Psalm 76 - A Call For God

The author of Psalm 76 was Asaph.  Remember we have discussed him before, he was a leader of one of the temple choirs.  He shares with us a call for God to punish evildoers.  Even man's angry revolt will be used by God to bring glory to himself.

Psalm 76:1 - "In Judah God is known; his name is great is Israel"

Verse 1 of this psalm praises God for his awesome power. It was most likely written to celebrate a defeat after invading a specific area of Judah.

Psalm 76:10 - "Surely your wrath against men brings you praise, and the survivors of your wrath are restrained"

How can wrath bring praise to God? Hostility to God and his people gives God the opportunity to do great deeds.  For example, the Pharaoh of Egypt refused to free the Hebrew slaves (Exodus 5:1,2) and therefore allowed God to work mighty miracles for his people. (Exodus 11:9) God turns the tables on evildoers an brings glory to himself from the foolishness of those who deny him or revolt against him.  God's wrath expressed in judgment brings praise from those who have been delivered.

Exodus 5:1,2 - Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the desert' " Pharaoh said, "Who is the LORD, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD and I will not let Israel go"

Exodus 11:9 - The LORD said to Moses, "Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you - so that my wonders may be multiplied in Egypt"

Psalm 75 - Having Confidence In God

The author of Psalm 75 was Asaph, a leader of one of the temple choirs.  We read that because God is the final judge, the tables will be turned upon the wicked. When arrogant people threaten our security, we can be confident that God will ultimately overrule and destroy them.

 

Psalm 75:2 - "You say, 'I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge uprightly'."

 

God will act when he is ready. Children have difficulty grasping the concept of time. "It's not time yet" is not a reason they easily understand because they only comprehend the present. As limited human beings, we can't understand God's perspective about time. We want everything now, unaware that God's timing is better.  When God is ready, he will do what needs to be done, not what we would like him to do. We may be as impatient as children, but we must not doubt the wisdom of God's timing. Wait for God to reveal his plan. Don't take matters into your own hands.

 

Psalm 75:8 - "In the hand of the Lord is a cup full of foaming wine mixed with spices."

 

The cup of wine in verse 8 represents God's judgment. The judgment of God is coming against the wicked. God will pour out his fury on his enemies, and they will be forced to drink it.  Drinking the cup of God's judgment is a picture used frequently in Scripture.  (Examples: Isaiah 51:17,22; Jeremiah 25:15; 49:12)  It gives the impression of taking a dose of one's own medicine. To drink it down to the dregs means to be punished completely.

Psalm 74 - A Plea For God

The author of Psalm 74 was Asaph or one of his descendants.  This psalm is a plea for God to help his people defend his cause and remember his promises. When we feel devastated or forgotten, we can plead to God for help, knowing that he hears.

 

Psalm 74:1-2 - "Why have you rejected us forever, O God? Why does your anger smolder against the sheep of your pasture? 2-Remember the people you purchased of old, the tribe of your inheritance, whom you redeemed -- Mount Zion, where you dwelt."

God's anger against Israel had grown hot during the many years of their sin and idolatry. His patience endured for generations, but at last it was set aside for judgment. If you fall into sin and quickly seek God's forgiveness, his mercy may come quickly and his anger may leave quickly. If you persist in sinning against him, don't be surprised when his patience runs out.

 

Psalm 74:8 - "They said in their hearts, 'We will crush them completely!' They burned every place where God was worshiped in the land."

When enemy armies defeated Israel, they sacked and burned Jerusalem, trying to wipe out every trace of God. This has often been the response of people who hate God. Today many are trying to erase God from traditions in our society and from subjects taught in our schools. Do what you can to maintain a Christian influence, but don't become discouraged when others appear to make great strides in eliminating all traces of God -- they cannot eliminate his presence among believers.

From our perspective, God sometimes seems slow to intervene on our behalf. But what might appear slow to us is good timing from God's perspective. It's easy to become impatient while waiting for God to act, but we must never give up on him. When God is silent and you are in deep anguish, follow the method in this psalm. Review the great acts of God throughout Biblical history, then review what he has done for you. This will remind you that God is at work, not only in history, but also in your life today.

 

Psalm 73 - Trusting God

The author of Psalm 73 was Asaph, a leader of one of the temple choirs.  He collected several Psalm chapters (73-83), but may not have written all of them. In this psalm, Asaph explains that until he entered God's sanctuary, he could not understand justice in allowing the wicked to thrive while the righteous endured hardship. But when he saw that one day justice would be done, he acknowledged God's wisdom.

 

In verses 1-20, two strong themes wind their way through these verses: (1) the wicked prosper, leaving faithful people wondering why they bother to be good; and (2) the wealth of the wicked looks so inviting that faithful people may wish they could trade places. But these 2 themes come to unexpected ends, for the wealth of the wicked suddenly loses its power at death and the rewards for the good suddenly take on eternal value. What seemed like wealth is now waste, and what seemed worthless now lasts forever. Don't wish you could trade places with evil people to get their wealth. One day they will wish they could trade places with you and have your eternal wealth.

 

Psalm 73:1-20 

1-Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart.

2-But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.

3-For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

4-They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong.

5-They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills.

6-Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence.

7-From their callous hearts comes iniquity; the evil conceits of their minds know no limits.

8-They scoff, and speak with malice; in their arrogance they threaten oppression.

9-Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth.

10-Therefore their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance.

11-They say, 'How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?'

12-This is what the wicked are like - always carefree, they increase in wealth.

13-Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence.

14-All day long I have been plagued; I have been punished every morning.

15-If I had said, 'I will speak thus,' I would have betrayed your children.

16-When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me

17-Till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.

18-Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin.

19-How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away be terrors!

20-As a dream when one awakes, so when you arise, O Lord, you will despise them as fantasies.

