Psalms 107 - 150 are written psalms that praise God's works, recounting the blessings of righteous living, thanking God for deliverance and praising God for his wonderful Word. These psalms remind us that the best sacrifice we can offer to God is a faithful and obedient life.
Psalm 107 was written to share with us that thankfulness to God should constantly be on the lips of those whom he has saved. The author of Psalm 107 is not known; however, the psalm speaks of four different types of people in distress and how God rescues them: wanders, prisoners, the sick and the storm-tossed. No matter how extreme our calamity, God is able to break through to help us. He is loving and kind to those who are distressed.
Psalm 107:1,2 - "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 2-Let the redeemed of the LORD say this - ..."
"Let the redeemed of the LORD say..." God has done so much for us, and we have so much for which to thank him. He wants us to tell everyone all that he has done. These verses are not so much a mandate to witness as a declaration that when we live in God's presence we will not be able to keep this glorious experience to ourselves. What has God done for you? Is there someone you can tell?
Psalm 107:5-9 - "They were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away. 6-Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 7-He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle. 8-Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, 9-for he sanctifies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things"
Lost, hungry, thirsty and exhausted, those wanderers symbolize the Israelites in exile. But they also symbolize anyone who has not found the satisfaction that comes from knowing God. Anyone who recognizes his or her own lostness can receive the offer of Jesus to satisfy these needs. Jesus is the way, the bread from heaven, the living water, and the give of rest. Have you received his life-giving offer?
Psalm 107:32 - "Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders"
Those who have never truly suffered may not appreciate God as much as those who have matured under hardship. Those who have seen God work in times of distress have a deeper insight into his loving-kindness. If you have experienced great trials, you have the potential for great praise.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Psalm 106 - He Patiently Delivers Us
The author of Psalm 106 is not known but the author shares with us a song of national repentance as the people return from being in captivity during those biblical times. Psalm 105 is a summary of God's faithfulness, while Psalm 106 is a summary of man's sinfulness.
If you look at it from a history standpoint, Psalm 105 covers events up to the departure of Egypt and Psalm 106 covers events from the departure up to what appears to be the Babylonian captivity, found in 2 Kings chapter 25. This psalm emphasizes that God patiently delivers us, in spite of our forgetfulness and self-willed rebellion.
Psalm 106:2 - "Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare his praise"?
If we ever stopped to list all the mighty acts or miracles in the Bible, we would be astounded. They cover every aspect of life. The more we think about what God has done, the more we can appreciate the miracles he has done for us individually - birth, personality development, loving friends and family, specific guidance, healing, salvation - the list goes on and on. If you think you have never seen a miracle, look closer - you will see God's power and loving intervention on your behalf. God still performs great miracles!
Psalm 106:13-15 - "But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel. 14-In the desert they gave into their craving; in the wasteland they put God to the test. 15-So he gave them what they asked for, but sent a wasting disease upon them"
In the desert, Israel was so intent on getting the food and water they wanted that they became blind to what God wanted. They were more concerned about immediate physical gratification then lasting spiritual satisfaction. They did not want what was best for them, and they refused to trust in God's care and provision. If you complain enough, God may give you want you ask for, even if it is not the best for you. If you're not getting what you want, perhaps God knows it is not in your best interest. Trust in his care and provision.
Psalm 106:33, 35-39 - "...for they rebelled against the Spirit of God ... 35-but they mingled with the nations and adopted their customs. 36-They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them. 37-They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to demons. 38-They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed to the land of Canaan; and the land was desecrated by their blood. 39-They defiled themselves by what they did"
Israel as notated above, constantly turned away from God. How, after the great miracles, they saw, could they turn from God and worship the idols of the land? We also have seen God's great miracles, but sometimes find ourselves enticed by the world's gods - power, convenience, fame, sex and pressure. As Israel forgot God, so we are susceptible to forgetting him and giving in to the pressures of an evil world. Remember all that God has done for you so you won't be drawn away from him by the world's pleasures.
Psalm 106:40-42 - "Therefore the LORD was angry with his people and abhorred his inheritance. 41-He handed them over to the nations, and their foes ruled over them. 42-Their enemies oppressed them and subjected them to their power"
God allowed trouble to come to the Israelites in order to help them. Our troubles can be helpful because they humble us; they wean us from the allurements of the world and drive us back to God; they vitalize our prayers; they allow us to experience more of God's faithfulness; they make us more dependent upon God; they encourage us to submit to God's purpose for our lives and they make us more compassionate toward others in trouble.
Psalm 106:44-46 - "But he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45-for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented. 46-He caused them to be pitied by all who held them captive"
This is a beautiful picture of God's great love for his people who deserved only judgment. Fortunately, God's compassion and mercy toward us are not limited by our faithfulness to him. God was merciful to us in sending his Son to die for our sins. If he did this while we were captive in sin, how much more merciful will he be now that we are his children?
If you look at it from a history standpoint, Psalm 105 covers events up to the departure of Egypt and Psalm 106 covers events from the departure up to what appears to be the Babylonian captivity, found in 2 Kings chapter 25. This psalm emphasizes that God patiently delivers us, in spite of our forgetfulness and self-willed rebellion.
Psalm 106:2 - "Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare his praise"?
If we ever stopped to list all the mighty acts or miracles in the Bible, we would be astounded. They cover every aspect of life. The more we think about what God has done, the more we can appreciate the miracles he has done for us individually - birth, personality development, loving friends and family, specific guidance, healing, salvation - the list goes on and on. If you think you have never seen a miracle, look closer - you will see God's power and loving intervention on your behalf. God still performs great miracles!
Psalm 106:13-15 - "But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel. 14-In the desert they gave into their craving; in the wasteland they put God to the test. 15-So he gave them what they asked for, but sent a wasting disease upon them"
In the desert, Israel was so intent on getting the food and water they wanted that they became blind to what God wanted. They were more concerned about immediate physical gratification then lasting spiritual satisfaction. They did not want what was best for them, and they refused to trust in God's care and provision. If you complain enough, God may give you want you ask for, even if it is not the best for you. If you're not getting what you want, perhaps God knows it is not in your best interest. Trust in his care and provision.
Psalm 106:33, 35-39 - "...for they rebelled against the Spirit of God ... 35-but they mingled with the nations and adopted their customs. 36-They worshiped their idols, which became a snare to them. 37-They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to demons. 38-They shed innocent blood, the blood of their sons and daughters, whom they sacrificed to the land of Canaan; and the land was desecrated by their blood. 39-They defiled themselves by what they did"
Israel as notated above, constantly turned away from God. How, after the great miracles, they saw, could they turn from God and worship the idols of the land? We also have seen God's great miracles, but sometimes find ourselves enticed by the world's gods - power, convenience, fame, sex and pressure. As Israel forgot God, so we are susceptible to forgetting him and giving in to the pressures of an evil world. Remember all that God has done for you so you won't be drawn away from him by the world's pleasures.
Psalm 106:40-42 - "Therefore the LORD was angry with his people and abhorred his inheritance. 41-He handed them over to the nations, and their foes ruled over them. 42-Their enemies oppressed them and subjected them to their power"
God allowed trouble to come to the Israelites in order to help them. Our troubles can be helpful because they humble us; they wean us from the allurements of the world and drive us back to God; they vitalize our prayers; they allow us to experience more of God's faithfulness; they make us more dependent upon God; they encourage us to submit to God's purpose for our lives and they make us more compassionate toward others in trouble.
Psalm 106:44-46 - "But he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; 45-for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented. 46-He caused them to be pitied by all who held them captive"
This is a beautiful picture of God's great love for his people who deserved only judgment. Fortunately, God's compassion and mercy toward us are not limited by our faithfulness to him. God was merciful to us in sending his Son to die for our sins. If he did this while we were captive in sin, how much more merciful will he be now that we are his children?
Friday, January 29, 2016
Psalm 105 - Remembering His Miracles
The author of Psalm 105 was David. David shares with us that God's mighty deeds brought Israel to the Promised Land and if we remember God's amazing miracles, small and large, he encourages us to keep living close to him. The first fifteen verses of this psalm are also found in 1 Chronicles 16:8-22, where they are sung as part of the celebration of David's bringing the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. Three other psalms are also hymns recounting Israel's history. They are found in Psalm 78, 106 and 136.
Psalm 105:4,5 - "Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 5-Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced"
If God seems far away, persist in your search for him. God rewards those who sincerely look for him. Jesus promised, "Seek and you will find" (Matthew 7:7). The psalmist suggested a valuable way to find God - become familiar with the way he has helped his people in the past. The Bible records the history of God's people. In searching its pages we will discover a loving God who is waiting for us to find him.
Psalm 105:6-11 - "O descendants of Abraham his servant, O sons of Jacob, his chosen ones. 7-He is the LORD our God; his judgments are in all the earth. 8-He remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded, for a thousand generations, 9-the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac. 10-He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant: 11-To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion you will inherit"
The nation Israel, the people through whom God revealed his laws to mankind, is descended from Abraham. God chose Abraham and promised that his descendants would live in the land of Canaan (now called Israel); and that they would be too numerous to count. Abraham's son was Isaac; Isaac's son was Jacob. These three men are considered the patriarchs or founders of Israel. God blessed them because of their faith.
Psalm 105:42-45 - "For he remembered his holy promise given to his servant Abraham. 43-He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy; 44-he gave them the lands of the nations, and they fell heir to what others had toiled for - 45-that they might keep his precepts and observe his laws. Praise the LORD"
God's purpose for saving the Israelites was that they would "keep his precepts and observe his laws". Too often we use our lives and freedom to please ourselves, but we should honor God. That is God's purpose for our lives and why he gave us his Word.
Psalm 105:4,5 - "Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 5-Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced"
If God seems far away, persist in your search for him. God rewards those who sincerely look for him. Jesus promised, "Seek and you will find" (Matthew 7:7). The psalmist suggested a valuable way to find God - become familiar with the way he has helped his people in the past. The Bible records the history of God's people. In searching its pages we will discover a loving God who is waiting for us to find him.
