PSALM 83 - A PRAYER FOR WHEN THOSE BATTLES THREATEN

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 83, 2 Chronicles 20, Judges 4-8

This is the last of Asaph's psalms. When I first read it, I thought to myself, "Oh no, not another complaint about war." But the more I read it, along with the victory accounts of King Jehoshahpat and the Judges:  Gideon, Barak and Deborah, I realised this Psalm was more an expression of God's glory and greatness. Again, I was reminded of the victory stories in my own life.

In 2 Chronicles 20, the prophet Jahaziel was a Levite, a descendent of Asaph. He, along with King Jehoshaphat prayed in a similar way to Asaph, "asking them to help in a time of enemy attack." They were all confident in their faith that God would "act on behalf of Jerusalem".

Asaph listed 10 nations in this Psalm that had formed an "alliance against Israel". He also emphasized that the enemies were not only against the Israelites, but God Himself. It seems the children of Lot (Moab and Ammon) led this attack. 

"Ten against one is long odds, but then God was on the side of Israel." Charles Spurgeon.

Israel had a "long season of humiliation, fruitless labour, poverty and dominion of oppressive power", before they finally cried out to the Lord in repentance. Prayer was their last resort. When they finally sought the Lord and turned back to Him, THEY FOUND VICTORY!

Gideon was another leader of God's people, a judge with "divine empowering", but there were times when his faith was weak, times when he was asking for signs from the Lord, rather than simply trusting. Still the Lord was mercifiul and gracious with him and He still followed Him into battle. When Gideon finally "relied on God's strength" rather than his own, VICTORY WAS CERTAIN!

Barak, another military leader found faith in battle with the encouragement of another godly judge, Deborah. Together their courage, with no weapons to fight with but their faith in God, they were LED INTO VICTORY.

Asaph liked to quote before the Lord these instances of VICTORY in Israel's history - STORIES OF DELIVERANCE, showing his own faith and the faith of His people. If we have faith in God's promises, we too can have VICTORY!

King Jehosophat went out with his army and he gave the order for the singers and worshippers to lead them into battle; trusting and resting on the "enduring mercy of God." 

"After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise Him for the splendour of His holiness as they went out at the head of His army, saying, "Give thanks to the Lord, for His love endures forever." 2 Chronicles 20:21

PRAYER IN NATIONAL CRISIS - Read Psalm 83:1-4; 2 Chronicles 20

Asaph was praying this prayer when his nation was in crisis. Maybe this isn't the same as the crisis our nation is in today; but it is still an "enemy" that was about to destroy his people.  He prayed, fervently and faithfully, to a God he believed would bring them VICTORY. Asaph knew all through Israel's history there had been great leaders - bold and brave; yet it was only because of their faith in God that they were able to overcome their nation's suffering.

1) Asaph and Jehoshaphat prayed with a knowledge and understanding of God's Word. Our prayers also need to be based on His Word. 

"We will give our attention to prayer and to the ministry of the Word." Acts 6:4

2) Jehoshaphat prayed in the Temple with God's people,  because he knew that this was where Solomon had prayed. Asaph would have done this too, as this was his place of leadership. We also should pray in the Church, with God's people.

"For where two or three come together in my name, there I am with them." Matthew 18:20

"When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from Heaven and consumed the burnt offerings and sacrifices, and the glory of God filled the temple." 2 Chronicles 7:1

3) Asaph and Jehoshaphat prayed, recognizing the great works God had already done for His people. Ww too need to pray with thanksgiving for all God has done for us. 

"If calamity comes upon us, whether the sword of judgement, or plague of famine, we will stand in your presence before this temple that bears Your Name and we will cry out in distress, and you will hear us and save us." 2 Chronicles 20:9

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6&7

After Jehoshaphat prayed, the people of Israel waited for him to give them some sense of direction. Jahaziel, a prophet and a descendent of Asaph, was touched by the Lord with a message.

"Listen King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you. "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. Tomorrow march down against them........You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Go out to face them tomorrow and the Lord will be with you." 2 Corinthians 20:15-17

God didn't want the Israelites to stay put, they needed to face the battle, believing that God was on their side. This is the way we must face all our battles and the "national crisis" we face. 

"For them it was a significant step to STAND STILL AND TO BELIEVE, that they would see the SALVATION OF THE LORD, in the face of a large attacking army."  David Guzak

Both Jehoshaphat and the Israelites knew that Jahaziel's words were a prophetic message from the Lord. They immediately worshipped God, like their ancestors Asaph, David and Solomon had. This too should be our response to God's promises in His Word. They had not been delivered from their enemies yet and their troubles were far from over, yet "they rose with worship and devotion, with trustful and grateful hearts." (Charles Spurgeon)

ISRAEL'S ENEMIES - Read Psalm 83:5-8

Israel had lots of enemies. They were proud, arrogant and crafty, plotting together,  from family feuds or grudges of old. But most of all, they were GOD'S ENEMIES! 

"Yes, this was a unanimous decision. They signed a treaty as allies against you - these Edomites and Ishmaelites; Moabites and Hagrites; Gebalites, Ammonites and Amelekmites; and people from Philistia and Tyre. Assyria had joined them too, and has allied with the descendents of Lot."  

                                                                                                        Psalm 83:5-8

Lot would never have dreamed that his descendents would still be fighting. Hagar had a second husband and they all dwelt around Mt Sinai. Gebal, in the red, was  in the region of Tyre and Sidon. Ammon in the yellow, and Amalek were two other heriditary foes of Israel. Finally Philistia and Assyria, the light and dark green, oppposite ends of Israel and Judah both joined them, anxious for growth and known for their evil.

They were 10 to 1 against, yet Israel overcame all her enemies. Most of her adversaries were only a name, for with their power and excellence gone, God and His people could live on.

