Is Jesus your Lord? Here is the Proof

Read Psalm 123.

On the journey, this song pleads for God's mercy.  It was a time when the writer had had enough; in fact, more than enough.  Troubled by some contemptible, scornful and arrogant people, the psalmist cried out for the LORD to intervene on his behalf.

So many try to take matters into their own hands, only to make things worse.  When we reach the end of ourselves and our ability to fix life, then we realize what we should have done in the first place.  Instead of turning to God as a last resort, we must remember who is always and ultimately in charge.

Multiple voices will try to tell us what to do.  Man-made philosophies and self-help theories will all prove to avoid any remedy for our sin and the sinful behaviors of others.  Only Jesus Christ offers forgiveness.  Only He has paid the price for our sin.  Jesus is alive!  He is the Master and Controller of all things (Colossians 1:17).

"As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master..."  That is how we should be looking to God-- expectantly, eager, ready to immediately obey whatever His Word commands.

1. The Master is the one in charge over His servants.
2. The Master is the authoritative voice for a servant to heed.
3. The Master is the one that servants must obey.
4. The Master is the one who will hold His servants accountable.

These are some proofs of who is really Lord of one's life and whose servants we are.

4 encouraging calls to Worship

Read Psalm 122.

The pilgrims continued to encourage one another as they journeyed to Jerusalem.  It was time to come together for corporate worship.  Here were the calls to worship:

1. Go.
"Let us go to the house of the LORD!"
"Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:25)

2. Go gladly.
"I was glad when they said to me..."
"But the hour is coming, and now is here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him." (John 4:23)

3. Go gladly giving thanks.
"...to give thanks to the name of the LORD."
"Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise!  Give thanks to him; bless his name!"
(Psalm 100:4)

4. Go praying.
-Peace of the city.  "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!"
-Peace in the city.  "Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!"
-Peace within the city.  "For my brothers and companions' sake I will say, 'Peace be within you'."

How do these four encouragements match your attitude when it is time to gather with other believers for worship?

A song for the Journey

Read Psalm 121.

The journey to Jerusalem for the feast days could be an arduous one.  If the traveler came from the east, the elevation of Jericho is 1200 feet below sea level.  Jerusalem is 2600 feet above sea level.  It is no wonder why the psalms in this section are called songs of ascents.

Going in groups hopefully would provide some protection from thieves, but still they must contend with fatigue, the heat of the day and the uncertainty of night.  Singing together encouraged their faith, reminded them of their purpose, and renewed their endurance for the trek.  Watch how the psalm unfolds for the ones who sang this on journey.

First, the singer encouraged himself (vv.1-2).  Looking ahead as the pilgrims walked up the hills to Jerusalem, either the site of the Temple came into view or at least the expectancy was there.  The Temple contained the presence of God in the Holy of Holies.  The pilgrim could not wait to arrive for worship and celebration.  The source of help is not in the creation but the Creator.  All along the way, God was the source of personal help.

Then, the singer encouraged others.  Notice the pronoun shift from I and my to you and your.  The singer now seeks to strengthen the faith of others.

1. There is no need to fear the night. (vv.3-4)  In the night watches, we need not fear.  The weary traveler may enjoy a good night's sleep because our God is always watching over us.

2. There is no need to fear the day. (vv.5-6)  Like the cloud that hovered over Israel in Exodus, the LORD is present as a shield and shade when the heat and stress is upon us.

3. There is no need to fear evil. (v.7)  As the Good Shepherd, God protects us so "I will fear no evil for you are with me." (Psalm 23:4)

4. There is no need to fear, not now or ever. (v.8)
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39)

3 Points for Peace

Read Psalm 120.

Though this psalm was written some 3000 years ago, it is remarkably relevant.  Songs of Ascents were sung by pilgrims as they journeyed up the mountain to Jerusalem for feast days.  While walking together, certain themes would be expressed through these prayer-songs.

The theme here is that the nation was threatened by enemies in the north.  Two are mentioned by name: Meshech in Asia Minor and Kedar in northern Arabia.  These were guilty of lying, deceit, and only wanting war against Israel.

No wonder the writer felt distress.  The prayer asks the LORD for deliverance from them (v.2) and for the destruction of them (vv.3-4).

Peace.  What a salve for distress!  What an encouragement for the future!  The plea for peace is based upon three key points.

1. He knew the LORD would answer his prayer. (v.1)

2. He separated himself from those who hate peace. (v.6)

3. He committed himself for peace. (v.7)

"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." (Isaiah 26:3)

How crucial to life is the Word of God?

Read Psalm 119:169-176.

Taw

In many ways this twenty-second and final stanza of this longest chapter in the Bible summarizes all the psalmist's previous concerns.  Spurgeon commented that in this last section the prayer contains increased "force and fervency."

In every single verse there is a reference to the Word of God.  Do not miss how pervasive the Scriptures are for living!

1. It is the source of our understanding. (v.169)

2. It is the key of our deliverance. (v.170)

3. It is the joy of our learning. (v.171)

4. It is the truth of our song. (v.172)

5. It is the choice of our commitment. (v.173)

6. It is the delight of our heart.  (v.174)

7. It is the basis of our help. (v.175)

8. It is the hope of our rescue. (v.176)

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart."

(Hebrews 4:12)

What are you Thinking?

Read Psalm 119:161-168.

Sin and Shin

A love affair occupies the mind.  It influences everything else we do and want to do.  Love fascinates the imagination as we think upon the object of our affection throughout the day.  Unashamedly, we let everyone know that this is the one for us.

The psalmist declared again and again his love for God and His Word.  He had given up every other spiritual pursuit as a false influence for life.  Indeed, he stood in awe of what God had to say.

Loving the LORD with all one's heart, produces two mind-changing outcomes mentioned in this twenty-first stanza.

1. Praise. (v.164)

"Seven times a day I praise you."  This is, of course, a hyperbole.  No one in love actually keeps score.  Expressions of affection are most often spontaneous and repeated.  The heart is eager to do so.  One in love with God sees His handiwork in every direction throughout the day.  It is an all-the-time thing.  The Apostle Paul wrote: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, Rejoice." (Philippians 4:4)

2. Peace.  (v.165)

"Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble."  In every stanza of this psalm the writer has prayed for deliverance of some kind.  Dealing with sin and adversity is normal to daily human life.  He was not saying his outward circumstances were peaceful; it was his inward condition that benefited from his love of God.  Peace in the midst of a storm will not make sense to some, as it did not to the disciples on the boat with Jesus asleep.  But once we have presented our requests to the God of peace, the Apostle Paul wrote: "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)

Praying on the brink of Disaster

Read Psalm 119:153-160.

Resh

"Look upon my affliction and deliver me."  What a mournful cry!

In this twentieth stanza, he continued his appeal for God to intervene on his behalf.  He not only asked to be delivered from his adversity, but three times he prayed "give me life."  Surely, he felt he was on the brink of disaster.

Notice how this prayer is in strong alignment with what the LORD has said and who He is.

1. "According to your promise." (v.154)
When we know what God has said, and our request is based up His Word, then with confidence we know we are asking according to His will.  "And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him." (1 John 5:14-15)

2. "According to your rules." (v.156)
God is the ultimate judge.  He is always consistent in His decisions because His Word is absolute truth and will not change.  The LORD rules and over-rules the authorities of this world.  So, as we pray, we look beyond the human factors involved and make our appeal to the One who has all power.  This is a claim of Jesus.  "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me."  (Matthew 28:18)

3. "According to your steadfast love." (v.159)
We may not feel our difficulty is a loving thing, allowed by a God who loves us.  But no matter our circumstances, the Lord will always act in accordance with His character.  His love is faithful and His character is not altered by what we go through in life.  "In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins." (1 John 4:10)

The good news of the Gospel of Christ is that He has already given us a life that can never be taken away.  "And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses." (Colossians 2:13)

When our prayers go Unanswered

Read Psalm 119:145-152.