Psalm 105:6-11 - "O descendants of Abraham his servant, O sons of Jacob, his chosen ones. 7-He is the LORD our God; his judgments are in all the earth. 8-He remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded, for a thousand generations, 9-the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac. 10-He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant: 11-To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion you will inherit"
The nation Israel, the people through whom God revealed his laws to mankind, is descended from Abraham. God chose Abraham and promised that his descendants would live in the land of Canaan (now called Israel); and that they would be too numerous to count. Abraham's son was Isaac; Isaac's son was Jacob. These three men are considered the patriarchs or founders of Israel. God blessed them because of their faith.
Psalm 105:42-45 - "For he remembered his holy promise given to his servant Abraham. 43-He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy; 44-he gave them the lands of the nations, and they fell heir to what others had toiled for - 45-that they might keep his precepts and observe his laws. Praise the LORD"
God's purpose for saving the Israelites was that they would "keep his precepts and observe his laws". Too often we use our lives and freedom to please ourselves, but we should honor God. That is God's purpose for our lives and why he gave us his Word.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Psalm 104 - Source Of Joy
The author of Psalm 104 is not known; however the author shows us that he not only creates, but maintains the world. We can appreciate God through his creation - through all big things and small things alike. This psalm is a poetic summary of God's creation of the world as found in the first chapter of Genesis. What God created each day is mentioned by the psalmist as a reason to praise God.
Let's look at the similarities: On day one, God created light (104:1,2 and Genesis 1:3); day two, the heavens and waters (104:2,3 and Genesis 1:6); day three, land and vegetation (104:6-18 and Genesis 1:9-13); day four, the sun, moon and stars (104:19-23 and
Genesis 1:14-16); day five, fish and birds (104:25,26 and Genesis 1:20-23); and on day six, animals, man and food to sustain them (104:21-24, 27, 30 and Genesis 1:24-31). God's act of creation deserves the praise of all people.
Psalm 104:5 - "He set the earth on its foundations; it never can be moved"
The earth is built on God's foundations. "It can never be moved" by anyone other than God. Even though one day the heavens and the earth will be destroyed; he will create a new heaven and a new earth that will last forever (Isaiah 65:17-"Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, not will they come to mind"). The same power that undergirds the world also provides a firm foundation for believers.
Psalm 104:24 - "How many are your works, O LORD? In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creation"
Creation is filled with stunning variety, revealing the rich creativity, goodness, and wisdom of our loving God. As you observe your natural surroundings, thank God for his creativity. Take a fresh look at people, seeing each one as God's unique creation, each one with his or her own special talents, abilities and gifts.
Psalm 104:29 - "When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust"
Today many people are arrogant enough to think they don't need God. But our every breath depends on the Spirit he has breathed into us. Not only do we depend on God for our very lives, but he wants the best for us. We should also desire to learn more of his plans for us each day.
Let's look at the similarities: On day one, God created light (104:1,2 and Genesis 1:3); day two, the heavens and waters (104:2,3 and Genesis 1:6); day three, land and vegetation (104:6-18 and Genesis 1:9-13); day four, the sun, moon and stars (104:19-23 and
Genesis 1:14-16); day five, fish and birds (104:25,26 and Genesis 1:20-23); and on day six, animals, man and food to sustain them (104:21-24, 27, 30 and Genesis 1:24-31). God's act of creation deserves the praise of all people.
Psalm 104:5 - "He set the earth on its foundations; it never can be moved"
The earth is built on God's foundations. "It can never be moved" by anyone other than God. Even though one day the heavens and the earth will be destroyed; he will create a new heaven and a new earth that will last forever (Isaiah 65:17-"Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, not will they come to mind"). The same power that undergirds the world also provides a firm foundation for believers.
Psalm 104:24 - "How many are your works, O LORD? In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creation"
Creation is filled with stunning variety, revealing the rich creativity, goodness, and wisdom of our loving God. As you observe your natural surroundings, thank God for his creativity. Take a fresh look at people, seeing each one as God's unique creation, each one with his or her own special talents, abilities and gifts.
Psalm 104:29 - "When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust"
Today many people are arrogant enough to think they don't need God. But our every breath depends on the Spirit he has breathed into us. Not only do we depend on God for our very lives, but he wants the best for us. We should also desire to learn more of his plans for us each day.
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Psalm 103 - God's Great Love For Us
The author of Psalm 103 was David and he shares with us about God's love and how amazing it is for us. David's praise focused on God's glorious deeds. It is easy to complain about life, but David's list gives us plenty for which to praise God - he forgives our sin, heals our diseases, redeems us from death, crowns us with love and compassion, satisfies our desires, and gives righteousness and justice. We receive all of these without deserving any of them.
No matter how difficult your life's journey, you can always count your blessings - past, present and future. When you feel as though you have nothing for which to praise God, read David's list in this entire psalm (notated below).
Psalm 103:7 - "He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel"
God's law was given first to Moses and the people of Israel. God's law presents a clear picture of God's nature and will. It was God's training manual to prepare his people to serve him and follow his ways. When you have some time, I invite you to review the Ten Commandments, located in Exodus 20, and history of how they were given, asking God to show you his will and is ways through them.
Psalm 103:12 - "...as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us"
East and west can never meet. This is a symbolic portrait 0f God's forgiveness - when he forgives our sin, he separates it from us and doesn't even remember it. We need never wallow in the past, for God forgives and forgets. We tend to dredge up the ugly past, but God has wiped our record clean. If we are to follow God, we must model his forgiveness. When we forgive another, we must also forget the sin. Otherwise, we have not truly forgiven.
Psalm 103:13, 14 - "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him"
We are fragile, but God's care is eternal. Too often we focus on God as Judge and Lawgiver, ignoring his compassion and concern for us. When God examines are lives, he remembers our human condition. Our weakness should never be used as a justification for sin. His mercy takes everything into account. God will deal with you compassionately. Trust him.
Psalm 103:20-22 - "Praise the LORD, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. 21-Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,, you his servants who do his will. 22-Praise the LORD, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the LORD, O my soul"
Everything everywhere is to praise the Lord; all angels - mighty ones and heavenly hosts - and all his works! Praising God means remembering all he has done for us, fearing him and obeying his commands, and doing his will. Does your life praise the Lord?
No matter how difficult your life's journey, you can always count your blessings - past, present and future. When you feel as though you have nothing for which to praise God, read David's list in this entire psalm (notated below).
Psalm 103:7 - "He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel"
God's law was given first to Moses and the people of Israel. God's law presents a clear picture of God's nature and will. It was God's training manual to prepare his people to serve him and follow his ways. When you have some time, I invite you to review the Ten Commandments, located in Exodus 20, and history of how they were given, asking God to show you his will and is ways through them.
Psalm 103:12 - "...as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us"
East and west can never meet. This is a symbolic portrait 0f God's forgiveness - when he forgives our sin, he separates it from us and doesn't even remember it. We need never wallow in the past, for God forgives and forgets. We tend to dredge up the ugly past, but God has wiped our record clean. If we are to follow God, we must model his forgiveness. When we forgive another, we must also forget the sin. Otherwise, we have not truly forgiven.
Psalm 103:13, 14 - "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him"
We are fragile, but God's care is eternal. Too often we focus on God as Judge and Lawgiver, ignoring his compassion and concern for us. When God examines are lives, he remembers our human condition. Our weakness should never be used as a justification for sin. His mercy takes everything into account. God will deal with you compassionately. Trust him.
Psalm 103:20-22 - "Praise the LORD, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. 21-Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,, you his servants who do his will. 22-Praise the LORD, all his works everywhere in his dominion. Praise the LORD, O my soul"
Everything everywhere is to praise the Lord; all angels - mighty ones and heavenly hosts - and all his works! Praising God means remembering all he has done for us, fearing him and obeying his commands, and doing his will. Does your life praise the Lord?
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Psalm 102 - The Cure For Distress
The author of Psalm 102 is not known, but the writer shares with us that because God is living, eternal and unchanging, we can trust him to help his people in this generation just as he helped his people in past generations.
Psalm 102:3, 4 - "For my days vanish like smoke; my bones burn like glowing embers. My heart is blighted and withered like grass; I forget to eat my food"
The psalmist felt so bad that he forgot to eat. When we face sickness and despair, our days pass blindly and we don't care about even our basic needs. In these times, God alone is our comfort and strength. Even when we are too weak to fight, we can lean on him. It is often when we recognize our weaknesses that God's greatest strength becomes available.
Psalm 102:6,7 - "I am like a desert owl, like an owl among the ruins. I lie awake; I have become like a bird alone on a roof"
These birds are pictures of loneliness and desolation. At times we may need to be alone, and solitude may comfort us. But we must be careful not to spurn those who reach out to us. Don't reject help and conversation. Suffering silently is neither Christian nor particularly healthy. Instead, accept graciously the support of help from family and friends.
Psalm 102:25-27 - "In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and he heavens are the work of your hands. 26-They will perish, but you remain; they will wall wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded. 27-But you remain the same, and your years will never end"
The writer of this psalm felt rejected and tossed aside because of his great troubles. Problems and heartaches can overwhelm us and cause us to feel that God has rejected us. But God our Creator is eternally with us and will keep all his promises, even though we may feel alone. The world will perish, but God will remain.
Psalm 102:3, 4 - "For my days vanish like smoke; my bones burn like glowing embers. My heart is blighted and withered like grass; I forget to eat my food"
The psalmist felt so bad that he forgot to eat. When we face sickness and despair, our days pass blindly and we don't care about even our basic needs. In these times, God alone is our comfort and strength. Even when we are too weak to fight, we can lean on him. It is often when we recognize our weaknesses that God's greatest strength becomes available.
Psalm 102:6,7 - "I am like a desert owl, like an owl among the ruins. I lie awake; I have become like a bird alone on a roof"
These birds are pictures of loneliness and desolation. At times we may need to be alone, and solitude may comfort us. But we must be careful not to spurn those who reach out to us. Don't reject help and conversation. Suffering silently is neither Christian nor particularly healthy. Instead, accept graciously the support of help from family and friends.