 

Though our courage and strength may fail, we know that one day we will be raised to life to serve him forever. He is our security, and we must cling to him.

 

Psalm 73:23,24 - "Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 24-You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory."

Psalm 72 - Perfect Justice And Perfect Peace

The author of Psalm 72 was Solomon, King David's son.  King David asked God to help his son rule the nation justly and wisely. The nation looked forward to the endless reign of the Messiah, who alone could rule with perfect justice, and whose citizens would enjoy perfect peace.

Psalm 72:1,2 - "Endow the king with your justice, O God, the royal son with your righteousness. 2-He will judge your people in righteousness, your afflicted ones with justice"

What qualities do we want most in our leaders?  God desires all who rule under him to be righteous and just. Think how the world would change if world leaders would commit themselves to these two qualities.  Let us pray that they will.

Psalm 72:12-14 - "For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. 13-He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. 14-He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight"

God cares for the needy, the afflicted, and the weak, because they are precious to him.  If God feels so strongly about these needy ones and loves them so deeply, how can we ignore their plight?  Examine what you are doing to reach out with God's love - are you ignoring their plight or are you meeting their needs?

Psalm 72:17 - "May his name endure forever; may it continue as long as the sun.  All nations will be blessed through him, and they will call him blessed"

Solomon, David's son, reigned in Israel's golden age.  He built the magnificent temple, and the land rested in peace.  This psalm, though written by Solomon, looks beyond Solomon's reign to that of Jesus the Messiah, whose kingdom extends "to the ends of the earth" and is greater than any human empire.  This will be fulfilled when Christ returns to reign forever.  When we anticipate his worldwide rule, it fills our hearts with hope. 

Book II ends with "Amen and Amen" as did Psalm 41, which closed Book I of Psalms.  The last verse does not mean that David wrote this psalm, but that he wrote most of the psalms in Book II. Tomorrow we will begin Book III of Psalms, which will include chapters 73:1-89:52.

Psalm 71 - God's Consistent Help From Childhood to Old Age

The author of Psalm 71 is non known.  The psalm shares with us that God is consistently helping us from childhood to our old age, if we just let him into our lives and allow him inside our hearts and minds. Remembering God's lifetime of blessing will help us see the consistency of his grace throughout the years, trust him for the future, and share with others the benefit of following him.

"But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more"  ~ Psalm 71:14

As we face the sunset years, we recognize that God has been our constant help in the past.  As physical powers wane, we need God even more, and we realize he is still our constant help.  We must never despair, but keep on expecting his help no matter how severe our limitations.  Hope in him helps us to keep going, to keep serving him.

"Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come" ~ Psalm 71:18

A person is never too old to serve God, never too old to pray.  Though age may stop us from certain physical activities, it need not end our desire to tell others (especially children) about all we have seen God do in the many years we have lived.

Psalm 70 - An Urgent Prayer For Help

The author of Psalm 70 was David.  It is an urgent prayer for help.  It can be your prayer when you are short on time and long on need.

When others disappoint and threaten us, we feel empty, as though a vital part of ourselves has been stolen. When others break the trust we have placed in them, they also break our spirits.  At those empty, broken moments, we must join the psalmist in begging God to rush to our aid.  He alone can fill our lives with his joy. With the psalmist we should cry out, "O LORD, do not delay!"

Psalm 70 is a very short psalm and it was David's plea for God to come quickly with his help.  Yet even in his moment of panic, he did not forget praise.  Praise is important because it helps us remember who God is. Often our prayers are filled with requests for ourselves and others, and we forget to thank God for what he has done and to worship him for who he is.  Don't take God for granted and treat him as a vending machine. Even when David was afraid, he still praised God.

Psalm 70 / New International Version

1-"Hasten, O God, to save me;
  O LORD, come quickly to save me.
2-May those who seek my life
  be put to shame and confusion;
may all who desire my ruin
be turned back in disgrace.
3-May those who say to me, "Aha! Aha!"
turn back because of their shame.
4-But may all who seek you
  rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who love your salvation always say,
"Let God be exalted!"
5-Yet I am poor and needy;
  come quickly to me, O God.
You are my help and my deliverer;
O LORD, do not delay"

Psalm 69 - One Of The Most Quoted Psalms In the New Testament

The author of Psalm 69 was David. He shares with us that even if we have to suffer severely for our devotion to God, that should cause us to look forward with joy to the day when evil and injustice will be gone forever.

 

Psalm 69:3 - "I am worn out calling for help; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God."

 

Psalm 69 is one of the most quoted psalms in the New Testament, and it is often applied to the ministry and suffering of Jesus.   David cried out until he was physically exhausted, with a parched throat and blurred vision. Yet he still trusted God to save him. When devastated by death or tragedy, we need not collapse or despair because we can turn to God and ask him to save us and help us. The tears will still come, but we will not be crying in vain.

 

Psalm 69:13 - "But I pray to you, O Lord, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation."

 

What problems David faced! He was scoffed at, mocked at, insulted, humiliated, and made the object of city-wide gossip. But still he prayed. When we are completely beaten down, we are tempted to turn from God, give up, and quit trusting him. When your situation seems hopeless, determine that no matter how bad things become you will continue to pray. God will hear your prayer, and he will rescue you. When others reject us, we need God most. Don't turn from your most faithful friend.

Psalm 68 - Remembering God's Glory

The author of Psalm 68 was David. He was remembering God's glory and power; as times and cultures change, God is always majestically present as defender and provider.

 

Psalm 68:3-6 "But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful. 4-Sing to God, sing praise to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds - his name is the Lord -- and rejoice before him. 5-A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. 6-God sets the lonely in families, he leads forth the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land."

 

With shouts of praise and the sound of trumpets, David and his people took the holy ark toward Mount Zion. It was a time to sing praises to the Lord, whose presence brings great joy. Only in God is there hope for the orphans, widows, prisoners, and all other lonely people. If you are lonely or disadvantaged, join David in praise, and discover great joy from loving and praising God.