Qoph

Some threats never go away; most do not go easily.  For the psalmist, the beleaguering persecutors were arrogant unbelievers.  However, danger comes in many forms--health, finances, relationships.  All such intimidations bring emotional and even spiritual upset.  We pray constantly; yet, the issue does not go away.

In this nineteenth stanza, the writer said he cried out to the LORD for help.  He woke up early in the morning before dawn to pray.  Late at night, he continued to pray.  What kept him going?  How could he face another agonizing day?  His prayers were neither complaints nor bargaining with God.

Through it all--
1. He remained faithful to God's Word. (vv.145-146)
His obedience was not influenced by getting what he wanted from God.  He was consistent in his faith no matter what happened to him.

2. He maintained hope in God's promises. (v.147)
Yes, our threats are real.  But the promise of God to care for us is greater.  Belief that we are His workmanship (Ephesians 2:10), that He is control, and that He is fulfilling His purposes in us are the bases of our hope for the future.

3. He meditated on God's promises. (v.148)
Placing a guard on one's thoughts is a key to survival.  For the believer, continually feeding the mind on the Scriptures provides an anchor for our emotions and direction for our decisions.

4. He remembered God's presence. (v.151)
The enemy was near, "But you are near, O LORD."  God is more powerful than any enemy to our well-being.  Knowing His presence, enjoying His fellowship, learning to trust Him, and growing through adversity is the stuff life is made of.

"Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'  So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'" (Hebrews 13:5-6)

6 truths for being right with God

Read Psalm 119:137-144.

Tsadhe

How much of the Word of God is correct?  Is it God's Word or man's word about God?  Should the view of Scripture change with changing cultures?  Should not other opinions and views be equally considered?

Every generation wrestles in one way or another with the claims of the Scriptures.  Here in this eighteenth stanza the psalmist could not be more clear in addressing those questions.

1. The LORD is right. (v.137a)

2. What He said is right. (v.137b)

3. What He said is based upon His right character. (v.138)

4. What He said has been proven right. (v.140)

5. God's right character will not change. (v.142)

6. God's right Word will not change. (v.144)

This is why the psalmist could state with such confidence, "I consider all your precepts to be right; I hate every false way." (Psalm 119:128)

Jesus said, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words will not pass away." (Matthew 24:35)

Then, how vital for life it is to know and implement the Scriptures in order to be right with God!

A crying response to the Scriptures

Read Psalm 119:129-136.

Pe

How many different ways can the love of God's Word be expressed?  In this seventeenth stanza, we are told the Scriptures are full of wonder, helping us to understand life, and providing stability.

The psalmist longed for what God had to say.  He ran to it, panting for more.  But while he experienced such a relationship with the LORD and all His benefits, his heart was broken for others.

"My eyes shed streams of tears, because people do not keep your law." (v.136)

One of burdens a committed follower of Christ carries is for those who are estranged from God.  They do not know the joy of forgiveness, of personal fellowship with the LORD, and have the assurance of eternal life.

The Apostle Paul carried this brokenness for his countrymen.  "...I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart.  For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh." (Romans 9:2-3)

Praying for specific people to come to know the Savior is a natural response to our love for God's Word.

Whom are you praying for today?

The three R's of praying

Read Psalm 119:121-128.

Ayin

Charles Spurgeon called this sixteenth stanza "The just man's prayer against injustice."

Feeling threatened by some unnamed oppressors, the psalmist prayed for God's intervention.  He presented a series of personal requests but they were based upon his solid love for God and His Word.

 1. The rightness of his prayer.
The basis of his requests was his own right standing with God.  With integrity he could ask the LORD to act justly on his behalf.  How could he pray for justice if he was living a life of injustice?  "I have done what is just and right."  Such praying requires a pure heart and clean hands before God.  Second, he prayed according to the will and Word of God--"your law has been broken."  This one loved God's Word more than money.  He believed every word of God to be correct.

2. The requests of his prayer.
In five verses, he made over a half-dozen petitions.  Yes, he desired deliverance from those who were against him and for God to do something for him.  However, much of this prayer is for God to do something in him.  "Deal with me," "teach me," "give me understanding."

3. The results of his prayer.
He did not pray to complain or to only present his needs.  He prayed expectantly for God to respond.  "It is time for the LORD to act."  Obviously, God has His own timing but this type of confident faith is what pleases the LORD.

"Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God; and whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him." (1 John 3:21-22)

Love, Hate and Fear

Read Psalm 119:113-120.

Samekh

Part of spiritual growth is learning to love what God loves and hating what God hates.

The psalmist understood spiritual warfare.  One committed to the LORD goes up against the enemy of the soul throughout every day.  Choices must be made regarding the influences all around us that beckon.

1. Learning what to love.
"I love your law."  The chief way we know about God and His promises to us is through the Scriptures.  There is no substitute for investing personal, daily time getting to know the Bible.  The more we know, the more we will want to know.  The more we want to know, the more in love with God we will be.

2. Learning what to hate.
On the other hand, sin and sinful influences cool our love for God.  The double-minded are mentioned.  These are folks who say they believe in the LORD but their thinking, words, and behaviors are in contradiction.  Then, there are the evildoers, or people who love and live to sin.  God spurns (tosses aside, puts down) those who go their own way instead of living in obedience to Him.  We must be cautious living in a lost world and be certain that we demonstrate the marked change Christ makes in our lives.

3. Learning what to fear.
The LORD is a God of justice.  The psalmist said he trembled just thinking about the judgments of God.  The word literally means the hair stood up on the back of his neck.  Too many treat God and His Word with a casual attitude, as if they could take or leave it, without realizing the dire and eternal consequences.

Light for my I's

Read Psalm 119:105-112.

Nun

Verse 105 is one of the best known statements from the Psalms.  In this fourteenth stanza, the psalmist begins by describing the Word of God as a lamp and light.  It is very personal in the application.  Here is how the illumination of the Scriptures has impact on daily life.

1. My direction. (v.105)
The "lamp to my feet" shows me clearly where I am.  The "light to my path" clarifies where I am going.

2. My confirmation. (v.106)
There must be a time and place when one decides for themselves to step across the line of faith and embrace this One as LORD of life.  The purpose of such a personal commitment is "to keep your righteous rules."

3. My affliction. (v.107)
Tough times will come.  These may be turned into seasons of spiritual growth.  "Give me life" is a call for reviving the heart and refreshing the spirit during difficulty.

4. My submission. (v.108)
Most often freewill offerings involve financial generosity.  But here it is the sacrifice of praise.  The statement in this verse goes beyond giving; there is receiving as well.  Intentionally investing time to be taught the Scriptures requires submitting our schedules to God.

5. My distraction. (vv.109-110)
Everyone has stresses and threats nearly every day.  They may be physical, relational, occupational, spiritual, or financial.  If we are not diligent, these can distract us, even derail, our fellowship with God.  Remembering God's Word will anchor us in difficulties.

6. My celebration. (v.111)
Having a heritage (Hebrew=possession) of the Scriptures is something not everyone has.  It should never be taken lightly or for granted.  This prized possession goes to the heart, stimulates our joy, and causes us to celebrate our relationship with God.

7. My inclination. (v.112)
Growth in the knowledge of God's Word and putting into practice will alter our lives inside and out.  It will change our natural bents and behaviors to a life that is focused on pleasing our Savior.

Putting our love into Practice

Read Psalm 119:97-104.

Mem

Loving God and loving His Word is not to be a sometime thing.  Such love is not confined to a place of worship, or a particular day of the week.  It is life itself.  True love is based upon a commitment, not emotions only. It requires daily discipline and the fortitude to reject all other competing ideologies.

In this thirteenth stanza, the psalmist declares his absolute love for the Scriptures and describes the influence this has on his life.  How does one put such love into practice?