Psalm 102:25-27 - "In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and he heavens are the work of your hands. 26-They will perish, but you remain; they will wall wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded. 27-But you remain the same, and your years will never end"
The writer of this psalm felt rejected and tossed aside because of his great troubles. Problems and heartaches can overwhelm us and cause us to feel that God has rejected us. But God our Creator is eternally with us and will keep all his promises, even though we may feel alone. The world will perish, but God will remain.
Monday, January 25, 2016
Psalm 101 - His Help Is Necessary
The author of Psalm 101 was David and he shares with us, today, a prayer for help to walk a blameless path. To live with integrity, both our efforts and God's help are necessary.
David may have written this psalm early in his reign as long as he set down the standards he wanted to follow. David knew that to lead a blameless life he would need God's help. We can lead blameless lives if we avoid looking at wickedness; evil associates; slander; and pride. While avoiding the wrongs listed here, we must also let God's Word show us the standards by which to live.
Psalm 101:6 - "My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he whose walk is blameless will minister to me"
David said that he would keep his eyes "on the faithful in the land." In other words, he would choose as models and as friends those who are godly and truthful. Our friends and associates can have a profound influence on our lives. Make sure to keep your eyes on those who are faithful to God and His Word.
David may have written this psalm early in his reign as long as he set down the standards he wanted to follow. David knew that to lead a blameless life he would need God's help. We can lead blameless lives if we avoid looking at wickedness; evil associates; slander; and pride. While avoiding the wrongs listed here, we must also let God's Word show us the standards by which to live.
Psalm 101:6 - "My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he whose walk is blameless will minister to me"
David said that he would keep his eyes "on the faithful in the land." In other words, he would choose as models and as friends those who are godly and truthful. Our friends and associates can have a profound influence on our lives. Make sure to keep your eyes on those who are faithful to God and His Word.
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Psalm 100 - An Invitation to Enter Joyfully
The author of Psalm 100 is not known; however, the writer shares with us an invitation to enter joyfully into God's presence. His faithfulness extends to our generation and beyond.
Psalm 100:3 - "Know that the LORD is God. It is he who has made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture"
God is our Creator; we did not create ourselves. Many people live as though they are the creator and center of their own little world. This mind-set leads to a greedy possessiveness, and if everything should be taken away, a loss of hope itself. But when we realize that God created us and gives us all we have, we will want to give to others as God gave to us. Then, if all is lost, we will have God and all he gives us.
Psalm 100:4 - "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name"
God alone is worthy of being worshiped. What is your attitude toward worship? Do you willingly and joyfully come into God's presence, or are you just going through the motions; reluctantly going to church? This psalm tells us to remember God's goodness and dependability, and then to worship with thanksgiving and praise.
Psalm 100:3 - "Know that the LORD is God. It is he who has made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture"
God is our Creator; we did not create ourselves. Many people live as though they are the creator and center of their own little world. This mind-set leads to a greedy possessiveness, and if everything should be taken away, a loss of hope itself. But when we realize that God created us and gives us all we have, we will want to give to others as God gave to us. Then, if all is lost, we will have God and all he gives us.
Psalm 100:4 - "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name"
God alone is worthy of being worshiped. What is your attitude toward worship? Do you willingly and joyfully come into God's presence, or are you just going through the motions; reluctantly going to church? This psalm tells us to remember God's goodness and dependability, and then to worship with thanksgiving and praise.
Saturday, January 23, 2016
Psalm 99 - Trusting Him Completely
The author of Psalm 99 is not known, but whomever wrote it shares with us a praise for God's fairness and holiness. Because God is perfectly just and fair; we can trust him completely.
Psalm 99:1 - "The LORD reigns, let the nations tremble; he sits enthroned between the cherubim, let the earth shake"
Cherubim are mighty angels that comprise one of several ranks of angels (for more on angels, look back at the psalm 91 post - verse 11).
Psalm 99:3 - "Let them praise your great and awesome name - he is holy"
Everyone should praise God's great and awesome name because his name symbolizes his nature, his personage, and his reputation. But the name of God is used so often in vulgar conversation that we have lost sight of its holiness. How easy it is to treat God lightly in everyday life. If you claim him as your father, live worthy of the family name. Respect God's name and give him praise by both your words and your life.
Psalm 99:5 - "Exalt the LORD our God and worship at his footstool, he is holy"
God's holiness is terribly frightening for sinners, but a wonderful comfort for believers. God is morally perfect and is set apart from people and sin. He has no weaknesses or shortcomings. For sinners, this is frightening because all their inadequacies and evil are exposed by the light of God's holiness. God cannot tolerate, ignore or excuse sin. For believers, God's holiness gives comfort because, as we worship him, we are lifted from the mire of sin. As we believe in him, we are made holy.
Psalm 99:1 - "The LORD reigns, let the nations tremble; he sits enthroned between the cherubim, let the earth shake"
Cherubim are mighty angels that comprise one of several ranks of angels (for more on angels, look back at the psalm 91 post - verse 11).
Psalm 99:3 - "Let them praise your great and awesome name - he is holy"
Everyone should praise God's great and awesome name because his name symbolizes his nature, his personage, and his reputation. But the name of God is used so often in vulgar conversation that we have lost sight of its holiness. How easy it is to treat God lightly in everyday life. If you claim him as your father, live worthy of the family name. Respect God's name and give him praise by both your words and your life.
Psalm 99:5 - "Exalt the LORD our God and worship at his footstool, he is holy"
God's holiness is terribly frightening for sinners, but a wonderful comfort for believers. God is morally perfect and is set apart from people and sin. He has no weaknesses or shortcomings. For sinners, this is frightening because all their inadequacies and evil are exposed by the light of God's holiness. God cannot tolerate, ignore or excuse sin. For believers, God's holiness gives comfort because, as we worship him, we are lifted from the mire of sin. As we believe in him, we are made holy.
Friday, January 22, 2016
Psalm 98 - A Song Of Joy And Victory
The author of Psalm 98 was never found out but whoever wrote this psalm shares with us a song of both joy and victory. Because God is victorious over evil, all those who follow him will be victorious with him when he judges the earth.
Psalm 98:1 - "Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him"
This is a psalm of praise anticipating the coming of God to rule his people. Jesus fulfilled this anticipation when he came to save all people from their sins, and he will come again to judge the world. God is both perfectly loving and perfectly just. He is merciful when he punishes, and he overlooks no sin when he loves. Praise you for his promise to save you and to return again.
Psalm 98:1 - "Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him"
This is a psalm of praise anticipating the coming of God to rule his people. Jesus fulfilled this anticipation when he came to save all people from their sins, and he will come again to judge the world. God is both perfectly loving and perfectly just. He is merciful when he punishes, and he overlooks no sin when he loves. Praise you for his promise to save you and to return again.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Psalm 97 - Our Righteous & Just God
The author of Psalm 97 was never located for the writing of this particular psalm. But he shares with us that God, our awesome Conqueror, is both righteous and just.
Psalm 97:2 - "Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne"
The clouds and thick darkness that surround God symbolize his unapproachable holiness and the inability of people to find him on their own. If he were uncovered, no one could stand before his blazing holiness and glory.
Psalm 97:7 - "All who worship images are put to shame, those who boast in idols - worship him, all you gods!"
People worship all kinds of images and idols in this day and age. Although God reveals himself and his love through nature and the Bible, there are many who decide to ignore or reject him and pursue goals they believe are more important. The Bible makes it clear that these people are idol worshipers because they give their highest loyalty to something other than God. One day we will stand before God in all his glory and power. Then we will see all our goal and accomplishments for what they really are. How foolish our earthly pursuits will seem then!
Psalm 97:10 - "Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked"
A sincere desire to please God will result in an alignment of your desires with God's desires. You will love what God loves and hate what God hates. If you love the Lord, you will hate evil. If you do not despise the actions of people who take advantage of others. If you admire people who only look out for themselves, or if you envy those who get ahead using any means to accomplish their ends, then your primary desire in life is not to please God. Learn to love God's ways and hate evil in every form - not only the obvious sins but also the socially acceptable ones.
Psalm 97:2 - "Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne"
The clouds and thick darkness that surround God symbolize his unapproachable holiness and the inability of people to find him on their own. If he were uncovered, no one could stand before his blazing holiness and glory.
Psalm 97:7 - "All who worship images are put to shame, those who boast in idols - worship him, all you gods!"
People worship all kinds of images and idols in this day and age. Although God reveals himself and his love through nature and the Bible, there are many who decide to ignore or reject him and pursue goals they believe are more important. The Bible makes it clear that these people are idol worshipers because they give their highest loyalty to something other than God. One day we will stand before God in all his glory and power. Then we will see all our goal and accomplishments for what they really are. How foolish our earthly pursuits will seem then!
Psalm 97:10 - "Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked"
A sincere desire to please God will result in an alignment of your desires with God's desires. You will love what God loves and hate what God hates. If you love the Lord, you will hate evil. If you do not despise the actions of people who take advantage of others. If you admire people who only look out for themselves, or if you envy those who get ahead using any means to accomplish their ends, then your primary desire in life is not to please God. Learn to love God's ways and hate evil in every form - not only the obvious sins but also the socially acceptable ones.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Psalm 96 - How To Praise God
The author of Psalm 96 was possibly David because this psalm closely resembles David's hymn of praise in 1 Chronicles 16:23-36 (notated below). The author shares with us ways to praise God - whether that means singing, worshiping, telling others about God's Word, bringing offerings to him, giving the Lord glory and living a holy life with him centered in your heart.
Psalm 96:1-4 - "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. 2-Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. 3-Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 4-For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods"
The psalmist sings out his praises to God, overwhelmed by all that God has done. If we believe God is great, we cannot help telling others about him. The best witnessing happens when our hearts are full of appreciation for what he has done. God has chosen us to "declare ... his marvelous deeds among all peoples." How well are you doing with telling others about God's love and his marvelous deeds?
