My heart is Steadfast, O God – David’s opening words in Psalm 108.
What does it mean to be Steadfast?
Definition of Steadfast
1a : firmly fixed in place : IMMOVABLE
b : not subject to change
the steadfast doctrine of original sin
— Ellen Glasgow
2 : firm in belief, determination, or adherence : LOYAL (Merriam-Webster Dictionary online)
David had set his heart to be Steadfast before God and to worship Him, despite all his trials;
1 My heart, O God, is steadfast;
I will sing and make music with all my soul. Psalm 108
Sometimes we can better understand the meaning of something by considering an opposite and the Bible gives several references on the word, ‘Double-minded’.
113 I hate the double-minded, (Lit. divided in heart or mind)
But I love Your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in Your word. Psalm 119
7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1
8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (Great Promise for us). Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4
The double-minded needn’t expect to receive anything from God, He’s looking for faith, agreement with His Word.
The prophet Jeremiah (sometimes known as the weeping prophet) had to observe Israel coming under the judgement of God because of their refusal to turn away from sin. But in the middle of the Book of Lamentations we see a wonderful description of God’s Loving Faithfulness;
21 Yet this I call to mind
and therefore I have hope:
22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3
22-24 God’s loyal love couldn’t have run out,
his merciful love couldn’t have dried up.
They’re created new every morning.
How great your faithfulness!
I’M STICKING WITH GOD (I SAY IT OVER AND OVER).
HE’S ALL I’VE GOT LEFT. Lamentations 3 MSG
There’s a short chorus based on these words (several versions available on YouTube, easy listening).
’The Steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end, they are new every morning, great is Your faithfulness O Lord’.
We as God’s children need the Steadfast love that David spoke of in the psalm, but ultimately it’s much more important that God is so faithful to us. The little story of the child on the father’s arms, holding tight to his jacket in case he drops. Like all children and like us, he becomes tired and soon falls asleep, but the father continues to carry him easily and safely. We may at times let go of God, but He will never let go of us, His children.
As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him. Psalm 103:13
God bless and keep you today.