"The fear of God was on all the neighbouring kingdoms when they heard God fought against the enemies of Israel." 2 Chronicles 20:30

OTHER GREAT VICTORIES - Read Psalm 83:9-12, Read Judges 4-8

Asaph loves to quote great stories of faith and victory, especially those told in battle. We read earlier of King Jehoshaphat's victory, and now we read of Gideon's, Barak and Deborah's, who overthrew Midian and Siseria. But of course we will be reminded, that the battle is not of men, but of God.

Gideon began his ministry as a judge by following God's guidance and destroyed the altars of Baal, beginning with those in his own home. Why? Because it is important that "our own homes are in clean first", before we can go into battle. Because of his "divine empowering" and witness, Gideon was able to gather together an army of 32,000 men, who would follow him into battle. 

But God didn't want a big army, He want Gideon to give God the glory; so He reduced his troops to 10,000, and then finally he was left with 300 men. Gideon could do only one thing - TRUST IN HIS GOD. God dealt with Gideon's doubts and fears, and he learnt that his enemies were actually scared of His God. He shared this with his army and encouraged them, BUILDING THEIR FAITH too. 

"Some trust in chariots and horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." Psalm 20:7

"Not by might nor power, but by my Spirit", says the Lord Almighty." Zechariah 4:6

Barak was another military leader who had faith in battle and faith in God. With the encouragement of the God-fearing judge Deborah, together they were able to show great courage when they faced their enemies.

"They essentially had no weapons to fight with and God led them out to to fight on a plain against technologically advantaged forces with chariots." David Guzik, 2018

Barak had great trust and Deborah the encourager built up his faith even more, letting him know that "God as their King" would go out before them in battle, and their VICTORY was secure.

"O Lord, when you went out from Seir, when you marched from the land of Edom, the earth shook, the heavens poured; the clouds poured down the water. The mountains quaked before the Lord, the one of Sinai, before the Lord, the God of Israel."  Judges 5:4&5

"The River Kishon swept them away, the age old river, the River Kishon." Judges 5:21

How easily can God smite his enemies? He can use his servants, but He also uses natural disasters - in this case a flood from a simple brook. Israel's enemies were swept away by suddenly swollen waters and utterly perished.

THE MOST HIGH GOD - Read Psalm 83: 13-18

There is nothing more powerful than a tempest or a storm. Asaph prayed that God would not only defeat Israel's enemies but also pursue and frighten them with His great power.

"Let them know that You whose Name is the Lord - that You alone are the Most High over all the earth." Psalm 83:18

Finally, Asaph ends this Psalm with an unexpected turn, asking the Lord to humble His enemies as they SEEK HIS FACE so that HE CAN SAVE THEM. This is primarly what God wants for all men and women today. 

"The fear of God came upon all the Kingdoms of the countries when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. And the Kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side." 2  Chronicles 20:29&30

CONCLUSION

"Holy Bible, New International Version", 2011, Biblica

Guzik, David, 2018, "2 Chronicles 20 - Jehoshaphat's Victory"; "Judges 4 - Deborah & Barak";

www.enduringword.com

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 83 - A Prayer for Help When War Threatens", www.enduring word.com

Spurgeon, Charles, 1885, "The Treasury of David - Bible Commentary (2000), biblestudytools.com

GOD'S JUDGES

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 82, Read 2 Chronicles 19

This is another of Asaph's Psalms, probably written in the time of King Jehosophat, when he had just returned from one of his battles with King Ahab. He was met by the prophet Jehu, who made him feel accountable by God for some of the leadership decisions he had previously made. Jehosophat decided it was time he made further reformations in Jerusalem, by introducing a Judicial system, both with the priests in spiritual matters and judges in civil matters. This division of authority became a model for latter Judaism law. 

"Without good and wholesome laws and justice, no nation can prosper." Adam Clarke.

Jehosophat said to them: "Always think carefully before pronouncing judgement. Remember that you do not judge to please people but to please the Lord. He will be with you when you render the verdict in each case. Fear the Lord and judge with integrity, for the Lord our God does not tolerate perverted justice, partiality and the taking of bribes." 2 Chronicles 19:6-7 (NLT)

They were appointed to administer justice without favouring the rich or poor and without succumbing to pride and self interest. God instructs the judges, through Jehosophat, to defeat those too weak to defend themselves - to maintain their rights - and to rescue them from the wicked. This did not include bribery. They were to judge within the Law of the Lord.

This Psalm is also concerned about the problem of unjust judges. Judges are God's representatives. They were responsible to "promote justice, punish evildoers and defend the weak and oppressed." Unfortunately, they had failed in their task. Adam Clarke had a better opinion of the judges in his day - 1822:

"In Asaph's day they are ignorant and do not wish to be instructed. They will not learn and cannot teach. Happy England! All the judges are learned, righteous and impartial. Never did greater men in their profession dignify any land or country." Adam Clarke

In Asaph's day the "poor and fatherless" were often the targets of unjust treatment. It was up to the judges to see that justice was done. The mood of the Psalm suggests that God's patience with corrupt leadership was exhausted. Partiality and unjust judgement needed to come to an end. RIGHTEOUS RULE NEEDED TO BE RESTORED!

"Judges should feel themselves in the place of God and judge as those who know they shall be judged for their judgements." Adam Clarke

"These were Jehosophats instructions to them: "You must always act in fear of the Lord, with faithfulness and an undivided heart." 2 Chronicles 19:9

Asaph ends this Psalm by speaking about a RIGHTEOUS RULER AND JUDGE - JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF. Psalm 82 is still relevant today, as we bow our knee to our Lord and Saviour, and seek to serve Him righteously, guided by His Law (the Word of God) in all the decisions we make.

GOD CALLS TOGETHER HIS JUDGES - Read Psalm 82:1-4

Asaph pictures God standing in the assembly of "earthly leaders" to whom He has given the authority as "judges". They are called "Elohim (gods)" because of their responsibility to represent God. 

"Jesus replied, "It is written in the Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, "I say you are gods"! John 10:34 (NLT)

The weak, fatherless and afflicted - the poor and needy - must be cared for and protected from the rich and powerful. God condemned Israel's leaders and judges for they had no partiality - they were no "respecter of persons". The test of a Godly leader, even today, is how he/she treats the poor and oppressed. Any ruler who reflects God's image, as His child, needs to have this concern for the afflicted and downtrodden. 