1. The Scriptures should guide and guard our thinking. 
Twice, the writer said he meditated on the Word of God.  This is not only an intentional time of meditation, but throughout the day the Scriptures are turned over and over in the mind looking for wisdom and applications.  In order for that to be habit, one must invest daily time reading, studying, and memorizing portions of the Bible.

2. The Scriptures should guide and guard our behavior.
In verses 101-102, the decisions could not be more practically expressed.  "I hold back my feet from every evil way."  This is self-discipline to stay away from sin.  "I do not turn aside from your rules."  Faithfulness is practicing what you say you believe and love.

3. The Scriptures should guide and guard our world view.
What we allow to shape our perspective on life and the world will be reflected in everything else we do.  Education, friends and influencers endeavor to do this constantly.  The benefits of knowing and loving God's Word include wisdom and understanding that others may not possess.  The psalmist is not being arrogant.  He is not saying that he is smarter, has a greater IQ, or is a know-it-all.  But the Scriptures go beyond human understanding and experience to give us insight for life both here and for eternity.

Where do you Stand?

Read Psalm 119:89-96.

Lamedh

The Word of God and the character of God are inseparable.  What God gave to the writers of Scripture to record is based upon who He is.  This eleventh stanza contains some of the strongest statements in the Bible concerning its veracity and impact.

1. The Word of God stands forever. (v.89)
Like a towering, stone monument of remembrance, the Scriptures are firmly established for all to see.  But unlike man-made structures, what God has established is eternal.  It will never change.

2. The character of God stands unchanged. (v.90a)
He remains faithful to what He has said and what He has promised because He is faithful.  Though thousands of years have passed, generation after generation, culture after culture, may depend upon the LORD in the exact same way.  "For I the LORD do not change." (Malachi 3:6)

3. The creation of God stands fast. (vv.90b-91)
According to Colossians 1:16-17, it is Jesus Christ who created and sustains the universe.  The orbits of the planets, the rotation of the earth, down to holding together the protons of the atom are in His control.

4. The care of God's people stands secure. (vv.92-95)
When afflicted, when feeling alone, when in the need of encouragement and direction our help and our hope are found in the unchanging Word of God.  Notice the psalmist's surrender to the LORD and his love of the Scriptures.  "...my delight...I will never forget your precepts...you have given me life...I am yours...I have sought your precepts...I consider your testimonies."

Everything in this life has a season, an end, and a limit.  But not the Word of God. (v.96)

"Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God."
R. Kelso Carter

Praying with predetermined Obedience

Read Psalm 119:81-88

Kaph

Still praying regarding his persecution, the psalmist returned to his focus on the Word of God.

1. His dilemma. (vv.83-85, 87)
The suffering was taking a toll on him.  He had reached the end of himself.  His insides felt shriveled and dried up.  His two questions are common to all of us: How long must I endure this?  When will the LORD intervene and do something to help?

2. His deliverance. (vv.81-82, 86)
He realized that his true help was not in positive thinking, nor the self-help wisdom of other people.  His deliverance was in a person, God Himself.  His understanding of God and how He works in the lives of people is found in one place--the Scriptures.  There, His promises are written and, there, is the source of our hope.  We may stake our eternal claim on the infallible, inerrant, unchanging Word of God.  "All your commandments are sure."

3. His decision. (v.88)
Once again, he asked "give me life."  But notice the motive behind his request for such renewal.  He had predetermined his obedience: "that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth."  Living a life that pleases God is one that obeys His Word.  Motives are important to God and a key to answered prayer.

Purposes in tough Times

Read Psalm 119:73-80.

Yodh

What happens to us directly affects those around us.  Whether we like it or not, whether we are aware of it or not, people watch and take notice of how we respond in tough times.

In this tenth stanza, the psalmist continued to refer to his affliction from God (see vv.65-72).  However, there is a decided turn in his praying.  In verse 76, he asked God to comfort him with his faithful love.  This would confirm that God was not being mean to him but lovingly correcting his behavior.  Such comfort, then, had an even greater purpose.

There are two major supplications concerning the testimony of his faith to others.
1. What others would see. (v.74)
He prayed that others who witnessed his affliction would rejoice and be glad.  The joy and gladness was not about his suffering but about his hope.  Through it all, he never wavered in his faith that God loved him enough to intervene and correct him.  Such steadfastness of faith in tough times could open the door for ministry to others.

2. What others would do. (v.79)
Having gone through his time of discipline from the LORD, he could speak from experience to others in similar situations.  God does not waste our time.  When He gives us something it is to be used to help others.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Encouragement for the Afflicted

Read Psalm 119:65-72.

Teth

In this ninth stanza, the psalmist's concern was his personal affliction.  The Hebrew word for afflicted means to bring down, to humble, depress or weaken.  Some afflictions may be caused by satanic attack, self-destructive decisions, or so-called natural causes.  But in this case the affliction came from God Himself, "You have dealt well with your servant" (v.65).  Sometimes God must intervene to gain our attention when our behavior is in violation of His Word and remains unchecked.

What did God do to afflict him?  He allowed and used the uncaring arrogance of his enemies to smear his reputation with lies (v.69-70).  Their words hurt and brought him low.

Hurting people have a choice.  Some choose to curse God for the affliction.  Many will ask "why?"  But in this case, he knew why; "I went astray" (v.67).  He confessed that he brought this on himself.

This is no strange thing.  It happens to everyone.  The difference-maker in life is what we choose to do next.

1. He trusted in the goodness of God.
"You are good and do good" (v.68).  This is a test of our faith.  When the circumstances are not good, we must trust in God's character and love for us.  Everything He does has the purpose of shaping our lives toward Christ-likeness.  The psalmist took comfort in sound theology.

2. He acknowledged his need for discipline.
The affliction motivated him to learn.  He recognized that he had used bad judgment.  So, he prayed for the LORD to teach him according to God's Word (vv.66, 68).

3. He corrected his desires.
It may have been that wealth and financial gain had caused him to stray (v.72).  But having been stopped by God, he realized that the true riches of life are found in knowing and obeying the Scriptures.

"...he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.  For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." (Hebrews 12:10b-11)

What a fully devoted follower looks Like

Read Psalm 119:57-64.

Heth

How important is the Bible to your daily life?  If you did not have access to the Scriptures would it make a difference in how you lived each day?   If the LORD were to remove His presence, would you notice?

In this eighth stanza of Psalm 119, note how pervasive the Word of God is to the psalmist.

1. My portion, or lot in life, is my relationship with God and keeping His Word. (v.57)
2. My heart is set to seek God's favor. (v.58)
3. My feet, the places I go and the direction I am headed in life, are in alignment with the God's Word. (v.59)
4. My priorities are to immediately obey God's Word. (v.60)
5. My perspective in life is drawn from the Scriptures and not the culture around me. (v.61)
6. My attitude is full of non-stop praise for what God has done for me. (v.62)
7. My influencers in life are those who honor God and His Word. (v.63)
8. My learning about God's love and faithfulness is constant just by looking all around me. (v.64)

Being a fully devoted follower of Christ is not a sometime thing.  It is life itself.

How do you measure spiritual Maturity?

Read Psalm 119:49-56.

Zayin

Physical maturity can be mostly self-evident as children grow and adults grow older.  Spiritual maturity is not immediately discerned but certainly can be observed over time.  Nothing reveals the depth of one's walk with God quicker than trouble and stress.

The psalmist, in this seventh stanza, continued to reference some arrogant, wicked mocker of his faith.  It made him rage inside with anger (v.53).  So, how does this penman that God used to write this portion of the Scriptures respond in a spiritually mature way?

1. He found hope in the Word of God. (v.49)
2. He found life-giving comfort in the Word of God. (v.50,52)
3. He found the Word of God made him sing. (v.54)
4. He found solace in the Word of God in the darkest hours. (v.55)
5. He found God's blessing through faithful obedience to God's Word. (v.56)

An infant requires someone else to feed them and do everything for them.  As one grows up, they learn to feed themselves.  Spiritual maturity is knowing the Scriptures and how to put them into practice.

