemies are after him.  He does not seem to be sure of victory.  He is calling on God, always a good thing to do.  He is looking at God to preserve him in the bad times.  This is not just the praise of the good times but a call for deliverance.

Equally important is the condition expressed.  God “saves” (3467) [yasha].  Notice that the Hebrew is very close to the Jewish name for Jesus, Yeshua, a form of Joshua.  Notice also that this is not a promise to everyone we calls on God.  It is for the “upright” (3477).  

These two points are important to us as we look at an uncertain future politically and socially.  Unrest is more normal that we think.  We have lived in a bubble of well being.  That is largely because of the upright hearts that have been active in this country.  Those times may be over.  The promise extends to those who are faithful.  It seems to me that we will come through the rough times either untouched or unbroken.

So?  Get upright, whatever that means to you at this point.  Repentance?  Discipline?  Personal growth?  You can fill in the blanks.  God will take care of His end.