"Cease to do evil and learn to do well. Look not on the interests of the wealthy, but protect the rights of the poor. Deliver the poor and needy. It is a brave thing when a man can deliver a victim from bondage. To often the law has been an instrument of vengeance in the hand of inscrupulous men. It is up to the judge to prevent such villiany." Charles Spurgeon

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt them." James 1:27.

Earthly leaders and judges must be reminded that they serve in God's place. They have their position because God has placed them there. He has appointed them, as Jehoshaphat had seen his men at first: as "courageous, obedient servants". It was their job to do what was good and wholesome, to follow God's Laws, and to trust in God to help them in their tasks. 

"There is nothing the world needs more today than the administration of strict, impartial justice." Morgan, cited by David Guzik. 

JUDGING THE JUDGES - Read Psalm 82:5-8

When judges know no justice, a nation is in a bad way. They walk in darkness and ignorance. Despite their high standing and high opinion of themselves, the leaders and judges in Israel were ignorant of the real needs in their towns. This darkness and arrogant pride meant that the lives of the people they served were shaken and unstable.

In the second part of the Psalm these leaders and judges were confronted with their injustice. God reminded them that they were "children of God", made in His image and therefore, they were judging on God's authority, and if done the right way, they would able to change people's lives for the good. 

This Psalm should serve as a warning to all who lead, especially in Judicial positions. Power has been given, but through power comes service, and they are accountable for the judgements they make. 

"For even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve others and to give His life as a ransom for many." Mark 10:45  (NLT)

Asaph closes the Psalm with a plea to God to take His place as ultimate judge. This "inheritance" belonged to His Son Jesus Christ - the Most Righteous Judge. The time will come when all of us will stand before this Judge, and be judged in the same way we have judged others.

"Rise up, O God, and judge the earth, for all the nations belong to You." Psalm 82:8

"It is only by the universal spread of Christianity around the world that the reign of righteousness and justice is to be established. Of whom can it be said that "He shall inherit all nations." but of Jesus Christ."  Adam Clarke

CONCLUSION

Finally, we as Christians must also be concerned with social justice, even if we are not in a position of leadership. Many of us are still at times apathetic to the needs of the weak and oppressed, but God urges us to "evaluate our position". The judges and rulers of our day may have failed, or they may have not, but we will be held accountable for how we have served and given of ourselves. That is why the Lord came the first time, and it is why He will come again!

"For I was hungry and you fed me. I was thirsty and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger and you invited me into your home. I was naked and you gave me clothing. I was sick and you cared for me.

I was in prison and visited me. Then these righteous ones will reply: "Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?" And the King will say, "I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!"  Matthew 25:35-40

"The Holy Bible, New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Foundation.

Clarke, Adam, 1832, "Bible Commentary - Psalm 82, 2 Chronicles 19", Studylight.org

Deffinbaugh, Bob, 2004, "Psalm 82 - The Judgement of the `Gods', Bible.org

Donovan, Richard, 2019, "Biblical Commentary - Psalm 82", sermonwriter.com

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 82 - Earthly Judges Before the Great Judge", Enduringword.com

Spurgeon, David, 2020, "Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms", Christianity.com

PSALM 81 -PRAYER: PRAISE! LISTEN! OBEY!

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 81

Psalm 81, written by Asaph is a Festival Psalm, probably used as a hymn sung in the Temple to celebrate the "Feast of the Tabernacles". It is broken up in two parts, with a `Selah' in between for a pause and reflection.

* The Festival - Asaph called Israel to sing praises to God. This is a special time of thanksgiving as the people of Israel are  reminded of their deliverance from slavery from Egypt.

* God's Call to His People to Listen to Him and Obey - God wanted His people - the Israelites - to listen to Him and to follow in His ways. We too can do this by praying and reading His Word - the Bible.

"This powerful Psalm leaves no doubt of its Festal character and little doubt of the particular feast it was designed to serve: the Feast of the Tabernacles. This commemorated the wilderness journey and included public reading of the law." Derek Kidner (2014)

THE FESTIVAL - PRAISE & WORSHIP - Read Psalm 81:1-7

The Israelites were encouraged to keep their strength by singing "songs of joy" and praise. These were rich with "awe and reverence", and there was also a place for the use of musical instruments. Asaph listed the tambourine, the harp and the lute. The mention of the tambourine suggests that the people probably danced while singing their praises. 

The trumpet was used to call the people to worship, and to their feast, "their great day of atonement, the Feast of the Tabernacles." This was a special time of thanksgiving, as the people of Israel were reminded of their day of deliverance and freedom from slavery.

"The story of Israel is only our own history in another shape. God has heard us, delivered us, liberated us." Charles Spurgeon

Many of David and Asaph's prayers begin and end with thanksgiving, and this is how all our prayers should be, if we want to receive the "fresh communication of grace from God and the manifestation of His divine love." Do we want to hear from God and grow more like Him each day? Like the people of Israel, God will meet our needs, and it will be enough, if we seek the Lord in prayer and read His Word.

"My God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory by Jesus Christ."                                                                                               Philippians 4:19   (NIV)

"The Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will be withheld from them that walk upright."                                                                                               Benjamin Beddone (1776)

PRAYER - LISTENING TO GOD AND OBEYING HIS WILL - Read Psalm 81: 8-16

In the second half of this Psalm, God wanted to talk to His people, but before He could do this, He knew he had to GET THEIR ATTENTION. He had to "TELL THEM TO LISTEN".

He was a COMPASSIONATE FATHER calling on His children to listen to Him.

You and I live in a "loud world". Just as it was in the time of the Israelites, it is so often hard for God to get our attention. The only time we can truly hear Him, is if WE TAKE TIME TO LISTEN.

In Revelation 8:4, we are reminded that our words in prayer are "purified and empowered"; they rise up as "a delightful fragrance to the Lord." Your words do not stop until they reach God's throne and HE LISTENS. 