 

David praised God for his protection and provision. When we see God's true majesty, our response should be to praise him. This was a song of faith because many of these benefits had not yet come true in David's time. It should also be our song of faith. We must continue to trust God because, in time, he will fulfill all his promises.

 

Psalm 68:18 - "When you ascended on high, you led captives in your train; you received gifts from men, even from the rebellious - that you, O Lord God, might dwell there."

 

Verse 18 assures all of us who believe in Christ that by trusting him, we can overcome evil.

 

Psalm 68:34,35 - "Proclaim the power of God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose power is in the skies. 35-You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!"

 

When we consider all God has done for us, we should feel an overwhelming sense of awe as we kneel before the Lord in his sanctuary. Nature surrounds us with countless signs of God's wonderful power. His unlimited power and unspeakable majesty leave us breathless in his presence. How fortunate we are that God cares for us.

 

Psalm 67 - Joy Comes From Spreading The News

The author of Psalm 67 was an anonymous writer.  Whoever wrote this psalm shares with us that joy comes from spreading the news about God around the world.

 

Could the psalmist have looked across the years to see the gospel go throughout the earth? This psalm surely speaks of the fulfillment of the Great Commission, when Jesus commanded that the gospel be taken to all nations. Count yourself among that great crowd of believers worldwide who know the Savior; praise him for his Good News; and share that gospel so that the harvest will be abundant.

 

All our happiness comes from God's mercy; therefore the first thing prayed for is, God be merciful to us, to us sinners, and pardon our sins. Pardon is conveyed by God's blessing, and secured in that. If we, by faith, walk with God, we may hope that his face will shine on us.  The success of the gospel brings outward mercies with it; righteousness exalts a nation. The blessing of the Lord sweetens all our creature-comforts to us, and makes them comforts indeed. All the world shall be brought to worship Him. When the gospel begins to spread, it shall go forward more and more, till it reaches to the ends of the earth. It is good to cast in our lot with those that are the blessed of the Lord. If nothing had been spoken in Scripture respecting the conversion of the unbeliever, we might think it vain to attempt so hopeless a work. But when we see with what confidence it is declared in the Scriptures, we may engage in missionary labors, assured that God will fulfil his own word. And shall we be backward to make known to the unbeliever the knowledge with which we are favored, and the salvation we profess to glory in? They cannot learn unless they are taught. Then let us go forward in the strength of the Lord, and look to him to accompany the word the Holy Ghost; then Satan's kingdom shall be destroyed, and the kingdom of our Redeemer established.

Psalm 66 - God Answers Prayer

The author of Psalm 66 was anonymous - it was written after a great victory in battle.  Individually and as a body of believers, we should praise and worship God.

 

Psalm 66:10-12 - "For you, O God, tested us; you refined us like silver. 11-You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. 12-You let men ride over our heads; we went  through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance."

 

Just as fire refines silver in the melting process, trials refine our character. They bring on a new and deeper wisdom, helping us discern truth from falsehood and giving us the discipline to do what we know is right. Above all, these trials help us realize that life is a gift from God to be cherished, not a right to be taken for granted.

 

Psalm 66:13-15 - "I will come to your temple with burnt offerings and fulfill my vows to you - 14-vows my lips promised and my mouth spoke when I was in trouble. 15-I will sacrifice fat animals to you and an offering of rams; I will offer bulls and goats."

 

People sometimes make bargains with God, saying, "If you heal me (or get me out of this mess), I'll obey you for the rest of my life." However, soon after they recover, the vow is forgotten and the old life-style is resumed. This writer made a promise to God, but he remembered the promise and was prepared to carry it out. God always keeps his promises and wants us to follow his example. Be careful to follow through on what you promise to do.

 

Psalm 66:18 - "If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened;"

 

Our confession of sin must be continual because we continue to do wrong. But true confession requires us to listen to God and to want to stop doing what is wrong. David confessed his sin and prayed, "Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins". When we refuse to repent or when we harbor and cherish certain sins, we place a wall between us and God. We may not be able to remember every sin we have ever committed, but our attitude should be one of confession and obedience.

Psalm 65 - God Provides Abundantly

The author of Psalm 65 was David. He shares with us that God provides abundantly. We can be thankful to God for his many blessings.

 

Psalm 65:3 - "When we were overwhelmed by sins, you forgave our transgressions."

 

Nobody is beyond redemption, and nobody is so full of sin that he or she cannot be made clean.

 

Psalm 65:6-13 - "...who formed the mountains by your power, having armed yourself with strength, 7-who stilled the roaring of the seas, the roaring of their waves, and the turmoil of the nations. 8-Those living far away fear your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy. 9-You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it. 10-You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops. 11-You crown the year with your bounty and your carts overflow with abundance. 12-The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. 13-The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing."

 

This harvest psalm glorifies God the Creator as reflected in the beauty of nature. Nature helps us understand something of God's character. The Jews believed that God's care of nature was a sign of his love and provision for them. Nature shows God's generosity - giving us more than we need or deserve. Understanding God's abundant generosity should make us grateful to God and generous to others.

Psalm 64 - Hear Me, O God

The author of Psalm 64 was David.  He shares with us that when others conspire against us, we can ask God for protection because He knows everything.

 

Psalm 64:1 - "Hear me, O God, as I voice my complaint; protect my life from the threat of the enemy."

 

Evil can come in the form of a secret conspiracy or an ambush because Satan wants to catch us unprepared. He tempts us in our weakest areas when we least expect it. But God himself will strike down our enemies, whether they are physical or spiritual. Wickedness is widespread and affects us in many ways, but the final victory already belongs to God and those who trust and believe in him.