1 Chronicles 16:23-36 / New International Version
23 Sing to the Lord, all the earth;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
24 Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
Psalm 96:1-4 - "Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. 2-Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. 3-Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 4-For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods"
The psalmist sings out his praises to God, overwhelmed by all that God has done. If we believe God is great, we cannot help telling others about him. The best witnessing happens when our hearts are full of appreciation for what he has done. God has chosen us to "declare ... his marvelous deeds among all peoples." How well are you doing with telling others about God's love and his marvelous deeds?
1 Chronicles 16:23-36 / New International Version
23 Sing to the Lord, all the earth;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
24 Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
25 For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
he is to be feared above all gods.
26 For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the Lord made the heavens.
27 Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and joy are in his dwelling place.
he is to be feared above all gods.
26 For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the Lord made the heavens.
27 Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and joy are in his dwelling place.
28 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of nations,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
29 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering and come before him.
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
30 Tremble before him, all the earth!
The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved.
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
29 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering and come before him.
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.
30 Tremble before him, all the earth!
The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved.
31 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;
let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!”
32 Let the sea resound, and all that is in it;
let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them!
33 Let the trees of the forest sing,
let them sing for joy before the Lord,
for he comes to judge the earth.
let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!”
32 Let the sea resound, and all that is in it;
let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them!
33 Let the trees of the forest sing,
let them sing for joy before the Lord,
for he comes to judge the earth.
34 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his love endures forever.
35 Cry out, “Save us, God our Savior;
gather us and deliver us from the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name,
and glory in your praise.”
36 Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,
from everlasting to everlasting.
his love endures forever.
35 Cry out, “Save us, God our Savior;
gather us and deliver us from the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name,
and glory in your praise.”
36 Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,
from everlasting to everlasting.
Then all the people said “Amen” and “Praise the Lord.”
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Psalm 95 - An Invitation To Worship God
Psalm 95 is an invitation to us to worship God. It is not known who the author is but we can definitely tell that whoever it was, loved the Lord.
Psalm 95:7,8 - "...Today, if you hear his voice, 8-do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the desert"
A hardened heart is as useless as a hardened lump of clay or a hardened loaf of bread. Nothing can restore it and make it useful. The psalmist warns against hardening our hearts as Israel did in the desert by continuing to resist God's will (Exodus 17:7). They were so convinced that God couldn't deliver them that they simply lost their faith in him. When someone's heart becomes hardened, that person is so stubbornly set in his ways that he or she cannot turn to God. This does not happen all at once; it is the result of a series of choices to disregard God's will. If you resist God long enough, he may toss you aside like hardened bread. Don't resist him.
Psalm 95:11 - "So I declared on oath in my anger, 'They shall never enter my rest.'"
What keeps us from God's ultimate blessings (entering his rest)? Ungrateful hearts, not worshiping or submitting to him, hardening our hearts, testing God because of stubborn doubts. In Hebrews 4:5-11, we are warned not to harden our hearts, but to reject the glamour of sin and anything else that would lead us away from God.
Hebrew 4:4-11 says, "... And on the seventh day God rested from all his work. 5-And again in the passage above he says, 'They shall never enter my rest.' 6-It still remains that some will enter that rest, and those who formerly had the gospel preached to them did not go in, because of their disobedience. 7-Therefore God again set a certain day, calling it Today, when a long time later he spoke through David, as was said before: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.'" 8-For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. 9-There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10-for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. 11-Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience"
Psalm 95:7,8 - "...Today, if you hear his voice, 8-do not harden your hearts as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the desert"
A hardened heart is as useless as a hardened lump of clay or a hardened loaf of bread. Nothing can restore it and make it useful. The psalmist warns against hardening our hearts as Israel did in the desert by continuing to resist God's will (Exodus 17:7). They were so convinced that God couldn't deliver them that they simply lost their faith in him. When someone's heart becomes hardened, that person is so stubbornly set in his ways that he or she cannot turn to God. This does not happen all at once; it is the result of a series of choices to disregard God's will. If you resist God long enough, he may toss you aside like hardened bread. Don't resist him.
Psalm 95:11 - "So I declared on oath in my anger, 'They shall never enter my rest.'"
What keeps us from God's ultimate blessings (entering his rest)? Ungrateful hearts, not worshiping or submitting to him, hardening our hearts, testing God because of stubborn doubts. In Hebrews 4:5-11, we are warned not to harden our hearts, but to reject the glamour of sin and anything else that would lead us away from God.
Hebrew 4:4-11 says, "... And on the seventh day God rested from all his work. 5-And again in the passage above he says, 'They shall never enter my rest.' 6-It still remains that some will enter that rest, and those who formerly had the gospel preached to them did not go in, because of their disobedience. 7-Therefore God again set a certain day, calling it Today, when a long time later he spoke through David, as was said before: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.'" 8-For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. 9-There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10-for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. 11-Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience"
Monday, January 18, 2016
Psalm 94 - A Holy & Just God
The author of Psalm 94 is not known, yet the author shares with us that God will keep his people from the severe punishment that are awaiting the wicked. Since God is holy and just, we can be certain that the wicked will not prevail.
Psalm 94:12, 13 - "Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD, the man you teach from your law; 13-you grant him relief from days of trouble, till a pit is dug for the wicked"
At times, God must discipline us to help us. This is similar to a loving parent's disciplining his or her child. The discipline is not very enjoyable to the child, but it is essential to teach him or her right from wrong. The Bible says that, "no discipline seems at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it" (Hebrews 12:11). When you feel God's hand of correction, accept it as proof of his love. Realize that God is urging you to follow his paths instead of stubbornly going your own way.
Psalm 94:12, 13 - "Blessed is the man you discipline, O LORD, the man you teach from your law; 13-you grant him relief from days of trouble, till a pit is dug for the wicked"
At times, God must discipline us to help us. This is similar to a loving parent's disciplining his or her child. The discipline is not very enjoyable to the child, but it is essential to teach him or her right from wrong. The Bible says that, "no discipline seems at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it" (Hebrews 12:11). When you feel God's hand of correction, accept it as proof of his love. Realize that God is urging you to follow his paths instead of stubbornly going your own way.
Sunday, January 17, 2016
Psalm 93 - God's Unchanging & Almighty Nature
The author of Psalm 93 is not known. But the author shares with us that God's unchanging and almighty nature reminds us of his great power throughout this world. Jewish tradition claims that the next six psalms, including this one, anticipate some of the works of Messiah.
Psalm 93:5 - "Your statutes stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days, O LORD"
The key to God's eternal reign is his holiness. God's glory is seen not only in his strength but in his perfect moral character as well. God will never do anything that is not morally perfect. This reassures us that we can trust him, yet it places a demand on us. Our desire to be holy (dedicated to God and morally clean) is our only suitable response. We must never use unholy means to reach a holy goal because God says, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy" (Leviticus 19:1,2).
Psalm 93:5 - "Your statutes stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days, O LORD"
The key to God's eternal reign is his holiness. God's glory is seen not only in his strength but in his perfect moral character as well. God will never do anything that is not morally perfect. This reassures us that we can trust him, yet it places a demand on us. Our desire to be holy (dedicated to God and morally clean) is our only suitable response. We must never use unholy means to reach a holy goal because God says, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy" (Leviticus 19:1,2).
Saturday, January 16, 2016
Psalm 92 - Be Thankful And Faithful
The author of Psalm 92 is not known. It is advised that this psalm was used in temple services on the Sabbath. It shows us that we are to be thankful and faithful every day for what we have.
Psalm 92:1,2 - "It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, 2-to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night"
During the month of November we begin to think about a time of thanksgiving and blessings. We express our gratitude to God for each of those blessings. But thanks should be on our lips every day, not just one month of the year, or one day of the year. We can never say thank you enough for our parents, friends, children, leaders, and especially God. When Thanksgiving becomes an integral part of your life, you will find that your attitude toward life will change. You will become more positive, gracious, loving and humble.
Psalm 92:12, 13 - "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; 13-planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God"
Palm trees are known for their long life. To flourish like palm trees means to stand tall and to live long. The cedars of Lebanon grew to 120 feet in height and up to 30 feet in circumference, thus, they were solid, strong and immovable. The psalmist saw believers as upright, strong, and unmoved by the winds of circumstance. Those who place their faith firmly in God can have this strength and vitality.
Psalm 92:14 - "They will bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green"
Honoring God is not limited to young people who seem to have unlimited strength and energy. Even when you get older, devoted believers can produce spiritual fruit. There are many faithful older people who continue to have a fresh outlook and can teach us from a lifetime experience of serving God. I invite you to seek out an elderly friend or relative to tell you about his or her experiences with the Lord and challenge you to new heights of spiritual growth.
Psalm 92:1,2 - "It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, 2-to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night"
During the month of November we begin to think about a time of thanksgiving and blessings. We express our gratitude to God for each of those blessings. But thanks should be on our lips every day, not just one month of the year, or one day of the year. We can never say thank you enough for our parents, friends, children, leaders, and especially God. When Thanksgiving becomes an integral part of your life, you will find that your attitude toward life will change. You will become more positive, gracious, loving and humble.
Psalm 92:12, 13 - "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; 13-planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God"
Palm trees are known for their long life. To flourish like palm trees means to stand tall and to live long. The cedars of Lebanon grew to 120 feet in height and up to 30 feet in circumference, thus, they were solid, strong and immovable. The psalmist saw believers as upright, strong, and unmoved by the winds of circumstance. Those who place their faith firmly in God can have this strength and vitality.
Psalm 92:14 - "They will bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green"
Honoring God is not limited to young people who seem to have unlimited strength and energy. Even when you get older, devoted believers can produce spiritual fruit. There are many faithful older people who continue to have a fresh outlook and can teach us from a lifetime experience of serving God. I invite you to seek out an elderly friend or relative to tell you about his or her experiences with the Lord and challenge you to new heights of spiritual growth.
Friday, January 15, 2016
Psalm 91 - Protection Granted In Midst Of Danger
The author of Psalm 91 is not known. This psalm shares with us God's protection in the midst of danger, anytime, anyplace, anywhere. God does not provide a world free from danger but he does promise his help whenever we face it.