"The smoke from the incense went up from the angels hand to God. The angel filled the incense pan with fire from the altar and threw it on the earth." Revelation 8:4&5 (NLT)

Your prayers activate God's power on earth. Like the Israelites who missed God's best for them when they failed to listen to God, you must not make this mistake.  Take time each day to meditate on God's word and listen to His direction. 

He was also a JEALOUS SOVEREIGN laying down His law - specifically not to worship false gods.

"You must never have a foreign God; you must not bow down before a false God." Psalm 81:9 (NLT)

The Israelites had great contempt for God and His laws. The only condition to His mercy was to LISTEN AND OBEY. The great tragedy was that they would not obey Him. Rebellious Israel rejected Him. 

Our world today does a similar thing, rejecting God, and not listening to His Word. We "worship a secular culture - pleasure, fame, status and self absorption" - HOW CAN WE EXPECT THEM TO LISTEN, IF WE DON'T!

Finally, we see an ALL SUFFICIENT FRIEND, challenging His people to be confident and faithful.

God made a promise to the Israelites, as He does to us today. If we have faith, He will provide our needs. 

"Open your mouth wide and I will fill it with good things." Psalm 81:10b (NLT)

"Picture a nest of little birds reaching up their mouth, opening them as wide as they can."                                                                                                                 Charles Spurgeon

"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store it away in barns, and yet the Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" Matthew 6:26 (NIV)

We open our mouths wide when we pray:

* with a sense of need.

* with an understanding of God's greatness.

* seeking God's will, not our own.

There was a sense of God's longing in His Words - a desire to truly bless His people. Yet they would not claim His blessing. We don't have to miss this blessing. If we listen to God He will give us the right words to say when we pray. He will show us the direction He wants us to follow, when we read His Word. Obedience can help us with our troubles, just like God promised the help the Israelites with their enemies.

CONCLUSION

This Psalm ends on a sad note - a missed opportunity for the Israelites. Unfulfilled potential! But it doesn't have to end that way for us. If we pray, with our hearts filled with thanksgiving,  read God's word each day, and listen and obey; God will show us the way. 

"Devotional Bible, New Century Version, Experiencing the Heart of Jesus",  2003, Max Lucado, Thomas Nelson

"Holy Bible, New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"Holy Bible, New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Foundation

Boice, James, 2005, "Psalms - Volume 42-106 - Reprint", Baker Publishing

Kidner, Derek, 2014, "Psalms 73-150 - Classic Commentaries", Inter Varsity Press

Henry, Matthew & Manser, Martin.H, 2002, "The New Matthew Henry Commentary", Zondervan

Lucado, Max, 1997, "Great House of God", Thomas Nelson

Churchyard, Gordon, 2002, "Start the Music - Psalm 81", www.easyenglish.bible

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 81 - Gathering God's People to Listen and Obey", www.enduringword.com

Spurgeon, Charles, 2020, "Treasury of David", Christianity.com

PSALM 80 - A PRAYER OF RESTORATION & SALVATION

INTRODUCTON - READ PSALM 80

This Psalm, another written by Asaph's descendents, was a prayer for restoration and salvation, particularly for the Northern Kingdoms in Israel. It has been broken up into 4 sections, with a refrain follow each section. It is indeed a PRAYER OF FAITH, UNDERSTANDING AND DEPENDENCE.  expressing trust and confidence in a strong God' who Asaph knew would deliver his people from their crisis.

1. A PRAYER TO ISRAEL'S SHEPHERD - Read Psalm 80:1-3, Psalm 23, 

                                                                                     John 10:11-16

The image of a king or ruler as a shepherd for his people was common in the ancient world. Jeremiah was also called a shepherd to God's people in their time of exile. 

"And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will guide you with knowledge and understanding."  Jeremiah 3:15

 Asaph understood, like David, and many other Prophets and writers in the Bible, that the greatest `shepherd' of all was God who would `lead' his people 'like a flock'.

"He will feed His flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in His arms, holding them close to His heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young." Isaiah 40:11

He recalls, as David did his famous Psalm 23, that God is our guide and omnipresent Shepherd. Asaph would have had this same special relationship that David had, not only as a lost sheep in His flock, but one who had experienced His mercy and love in a special way.

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still waters, He refreshed my soul. He guides me along the right paths for His name's sake.... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever" Psalm 23:1-3, 6 (NIV)

In this time when his people's land and their lives needed restoration, Asaph prayed this prayer to Israel's shepherd, and we can pray this same prayer to our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who gave his life so we too can have this same mercy, love and grace. 

"I am the Good Shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know my Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them in also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one Shepherd." John 10:14-16  (NLT)

2. DESPAIR OF GOD'S ANGER - Read Psalm 80:4-7

 Over and over the people of Israel had been mourning because of their enemies scorn and attacks by neighbouring nations. Their "grevious sin" - idoltary - had seperated them from God. He had good reason for being angry with them. 

"That God should be angry with us sinning is natural enough, but that He should be angry even with our prayers is bitter grief." Charles H Spurgeon

"Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor His ear to dull to hear. But your iniquities have seperated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear." Isaiah 59:1&2

Still,  as in previous psalms, Asaph's heart is full of sorrow and grief when he thinks of God's anger towards his people Israel. In this second part of the psalm he asks God how long it will be before:

* He stops being angry with them.

* They can stop crying "buckets full of tears".

* He stops their enemies fighting and laughing at them.

It did seem at times that their prayers were not being answered. But God gave them hope: "keep on praying, and I will listen and forgive!" This promise can give us great hope when are in despair and grief.

"Then you will call on me and come and pray to me and I will listen. You will seek me and find me if you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and will bring you back from captivity." Jeremiah 29:12-14a (NLT)

3. DESCRIPTION OF GOD'S VINE - Psalm 80:8-15, Isaiah 5:1-7, John 15:1-8

The Vine is a familiar metaphorical image used in the Old and New Testaments to describe the people of Israel and the Church. God planted it, it took root in the Promised Land, and it's branches spread "west to the Mediterranean Sea and east to the Euphrates River".  God cared for the Vine and Israel's task was to give shade to other nations. 