 

Psalm 64 :2 -"Hide me from the conspiracy of the wicked, from that noisy crowd of evildoers"

 

We may believe that God wants to hear only certain requests from us. While it is true that we should offer praise, confession and respectful petitions, it is true also that God is willing to listen to anything we want to tell him. David expresses himself honestly, knowing that God would hear his voice. God will always listen to us, and he will fully understand what we say.

When you are reading the psalm typed below - look closely at verses 3-10.  The words spoken against us are the most painful attacks we may have to face.  If we trust in God, these attacks will not hurt us.

 

Psalm 63 - Presence, Provision And Protection

The author of Psalm 63 is David.  He shares with us a desire for God's presence, provision, and protection. No matter where we are, our desire should be for God, because only he satisfies fully.

 

Psalm 63:1-5 - "1-O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you., my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

2-I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and glory.

3-Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.

4-I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.

5-My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.

 

Hiding from his enemies in the barren land of Judah David was intensely lonely.  He longed for a friend he could trust to ease his loneliness.  No wonder he called out, "O God ... my soul thirst for you ... in a dry and weary land." If you are lonely or thirsty for something lasting in your life, remember David's prayer. God alone can satisfy our deepest longings.

 

Psalm 63:6 - "On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night."

 

A cure for sleepless nights is to turn our thoughts to God.  There are many reasons we can't sleep - illness, stress, worry - but sleepless nights can be turned into quiet times of reflection and worship. Use them to review how God has guided you and helped you.

 

Never Let Go - Matt Redman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b61wsBdqrKM

Psalm 62 - Placing All Hope In God

The author of Psalm 62 is David.  He shows us the knowledge that God is in control which allows us to wait patiently for him to rescue us. True relief does not come when the problem is resolved, because more problems are on the way! True relief comes from an enduring hope in God's ultimate salvation. Only then will all trials be resolved.

 

Psalm 62: 3-6 - "How long will you assault a man? Would all of you throw him down -- this leaning wall, this tottering fence? 4-They fully intend to topple him from his lofty place; they take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts they curse. 5-Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. 6-He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken." 

 

In verses 3-6, David expressed his feelings to God and then reaffirmed his faith. Prayer can release our tensions in times of emotional stress. Trusting God to be our rock, salvation and fortress will change our entire outlook on life. No longer must we be held captive by resentment toward others when they hurt us. When we are resting in God's strength, nothing can shake us.

 

Psalm 62:9-12 - "Lowborn men are but a breath, the highborn are but a lie; if weighed on a balance, they are nothing; together they are only a breath. 10-Do not trust in extortion or take pride in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.

11-One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard; that you, O God, are strong, 12-and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done."

 

It is tempting to use honor, power, wealth, or prestige to measure people. We may even think that such people are really getting ahead in life. But on God's scales, these people are a "breath," a puff of air. What, then, can tilt the scales when God weighs us? Trusting God and working for him. Wealth, honor, power, or prestige add nothing to our value in God's eyes, but the faithful work we do for him has eternal value.

Psalm 61 - A Prayer For Security And Assurance

The author of Psalm 61 is David.  This Psalm  is a prayer for security and assurance. Wherever we are, we can trust that God will be there to answer our cries for help.

 

In verses 1 and 2, David must have been far from home when he wrote this psalm. Fortunately, God is not limited to any geographic location. Even when we are among unknown people and surroundings, God never abandons us. A "higher" rock would be a plain of refuge and safety. God's all-surpassing strength is always with us.

 

In verse 8, David made a vow to praise God each day. David continually praised God through both the good and the difficult times of his life.  Do you find something to praise God for each day? As you do, you will find your heart elevated from daily distractions to lasting confidence.

 

Psalm 61 / The Message Translation

 

^1-2 God, listen to me shout,
    bend an ear to my prayer.
When I’m far from anywhere,
    down to my last gasp,
I call out, “Guide me
    up High Rock Mountain!”

^3-5 You’ve always given me breathing room,
    a place to get away from it all,
A lifetime pass to your safe-house,
    an open invitation as your guest.
You’ve always taken me seriously, God,
    made me welcome among those who know and love you.

^6-8 Let the days of the king add up
    to years and years of good rule.
Set his throne in the full light of God;
    post Steady Love and Good Faith as lookouts,
And I’ll be the poet who sings your glory—
    and live what I sing every day.

 

 

Psalm 60 - Real Help Comes From God Alone

The author of Psalm 60 is David and it appears that he may have written this psalm when Israel was away at war in the north and Edom invaded Israel from the south.  In times of great stress, real help comes from God alone. The closer we get to God, the more our enemies will attack us because we threaten their evil and selfish way of living. When a situation seems out of control, we can trust God to do mighty things.

 

Psalm 60:6-10 - "God has spoken from his sanctuary; 'In triumph I will parcel out Shechem and measure off the Valley of Succoth. 7-Gilead is mine, and Manasseh is mine; Ephraim is my helmet, Judah my scepter. 8-Moab is my washbasin, upon Edom I toss my sandal; over Philistia I shout in triumph. 9-Who will bring me to the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? 10-Is it not you, O God, you who have rejected us and no longer go out with our armies?"

 

In verses 6-10, God said the cities and territories of Israel were his, and he knew the future of each of the nations. When the world seems out of control, we must remind ourselves that God owns the cities and knows the future of every nation. God is in control. In and through him we will gain the victory. 

  

The Message Translation / Psalm 60

 

^1-2 God! you walked off and left us,
    kicked our defenses to bits
And stalked off angry.
    Come back. Oh please, come back!

You shook earth to the foundations,
    ripped open huge crevasses.
Heal the breaks! Everything’s
    coming apart at the seams.

^3-5 You made your people look doom in the face,
    then gave us cheap wine to drown our troubles.
Then you planted a flag to rally your people,
    an unfurled flag to look to for courage.
Now do something quickly, answer right now,
    so the one you love best is saved.