Psalm 91:1-6 - "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 1-I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' 3-Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4-He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5-You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6-nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday"
God is a shelter, a refuge when we are afraid. The writer's faith in the Almighty God as Protector would carry him through all the dangers and fears of life. This should be a picture of our trust - trading all our fears for faith in him, no matter how intense our fears. To do this we must "dwell" and "rest" with him. By entrusting ourselves to his protection and pledging our daily devotion to him we will be kept safe.
Psalm 91:11 - "My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes"
One of the functions of angels is to watch over believers. There are examples of guardian angels in Scripture (1 Kings 19:5, Daniel 6:22, Matthew 18:10, Luke 16:22 and Acts 12:7) although there is no indication that one angel is assigned to each believer. Angels can also be God's messengers (Matthew 2:13, Acts 27:23, 24). Angels are not visible, except on special occasions (Numbers 22:31 and Luke 2:9). With all this being said, just know that it is comforting to know that God watches over us even in times of great stress and fear.
Examples of Guardian Angels in Scripture:
1 Kings 19:5 - "...Then he (Elijah) lay down under the tree and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, 'Get up and eat'".
Daniel 6:22 - "My God has sent his angel, and he s hut the mouths of lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king"
Matthew 18:10 - Jesus said, "See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven"
Luke 16:22 - Jesus said, "...The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried"
Acts 12:7 - "Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
God's Messengers:
Matthew 2:13 - "When they had gone, an angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph in a dream.
'Get up,' he said, 'take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him."
Acts 27:23, 24 - "Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24-and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Ceasar, and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you."
Special Occasion Angels:
Numbers 22:31 - "Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell face down"
Luke 2:9 - "An angel of the LORD appeared to them, and the glory of the LORD shown all around them, and they were terrified"
Psalm 91:1-6 - "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 1-I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' 3-Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4-He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5-You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6-nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday"
God is a shelter, a refuge when we are afraid. The writer's faith in the Almighty God as Protector would carry him through all the dangers and fears of life. This should be a picture of our trust - trading all our fears for faith in him, no matter how intense our fears. To do this we must "dwell" and "rest" with him. By entrusting ourselves to his protection and pledging our daily devotion to him we will be kept safe.
Psalm 91:11 - "My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes"
One of the functions of angels is to watch over believers. There are examples of guardian angels in Scripture (1 Kings 19:5, Daniel 6:22, Matthew 18:10, Luke 16:22 and Acts 12:7) although there is no indication that one angel is assigned to each believer. Angels can also be God's messengers (Matthew 2:13, Acts 27:23, 24). Angels are not visible, except on special occasions (Numbers 22:31 and Luke 2:9). With all this being said, just know that it is comforting to know that God watches over us even in times of great stress and fear.
Examples of Guardian Angels in Scripture:
1 Kings 19:5 - "...Then he (Elijah) lay down under the tree and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, 'Get up and eat'".
Daniel 6:22 - "My God has sent his angel, and he s hut the mouths of lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king"
Matthew 18:10 - Jesus said, "See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven"
Luke 16:22 - Jesus said, "...The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried"
Acts 12:7 - "Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
God's Messengers:
Matthew 2:13 - "When they had gone, an angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph in a dream.
'Get up,' he said, 'take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him."
Acts 27:23, 24 - "Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24-and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Ceasar, and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you."
Special Occasion Angels:
Numbers 22:31 - "Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell face down"
Luke 2:9 - "An angel of the LORD appeared to them, and the glory of the LORD shown all around them, and they were terrified"
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Psalm 90 - Our Eternal Home In Mind
The author of Psalm 90 was Moses, making this the oldest of the psalms. Our time on earth is limited and we are to use it wisely, not just living for the moment; but with our eternal home in mind. The next 16 psalms remind us that we should remember our place and be submissive before the almighty God.
Psalm 90:4 - "For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night"
Moses reminds us that a thousand years are like a day to the Lord. God is not limited by time. It's easy to get discouraged when years pass and the world does not get better. We sometimes wonder if God is able to see the future. But don't assume that God has our limitations. God is completely unrestricted by time. Because he is eternal, we can depend on him.
Psalm 90:8 - "You have set our iniquities before you. our secret sins in the light of your presence"
God knows all our sins as if they were spread out before him, even the secret ones. We don't need to cover up our sins before him because we can talk openly and honestly with him. But while he knows all that terrible information about us, God still loves us and wants to forgive us. This should encourage us to come to him rather than frighten us into covering up our sin.
Psalm 90:12 - "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom"
Realizing that life is short helps us use the little time we have more wisely and for eternal good. Take time to number your days by asking, "What do I want to see happen in life before I die?" What small step could I take toward that purpose today?
Psalm 90:17 - "May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us -- yes, establish the work of our hands"
Because our days are numbered, we want our work to count, to be effective and productive. We desire to see God's eternal plan revealed now and for our work to reflect his permanence. If we feel dissatisfied with this life and all its imperfections, remember our desire to see our work established is placed there by God. But our desire can only be satisfied in eternity. Until then we must apply ourselves to loving and serving God.
Psalm 90:4 - "For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night"
Moses reminds us that a thousand years are like a day to the Lord. God is not limited by time. It's easy to get discouraged when years pass and the world does not get better. We sometimes wonder if God is able to see the future. But don't assume that God has our limitations. God is completely unrestricted by time. Because he is eternal, we can depend on him.
Psalm 90:8 - "You have set our iniquities before you. our secret sins in the light of your presence"
God knows all our sins as if they were spread out before him, even the secret ones. We don't need to cover up our sins before him because we can talk openly and honestly with him. But while he knows all that terrible information about us, God still loves us and wants to forgive us. This should encourage us to come to him rather than frighten us into covering up our sin.
Psalm 90:12 - "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom"
Realizing that life is short helps us use the little time we have more wisely and for eternal good. Take time to number your days by asking, "What do I want to see happen in life before I die?" What small step could I take toward that purpose today?
Psalm 90:17 - "May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us -- yes, establish the work of our hands"
Because our days are numbered, we want our work to count, to be effective and productive. We desire to see God's eternal plan revealed now and for our work to reflect his permanence. If we feel dissatisfied with this life and all its imperfections, remember our desire to see our work established is placed there by God. But our desire can only be satisfied in eternity. Until then we must apply ourselves to loving and serving God.
Wednesday - Psalm 89 - God's Promise Fulfilled
The author of Psalm 89 was a man by the name of Ethan. He was a Levite leader and possibly one of the head musicians in the temple. He shares with us that God's promise is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who will reign for eternity. The love and kindness that was promised to David, is ours in Christ.
Psalm 89:1 - "I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations"
This psalm was written to describe the glorious reign of David. God had promised to make David the mightiest king on earth and to keep his descendants on the throne forever. But Jerusalem was destroyed, and kings no longer reigned there. So these verses can only look forward, prophetically, to the future reign of Jesus Christ, David's descendant.
Psalm 89:5 - "The heavens praise your wonders, O LORD, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.
The "assembly of the holy ones" generally refers to angels in the courts of heaven, a host of angels praise the Lord. This scene is one of majesty and grandeur to show that God is beyond compare. His power and purity place him high above nature and angels. See Deuteronomy 33:2, Luke 2:13 and Hebrew 12:22 for more about angels.
Psalm 89:14,15 - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. 15-Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD"
Righteousness, justice, love and faithfulness are the foundation of God's throne; they are fundamental aspects of the way God rules. As God's ambassadors, we should deal with people similarly. Make sure your actions flow out of righteousness, justice, love and faithfulness because any unfair, unloving or dishonest action cannot come from God.
Psalm 89:17, 24 - "For you are their glory and strength, and by your favor you exalt our horn. 24-My faithful love will be with him, and through my name his horn will be exalted"
"Horn" refers to the horn of an animal, the symbol of its power. In verse 17, "horn" means our strong one, our hope for the Messiah. In verse 24, David is promised to have God's power to accomplish God's will. Without God's help, we are weak and powerless, inadequate for even the simplest spiritual tasks. But when we are filled with God's Spirit, his power flows through us and our accomplishments will exceed our expectations.
Psalm 89:34-37 - "I will not violate my covenant or alter what my lips have uttered. 35-Once for all, I have sworn by my holiness - and I will not lie to David -- 36-that his line will continue forever and his throne endure before me like the sun; 37-it will be established forever like the moon, the faithful witness in the sky"
In light of Israel's continual disobedience throughout history, this is an amazing promise. God promised that David's descendant's would always sit on the throne, but if the people disobeyed, they would be punished. Yet, even through their disobedience and punishment, God would never break faith with them. Israel did disobey, evil ran rampant, the nation was divided, exile came -- but through it all, of remnant of God's people remained faithful. Centuries later, the Messiah arrived, the eternal King from David's line, just as God had promised. All that God promises, he fulfills. He will not take back even one word of what he says. God can also be trusted to save us as he promised he would. God is completely reliable.
Psalm 89:1 - "I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations"
This psalm was written to describe the glorious reign of David. God had promised to make David the mightiest king on earth and to keep his descendants on the throne forever. But Jerusalem was destroyed, and kings no longer reigned there. So these verses can only look forward, prophetically, to the future reign of Jesus Christ, David's descendant.
Psalm 89:5 - "The heavens praise your wonders, O LORD, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.
The "assembly of the holy ones" generally refers to angels in the courts of heaven, a host of angels praise the Lord. This scene is one of majesty and grandeur to show that God is beyond compare. His power and purity place him high above nature and angels. See Deuteronomy 33:2, Luke 2:13 and Hebrew 12:22 for more about angels.
Psalm 89:14,15 - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you. 15-Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD"
Righteousness, justice, love and faithfulness are the foundation of God's throne; they are fundamental aspects of the way God rules. As God's ambassadors, we should deal with people similarly. Make sure your actions flow out of righteousness, justice, love and faithfulness because any unfair, unloving or dishonest action cannot come from God.