But again, because of their disobedience, God had "broken down the hedges" and removed it's wall of protection, leaving Jerusalem vulnerable to attack. God let "wild animals" - a picture of their enemies - attack and destroy their vines. 

"Now I am going to tell you what I am going to do to My vineyard: I will take away its hedge, and it will be destroyed. I will break down its wall and it will be trampled. I will make it a wasteland, neither pruned nor cultivated, and briers and thorns will grow there. I will command the clouds not to rain on it. The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the nation of Israel, and the people of Judah are the vine he delighted in. He looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress." Isaiah 5:5-7

In John 15, the Church too is represented as a Vine with branches and fruit - and like the Israelites we too can become vulnerable to attack and our fruit can `fall off'. 

"I am the Vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without me you can do nothing." John 15:5  (NKJV)

4. PRAYER OF DIVINE RESTORATION - Read 80:16-19

Asaph knew that Israel needed Divine restoration. We know that man cannot save himself. God, through His Son Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation. 

"The only person who can be said to be "at the right hand of God" as intercessor is JESUS THE MESSIAH. Let Him become OUR DELIVERER and let HIS STRENGTH be manifested in our weakness! By Him are the Jews to be restored, by Him alone can they find mercy, through Him can they be reconciled to God." William Clarke

The "Son of Man" in this context may refer to the Israelites, but in a prophetic sense is also speaks of Jesus Christ the Messiah. The "right hand" is strong because HE IS GOD'S SON! That is why He sent His Son Jesus, as our Redeemer. 

"For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth." Job 19:25 (NKJV)

"The Redeemer will come to Zion, to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,"declares the Lord."

                                                                                                   Isaiah 59:20

CONCLUSION

Ask God to be your Shepherd and promise to be a sheep in His flock, believing that He will guide you each step of the way. Remember God as your 'sabaoth' - your `army of angels' - that watches over you. Remember God sent His Son to be your restoration and salvation - all you need to do is accept Him as Your Saviour and trust in Him. 

Like Asaph pray this refrain:

Asaph was seeking repentance for the sins of His people, but He knew it would not happen in their own strength, but only with the GRACE OF GOD."

"Grant us the joy of your presence, the comfort of your Spirit, the measures of your love and grace." Webmaster

Asaph knew that the only hope for anyone was the salvation that came from God, through His Son Jesus Christ. 

"For whoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:11 (NIV)

"For God sent His Son into the world not to condemn the world, but that the world, through Him might be saved." John 3:17 (NIV)

"The Holy Bible, New International Version" 2011, Biblica

"Holy Bible, New Living Translation" 2015, Tyndale House Foundation. 

"The Holy Bible, New King James Version"1982, Thomas Nelson.

"Discover the Books of the Bible", 2020, Webmaster@biblestudys.org

Churchyard, Gordon, 2002, "Make Us United - Psalm 80", www.easyenglish.bible

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 80 - Restoring Israel, The Sheep and Vineyard of the Lord", www.enduringword.

PSALM 79: BABYLON!

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 79, 2 Kings 25, 2 Chronicles, Jeremiah 39 &                                                                                  Daniel 1                                                                                                        

Psalm 79 was written about one of the most devestating events in Jewish history - the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonian empire. It is described a number of times throughout Scripture.

As we read these passages (see above) we realize that Judah's kings at the time were not following the ways of the Lord; and the priest and leaders in the Temple of the Lord were also `wicked, following the example of Godless nations'

"The Lord made the Temple in Jerusalem holy, but the leaders made it unholy."                                                                                                               2 Chron 36:14b (NLT)

The prophet Jeremiah had been sent by God again and again to warn the Israelites, it's kings and spiritual leaders what would happen if they did not repent of their 'wicked ways'. but they refused to listen. We then read how God used Nebuchadnezzar and his Babylonian army to punish his people. 

"Nebuchadnezzar and his army set fire to God's Temple and broke down Jerusalem's walls, burning all the palaces. They took and destroyed every valuable thing in Jerusalem. The few who survived were taken as exiles to Babylon and they became servants to the king and his sons until the king of Persia came to power. So the message of the Lord spoken through Jeremiah was fulfilled. The land finally enjoyed its Sabbath rest, lying desolate until the 70 years were fulfilled, just as the prophet had said." 2 Chronicles 36:20-21 (NLT)

But just as this Psalm ends on a positive note - with a promise to God - we can truly see the hand of God's mercy in the simple kindnesses shown to God's faithful servants: Jeremiah, Gedaliah, and those who were able to stay in Jerusalem. Not only was Gedaliah a friend and helper of Jeremiah, but his name meant,  "Yahweh is great" and was the head of a prominent family in Judah. It is possible that Jeremiah had put in a good word for him with the king. He was a man of honour and good sense, and his treachorous murder by Ishmael was probably due to jealousy and ambition.

Now an old man, Jeremiah was released from prison, protected by the Babylons and was allowed to live among his people in Judah. This is indeed a demonstration of God's grace. 

"But the captain of the guard allowed some of the poorest people to stay behind to care for the vineyards and fields." 2 Kings 25:12 (NLT) 

"Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, left some people in Judah. He appointed Ged aliah, son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan, as Governer.... Gedaliah vowed to them that the Babylonian officials meant them no harm: "Don't be afraid of them. Live in the land and serve the king of Babylon, and all will go well with you.", he promised.                                                                                               2 Kings 25:22 & 24 (NLT)

"Find Jeremiah and take care of him. Do not hurt him but do for him what he asked.....They had Jeremiah taken out of the courtyard and turned over to Gedaliah......So they took him home and he stayed among the people left in Judah."                                                               Jeremiah 39:12-14 (NLT)

Later we read how Daniel and his friends, though captives in Babylon were also favoured because of their faithfulness in God. 