^6-8 That’s when God spoke in holy splendor,
    “Bursting with joy,
I make a present of Shechem,
    I hand out Succoth Valley as a gift.
Gilead’s in my pocket,
    to say nothing of Manasseh.
Ephraim’s my hard hat,
    Judah my hammer;
Moab’s a scrub bucket,
    I mop the floor with Moab,
Spit on Edom,
    rain fireworks all over Philistia.”

^9-10 Who will take me to the thick of the fight?
    Who’ll show me the road to Edom?
You aren’t giving up on us, are you, God?
    refusing to go out with our troops?

^11-12 Give us help for the hard task;
    human help is worthless.
In God we’ll do our very best;
    he’ll flatten the opposition for good.

Psalm 59 - Prayer & Praise For God's Saving Help

The author of Psalm 59 is David. It tells us that God's constant love is our place of safety in a wicked world.

 

Psalm 59:7,8 - "See what they spew from their mouths - they spew out swords from their lips, and they say, 'Who can hear us?' 8-But you, O Lord, laugh at them; you scoff at all those nations."

 

Vile men curse God as if he cannot hear and will not respond. But God scoffs at them. Evil people live as if God cannot see and will not punish. But God watches patiently until that day when their deeds will rise up to accuse them. As believers we must be careful not to follow the same foolish practices as evil people. We must remember that God hears and sees all we do.

 

Psalm 59:9,10 - "O my Strength, I watch for you; you, O God, are my fortress, 10-my loving God. God will go before me and will let me gloat over those who slander me."

 

David was hunted by those whose love had turned to jealousy, and this was driving them to try to murder him. Trusted friends, and even his son, had turned against him. What changeable love! But David knew that God's love for him was changeless. "His love endures forever". God's mercy to all who trust him is just as permanent as his mercy to David. When the love of others fails or disappoints us, we can rest in God's enduring love.

 

God's Love - An Inspirational Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbDWWr10zrY

Psalm 58 - Justice Will Triumph

The author of Psalm 58 is David - it was at a time when men in authority were twisting justice around.  When no justice can be found, rejoice in knowing that justice will triumph because there is a God who will judge with complete fairness.  This psalm is a cry for justice, so intense that it seems, at first glance to be a call for revenge.  It is a prayer for justice.

 

Psalm 58:1 - "Do you rulers indeed speak justly? Do you judge uprightly among men?"

 

The Old Testament is filled with references to justice and it is a key topic in the psalms. Unfortunately, many judges and rulers in ancient times took justice into their own hands. They had complete authority with no accountability and the power to make their own laws. When earth's judges are corrupt, there is little hope of justice in this life. But God loves justice, and those who obey him will experience perfect justice in eternity.

 

Psalm 58:11 - Then men will say, "Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth."

 

Of all people, our national leaders should be just and fair.  When they are unjust and unfair, people suffer. the rich get richer, the poor get poorer, politicians take power from the people, national morality deteriorates, and God is ignored. When right triumphs at last, 'the righteous will be glad'. Be assured that there will be a day of accountability and that God judges fairly. Be careful never to side with injustice, because you may find yourself standing before an angry judge.

 

Here's a good song about God's justice by Tim Hughes - the words are written below:

 

God of Justice - Tim Hughes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TCh31xg4vA

 

Here are the words:

 

God of Justice, Savior to all
Came to rescue the weak and the poor
Chose to serve and not be served

Jesus, You have called us
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give

(Chorus)
We must go live to feed the hungry
Stand beside the broken
We must go
Stepping forward keep us from just singing
Move us into action
We must go

To act justly everyday
Loving mercy in everyway
Walking humbly before You God

You have shown us, what You require
Freely we've received
Now freely we will give

 

(Chorus)

Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out
Fill us up and send us out Lord (4x)

 

(Chorus)

Psalm 57 - God's Faithful Help And Love

The author of Psalm 57 is David. It tells us about God's faithful help and love in times of trouble. When we face trials, God will quiet our hearts and give us confidence.

 

Psalm 57:4 - "I am in the midst of lions, I lie among ravenous beasts -- men whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords."

 

At times, we may be surrounded by people who gossip about us or criticize us. Verbal cruelty can damage us as badly as physical abuse. Rather than answering with hateful words, we, like David, can talk with God about the problem.

 

Psalm 57:7 - "My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music."

 

David's firm faith in God contrasted sharply with his enemies' loud lying and boasting. When confronted with verbal attacks, the best defense is simply to be quiet and praise God, realizing that our confidence is in his love and faithfulness. In times of great suffering, don't turn inward to self-pity or outward to revenge, but upward to God.

Psalm 56 - Trusting In God's Care

The author of Psalm 56 is David.  He is trusting in God's care in the midst of fear. When all seems dark, one truth still shines bright: when God is for us, those against us will never succeed.

 

Psalm 56:3,4 - "When I am afraid, I will trust in you. 4-In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?"

 

The worst thing we can do is to reject God and lose our eternal future. Jesus said, "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul" (Matthew 10:28). Instead, we should fear God, who controls this life and the next.

 

Psalm 56:8 - "Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll - are they not in your record?"

 

Even in our deepest sorrow, God cares! Jesus reminded us further of how much God understands us - he knows even the number of hairs on our heads (Matthew 10:30). Often we waver between faith and fear. When you feel so discouraged that you are sure no one understands, remember that God knows every problem and sees every fear.

Psalm 55 - When Friends Hurt Us - Don't Carry It Alone

The author of Psalm 55 is David. It expresses a deep dismay over the treachery of a close friend. When friends hurt us, the burden is too difficult to carry alone.  We need God.

 

Psalm 55:6-8 - "I said, 'Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest - 7-I would flee far away and stay in the desert; 8-I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm."