"But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil." (Hebrews 5:14)

4 steps to overcoming criticism of your Faith

Read Psalm 119:41-48.

Waw
In this sixth stanza, the psalmist mentions a vocal enemy.  Someone had done more than criticize him; they taunted him about his faith.  This put him in a tight spot on several levels.  He felt the pressure.

Anyone who lets their faith in Jesus be known will sooner or later encounter a similar experience.  It may come from a person at work, a neighbor, or even a relative.  Dependency on God and His Word may be seen as offensive to them and foolish.  Such reactions usually come from those who are hurting, feeling guilty, or jealous that you have found forgiveness and purity in Christ.  But their hurtful words still hurt.

What did the writer do to overcome his feelings and get back on track?
1. He depended even more on the steadfast love of God. (vv.41-42)
He did not give in and he did not give up because of spiritual opposition.  He looked up to One who loves us and never changes.

2. He renewed his hope in the trustworthiness of God's Word. (vv.43-44)
The truth of God's Word will last forever.  Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away."  (Matthew 24:35)  You can count on them!

3. He looked to the future with increased influence for God. (vv.45-46)
In the moment, he may have felt hemmed in or powerless against the criticism.  But his hope relied on a time when God would lead him to a new level of freedom.  "In a wide place" he would have plenty of options and opportunities to tell others of his faith in the LORD, even in the highest of places.

4. He committed himself to learn and practice the Word of God. (vv.47-48)
Such actions involved his hands and his heart.  His hands would lovingly take hold of the Scriptures.  With his mind he would meditate, turning the truth over and over in his thinking, looking for insights and applications to his life.

A prayer for Life

Read Psalm 119:33-40.

He
The prayer continues in this fifth stanza.  Twice, the writer cries out for "life."  The old King James translated the word "quicken" and modern translations use the word "revive."  The meaning has to do with preservation of one who is experiencing great discouragement or threatening sickness.

In the first seven verses, there are seven prayer requests.  Each one carries a resultant commitment or effect.
1. Teach me.
The purpose of being taught the Scriptures is to obey them.
2. Give me understanding.
Beyond knowing what God has said is having discernment to apply it to one's life.
3. Lead me.
Asking the LORD to guide is commonly prayed by believers.  But this request includes a predetermined attitude of delight in following God's leadership.
4. Incline my heart.
Without that inner commitment to obey God's Word, one will naturally turn to self-pleasing behaviors.  A selfish life ultimately produces emptiness.  The Apostle Paul wrote, "Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment." (1 Timothy 6:6)
5. Turn my eyes.
It is inescapable that what we use our eyes to read or view has effect on thinking, speech and behavior.  There is no difficulty in finding an endless supply of worthless things to see and waste the time God has graciously given us.  Investing time looking into the Scriptures is life-giving with eternal consequences.
6. Confirm...your promise.
Every day, and throughout the day, God is at work.  He demonstrates His provision for us, His care of us, His protection and His love.  A hardened heart misses this constant intervention.  A spiritually sensitive heart not only enjoys this moment by moment interaction with God, but lives a life of awe and respect for His presence.
7. Turn away the reproach.
As in the last stanza, we are not told what the threat to his well-being was.  He prayed for God to take it away and in doing so that the LORD would show to all that His decisions are good and right.

May our prayer be: Give us this kind of life.

The remedy for a heavy Heart

Read Psalm 119:25-32.

Daleth

We are not told what happened, but the songwriter was extremely downtrodden.  It was not a physical problem.  His heart was heavier than he could bear.  It must have felt like the end, because of his opening statement: "My soul clings to the dust."

This is the fourth stanza of Psalm 119.  God had answered his prayers in the past and now he needed the LORD's intervention again.  

1. He prayed for life. (v.25, 27, 32))
He was alive outwardly, but inwardly he felt enslaved and dying.  With a broken heart he prayed for God to break the bondage and give him the freedom to live.

2. He prayed for understanding of God's way. (v.27)
What he came to realize was that only by living according to the Word of God would he ever know clear direction for his life.  More than merely reading the Scriptures, he asked God to help him to think and gain insight into His Word.

3. He prayed to be faithful to the truth. (vv.28-31)
Once a person sees the real life implications of the Scriptures, there will be a conviction about every false way.  Ridding one's life of enslaving lies and habits against the knowledge of God brings the freedom every human heart truly desires.  Living in that freedom only comes through a commitment to diligently put the learning into practice.

How powerful then are the words of Jesus!  Coming to Him is the starting place and cure for every heavy heart.
"I am the way, and the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

My reason for Living

Read Psalm 119:17-24.

Gimel
What is my reason for living?  Why am I here?

The answer to those questions determines one's true success or failure in life.  We can live to please ourselves, but all the pleasure, power and possessions on earth will not fill the emptiness inside.  We can live for others and serve in great humanitarian efforts, but at the end we will have only made a few improvements on things that one day will all pass away.  When one lives to fulfill God's design for them, they discover personal satisfaction, life-changing service to others, and eternal benefits that can never be taken away.

Where does one begin to discover God's purpose for their lives?  See the psalmist's perspective here in stanza three of this song.

1. His Requests (vv.17-18)
He prayed for God's blessings on his life.  But notice why he wanted to be blessed "bountifully."  It was so he could live in alignment with God's Word.  Next, he prayed that God would help him to have spiritual insight into what he was reading.

2. His Needs (vv.19-20)
This world is not our home.  Our existence here will only be for a number of years.  Eternity is ahead.  Life on this planet then becomes a proving ground and preparation for what is ahead.  A pilgrim in a strange land needs a map, direction, and guidance along the journey.  The psalmist's desire was that God would reveal such direction from His Word and rule in his life's decisions accordingly.

3. His Story (vv.21-23)
He understood from God's Word and from observation that those who stray from God's purposes for their lives suffer the consequences.  But his prayer was that God would remove from him any temptation to stray.  His desire was to be faithful.  Even if respected authorities came against him, he determined in advance to turn to God's Word for counsel and to guide his thoughts.

The secret to avoiding personal Sin

Read Psalm 119:9-16.

The price of spiritual growth and enjoying a personal relationship with the God of heaven is purity.

Beth is the second of 22 stanzas in this acrostic psalm.  The subject continues to be the Word of God but the focus in these verses teaches us the basis of avoiding personal sin.

An unwillingness to give up sin keeps people from coming to Jesus for His forgiveness and cleansing.  For the believer, sin breaks our fellowship with Him and stunts spiritual growth.  Christianity has too many spiritual pygmies.

Many have memorized verses 9 and 11, but the secret to maintaining one's purity is found in verse 10.
1. The desire of purity.
"I seek you."  One who desires to live as they wish with eyes on what pleases them will soon find themselves enslaved in sin.  It is only when our supreme desire is to seek out what God wants that we find true freedom.  Purity begins with wanting to be right with the LORD more than personal wants.

2. The demand of purity.
"With my whole heart."  A half-hearted commitment satisfies no one.  Either we are living for God or we are not.  Purity demands that we forsake everything that displeases the LORD.

3. The determination of purity.
"Let me not wander from your commandments."  First, we must know what God has commanded in His Word.  Next, we must make a commitment to obey it.  Notice that the psalmist uses the personal reference of "I" 8 times in these 8 verses and, also, the action verbs attached to them.  Then, when confronted with temptation, we have predetermined to go God's way instead of our own.

"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man.  God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape that you may be able to endure it."  (1 Corinthians 10:13)

The starting line for Life-change

Read Psalm 119:1-8.

Many know that is the longest chapter in the Bible.  But most cannot tell you why.  This is an acrostic song and each stanza of 8 verses begins with one of the 22 letters in the Hebrew alphabet.  Presumably this mnemonic device was used to teach and to memorize the psalm.  Notice that every one of the 22 stanzas is focused on the Word of God.