"God made Aspharez, the Chief Officer want to be kind and merciful to Daniel."             Daniel 1:9

Ebed-Melech, the Ethiopion, who helped rescue Jeremiah was given a promise from God because of his compassionate acts and trust in God, and finally we have "this comforting sign to the whole captive people, that the Lord would one day end their banishment". After 37years, Judah's king Jehoakin was freed from jail, and given a "higher place the other exiled kings in Babylon".

"He supplied Jehoachin with new clothes to replace his prison garb and allowed him to dine in the king's presence for the rest of his life." 2 Kings 25:29

JERUSALEM'S DEVASTATION - Read Psalm 79:1-4; Lamentations 1

The shocking, brutal fall of Jerusalem made them a disgrace to surrounding nations, and Asaph was feeling this disgrace deeply; especially the defile of the Temple, which God's own people had `brought down' by their own `sin and arrogance'.

Seeing his family and friends- people he had lived and worked with closely fall before him and the Temple laying in a heap of rubble - he would have felt grief, but more so, a heavy heart of lament. He knew that they had "deserved their punishments" for their sins, but still he felt deeply their hurt and humiliation. Like Jeremiah who had tried so hard to bring his people back to God.

"Jerusalem sinned terribly so she had become unclean. All who honoured her despised her, for they have all seen her naked; she herself groans and turns away. Her filthiliness clung to her skirts; she did not consider her future. Her fall was astounding; there was none to comfort her, "Look, Lord, on my affliction, for the enemy has triumphed." Lamentations 1:8&9 (NIV)

ASAPH'S PRAYER FOR GOD'S HELP - Read Psalm 79:5-8, Jeremiah 29

Like Asaph we often ask this question, especially in this season of isolation, lonliness, grief and unknown: "How long?" We may not necessarily feel that God is angry or jealous with us; but we may, like Asaph and the Israelites be feeling 'on the brink of despair,' because life is not going the way we planned.

Asaph was expressing the heart of his people. In the years of Jeremiah, the people had listened to false prophets and had ignored the truth from God, through Jeremiah. Hopefully now, they would listen to God's promise as Asaph's prayer will be answered.

"The good news was that God's anger and jealousy would not burn against His people forever. Jeremiah foretold the judgement to come, but He also told the restoration to come." David Guzik

"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Judgement would come upon Babylon as they would be conquered by the Medes and the Persians. As we read in th books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the Jewish people would return to their homeland and rebuild their city and their Temple - God's plans of restoration!

A PRAYER OF FORGIVENESS AND SALVATION - Read Psalm 79:9-11,                                                                                                    Lamentations 3:19-26

Again, speaking on behalf of the Israelites, Asaph humbled himself, seeking forgiveness for the sins of his people and God's salvation.

"Sins accumulate against nations. Generations lay up stores of transgressions to be visited upon their successors;  hence this urgent prayer." Charles Spurgeon

Like Jeremiah, Asaph knew that only God could give them atonement for their sins.

 "The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh every morning. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I hope in Him!" The Lord is good to those who depend on Him, to those who search for Him . So it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord." Lamentations 3:22-26 (NLT)

The people in exile in Babylon were not unlike those who had been in Egypt - there was a lot of misery and moaning. Asaph asked God to watch over them and keep them safe. There may be days that we may be feeling like we are in `exile', but remember, God is watching over us.

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore, He will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are those who wait for Him." Isaiah 30:18 (NIV)

CONCLUSION - Read Psalm 12&13

Asaph's final request was that God would deal with his conquerors with both justice and vengeance, and we know that God keeps his promises, especially to to His people, `the sheep of His pasture". Asaph believed in this, and thus ended his psalm on a positive note.

He showed a grateful dependence on God. He recognized that he indeed was a sheep in God's pasture, and that he would trust in the Shepherd. He encouraged God's people to follow him, as he declared thanks and praise in what he believed would be a bright future!

"We will thank you always, forever and ever, we will praise you." Psalm 79:13b (CEV)

Coffman, James.B (1983) (2020)"Coffman Commentaries on the Bible - 2 Kings 25"www.studylight.org

Guzik, David (2020), "A Prayer from Conquered Exiles", "The Fall of Jerusalem & Captivity of Judah", "The Fall of Jerusalem",  www.@enduringword.com

Spurgeon, Charles.H (1885) (2020) "Treasury of David", Christianity.com

Holy Bible, New Century Version, (2005), Thomas Nelson Publishers

Holy Bible, New International Version (2011), Biblica.Inc

Holy Bible, New Living Translation (2015), Tyndale Publishers

PSALM 78 - AN HISTORICAL PSALM - GOD'S WONDER AND MERCY

 INTRODUCTION: Read Psalm 78

Psalm 78 is the longest historical psalm recounting Israel's history from the slavery in Egypt to King David's reign. It is also a psalm of Asaph's wisdom and teaching in the hope that the Israelites would remember their past and be reminded of God's wonder and mercy, and be encouraged to share this with their children and other generations.

When I first read this psalm I felt disheartened, for no matter what God did for His people,  the Israelites - no matter how faithfully He blessed them and cared for them - they continually complained and remained unfaithful.

"It's a lesson that must not repeat itself. The people must never again be unbelieving."                                                                                                   James Montgomery Boice

Are we people like this too? We are God's children. He is our loving, merciful Father, and these qualities, along with the many more we have trusted in over the years, are unfailing. Still, WE COMPLAIN! Still, our pride gets in the way of our obedience. Still, when confronted with "human suffering and guilt" we refuse to humble ourselves and "accept God's offer of grace."

"The humble heart is quick to acknowledge their need for God, eager to confess sin, willing to kneel before the Father. Those who walk in pride God is able to humble. But those who walk in humility God is able to USE." Max Lucado.

God was merciful. He listened to His people's complaints and was angered with their unfaithfulness; but He still blessed them abundantly. The same is true for us today. So don't forget to praise God and thank Him for all He has done for you; for taking your hand and at times carrying you along those difficult "stepping stones" in your life. Thank Him for "moulding you" into the special child of God you are today.