 

In verses 6-8, David shows us that even those who are especially close to God, have moments when they want to escape from their problems and pressures.

 

Psalm 55:12-14 - "If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were raising himself against me, I could hide from him. 13-But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, 14-with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship as we walked with the throng at the house of God."

 

Nothing hurts more than a wound from a friend. There may be times when friends will lovingly confront you in order to help you. Real friends stick by you in times of trouble and bring healing, love, acceptance, and understanding. What kind of friend are you? Don't betray those you love.

 

Psalm 55:17 - "Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice."

 

Praying evening, morning and noon is certainly an excellent way to maintain correct priorities throughout every day. Daniel followed this pattern, as did Peter. The prayers of God's people are effective against the overwhelming evil in the world.

 

Psalm 55:22 - "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous  fall."

 

God wants us to cast our cares on him, but often we continue to bear them ourselves even when we say we are trusting in him. Trust the same strength that sustains you to carry your cares also.

Psalm 53 & Psalm 54 - Only God Can Save You

The author of Psalm 53 is David. He show us that all have sinned. And because of sin, no person can find God on his or her own.  Only God can save us.

 

Psalm 53:1 - The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, and their ways are vile; there is no one who does good."

 

People may say there is no God in order to cover their sin, to have an excuse to continue in sin, and/or to ignore the Judge in order to avoid the judgment. A "fool" does not necessarily lack intelligence, many unbelievers are highly educated. Fools are people who reject God, the only one who can save them.

 

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The author of Psalm 54 is David. It is a call for God to overcome enemies. God is our helper, even in times of hurt and betrayal.

 

In verses 3 & 4 David seems to follow the pattern of a transition from prayer to praise. David was not afraid to come to God and express his true feelings and needs. Thus his spirit was lifted, and he praised God, his helper, protector and friend.

 

Psalm 54:1-7 - Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate me by your might. 2-Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth. 3-Strangers are attacking me; ruthless men seek my life -- men without  regard for God. 4-Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. 5-Let evil recoil on those who slander me; in your faithfulness destroy them. 6-I will sacrifice a freewill offering to you; I will praise your name, O Lord, for it is good. 7-For he has delivered me from all my troubles, and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes."

 

In Verse 5, David said that God repays evil to his enemies. Proverbs 26:27 warns us that most who cause trouble will reap trouble. What we have intended for others may blow up in our own faces. To be honest and straightforward before God and others is simpler, easier and safer in the long run.

 

Proverbs 26:27 - "If a man digs a pit he will fall into it; if a man rolls a stone it will fall back on him"

 

Psalm 52 - Having Confidence In God's Ability

The author of Psalm 52 is David.  The psalm portrays that God will judge evildoers.  Our anger must not block our confidence in God's ability to defeat evil.

 

 Psalm 52:1 - "Why do you boast of evil, you mighty man? Why do you boast all day long, you who are a disgrace in the eyes of God?"

 

This psalm was written about Doeg, an Edomite who had betrayed Ahimelech and David and then killed God's priests (see 1 Samuel 21:7; 22:9-23). Doeg thought he was a great hero - even boasting about his deed. In realty, his deed was evil, an offense to God. It is easy to mistake "accomplishment" with goodness. Measure all you do by the rule of God's Word, not by how proficiently you do it. 

 

Psalm 52:8 - "But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever."

 

With God by his side, David compared himself to an olive tree flourishing in the house of God. Not only is an olive tree one of the longest living trees, but a flourishing tree has even greater longevity.  David was contrasting God's eternal protection of his faithful servants with the sudden destruction of the wicked.

Psalm 51 - Right Hearts

The author of Psalm 51 is David. This psalm is a plea for mercy, forgiveness and cleansing. God wants our hearts to be right with him. 

 

Psalm 51:1-7 - "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2-Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3-For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4-Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge. 5-Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6-Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place. 7-Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow."

 

David was truly sorry for his adultery with Bathsheba and for murdering her husband to cover it up. He knew that his actions had hurt many people. But because David repented of those sins, God mercifully forgave him. No sin is too great to be forgiven! Do you feel that you could never come close to God because you have done something terrible? God can and will forgive you of any sin. While God forgives us, however, he does not always erase the natural consequences of our sin - David's life and family were never the same as a result of what he had done (see 2 Samuel 12:1-23 for the story).

 

Psalm 51:10 - "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

 

Because we are born as sinners, our natural inclination is to please ourselves rather than God. David followed that inclination when he took another man's wife. We also follow it when we sin in any way. Like David, we must ask God to cleanse us from within, clearing our hearts and spirits for new thoughts and desires. Right conduct can come only from a clean heart and spirit. Ask God to create a pure heart and spirit in you.

 

Psalm 51:12 - "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me."

 

Do you ever feel stagnant in your faith, as though you are just going through the motions? Has sin ever driven a wedge between you and God, making him seem distant? David felt this way. He had sinned with Bathsheba and had just been confronted by Nathan the prophet. In his prayer he cried, 'Restore to me the joy of your salvation.' God wants us to be close to him and to experience his full and complete life. But sin that remains unconfessed makes such intimacy impossible. Confess your sin to God. You may still have to face some earthly consequences, as David did, but God will give back the joy of your relationship with him.

 

Psalm 51:13 - "Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you."

 

When God forgives our sin and restores us to a relationship with him, we want to reach out to others who need this forgiveness and reconciliation. The more you have felt God's forgiveness, the more you will desire to tell others about it.

 

Psalm 51:17 - "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise"

God wants a broken spirit and a contrite heart. You can never please God by outward actions - no matter how good - if your inward heart attitude is not right.  Are you sorry for your sin? Do you genuinely intend to stop? God is pleased by this type of humility.

