Devotion for Thursday 27/03/2025

Psalm 8:4 (ESV)

“What is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?”

Psalm 8:4 (Orthodox Jewish Bible)

“What is enos (mankind), that Thou art mindful of him? And the ben adam, that Thou visitest him?”

I have intentionally inserted the Orthodox Jewish Bible verse beneath the ESV version above to highlight my point. The Hebrew word for "man" in this verse is actually the term “enos”, subtly different from the term ā'dām typically used to refer to mankind. Enos signifies the individual person, while "the son of man" (ben adam) refers to people in general. The emphasis here is on the individual human as a "weak, mortal man."

The young David, prior to his elevation to kingship, was a shepherd boy who spent his nights in the wilderness with his sheep. I am guessing that David would have often scanned the night sky, felt his own insignificance, and wondered why such a magnificent Creator would care about him and the rest of humankind.

David asks, "What is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?". This is an expression of wonder and worship at the idea that the almighty God cares for people like us.

God has shown His care of humans in several ways. He created our first parents only after He had created a world that was ready for them. The sun, moon, and stars provided light for them, the plants were a food source, the climate was ideal for sustaining life, and Adam and Eve enjoyed their life together in a paradise.

Even after we had fallen, God showed His love and care by giving His Son as our Redeemer. John 3:16 emphasises the extent of God's love for us by giving His only begotten Son so we would receive everlasting life by believing in Him.

Also, God shows His care of us by providing our daily needs and by inviting us to talk to Him about all our concerns (Matthew 6:33; Hebrews 4:14–16).

The psalm continues to explain that God has made humanity a little lower than heavenly beings, yet crowned them with glory and honour, and given them dominion over all the works of His hands.

This verse in Psalm 8:4 is referenced in Hebrews 2:6, which is prophetically applied to the awesome greatness of Christ. Christ’s humility and ultimate glorification will be the same trajectory for those who embrace him as Saviour and Lord. These are called sons of God by faith.

Significance of this verse: The psalm highlights the value and importance of humanity in God's eyes, even though they may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of the universe.

Jesus Christ: The "son of man" in Hebrews 2:6 ultimately points to Jesus, who embodies the fulfilment of humanity's intended role and glory.

I am so grateful for God's care in so many ways. He has such a wonderful and glorious destiny mapped out for us too.

I trust you would be inspired by these thoughts.

Have a Blessed Thursday!