TEACHING OUR CHILDREN: Read Psalm 78:1-8

The Word of the Lord is to be carefully handed down to our children. We must be concerned for our future generations, passing on down the wonders and mercies of the Lord, what we have read in the Bible and from our own experiences. 

It is such a blessing for Mark and I to be able to go to Church with our son, daughter in law and our three granddaughters, to see them serve the Church in their own way, and to see our granddaughters get excited about Children's Church, telling us each week what they have learnt.

"You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them on your hands and wear them on your foreheads as reminders." Deuteronomy 6:5-8

Asaph was concerned about passing on 3 important things to the next generations:

1. THE PRAISES OF GOD - teaching them that God was worthy of adoration and graduation.

2. GOD'S STRENGTH - His power and greatness above and beyond all.

3. HIS WONDERFUL WORLD - God's power and greatness in assisting His people.

The greatest of God's works was the giving of His Word (the Law) to Israel. If we don't pass this on to our children it can become totally irrelevant in our world today. We want them to trust God and be obedient to His Word, not just because we have taught it to them, but because we have shown them by living it through our lives. They will hopefully learn the right way to live, and will want to focus their lives on the Word and be faithful to God.

GOD'S WONDER'S, EPHRAIM'S REBELLION -              Read Psalm 78:9-6; Ephesians 6:10-18

Ephraim was a cowardly people, one of the larger tribes of Israel.  Sin had discouraged their hearts. They were evil and treacherous because they had disobeyed God and forgotten His works. 

* He delivered them from the hands of Pharoah in Egypt.

* He made a path through the Red Sea.

* He gave them courage tho walk through the sea and then guided them in the wilderness.

* He led them step by step, day and night, supplying them fresh water and healthy food.

"Those who forget God's works are sure to fail in their own." Charles Spurgeon

As a "breakaway tribe" they were also a symbol of "backsliding". They often failed in battle for although they were armed with their "bows", they did not use them properly. They refused to trust in the Lord, remembering all the wonders He had done for them. 

This can be true of all the spiritual battles we face today. God  makes spiritual resources available to us, but we can only have victory in our battles if we use these effectively.

 "Stand your ground, putting on the BELT OF TRUTH and the BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. For SHOES, PUT ON PEACE that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all these, hold up the SHIELD OF FAITH to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on SALVATION AS A HELMET and take the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, which is the WORD OF GOD. PRAY IN THE SPIRIT at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere." Ephesians 6:4-18 (NLT)

GOD'S MERCY, ISRAEL'S UNBELIEF -                             Read Psalm 78:21-39; Numbers 11

God was merciful with His people even though they rebelled. He blessed them more and provided for their needs, but they challenged God to GIVE THEM MORE. They continued to be dissatisfied with God's provisions. God was angry and displeased with them, because it showed their lack of trust. They thought that the reason God didn't give them what they wanted was because He couldn't. They lacked faith in His power and care for them. Because of their fear and unwillingness to seek the Lord by faith this first generation did not enter the Promised Land, but spent 40 years wandering in the wilderness. 

"Never again say, "Can God?", but "God can?" Meyer

 "Now the Lord sent a wind that brought quail from the sea and let them fall all around the camp. For miles in every direction there were quail flying about three fee above the ground. So the people went out and caught quail all that day and throughout the night and all the next day, too. No one gathered less than 50 bushels! They spread the quail all around the camp to dry. But while they were gorging themselves on the meat - while it was still in their mouths - the anger of the Lord blazed against the people, and He struck them with a severe plague."                           Numbers 11:31-33 (NLT)

By these plagues God made a way for His people to rely and trust in Him more. At times they repented of their sins, but these were not sincere confessions. They came to God with flattery, insincere words and actions. It was their sin of idolatry that entangled them most; but again God was full of compassion, forgiving the sins of His children. God forgave their lack of sincerity and turned his anger away,  bringing the next generation into the Promised Land.

"Eventually a generation of people sought earnestly for God, but even their seeking was somewhat insincere." David Guzik

God had been furious with their unbelief, their doubting and their ingratitude. We often think today that these sins are only small in comparison to many, but they led to one generation of Israelities being kept from God's salvation. Yet despite God's merciful blessings and corrections, ISRAEL STILLED SINNED, and this is the most tragic line in this psalm. ISRAEL DIDN'T LEARN! 

How will our generations be? Will we spend our lives "wandering in the wilderness" or will we accept the salvation Jesus has offered to us by His death on the cross. Will we seek Him with sincere confession and trust in His Word?

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.":Proverbs 3:5&6  (NIV)

THE PLAGUES IN EGYPT - ONWARD TO THE PROMISED LAND - Read Psalm 78:40-55;  Numbers 14; Exodus 7-11

We know that God continues to be compassionate, but He does not ignore sin. Asaph recounted again how God worked His miracles in Egypt and then in the wilderness, bringing His people to the Promised Land in Canaan.

In Egypt we read about the plagues:

* Turning the river into blood.

* Sending swarms of flies, frogs and locusts.

* Sending hail, frost and locusts.

* Killing of lifestock - cattle.

* The death of the firstborn.

Then the People of Israel were led forth as sheep, protected from their enemies. He brought them to Canaan, driving out the nations before them, and giving the new generation an inheritance. 

These verses continue to speak of God's great mercy. The people did not know where they were going, but God guided them with care and tenderness. He led safely along dangerous paths and they did not need to fear, for they knew God was with them. God was their `ROCK' and 'REDEEMER', and they knew they could build their lives on Him, if they continued to trust in Him to save them. As we are reminded, for a short time, they did this, seeking God's forgiveness and humbling themselves before Him.

"Then if my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)

Although the Israelites weren't always sincere in remembering God's salvation, His mercy and forgiveness continued to be offered to them, and we know that His total forgiveness was offered by the death of His Son on the Cross: HE IS OUR TRUE ROCK AND REDEEMER.