Psalm 50 - True vs False Faith

The author of Psalm 50 is Asaph, one of David's chief musicians.  God judges people for treating him lightly. First, he speaks to the superficially religious people who bring their sacrifices but are only going through the motions (50:1-15).  They do not honor God with true praise and thankfulness. Second, he chides wicked, hardhearted people for their evil words and immoral lives (50:16-22). He asks the superficially religious for genuine thanksgiving and trust, and he warns the evil people to consider their deeds, lest he destroy them in his anger.

 

Psalm 50:1-4 - "The Mighty One, God, the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets. 2-From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth. 3-Our God comes and will not be silent; a fire devours him, and around him a tempest rages. 4-He summons the heavens above, and the earth, that he may judge his people."

 

This psalm begins as though God is finally ready to judge the evil people on earth. But surprisingly, we read that God's great fury is leveled against his own people (or at least those who claim to be his). God's judgment must begin with his own people.

 

Psalm 50:5-9 - "Gather to me my consecrated ones, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice. 6-And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for God himself is judge. 7-Hear, O my people, and I will speak. O Israel, and I will testify against you: I am God, your God. 8-I do not rebuke you for your sacrifices or your burnt offerings, which are ever before me. 9-I have no need of a bull from your stall or of goats from your pens, 10-for every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills."

 

God's perfect moral nature demands that the penalty for sin be death; however, a person could offer an animal to God as a substitute for himself, symbolizing the person's faith in the merciful, forgiving God. But, the people were offering sacrifices and forgetting their significance! The very act of sacrifice showed that they had once agreed to follow God wholeheartedly. But at this time their hearts were not in it. We may fall into the same pattern when we participate in religious activities, tithe, or attend church out of habit or conformity rather than out of heartfelt love and obedience. God wants righteousness, not empty ritual.

 

Psalm 50:16-22 - But to the wicked God says: "What right have you to recite my laws or take my covenant on your lips?  17-You hate my instruction and cast my words behind you.

18-When you see a thief, you join with him; you throw in your lot with adulterers. 19-You use your mouth for evil and harness your tongue to deceit. 20-You speak continually against your brother and slander your own mother's son; 21-These things you have done and I kept silent; you thought I was altogether like you. But I will rebuke you and accuse you to your face. 22-Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with none to rescue"

 

Some people glibly recite God's laws but are filled with deceit and evil.  They claim his promises but refuse to obey him.  This is sin, and God will judge people for it.  We too are hypocrites when we are not what we claim to be.  To let this inconsistency remain shows that we are not true followers of God.

 

Psalm 50:21 - "These things you have done and I kept silent; you thought I was altogether like you"

 

At times God seems silent.  By his silence he is not condoning sin, nor is he indifferent to it.  Instead, he is withholding deserved punishment, giving time for people to repent.  God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked and wants them to turn from evil. But his silence does not last forever - a time of punishment will surely come.

Psalm 49 - A Psalm of Instruction

The authors of Psalm 49 were the sons of Korah.  They are instructing us on the futility of worldliness - riches, pride, fame - which resounds from this psalm. Comparable in form to the book of Ecclesiastes, this psalm is one of the few written more to instruct than to give praise.

 

Psalm 49:10-14 - "For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others, 11-Their tombs will remain  their houses forever, their dwelling for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves. 12-But man, despite his riches, does not endure; he is like the beasts that perish. 13-This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings. 14-Like sheep they are destined for the grave, and death will feed on them. The upright will rule over them in the morning; their forms will decay in the grave, far from their princely mansions."

 

The rich and poor have one similarity - when they die, they leave all they own here on earth. At the moment of death (and all of us will face that moment), both rich and poor are naked and empty-handed before God. The only riches we have at that time are those we have already invested in our eternal heritage. At the time of death, each of us will wish we had invested less on earth, where we must leave it and more in heaven, where we will retain it forever. To have treasure in heaven, we must place our faith in God, pledge ourselves to obey him, and utilize our resources for the good of his kingdom. This is a good time to check up on your investments and see where you have invested the most. Then do whatever it takes to place your investments where they really count.

 

Psalm 49:15 - "But God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself."

 

There is no way for a person to buy eternal life with God. God alone can redeem a soul. Don't count on wealth and physical comforts to keep you happy because you will never have enough wealth to keep from dying.

Psalm 47 & 48 - He Is King Of Our World & Our Joy and Security

The author of Psalm 47 was the sons of Korah.  This psalm may have been written about the same event as Psalm 46.  God is still King of the world and all nations of the earth will eventually recognize his lordship.

 

Psalm 47:2 - "How awesome is the Lord Most High, the  great King over all the earth!"

 

The Lord Most High is awesome beyond words, but this didn't keep Bible writers from trying to describe him.  And it shouldn't keep us from talking about him either.  We can't describe God completely, but we can tell others what he has done for us. Don't let the indescribable aspects of God's greatness prevent you from telling others what you know about him.

  

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The author of Psalm 48 was the sons of Korah as well.  God's presence is our joy, security, and salvation. God is praised as the defender of Jerusalem, the holy city of the Jews. He is also our defender and guide forever.

 

Psalm 48:2 - "It is beautiful in its loftiness, the joy of the whole earth. Like the utmost heights of Zaphon is Mount Zion, the city of the Great King."

 

Why is Mount Zion - Jerusalem - "the city of the Great King"? Because the  temple was located in Jerusalem, the city was seen as the center of God's presence in the world. The Bible pictures Jerusalem as the place where believers will gather in the last days, and as the spiritual home of all believers where God will live among them.

 

Psalm 48:12,13 - "Walk about Zion, go around her, count her towers, 13-consider well her ramparts, view her citadels, that you may tell of them to the next generation."