Aleph
1. The Word of God blesses those who put it into practice. (vv.1-3)
There is no little idealism in these verses, especially the words "do no wrong."  God's Word is perfect but we are not.

2. The Word of God must be diligently practiced. (v.4)
This is a command from God, not a suggestion.  The word "diligently" means quickly and with intensity.  When we know what God has to say, He expects us to do it and to do it now.  There is no easing into obedience with God.  Either we are living in obedience or we are disobedient.

3. The Word of God will drive us to prayer. (v.5)
We all identify with the psalmist's prayer.  Understanding God's perfect Word reveals our sinfulness.  It is not possible to live a life that pleases God without knowing His Word and the enabling power of the Holy Spirit.  Every sincere heart has cried out with the Apostle Paul in Romans 7:24, "Wretched man that I am!"

4. The Word of God should change our behaviors. (vv.6-8)
The psalmist made three personal commitments for life-change:
-"Having my eyes fixed on all your commandments."  Spiritual growth begins with high regard for the Scriptures.
-"I will praise you."  True worship comes from one whose heart is right with God.
-"I will keep your statutes."  Every moment of the day reflects our commitment to practice the Word of God by what we think, what we say, and what we do.

A song for Today!

Read Psalm 118.

Picture a worshiper singing this song as they walked toward the Temple in Jerusalem.  The sacrifice for sin is being readied (v.27).  It is a feast day, possibly the Passover.  Yes, there had been difficult times in the past.  Other nations had attacked them and rejected their belief in the LORD.  But, today the heart is full of praise for God's love demonstrated in how He has faithfully delivered the nation. (v.24)

The psalmist lists many ways in which the LORD has delivered him and the nation.  Yet, there is more.  Unmistakably, at the same time, the psalm anticipates a triumphal entry of the Messiah.

"Open to me the gates." (v.19-20)

"The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone." (v.22)
Jesus quoted this verse in Matthew 21:42 as He taught the Parable of the Tenants.  It was a veiled reference to Himself.
Peter quoted it to preach that though the nation had rejected Jesus "there is salvation in no one else" (Acts 4:11-12)
Paul referred to it in Ephesians 2:20 and Peter again used it again in 1 Peter 2:7 saying that Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith.

"Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD!" (v.26)
As we read the description of Jesus' entry at the Passover, it does appear that the crowd may have in fact been singing this psalm (John 12:13).

For those who have welcomed the Messiah into their lives, there are two strong verses for today's worship and rejoicing.
"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." (v.14)
"This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (v.24)

All people will praise the LORD

Read Psalm 117.

"Praise the LORD!"

This is a short praise chorus.  It is quick and direct but packed with meaning.

1. Who is to praise Him?
Believers do this now every day.  But here all nations and all peoples are called to worship God.  The Bible knows nothing of the acceptance of many gods, nor does it allow for the concept of worship as one may choose.  When Christ returns in all His glory every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

2. Why is He to be praised?
Translations will use different words but the Hebrew focuses on two main reasons:
-God is kind, good, merciful, and loving.
-God is trustworthy, faithful and true.

His character does not change even when rejected by unbelievers.  Indeed, they experience His common grace every day.  His word does not change with our circumstances.  No matter what comes our way, our LORD's loving and reliable presence will be with us.

"Praise the LORD!"

Turning affection into Actions

Read Psalm 116.

Bill Gaither wrote the beautiful song:

"So many reasons why I love the Lord.

So many reasons I can't count them."

One reason this psalmist sang that he loved the LORD was because He answered his prayers.  In a very personal exchange with the God of heaven, he discovered that the LORD is gracious, righteous and merciful.  It changed his life.  His affection for God turned into actions.  Notice how many times the words "I will" appear.

1. I will continue to call on God. (v.2)

2. I will live a life that pleases God. (v.9)

3. I will praise God for His deliverance. (v.13)

4. I will pay what I promised. (v.14, vv.18-19)

5. I will give thanks in prayer as a sacrifice. (v.17)

Don't miss one of the most life-changing questions in the entire Bible in verse 12.  It is a question that should motivate every believer throughout every day.  It should cause us to check our own list of "I wills".

"What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me?"

The Uniqueness of the God of the Bible

Read Psalm 115.

The God of the Bible is unique.  There is none like Him and there is no true God besides Him.  The song begins with the praise, giving glory to God.

Some question the very existence of God.  Many believe there is a God in heaven, but often question what He does or does not do.  However, the God of the Bible is not accountable to His creation.  "Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases." (v.3)

If a person rejects the God of the Bible the greater question is, "What is the alternative?"  They are left to their own made up religious devices.  They turn their faith to objects they made with their own hands.  But those manufactured idols do not work, do not speak, do not hear, do not do anything or any good.  Some worship the creation, instead of the Creator.  Others, place their faith in a philosophy of one kind or another in an attempt to rationalize God out of their conscience.  But none of those alternatives address their need of the forgiveness of sin and assurance of eternity.

The God of the Bible is the only One who personally involves Himself in our lives.  Three times in verses 9-11 we are reminded that He is our help and shield.  In other words, He is the provider of what we need and He is our protector.

“Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!”

Remember what the LORD has Done

Read Psalm 114.

The nation was consistently reminded of those historic times where the LORD demonstrated His power on their behalf.

Three hallmark moments are in this psalm:
1. The Red Sea divided.
In Exodus 14, the rejoicing of freedom from bondage turned quickly to terror as the Egyptian army trapped Israel against the shores of the Red Sea.  But God intervened and parted the sea.  Israel crossed on dry ground.  Their pursuers all drowned as they attempted to follow.

2. The Jordan River divided.
In Joshua 3, God gave the next generation a similar experience.  Leaving their camp on the east side of the Jordan River, the nation marched toward the water at flood stage.  When the priests stepped into the river, it parted and Israel walked into the Promised Land on dry ground.

3. Water from the rock.
Between the first two miracles that are mentioned above is this one.  During the forty years of wandering the wilderness God miraculously provided for the nation.  In Exodus 17 they had no water for the millions of people in the Sinai desert.  The LORD instructed Moses to strike the rock and an ample supply of water flowed from it.

They were never to forget those times in the past when God intervened, answered their prayers, and met their needs.  More than their history, these events branded them as a nation.  No one else ever experienced these things.  But even greater was the overarching lesson of their faith.  The LORD always uses the miracles to deliver a message.  The earth trembles at His presence (vv.6-7).

God's miracles are proofs of His presence and care of His people.

He is the God who changes Lives

Read Psalm 113.

No one who believes there is a God in heaven would argue His greatness.  The psalmist pictures the LORD seated on high watching what takes place in the universe and specifically on earth.

So, how is the God of the Bible different from all man-made mythical gods?  The LORD of heaven not only created all things, and controls all things, but He sovereignly intervenes in individual lives.  He has a purpose and a plan for each one.

Two examples are given here.
1. The poor.
He does not raise up every poor person from their poverty.  But when He does it demonstrates His power to change a life.  More than seeing this only as an economic change consider the statement in 2 Corinthians 8:9.  "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich."  There is no poverty like spiritual poverty.  There is no greater wealth than becoming a child of the King of Heaven.
2. The barren woman.
He does not give children to every woman.  But when He does it is evidence of His miraculous power to give life from conception.  "Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of the days that were formed for me, when as yet there were none of them." (Psalm 139:16)

Every person who comes to Him by faith experiences His grace.  That intervening grace changes our lives to be conformed to Christ.  As the songwriter began, so he closed: "Praise the LORD!

6 principles of blessed Life

Read Psalm 112.

It is important to distinguish between a principle and a promise.  When God makes a promise, it is a commitment that He will certainly fulfill.  When the Scriptures state a principle, it is a broad, foundational truth that may vary in its effect from person to person.