Psalm 89:17, 24 - "For you are their glory and strength, and by your favor you exalt our horn. 24-My faithful love will be with him, and through my name his horn will be exalted"
"Horn" refers to the horn of an animal, the symbol of its power. In verse 17, "horn" means our strong one, our hope for the Messiah. In verse 24, David is promised to have God's power to accomplish God's will. Without God's help, we are weak and powerless, inadequate for even the simplest spiritual tasks. But when we are filled with God's Spirit, his power flows through us and our accomplishments will exceed our expectations.
Psalm 89:34-37 - "I will not violate my covenant or alter what my lips have uttered. 35-Once for all, I have sworn by my holiness - and I will not lie to David -- 36-that his line will continue forever and his throne endure before me like the sun; 37-it will be established forever like the moon, the faithful witness in the sky"
In light of Israel's continual disobedience throughout history, this is an amazing promise. God promised that David's descendant's would always sit on the throne, but if the people disobeyed, they would be punished. Yet, even through their disobedience and punishment, God would never break faith with them. Israel did disobey, evil ran rampant, the nation was divided, exile came -- but through it all, of remnant of God's people remained faithful. Centuries later, the Messiah arrived, the eternal King from David's line, just as God had promised. All that God promises, he fulfills. He will not take back even one word of what he says. God can also be trusted to save us as he promised he would. God is completely reliable.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Tuesday - Psalm 88 - God Understands All Things
The author of Psalm 88 was a man by the name of Heman. He was one of the sons of Korah, a Ezrahite who possibly dabbled in music.
Psalm 88:1 - "O LORD, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you"
Have you ever felt like you have hit bottom? The psalmist is so low that he even despairs of life itself. Although everything is bad and getting worse, he is able to tell it all to God. This is one of the few psalms that gives no answer or expression of hope. Don't think that you must always be cheerful and positive. Grief and depression take time to heal. No matter how low we feel, we can always take our problems to God and express our anguish to him.
Psalm 88:13,14 - "But I cry to you for help, O LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you. 14-Why, O LORD, do you reject me and hide your face from me?"
When writing this, the psalmist was close to death, perhaps debilitated by disease, and forsaken by friends. Perhaps you, are not so afflicted, but you know someone who is. Consider being a prayer companion for that person. This psalm can be a prayer you can lift to God on his or her behalf.
Psalm 88 / New International Version
1 O Lord, the God who saves me;
day and night I cry out before you.
2 May my prayer come before you;
turn your ear to my cry.
Psalm 88:1 - "O LORD, the God who saves me, day and night I cry out before you"
Have you ever felt like you have hit bottom? The psalmist is so low that he even despairs of life itself. Although everything is bad and getting worse, he is able to tell it all to God. This is one of the few psalms that gives no answer or expression of hope. Don't think that you must always be cheerful and positive. Grief and depression take time to heal. No matter how low we feel, we can always take our problems to God and express our anguish to him.
Psalm 88:13,14 - "But I cry to you for help, O LORD; in the morning my prayer comes before you. 14-Why, O LORD, do you reject me and hide your face from me?"
When writing this, the psalmist was close to death, perhaps debilitated by disease, and forsaken by friends. Perhaps you, are not so afflicted, but you know someone who is. Consider being a prayer companion for that person. This psalm can be a prayer you can lift to God on his or her behalf.
Psalm 88 / New International Version
1 O Lord, the God who saves me;
day and night I cry out before you.
2 May my prayer come before you;
turn your ear to my cry.
3 For my soul is full of trouble
and my life draws near the grave.
4 I am counted among those who go down to the pit;
I am like a man without strength.
5 I am set apart with the dead,
like the slain who lie in the grave,
whom you remember no more,
who are cut off from your care.
and my life draws near the grave.
4 I am counted among those who go down to the pit;
I am like a man without strength.
5 I am set apart with the dead,
like the slain who lie in the grave,
whom you remember no more,
who are cut off from your care.
6 You have put me in the lowest pit,
in the darkest depths.
7 Your wrath lies heavily upon me;
you have overwhelmed me with all your waves.
8 You have taken from me my closest friends
and have made me repulsive to them.
I am confined and cannot escape;
9 my eyes are dim with grief.
in the darkest depths.
7 Your wrath lies heavily upon me;
you have overwhelmed me with all your waves.
8 You have taken from me my closest friends
and have made me repulsive to them.
I am confined and cannot escape;
9 my eyes are dim with grief.
I call to you, O Lord, every day;
I spread out my hands to you.
10 Do you show your wonders to the dead?
Do those who are dead rise up and praise you?
11 Is your love declared in the grave,
your faithfulness in Destruction?
12 Are your wonders known in the place of darkness,
or your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion?
I spread out my hands to you.
10 Do you show your wonders to the dead?
Do those who are dead rise up and praise you?
11 Is your love declared in the grave,
your faithfulness in Destruction?
12 Are your wonders known in the place of darkness,
or your righteous deeds in the land of oblivion?
13 But I cry to you for help, O Lord;
in the morning my prayer comes before you.
14 Why, O Lord, do you reject me
and hide your face from me?
in the morning my prayer comes before you.
14 Why, O Lord, do you reject me
and hide your face from me?
15 From my youth I have been afflicted and close to death;
I have suffered your terrors and am in despair.
16 Your wrath has swept over me;
your terrors have destroyed me.
17 All day long they surround me like a flood;
they have completely engulfed me.
18 You have taken my companions and loved ones from me;
the darkness is my closest friend.
I have suffered your terrors and am in despair.
16 Your wrath has swept over me;
your terrors have destroyed me.
17 All day long they surround me like a flood;
they have completely engulfed me.
18 You have taken my companions and loved ones from me;
the darkness is my closest friend.
Monday, January 11, 2016
Monday, Psalm 87 - Heaven: The City of God
The authors of Psalm 87 were the temple assistants, sons of Korah again. They shared with us that heaven, which is known as the city of God, is where all believers will on day gather.
Psalm 87:1 - "He has set his foundation on the holy mountain"
Zion, the holy mountain, and its temple here in Psalm 87 represent the future community of believers. The psalm looks ahead to the Holy City of God described to us in Revelation 21:10-27. The honor of living there will be granted to all whose names are recorded in the Lamb's book of life. It is God's grace that forms and sustains this wonderful community. How could anyone refuse God's offer to be part of this celebration?
Psalm 87 / New International Version
1 He has founded his city on the holy mountain.
2 The Lord loves the gates of Zion
more than all the other dwellings of Jacob.
5 Indeed, of Zion it will be said,
“This one and that one were born in her,
and the Most High himself will establish her.”
6 The Lord will write in the register of the peoples:
“This one was born in Zion.”
Psalm 87:1 - "He has set his foundation on the holy mountain"
Zion, the holy mountain, and its temple here in Psalm 87 represent the future community of believers. The psalm looks ahead to the Holy City of God described to us in Revelation 21:10-27. The honor of living there will be granted to all whose names are recorded in the Lamb's book of life. It is God's grace that forms and sustains this wonderful community. How could anyone refuse God's offer to be part of this celebration?
Psalm 87 / New International Version
1 He has founded his city on the holy mountain.
2 The Lord loves the gates of Zion
more than all the other dwellings of Jacob.
3 Glorious things are said of you,
O city of God:
4 “I will record Rahab and Babylon
among those who acknowledge me—
Philistia too, and Tyre, along with Cush—
and will say, ‘This one was born in Zion.’”
O city of God:
4 “I will record Rahab and Babylon
among those who acknowledge me—
Philistia too, and Tyre, along with Cush—
and will say, ‘This one was born in Zion.’”
5 Indeed, of Zion it will be said,
“This one and that one were born in her,
and the Most High himself will establish her.”
6 The Lord will write in the register of the peoples:
“This one was born in Zion.”
7 As they make music they will sing,
“All my fountains are in you.”
“All my fountains are in you.”
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Sunday Psalm 86 - Devoted Trust In Times Of Trouble
The author of Psalm 86 was David. He shares with us that you can have devoted trust in the Lord in times of deep trouble.
Psalm 86:7 - "In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me"
Sometimes our trouble or pain is so great that all we can do is cry out to God. And often when there is no relief in sight, all we can do is acknowledge the greatness of God and wait for better days ahead. The conviction that God answers prayer will sustain us in such difficult times.
Psalm 86:8-10 - "Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. 9-All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10-For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God"
"There is none like you O Lord" The God of the Bible is unique! He is alive and able to do mighty deeds for those who love him. All human-created deities are powerless because they are merely inventions of the mind, not living beings. The Lord alone is "worthy ... to receive glory and honor and power" (Revelation 4:11). Although people believe in many gods, you need never fear that God is only one among many or that you may be worshiping the wrong God. The Lord alone is God.
Psalm 86:17 - "Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me"
It is right to pray for a sign of God's goodness. As David found, it may be just what we need. But let us not overlook the signs he has already given: the support of family and friends, the fellowship of other Christians, the light of each new day. And we can be confident that he knows our situation no matter how desperate it becomes, and he cares.
Psalm 86 / New International Version
1 Hear O Lord, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
2 Guard my life, for I am devoted to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God; save your servant
who trusts in you.
3 Have mercy on me, O Lord,
for I call to you all day long.
4 Bring joy to your servant,
for to you, O Lord,
I lift up my soul.
Psalm 86:7 - "In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me"
Sometimes our trouble or pain is so great that all we can do is cry out to God. And often when there is no relief in sight, all we can do is acknowledge the greatness of God and wait for better days ahead. The conviction that God answers prayer will sustain us in such difficult times.
Psalm 86:8-10 - "Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. 9-All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10-For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God"
"There is none like you O Lord" The God of the Bible is unique! He is alive and able to do mighty deeds for those who love him. All human-created deities are powerless because they are merely inventions of the mind, not living beings. The Lord alone is "worthy ... to receive glory and honor and power" (Revelation 4:11). Although people believe in many gods, you need never fear that God is only one among many or that you may be worshiping the wrong God. The Lord alone is God.
Psalm 86:17 - "Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O LORD, have helped me and comforted me"
It is right to pray for a sign of God's goodness. As David found, it may be just what we need. But let us not overlook the signs he has already given: the support of family and friends, the fellowship of other Christians, the light of each new day. And we can be confident that he knows our situation no matter how desperate it becomes, and he cares.