 

After an enemy army had unsuccessfully besieged Jerusalem, it was important for the people to make a tour of the city, inspecting its defenses and praising God for the protection it had offered. In times of great joy or after God has brought us through some great trial, we ought to inspect our defenses to make sure that the foundations - faith in God, knowledge of his Word, and the fellowship and prayers of the body of believers - remain strong. Then we should praise God for his protection!

 

Psalm 48:14 - "For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end."

 

We often pray for God's guidance as we struggle with decisions. What we need is both guidance and a guide - a map that gives up landmarks and directions and a constant companion who has an intimate knowledge of the way and will make sure we interpret the map correctly. The Bible will be such a map, and the Holy Spirit will be the constant companion and guide. As you make your way through life, use both the map and your Guide.

Psalm 46: The Provider of Refuge, Security And Peace:

Psalms 46-48 are hymns of praise, celebrating deliverance from some great foe. Psalm 46 may have been written when the Assyrian army invaded the land and surrounded Jerusalem in 2 Kings 18:13-19:37.  God is always there to help, providing refuge, security and peace. God's power is complete and his ultimate victory is certain. He will not fail to rescue those who love him.  The authors of this Psalm is again the sons of Korah, who were temple assistants.

 

Psalm 46:1-3 - "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2-Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3-though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging,"

 

The fear of mountains or cities suddenly crumbling into the sea as the result of a nuclear blast haunts many people today. But the psalmist says that even if the world ends, we need not fear in the face of utter destruction, the writer expressed a quiet confidence in God's ability to save him. It seems impossible to consider the end of the world without becoming consumed  by fear, but the Bible is clear - God is our refuge even in the face of total destruction. He is not merely a temporary retreat; he is our eternal refuge and can provide strength in any circumstance.

 

Psalm 46:4-5 - "There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. 5-God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day"

 

Many great cities have rivers flowing through them, sustaining people's lives by making agriculture possible and facilitating trade with other cities.  Jerusalem had no river, but it had God who, like a river, sustained the people's lives.  As long as God lived among the people, the city was invincible.  But when the people abandoned him, God no longer protected them, and Jerusalem fell to the Babylonian army.

 

Psalm 46:10 - "Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth"

 

War and destruction are inevitable, but so is God's final victory. At that time, all will stand quietly before the Lord Almighty. How proper, then, for us to be still now, reverently honoring him and his power and majesty. Take time each day to be still and to exalt God. 

Psalm 45 - A Wedding Psalm

The authors of Psalm 45 is once again the sons of Korah (the temple assistants). It's a poem to the king (possibly Solomon) on the occasion of his wedding. While this psalm was written for an historic occasion, it is also seen as a prophecy about Christ and his bride, the church, who will praise him throughout all generations.

 

Psalm 45:2 - "You are the most excellent of men and your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you forever."

 

Psalm 45:6-8 - "Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. 7-You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. 8-Your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad."

 

It is called a Messianic psalm because it prophetically describes the Messiah's future relationship to the church, his body of believers.  Verse 2 expresses God's abundant blessing on his Messiah; verses 6-8 find their true fulfillment in Christ. The church is described as the bride of Christ in many scriptures of Revelation, including Chapters 19:7, 8; 21:9 and 22:17.

 

"Your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad.  Daughters of kings are among your honored women; at your right hand is the royal bride in gold of Ophir"

 

Myrrh is a fragrant gum of an Arabian tree, generally used in perfumes.  Aloes, a spice, may have come from sandalwood, a close-grained and fragrant wood often used for storage boxes or chests.  Cassia was probably made from flowers of the cinnamon tree.  These expensive fragrances were appropriate for a king's wedding.  The location of Ophir is unknown, but believed to be in either Arabia or Africa.  It was famous as a source of gold.

 

Psalm 45:13-17 - "All glorious is the princess within her chamber, her gown is interwoven with gold. 14-In embroidered garments she is led to the king her virgin companions follow her and are brought to you.  15-They are led in with joy and gladness; they enter the palace of the king. 16-Your sons will take the place of your fathers; you will make them princes throughout the land.  17-I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever" 

 

This beautiful section of poetry pictures Christ's bride, the church, with the richest blessings as she unites forever with him.  (More reference:  Revelation 19:6-8 and 21:2)

Psalms 44 - Confident in God's Restoration

The authors of Psalm 44 is again the sons of Korah (temple assistants). Its a plea for victory by the battle-weary and defeated. When it seems that God has let you down, don't despair. Instead, remember God's past deliverance and be confident that he will restore you.

 

Psalm 44:1-3 - "We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us what you did in their days, in days long ago. 2-With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish. 3-It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them." 

 

Driving out the nations refers to the conquest of Canaan described in the book of Joshua. God gave the land to Israel - they were supposed to enter and drive out anyone who was wicked and opposed to God. Israel was told to settle the land and to be a witness to the world of God's power and love. Surrounded by enemies, the psalmist remembered what God had done for his people and took heart. We can have this same confidence in God when we feel attacked.

 

Psalm 44:6,7 - "I do not trust in my bow, my sword does not bring me victory; 7-but you give us victory over our enemies, you put our adversaries to shame."

 

In whom or in what do you trust? Only God is trustworthy - He will never let you down. 

 

Psalm 44: 22-26 - "Yet for your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to  be slaughtered. 23-Awake, O Lord! why do you sleep? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever. 24-Why do you hide your face and forget our misery and oppression? 25-We are brought down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. 26-Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love."

 

The writer cried out to God to redeem his people because of his unfailing love. Nothing can separate us from God's love, not even death. When you fear for your life, ask God for deliverance, and remember that even death cannot separate you from him.

 

The psalmist word's suggest that he did not believe that God had left him in verses 23-25. God was still the Ruler, but he seemed to be asleep, and the psalmist wondered why. In the New Testament, the disciples wondered why Jesus was asleep when they needed his help during a storm (Mark 4:35-41). In both cases, of course, God was ready to help, but he wished first to build faith in his followers.