In this psalm, there are multiple, general descriptions of one who is blessed by the LORD.
1. The children will be strong champions and live uprightly.
But not every believer has children.  And, as diligent as some godly parents are, their children do not always live lives that please the LORD.  Our responsibility is to be faithful stewards of what and who God chooses to give us. (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)  Being living examples of a transformed life and seeking to disciple the next generation can be powerfully used by the Holy Spirit.

2. The person will enjoy prosperity.
But not every fully-devoted follower of Jesus dies rich.  Indeed, many of the rich in every country are among the most wicked.  However, God has promised to meet the needs of generous believers. (Philippians 4:13)

3. They have discernment.
Like a light being turned on in a dark room, the Holy Spirit helps those who love the LORD to understand the word of God and apply it to life.  Such discernment comes from Him. (1 Corinthians 2:10)

4. All goes well with them.
If a person is generous and just then everything in life may bring contentment beyond circumstances.  But sometimes the most kind and giving people may experience heartache, great disappointment, and loss.  Proverbs 19:17 reminds us that "Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed."  That is a promise.  God sees our good works and one day will reward us for them.

5. Their legacy will be forever.
One who fears the LORD is firmly established and their good works will always be remembered.  But many who love God serve Him quietly and in obscurity.  Even many of the so-called famous Christians are forgotten in a single generation.  But the Savior promised to never forget us.  "Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands..." (Isaiah 49:15-16)

6. He is not afraid.
But many things in life can cause even the most mature in the faith to tremble.  But God's promise is "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

Regardless of the individual circumstances, God’s character does not change.  "He is gracious, merciful, and righteous" no matter what our temporal evaluation may be.  Know and practice the principles, but depend on the promises.

How to respond to an Awesome God

Read Psalm 111.

The second half of verse 9 should be memorized by all those who love the LORD.  The name of God is holy and to be revered.  Never should His name ever be used flippantly, as in OMG.  The name of God is awesome.  Too many have lost the meaning of the word awe.  He alone is truly awesome.

So, how did this songwriter respond to the holy and awesome God?

1. He gave thanks in corporate worship. (v.1)
The Bible does not know about secret believers or those who keep their faith to themselves.  Assembling with other believers to praise the LORD and to give thanks for what He has done is an essential part of genuine worship.

2. He studied God's works. (v.2-9a)
A occasional reading of the Bible will not satisfy.  One who has experienced the grace of God possesses a desire to know more.  Studying the word of God takes time and consistency.  Learning to feed oneself with the Scriptures is essential to spiritual growth.  Notice the benefits listed here:
-It reminds us what God has done.
-It reminds us what God has provided.
-It reminds us of God's power.
-It reminds us that His word is trustworthy.
-It reminds us of our redemption.
-It reminds us of God's promises.

3. He practiced what he learned. (v.10)
Just knowing what the Bible says will not change our lives.  The Scriptures were not given to us for our information but for our transformation.  That transforming work takes place as we put into practice what we know God wants us to be doing.

A glimpse of the 2nd coming of Jesus

Read Psalm 110.

Amazing!  Just imagine, David was allowed to overhear a conversation in heaven among the Godhead.  Literally, verse 1 states, "Jehovah said to Adonai," "my LORD said to my Lord," or "God, the Father, said to God, the Son."

The psalmist was reassured by revelation of the Holy Spirit that the Messiah would one day come to judge and rule over all the nations on earth.

A few hundreds of years later, Isaiah famously prophesied concerning the Messiah, "the government shall be upon his shoulders...of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom..." (Isaiah 9-6-7)

In Mark 12:36, Jesus quoted Psalm 110 and quizzed religious leaders concerning the eternal nature of the Messiah.

Peter quoted this Psalm and used it to proclaim that Jesus is both Lord and the Messiah.

Hebrews chapter 1 quotes Psalm 45 to declare Jesus is God and includes Psalm 110:1.

Jesus now serves as our eternal High Priest.  But when Jesus returns He will be the conquering King of kings and Lord of lords so vividly described in Revelation 19.  All believers will rule and reign with Him.  "Your people will offer themselves freely on the day of your power..."(v.3)

We will join those loud voices of heaven in singing the Hallelujah chorus that Handel could only imagine.  "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever. (Revelation 11:15)

Handling hurtful Words

Read Psalm 109.

"Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me" is a false statement!  Words do hurt.  And, they can hurt worse with more lasting effect than any physical pain.

There simply is no substitute for having faith in the God.  Believing that He will execute justice and ultimately right every wrong relieves us when we are helpless.  He is the God of all comfort.  When there is no remedy for our pain believers can experience the ministry of the Holy Spirit and have His peace that surpasses all understanding.

Here was David's prayer in the midst of his suffering.
1. The Cause. (vv.1-5)
He found himself surrounded by evil people who lied about him and said hateful things.  What made this hurt even more was that these were people that he loved and had helped.
2. The Curse. (vv.6-20)
In pouring his heart out to God, he presented an entire list of vengeance that could be brought upon these enemies.
3. The Cry. (vv.21-26)
"But you, O God my Lord."  Now, the turning point.  It is interesting to note that David was not taking these actions but asking the LORD to intervene on his behalf.  Once the lies, rumors and gossip spread, it is difficult for one to defend themselves.  Meanwhile, David paid an awful price physically during the suffering.  He cast himself on his faith in God's steadfast love for him.
4. The Contrast. (vv.27-29)
They curse; God blesses.  They will be put to shame; David will be glad.
5. The Confidence. (vv.30-31)
His prayer was not whining or mere venting.  Being full of faith, he prayed with thanksgiving and praise, knowing that the God of heaven was poised to step in and help.

"Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'" (Romans 12:19)

David’s daily Devotional

Read Psalm 108.

King David's heart was right before God and he stood firm in his faith.  Therefore, he could pray and worship the LORD with great confidence.  The evidence is in his repeated statements of commitment.  Four times (ESV) he declared "I will."

1. "I will sing."
How he worshiped.  "With all his being" would indicate that his song was full of energy and volume.

2. "I will wake the dawn!"
When he worshiped.  He woke up early in the morning ready to boisterously worship God.  It does not seem that his daily devotions would be called a "quiet time."

3. "I will give thanks."
The beginning of his worship.  He did not initially approach God with his list of requests.  The first item was to thank the LORD for what He had already done.  And, the thanksgiving was not only in prayer but he wanted others to hear how good God had been to him.

4. "I will sing praises to you among the nations."
The extent of his worship.  Those who do not know the LORD need to hear these praises and thanksgivings from those who have experienced His wonderful love and faithfulness.  David’s worship continued throughout the day as he encountered other people.

Question: How does my personal worship compare to David's practice?

Let's sing all four Stanzas

Read Psalm 107.

The call is for all who have personally experienced God's redemption to say so.  Extolling His powerful rescues and breakthroughs are the messages of our lives.

Four examples are given by the psalmist.
1. Those who were in physical desperation. (vv.4-5)
Wandering around in life with no sense of direction, they became unable to support themselves.  They were homeless and destitute, without hope.
2. Those who were in affliction. (vv.10-12)
These people choose to rebel against God's word.  When they refused to listen, they suffered the consequences.
3. Those who brought misery on themselves. (vv.17-18)
Their own foolish, sinful decisions turned on them.  They endured such suffering that they could not eat and thought they would die.
4. Those who faced perilous storms. (vv.23-27)
They did not do anything wrong to bring on this trouble.  They merely endeavored to conduct their business and to earn their living when things turned bad.

In each instance, they came to the end of themselves.  That is when they called out to the LORD for help.  Four times the refrain is repeated (vv.6, 13, 19, 28) and each time he delivered them.  Four times the chorus includes the words, "Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love."

If you have reached the end of trying life on your own, call on the LORD for His deliverance today.

If you have experienced one of God's miraculous breakthroughs in your life, tell someone else today.  “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so.” (v.2)

Praising God for His Goodness

Read Psalm 106.