Psalm 86 / New International Version
1 Hear O Lord, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
2 Guard my life, for I am devoted to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God; save your servant
who trusts in you.
3 Have mercy on me, O Lord,
for I call to you all day long.
4 Bring joy to your servant,
for to you, O Lord,
I lift up my soul.
5 You are forgiving and good, O Lord,
abounding in love to all who call to you.
6 Hear my prayer, O Lord;
listen to my cry for mercy.
7 In the day of my trouble I will call to you,
for you will answer me.
abounding in love to all who call to you.
6 Hear my prayer, O Lord;
listen to my cry for mercy.
7 In the day of my trouble I will call to you,
for you will answer me.
8 Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord;
no deeds can compare with yours.
9 All the nations you have made
will come and worship before you, O Lord;
they will bring glory to your name.
10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
you alone are God.
no deeds can compare with yours.
9 All the nations you have made
will come and worship before you, O Lord;
they will bring glory to your name.
10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
you alone are God.
11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
and I will walk in your truth;
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name.
12 I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify your name forever.
13 For great is your love toward me;
you have delivered me from the depths of the grave.
that I may fear your name.
12 I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart;
I will glorify your name forever.
13 For great is your love toward me;
you have delivered me from the depths of the grave.
14 The arrogant are attacking me, O God;
a band of ruthless men seeks my life —
men without regard for you.
15 But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me;
grant your strength to your servant;
and save the son of your maidservant.
17 Give me a sign of your goodness,
that my enemies may see it and be put to shame,
for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
a band of ruthless men seeks my life —
men without regard for you.
15 But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me;
grant your strength to your servant;
and save the son of your maidservant.
17 Give me a sign of your goodness,
that my enemies may see it and be put to shame,
for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
Saturday, January 9, 2016
Psalm 85 - From Reverence To Restoration
The authors of Psalm 85 were again the temple assistants, the sons of Korah. They share with us that reverence leads to forgiveness, restoring our love and joy for God.
Psalm 85:6,7 - "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7-Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation"
The psalmist was asking God to revive his people, bringing them back to spiritual life. God is capable of reviving both churches and individuals. He can pour out our his love on us, renewing our love for him. If you need revival in your church, family or personal spiritual life, ask God to give you a fresh touch of his love.
Psalm 85:6,7 - "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? 7-Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation"
The psalmist was asking God to revive his people, bringing them back to spiritual life. God is capable of reviving both churches and individuals. He can pour out our his love on us, renewing our love for him. If you need revival in your church, family or personal spiritual life, ask God to give you a fresh touch of his love.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Psalm 84 - Growth In Strength, Grace And Glory
The authors of Psalm 84 were the sons of Korah, who were temple assistants during that time. The authors share with us that God's living presence is our greatest joy and his radiant presence also helps us grow in strength, grace and glory.
Psalm 84:1,4 - "How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! 4-Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you"
The writers longed to get away from the bustling world to meet God inside his dwelling place, his holy temple. We can meet God anywhere, at any time. But we know that going into a church building can help us step inside from the busy mainstream of life so we can quietly meditate and pray. We find joy not only in the beautiful building but also in the prayers, music, lessons, sermons and fellowship.
Psalm 84:5-7 - "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. 6-As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 7-They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion"
The pilgrimage to the temple passed through the barren Valley of Baca. No specific valley has been identified with Baca. Because Baca can mean "weeping" it may have been a symbolic reference to the times of struggle and tears through which people must pass on their way to meet God. Growing strong in God's presence is often preceded by a journey through barren places in our lives. The person who loves to spend time with God will see his or her adversity as an opportunity to re-experience God's faithfulness. If you are walking through your own Valley of Baca today, be sure your pilgrimage leads you to God, not away from him.
Psalm 84:11 - "For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless"
God does not promise to give us everything we think is good, but he will not withhold what is permanently good. He will give us the means to walk along his paths, but we must do the walking. When we obey him, he will not hold anything back that will help us serve him.
Psalm 84:1,4 - "How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! 4-Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you"
The writers longed to get away from the bustling world to meet God inside his dwelling place, his holy temple. We can meet God anywhere, at any time. But we know that going into a church building can help us step inside from the busy mainstream of life so we can quietly meditate and pray. We find joy not only in the beautiful building but also in the prayers, music, lessons, sermons and fellowship.
Psalm 84:5-7 - "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. 6-As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. 7-They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion"
The pilgrimage to the temple passed through the barren Valley of Baca. No specific valley has been identified with Baca. Because Baca can mean "weeping" it may have been a symbolic reference to the times of struggle and tears through which people must pass on their way to meet God. Growing strong in God's presence is often preceded by a journey through barren places in our lives. The person who loves to spend time with God will see his or her adversity as an opportunity to re-experience God's faithfulness. If you are walking through your own Valley of Baca today, be sure your pilgrimage leads you to God, not away from him.
Psalm 84:11 - "For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless"
God does not promise to give us everything we think is good, but he will not withhold what is permanently good. He will give us the means to walk along his paths, but we must do the walking. When we obey him, he will not hold anything back that will help us serve him.
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Psalm 83 - Combatting God's Enemies
The author of Psalm 83 was Asaph or one of his descendants. It is not known for sure who wrote this one. This psalm is a prayer for God to do whatever it takes to convince the world that he is God indeed. Someday all will recognize and admit that God is in charge.
We read in this psalm that the alliance against God may refer to the gathering of certain kings to fight against Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. We read above that the psalm's author may have been Asaph or one of his descendants. A descendant of Asaph named Jahaziel prophesied victory for Judah in the battle against Jehoshaphat. The psalmist says the alliance against Judah is really against God. Thus Jahaziel exclaimed, "The battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15). God is "the Most High over all the earth" and the enemies of Israel were considered God's enemies.
Surrounding Judah were pagan nations that sought Judah's downfall. The psalmist prayed that God would blow these nations away like chaff before the wind until they recognized that the Lord is above all rulers of the earth. Sometimes we must be humbled by adversity before we will look up and see the Lord; we must be defeated before we can have the ultimate victory. Wouldn't it be better to seek the Lord in times of prosperity than to wait until his judgment is upon us?
We read in this psalm that the alliance against God may refer to the gathering of certain kings to fight against Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah. We read above that the psalm's author may have been Asaph or one of his descendants. A descendant of Asaph named Jahaziel prophesied victory for Judah in the battle against Jehoshaphat. The psalmist says the alliance against Judah is really against God. Thus Jahaziel exclaimed, "The battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15). God is "the Most High over all the earth" and the enemies of Israel were considered God's enemies.
Surrounding Judah were pagan nations that sought Judah's downfall. The psalmist prayed that God would blow these nations away like chaff before the wind until they recognized that the Lord is above all rulers of the earth. Sometimes we must be humbled by adversity before we will look up and see the Lord; we must be defeated before we can have the ultimate victory. Wouldn't it be better to seek the Lord in times of prosperity than to wait until his judgment is upon us?
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Psalm 82 - A Fair Judge
The author of Psalm 82 was Asaph. He advises to us that God is a fair judge. He will judge the wicked who have unfairly treated other people.
Psalm 82 calls the rulers and judges of Israel "gods" and "sons of the Most High." They were called gods because represented God in executing judgment. John 10:34-36 records Jesus using this passage to defend his claims to be God. His argument was as follows: If God would call men "gods", why was it blasphemous for him, the true Son of God, to declare himself equal with God?
John 10:34-36 - Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in our Law: I have said you are gods? If he called them 'gods' to whom the word of God came - and the Scripture cannot be broken - what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, "I am God's Son'?"
Psalm 82 calls the rulers and judges of Israel "gods" and "sons of the Most High." They were called gods because represented God in executing judgment. John 10:34-36 records Jesus using this passage to defend his claims to be God. His argument was as follows: If God would call men "gods", why was it blasphemous for him, the true Son of God, to declare himself equal with God?
John 10:34-36 - Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in our Law: I have said you are gods? If he called them 'gods' to whom the word of God came - and the Scripture cannot be broken - what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, "I am God's Son'?"
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Psalm 81 - God Is Our Deliverer In Spite Of Our Wanderings
The author of Psalm 81 was Asaph, probably written to be used during the Feast of Tabernacles. It is a holiday hymn - celebrating the exit from Egypt - God's goodness verses Israel's waywardness. As notated above, God is our deliverer in spite of our wanderings.
Psalm 81:1-5 - "Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob! 2-Begin the music, strike the tambourine, play the melodious harp and lyre. 3-Sound the ram's horn at the new Moon, and when the moon is full, on the day of our Feast; 4-this is a decree for Israel, an ordinance of the God of Jacob. 5-He established it as a statute for Joseph when he went out against Egypt, where we heard a language we did not understand"
Israel's holidays reminded the nation of God's great miracles. They were times of rejoicing and times to renew one's strength for life's daily struggles. This Christmas season that just past us, did your thoughts revolve mostly around presents? Is Easter only a warm anticipation of spring and Thanksgiving only a great meal? Remember the spiritual origins of these special days, and use them as opportunities to worship God for his goodness to you.
In verses 2-4, notated above, David decided to institute music for the temple worship services. Music and worship go hand in hand. Worship should involve the whole person, and music helps lift a person's thoughts and emotions to God. Through music we can reflect upon our needs and shortcomings as well as celebrate God's goodness.
Psalm 81:11,12 - "But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me.
12-So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices"
God let the Israelites go on blindly, stubbornly and selfishly, when they should of been obeying and pursuing God's desires. God sometimes lets us continue in our stubbornness to bring us to our senses. He does not keep us from rebelling; because he wants us to learn the consequences of sin. He uses these experiences to turn people away from greater sin to faith in him.