The song recounts a few of the nation's turning points of faith.  God's character and commitment to those who belong to Him are evident.  Though the people rebelled, the LORD was faithful.  When they saw God's goodness, they sang His praise.

1. The Red Sea (vv.7-12)
For 400 years, the Jews were slaves in Egypt.  Even after witnessing God's power in the ten plagues, they rebelled in fear when cornered.  "Yet he saved them for his name's sake." It was His name and His reputation that was being questioned.  Moses had intervened.  The destruction of the Egyptian army was all about God, His plans, and His promises.  "Then they believed his words; they sang his praise."

2. The Wilderness (vv.13-23)
During the 40 years in the desert, God provided for them every day.  But His provision was not good enough for them.  They rebelled and wanted more.  "He gave them what they asked, but sent a wasting disease among them."  They paid a high price for their discontent.  Next, the Person of the LORD was not enough for them.  They wanted more.  So, they rebelled and made up their own so-called gods.  Had it not been for the intercession of Moses, the nation was doomed.  God spared them in answer to prayer.

3. The Promised Land (vv.24-46)
God kept His promises to them, but it was not enough.  They complained, disobeyed and turned from the LORD to demonic worship.  God sent a plague.  "Phinehas stood up and intervened, and the plague was stayed."  But the cycle continued.  "Many times he delivered them" (v.43).  "For their sake he remembered his covenant" (v.45).

In spite of our many failures, God does not change.  His mercy and forgiveness are available to all.
"Praise the LORD!  Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!"

The needs of Israel yesterday and Today

Read Psalm 105.

The psalmist taught the nation the word of God and its history through song.

1. Genesis (vv.8-24)
The nation of Israel began with the LORD's unconditional covenant with Abraham.  God promised a land, innumerable descendants, and blessing upon them forever.  The covenant passed from Abraham to Isaac to Jacob and so on.  The book of Genesis concludes with Joseph's rise to power and all the Jews moving to Egypt.

2. Exodus (vv.25-43)
After 400 hundreds years, the Jews had heavily populated the best of the land of Egypt.  They became a threat to Pharaoh.  His response was to put them in slavery.  But God raised up Moses and Aaron to demonstrate His power in the ten plagues.  The Jews left Egypt "with joy and singing."

3. Joshua (vv.44-45)
Joshua had been mentored by Moses.  He was the obvious choice as the next national leader.  He led the Jews in taking back the land God promised Abraham and his descendants.  Why did God want them on that land of promise?  So "that they might keep his statutes and observe his laws."  In other words, this was the place for them to live and worship the LORD in freedom and obedience.

That was history.  What did the nation need now? (vv.1-5)
-Give thanks
-Call on His name
-Make known His deeds
-Sing to Him
-Tell of His wondrous works
-Glory in His name
-Rejoice
-Seek the LORD
-Remember who He is and what He has done

This list provides the elements of worship for all of us who know the Lord Jesus Christ.
For Israel today, "Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved." (Romans 10:1)

Do you see what I See?

Read Psalm 104.

Anyone who thinks that creation is a merely a Genesis issue needs only to read this Psalm.  God's personal and detailed creative acts are the bases of this song of worship.  The shear greatness of God is seen everywhere.  But there is more.  It is His continued sustaining of the creation that should cause us to break out in praise with this songwriter.

1. When he looked at the sky with its lights and clouds, he saw the splendor and majesty of God. (vv.1-6)
Some only study the movements of the heavens and never open their hearts to the Creator and Controller of all things.

2. When he looked at the earth with its rivers and oceans, he marveled at God's control. (vv.7-9)
Verse 9 is a direct reference to Genesis 9:15.  God promised never to destroy the entire earth again with a flood.  The rainbow is a reminder of that promise.

3. When he looked at the birds, animals, sea life, and mankind, he realized how lovingly God provides for all of them. (vv.10-26)
The LORD did not just begin the world and then let go on its own.  He is personally involved in the care and feeding of His creation.  "These all look to you, to give them their food in due season" (v.27)

"O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
They pow'r throughout the universe displayed.
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art!"
-Stuart K. Hine

Rethinking the benefits of our Faith

Read Psalm 103.

King David shouted in song, "Bless the LORD, O my soul."  Then, he encouraged everyone else to join him.
Praising the LORD expresses our great gratitude for all that God has done and is doing.  This is not a church exercise, but a personal attitude that flows into each moment of the day.  No matter how great the stress or loss, one cannot be negative or depressed with this heavenly perspective.

Here is David's list of benefits in living for the LORD.
1. He provides our health. (v.3)
Each breath is a gift from God.  As long as He allows us to be here, He has a purpose for us.
2. He satisfies with His goodness. (v.5)
God is good.  It is His nature.  Therefore, He is good to us.  When a person opens their hearts to Him, they realize this truth and He fills it to overflowing with His goodness.  There is no other contentment like this.
3.  He does what is right and just. (v.6)
These character qualities of the LORD are repeated throughout the Bible.  Sooner or later, the hand of God will always do what is right and correct every wrong.
4. He extends His grace. (v.10)
God "does not deal with us according to our sins".  It is His grace to us that provides all these benefits of our faith.
5. He forgives our sins. (v.12)
"As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us."  

6. He gives love and mercy. (vv.13-14)
God does not give us what we deserve, but as a father shows compassion.

7. He offers eternal redemption. (vv.15-16)
Without His intervention of salvation in Christ, we have no hope.  Notice the temporal contrast later in this psalm.

Now, that is David's list.  What is on your list today?  Take time to tell the LORD in prayer and thank Him for all His benefits to you.

There is hope for the Future

Read Psalm 102.

This is the prayer of one who was hurting.  Physically, the psalmist ached so badly that he would forget to eat.  As a result his body suffered even more.  The restlessness prevented sleep.  On top of that there was emotional suffering from enemies.  He felt that he would soon die at a much earlier age than expected.  That was his reality.

"But you, O LORD..."  His hope was not in his physical, nor his emotional, well-being.  It was his personal faith in God that gave him confidence about the future.

1. He had hope in God regarding his nation. (vv.13-16)
The land had been given to the nation of Israel by God's unconditional promise.  Though circumstances may appear bleak for the moment, the writer knew that one day the LORD Himself would rule and reign from Jerusalem.  Then, all nations will worship Him.  The future is secure.

2. He had hope in God regarding his prayers. (v.17)
To be destitute is be stripped of everything.  It is more than being needy.  With no means or ability to help oneself, to be destitute is to be totally dependent.  That is the relationship God wants from each person.  God helps those who cannot help themselves.  Casting our inability upon His limitless power and plan is the starting point of a blessed life.

3. He had hope in God for the coming generations. (vv.18-22)
"So that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD."  That includes us some 3000 years later.  How can we praise God when all around us appears to be getting worse by the day?
-"God is enthroned forever" (v.12).  He is in control and step by step He is unfolding His future plans.
-God "hears the groans" and will "set free those who were doomed to die" (v.20).  Not only does He hear our prayers and see what we are experiencing, but He has all-power to deliver us.
-God will take care of the next generation, just as He has provided for us (v.28).

"Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand.
But I know who holds the future and I know who hold my hand."
-Stuart Hamblen

9 disciplines of godly People

Read Psalm 101.

David not only served as shepherd, a mighty warrior, and king, but he was called "the sweet psalmist of Israel."  Music gained him entrance into the service of King Saul and continues to be a major part of his legacy.  In this song he made nine commitments using the words "I will."  These do's and don'ts express the need of all who desire to live a life that pleases the LORD.

1. I will sing.
This is the new song of praise to God for His personal love and His concern to bring about justice.
2. I will make music.
His praise was not limited to his voice.  He also used instruments to worship God as well.
3. I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Doing what is right requires thinking and considering what God wants us to do.  Thoughtless words and deeds lead to sin.
4. I will walk with integrity.
Incongruity is hypocrisy.  A double-minded person behaves one way when people are watching and another privately.
5. I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.
Our choices of what books and magazines we will read or not read, the television, movies and internet sites we will view or not view are tests of our integrity.  These are character decisions.
6. I will know nothing of evil.
Often, it is curiosity or the popular thing to do that leads us to explore or experience sinful things.  Sin is never victim-less.  Everyone involved and everyone around those involved are affected.  Evil is always energized by demons.
7. I will destroy slanderers.
When gossip and slander is allowed dissension will be the result.  These are cowards who use words to talk about others instead of speaking with them in love.
8. I will not endure pride-filled people.
God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.  Tolerating an egoist will hinder the grace of God in every situation.
9. I will look with favor on faith-filled people.
If you desire to live a godly life, then surround yourself with godly people.  Watch.  Listen.  Learn from them.

6 commands about our Worship

Read Psalm 100.

At eight years of age, my Sunday School teacher led us in memorizing this Psalm.  There are six commands regarding our worshipful responses to the LORD.  Worship is not the building or the style but the praise of the person of God Himself.

1. Make joyful noise.
The call to worship is for everyone.  Worship has its solemnity and dignity but our attitude is to be one of joy.  It is an absolute privilege to know and honor the God of heaven.

2. Serve the LORD with gladness.
This has to do with work related to worshiping God.  Some lead worship.  Some are designated singers.  Some play an instrument. Some speak.  Some greet.  Some usher.  All are to participate.  Our faces, body language, and words are to reflect a glad heart.

3. Come in singing.
Not just the musicians but everyone is to vocally participate.

4. Know the focus.
He is God!  Worship helps us refocus from the distractions of this world to remember where we came from and whose we are.

5. Enter with thanksgiving.
Often we come to God wanting something from Him.  Worship is a time to thank Him for what He has already provided.

6. Bless His name.
It is His reputation that we praise and honor.

Why?  Because of His goodness, love and faithfulness.
"Oh, taste, and see that the LORD is good!  Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!" (Psalm 34:8)

3 things most people do not know about God

Read Psalm 99.

Singing has always been a part of worship.  The psalmist wanted everyone to understand to Whom they were singing.  This was not a casual chorus but praise for the One called great and awesome.

1. The LORD is to be feared. (vv.1-3)
To fear God means much more than reverential respect.  Here, the very thought of the holy LORD on His throne should cause the people to tremble and the earth to quake.  What a contrast to what most people experience in worship!  Usually, God has to scare us to near death before we tremble before Him.

2. The LORD sits in the seat of judgment. (vv.4-5)
If someone were to ask what two things does God loves, how many would respond with justice and equity?  But this One in heaven is concerned with the statutes of behavior He has prescribed.  He watches the processes and procedures of how decisions are made.  He loves it when matters are handled rightly.  His holiness will not tolerate wrongdoing by anyone.

3. The LORD hears the prayers of obedient believers. (vv.6-9)
Notice what preceded their prayers.  God spoke.  "They kept his testimonies and the statute that he gave them."  They prayed.  God answered.  Knowing God's word and obeying it are precursors to asking Him for anything.  Disobedience requires repentance and forgiveness.  Experiencing God's forgiveness allows us to forgive those who sin against us.

There is nothing like a clean heart to move us to correctly worship our holy God.

Time to stop and count your Blessings

Read Psalm 98.

The psalmist is counting his blessings and calling everyone, including all nature, to join in singing praises to God.  The LORD had done marvelous things and he could not be silent.  This is a new song, much different than those estranged from God can sing.  Everyone on earth enjoys the blessings of God moment by moment throughout all of life.  But stopping to give credit and honor to the One to whom it is due requires time, thought, an open heart as well as an open mouth.

1. God had demonstrated His power. (v.1)
Where did God demonstrate His power to you this week?

2. God had made known His salvation. (v.2a)
How have you responded this week to His deliverance of you?

3. God had revealed His righteousness. (v.2b)
When this week did you see that God was right?

4. God had shown steadfast love. (v.3a)
What happened this week where God's love was evidenced to you?

5. God had been faithful. (v.3b)
In what ways did God show His faithfulness to you this week?

"Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love."
Thomas O. Chisholm

3 Questions every person must Answer

Read Psalm 97.

This wonderful song is a universal call to praise the One and only God.  The psalm is full of theology and answers some basic questions to which every human being must respond.

1. Who is God? (vv.1-5)
Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the writer provides a view of the LORD on His throne.
The visuals are further described in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4.  Note also the sounds and power that emanate from His presence.  His rule is founded upon the character qualities of righteousness and justice.  These two qualities are emphasized in light of His coming judgment upon the earth.

The Apostle Peter gave a matching preview of this coming in judgment.
"But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly...then the heavenly bodies will burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed."  (2 Peter 3:7-10)

2. What about other beliefs? (vv.6-9)
Don't we all worship the same God?  The Creator of all things, the eternal God, claims absolute exclusivity.  The Bible does not mince words concerning other belief systems.  All others will be put to shame and even now are worthless.  There is an invitation here for all those so called gods to worship the LORD alone.
When the Philistines placed the Ark of God before their idol Dagon, that false god fell to the ground before the Ark and broke in pieces. (1 Samuel 5)

Jesus could not have been clearer on this point.  "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

3. What should we who know Jesus do about this spiritual warfare? (vv.10-12)
-Hate evil.  Believers must not tolerate personal sin, nor be complacent about the sin around them.
-Know that God delivers His own from evil people.  Indeed, the enemy of our souls has already been defeated.
-Rejoice and give thanks.
"For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world.  And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith." (1 John 5:4)

Faith needs to be Heard

Read Psalm 96

There are times to be silent.  There are times to worship the LORD in quietness.  This Psalm is not of one of those times.  Notice some key words: sing, bless, tell, declare, ascribe, say.  The praise of God in this song is vocal, audible and loud so as to be heard around the world.

1.      We are to Sing. (vv.1-6)

Our song is a new song.  It is different than what the world sings.  The words tell how great God is and what He has done.  In contrast, all the false gods of this world are worthless. 

Question: How is my music different because of my faith in Him?

2.      We are to Speak. (vv.7-10)

Our words to this world are to include declarations of God’s glory and honor due to Him.  It is a call to come and worship the LORD because of His sovereignty and our accountability to Him.

Question: What am I saying in my daily conversations that demonstrate this?

3.      We are to Celebrate. (vv.11-13)

Our mission is to spread the message.  This is a call to all of creation to join us in celebrating our faith with joy and gladness.  God is right.  He is faithful.  He will judge.

Question: How will those around me today see and hear my celebration of joy and gladness?

“Come thou fount of every blessing,

Tune my heart to sing thy grace;

Streams of mercy, never ceasing,

Call for songs of loudest praise.”

-Robert Robinson

An Invitation to Sing

Read Psalm 95.

This song is an invitation for all to join in singing.  Some may feel they cannot "carry a tune" and have no capacity.  But the writer encouraged making a joyful noise.  Whether you can sing or not, make it loud.  Some may feel they have no need to sing to the LORD.  So, the writer reminds us of several reasons for this call.

1. A call to sing praises to God. (vv.1-5)
"Oh come..."  Why?  Because Jehovah is a great God and King above any other persons or objects of worship.  He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things.  There is no one like Him.
"I am God, and there is no other; I am God and there is none like me." (Isaiah 46:9)

2. A call to worship God. (vv.6-7a)
"Oh come..."  Why?  Because the LORD is not only God, but He is our God.  We are His people.
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1)  The eternal, life-changing word in that verse is the little word "my".  He is ours and we are His, forever.

3. A call to listen to God. (vv.7b-11)
"Today...do not harden your hearts."  Hearing God's voice requires a soft heart; one that is open to receive what He has to say.  Every moment the LORD wants to give us direction, guidance, and wisdom.  Those who close their hearts toward Him are on their own and pay an awful price.
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you."
(Psalm 32:8)