Psalm 81:1-5 - "Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob! 2-Begin the music, strike the tambourine, play the melodious harp and lyre. 3-Sound the ram's horn at the new Moon, and when the moon is full, on the day of our Feast; 4-this is a decree for Israel, an ordinance of the God of Jacob. 5-He established it as a statute for Joseph when he went out against Egypt, where we heard a language we did not understand"
Israel's holidays reminded the nation of God's great miracles. They were times of rejoicing and times to renew one's strength for life's daily struggles. This Christmas season that just past us, did your thoughts revolve mostly around presents? Is Easter only a warm anticipation of spring and Thanksgiving only a great meal? Remember the spiritual origins of these special days, and use them as opportunities to worship God for his goodness to you.
In verses 2-4, notated above, David decided to institute music for the temple worship services. Music and worship go hand in hand. Worship should involve the whole person, and music helps lift a person's thoughts and emotions to God. Through music we can reflect upon our needs and shortcomings as well as celebrate God's goodness.
Psalm 81:11,12 - "But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me.
12-So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices"
God let the Israelites go on blindly, stubbornly and selfishly, when they should of been obeying and pursuing God's desires. God sometimes lets us continue in our stubbornness to bring us to our senses. He does not keep us from rebelling; because he wants us to learn the consequences of sin. He uses these experiences to turn people away from greater sin to faith in him.
Monday, January 4, 2016
Psalm 80 - A Prayer For Revival & Restoration
The author of Psalm 80 was possibly Asaph or one of his descendants. Probably written after the northern kingdom of Israel was defeated and its people sent back to Assyria. This psalm is a prayer for revival and restoration after experiencing such destruction. God is our only hope for salvation!
Psalm 80:3 - "Restore us, O God; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved"
Psalm 80:7 - "Restore us, O God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved"
Psalm 80:19 - "Restore us, O LORD God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved"
Three times the writer calls on God to "restore us." Before restoration must come repentance, turning away from sin. Repentance involves humbling ourselves and turning to God to receive his forgiveness. As we turn to God, he helps us see ourselves, including our sin, more clearly. Then, as we see our sin, we must repeat the process of repentance. Only then can we constantly be restored to fellowship with God.
Psalm 80:17 - "Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand, the son of man you have raised up for yourself"
"The man at your right hand" is probably not the Messiah, but Israel, whom God calls elsewhere his "firstborn son" (Exodus 4:22 - Then say to Pharaoh, "This is what the LORD says: Israel is my firstborn son"). The psalmist is making a plea that God would restore his mercy to Israel, the people he chose to bring his message into the world.
Psalm 80:3 - "Restore us, O God; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved"
Psalm 80:7 - "Restore us, O God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved"
Psalm 80:19 - "Restore us, O LORD God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved"
Three times the writer calls on God to "restore us." Before restoration must come repentance, turning away from sin. Repentance involves humbling ourselves and turning to God to receive his forgiveness. As we turn to God, he helps us see ourselves, including our sin, more clearly. Then, as we see our sin, we must repeat the process of repentance. Only then can we constantly be restored to fellowship with God.
Psalm 80:17 - "Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand, the son of man you have raised up for yourself"
"The man at your right hand" is probably not the Messiah, but Israel, whom God calls elsewhere his "firstborn son" (Exodus 4:22 - Then say to Pharaoh, "This is what the LORD says: Israel is my firstborn son"). The psalmist is making a plea that God would restore his mercy to Israel, the people he chose to bring his message into the world.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Psalm 79 - Our Trust Should Remain In God
The author of Psalm 79 was written by Asaph, or one of his descendants. We are not quite sure exactly who it was written by, but it was believed to be written after the Babylonians had leveled Jerusalem.
Psalm 79:6 - "Pour out your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge you, on the kingdoms that do not call on your name"
According to the Old Testament, God's wrath and judgment often fell on entire nations because of the sins of people within those nations. Here Asaph pled for judgment on kingdoms that refused to acknowledge God's authority. Ironically, Asaph's own nation of Judah was being judged by God for refusing to do this very thing. These were people who had sworn allegiance to God but were now rejecting him. This made their judgment even worse.
This story is told in 2 Chronicles 36:14-20: 14 Furthermore, all the leaders of the priests and the people became more and more unfaithful, following all the detestable practices of the nations and defiling the temple of the Lord, which he had consecrated in Jerusalem.
15 The Lord, the God of their fathers, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place. 16 But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against his people and there was no remedy. 17 He brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and spared neither young man nor young woman, old man or aged. God handed them all over to Nebuchadnezzar. 18 He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the Lord’s temple and the treasures of the king and his officials. 19 They set fire to God’s temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there.
20 He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his sons until the kingdom of Persia came to power.
Psalm 79:10 - Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?" Before our eyes, make known among the nations that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants"
In the end, God's glory will be evident to all people, but in the meantime, we must endure suffering with patience and allow God to strengthen our character through it. For reasons we do not know, pagan people often are allowed to make fun of or despise other believers. We should be prepared for criticism, jokes and unkind remarks because God does not place us beyond the attacks of disbelievers.
Psalm 79:6 - "Pour out your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge you, on the kingdoms that do not call on your name"
According to the Old Testament, God's wrath and judgment often fell on entire nations because of the sins of people within those nations. Here Asaph pled for judgment on kingdoms that refused to acknowledge God's authority. Ironically, Asaph's own nation of Judah was being judged by God for refusing to do this very thing. These were people who had sworn allegiance to God but were now rejecting him. This made their judgment even worse.
This story is told in 2 Chronicles 36:14-20: 14 Furthermore, all the leaders of the priests and the people became more and more unfaithful, following all the detestable practices of the nations and defiling the temple of the Lord, which he had consecrated in Jerusalem.
15 The Lord, the God of their fathers, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling place. 16 But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against his people and there was no remedy. 17 He brought up against them the king of the Babylonians, who killed their young men with the sword in the sanctuary, and spared neither young man nor young woman, old man or aged. God handed them all over to Nebuchadnezzar. 18 He carried to Babylon all the articles from the temple of God, both large and small, and the treasures of the Lord’s temple and the treasures of the king and his officials. 19 They set fire to God’s temple and broke down the wall of Jerusalem; they burned all the palaces and destroyed everything of value there.
20 He carried into exile to Babylon the remnant, who escaped from the sword, and they became servants to him and his sons until the kingdom of Persia came to power.
Psalm 79:10 - Why should the nations say, "Where is their God?" Before our eyes, make known among the nations that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants"
In the end, God's glory will be evident to all people, but in the meantime, we must endure suffering with patience and allow God to strengthen our character through it. For reasons we do not know, pagan people often are allowed to make fun of or despise other believers. We should be prepared for criticism, jokes and unkind remarks because God does not place us beyond the attacks of disbelievers.
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Psalm 78 - Lessons From History Help Us Remember
Psalms 78 was written by Asaph. As you can see he has written many of the psalms and we can continue to learn a lot from him as well as David who wrote many as well.
In Psalm 78, Asaph retells the history of the Jewish nation from the time of slavery in Egypt to David's reign. It was told over and over to each generation so they would not forget God and make the same mistakes as their ancestors.
Psalm 78:1 - "O my people hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth"
The people of Israel rebelled and were not faithful to God, forgot about the wonders God had done, put God to the test by making demands from him, lied to him and tried to flatter him, and continued to turn away from him even after he did great works on their behalf. This is recorded in God's Word so that we can avoid the same errors.
Psalm 78:5 - "He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded his forefathers to teach their children"
God commanded that the stories of his mighty acts in Israel's history and his laws be passed on from parents to children. This shows the purpose and importance of religious education, to help each generation obey God and set their hope on him. It is important to keep children from repeating the same mistakes as their ancestors. What are you doing to pass on the history of God's work to the next generation?
Psalm 78:36, 37 - "But then they would flatter him with their mouths, lying to him with their tongues; 37-their hearts were not loyal to him, they were not faithful to his covenant"
Over and over the children of Israel claimed that they would follow God, but then they turned away from him. The problem was that they followed God with words and not with their hearts, thus their repentance was empty. God wants our conduct to back up our spiritual claims and promises.
Psalm 78:70-72 - "He (the Lord) chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; 71-from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance. 72-And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them"
Although David had been on the throne when this psalm was written, he is called a shepherd and not a king. Shepherding, a common profession in Biblical times, was a highly responsible job. The flocks were completely dependent upon shepherds for guidance, provision, and protection. David had spent his early years as a shepherd. This was a training ground for the future responsibilities God had in store for him. When he was ready, God took him from caring for sheep to caring for Israel, God's people. Don't treat your present situation lightly or irresponsibly; it may be God's training ground for your future.
In Psalm 78, Asaph retells the history of the Jewish nation from the time of slavery in Egypt to David's reign. It was told over and over to each generation so they would not forget God and make the same mistakes as their ancestors.
Psalm 78:1 - "O my people hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth"
The people of Israel rebelled and were not faithful to God, forgot about the wonders God had done, put God to the test by making demands from him, lied to him and tried to flatter him, and continued to turn away from him even after he did great works on their behalf. This is recorded in God's Word so that we can avoid the same errors.
Psalm 78:5 - "He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded his forefathers to teach their children"
God commanded that the stories of his mighty acts in Israel's history and his laws be passed on from parents to children. This shows the purpose and importance of religious education, to help each generation obey God and set their hope on him. It is important to keep children from repeating the same mistakes as their ancestors. What are you doing to pass on the history of God's work to the next generation?
Psalm 78:36, 37 - "But then they would flatter him with their mouths, lying to him with their tongues; 37-their hearts were not loyal to him, they were not faithful to his covenant"
Over and over the children of Israel claimed that they would follow God, but then they turned away from him. The problem was that they followed God with words and not with their hearts, thus their repentance was empty. God wants our conduct to back up our spiritual claims and promises.
Psalm 78:70-72 - "He (the Lord) chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; 71-from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance. 72-And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them"
Although David had been on the throne when this psalm was written, he is called a shepherd and not a king. Shepherding, a common profession in Biblical times, was a highly responsible job. The flocks were completely dependent upon shepherds for guidance, provision, and protection. David had spent his early years as a shepherd. This was a training ground for the future responsibilities God had in store for him. When he was ready, God took him from caring for sheep to caring for Israel, God's people. Don't treat your present situation lightly or irresponsibly; it may be God's training ground for your future.