"For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, in His own grace, freely makes us right in His sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when He freed us from the penalty for our sins." Romans 3:23&24 (NLT)

THE ISRAELITES DEFEATED BY THE PHILISTINES -    Read Psalm 78:56-64; 1 Samuel 4:10-22

In these verses we read how Israel was a "bow that did not shoot straight". Even in the Promised Land, they continued to be unfaithful. They failed to fulfil God's purpose in their lives and they worshipped other gods, "setting up altars and carved images". This is something we often do when we follow our own will in our lives, rather than listening to God.

Asaph remembered the tragedy at Shiloh, when the Philistines took the Ark of the Covenant. God allowed the Philistines to capture the Ark and take it as a trophy of their victory in battle. Even the priests who attended the Ark fell by the sword. Yet eventually GOD TRIUMPHED! Even though the Philistines had taken it to their pagan temple, the Lord `found it'. 

"God demonstrated that He was able to guard His glory when His people neglected His glory." David Guzik

THE CHOICE OF JUDAH AND IT'S LEADER DAVID -     Read Psalm 78:65-72; 1 Samuel 5

Psalm 78 ends on a hopeful note. Asaph explains why God chose the tribe of Judah and rejected the other tribes of Israel, and why He also chose David, a humble shepherd boy to be king over his people.

God delights in honouring the humble and diligent. David had a great trust in God, he "shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart", and was found to be both skilful and trustworthy in discharging his duties as a soldier and responsibilities as a king. He failed at times, but ultimately, he ruled God's people, taught them and protected them. He was sincere and wise in all he did, because He followed the Lord and His Word.

The Ark was brought back to Jerusalem, to the Sanctuary in Zion, and would later be placed in the Temple in Jerusalem which David planned for his son Solomon to build.

God chose Judah because this was the tribe through which He would send His Son Jesus, who like David would be the GREAT KING and GOOD SHEPHERD of all God's people.

"I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep."       John 10:11

CONCLUSION

So this long, historical psalm has come to and end. But God's wonders and mercies never will. God will continue to bless His children, as He did the Israelites, as He will you and me. He continues to offer His grace and forgiveness when we wander in the wilderness. He sent His Son Jesus, so that we could have a ROCK AND REDEEMER.

What great promises for us to cling to!

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 78 - Learning from God's Faithfulness to His Rebellious People", enduringword.com

Henry, Matthew; Mansen, Martin H, 2008, "The New Matthew Henry Commentary" Zondervan

"Holy Bible, New International Version", 2011, Biblica.Inc

"Holy Bible, New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

Lucado, Max, 2018, "Unshakable Hope", Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Lucado, Max, 2003, "Devotional Bible, New Century Version, Experiencing the Heart of Jesus", Thomas Nelson Publishers.

PSALM 77 - OUR GREAT & MERCIFUL GOD

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 77

Where is God? How do we know He is real? Many people ask this question, especially when faced with tragedy. Recently my son's best friend died in a tragic car accident, leaving behind his partner and seven young children. He was on 34 years old, and when seeking compassion and encouragement, this was the first question she gave to me: "If there was a God how could he take away such a perfect, young man". I could only give her the answer that I found, like Asaph, in this Psalm:

"I remember what the Lord did.......I think about what He has done." Psalm 77:11&12 (NIV)

How do I not only know that God is real, that He is a loving and merciful Father. How can I trust Him, even when I feel let down and alone? Because of the evidence of His creation, and the experiences of His promises in the past. Where do I find renewed courage - only in the WORD!

It is not always easy, especially in those times of grief, but "is there anything more equitable and powerful, more reliable, more true than God." (Joseph Stawell)

"The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made."  Psalm 145:8&9 (NIV)

"No God is as great as our God. God, your ways are holy." Psalm 77:13 (ICV)

THE PSALMIST'S GRIEF -  Read Verses 1-9

1. HIS PRAYERS

This psalm begins with Asaph's sorrowful complaints in a time of grieving. They were personal, sincere thoughts that troubled him deep down in his spirit. We have a real description of what a Christian or anyone in the grips of depression and grief might feel.

When you are suffering depression, especially in a time of grief, don't get your answers from alcohol, drugs or other addictions. The best way to gain relief is through PRAYER. 

I am not talking about Clinical Depression - that is a whole different matter - but even then, I know from experience, that God is the `waymaker' to specialist help. 

Asaph also knew the first place to go when `in distress' was to his Heavenly Father.

"I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress I sought the Lord."Psalm 77:1 (NIV)

Asaph's grief didn't cease even in his sleep. How true it is for us too. Like Asaph, we are not always in the mood for comfort and encouragement from other people, or even the Lord; but we need to be careful not to focus our thoughts on just our selfish needs. If we are troubled by the confusion of these thoughts we tend to `bottle them up', and we risk `falling deeper'. We will have even more trouble sleeping and talking to other people. It is important though - even if we can't talk to others or even have trouble talking to God, that we to find at at least one friend, a pastor, or if necessary a doctor or may be able to help us. 

2. HIS REFLECTIONS

"When I remember God, I become upset. When I think, I become afraid. You keep my eyes from closing. I am too upset to say anything. I keep thinking about the old days, the years long ago."

                                                                                        Psalm 77:3-5  (NIV)

Reflecting on the past can be good or bad, depending on how or where you let your memories take you. Again, if you are grieving or depressed, like Asaph, these may lead to spiritual doubt:

* He feared God's anger.

* He feared the loss of God's love and mercy.

* He feared that God would turn him away and he would be alone.

Fortunately, Asaph stopped his negative thoughts and reflections with the word SELAH. He encourages us to take a break, and to think about our reflections and thought patterns, before we "stop them  from rising further". 

"In Asaph's dark depression his attention is held by the power of God rather than on his own weaknesses. Though it seems that God may not be helping him immediately he can at least rest himself in God's mighty works of the past, trusting that God will work again for him in the future."    Kevin Swanson

One of the best ways I have found in the past and and still do in my times of depression and grief, is to reflect on the Scriptures.

"So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for your souls. It leads us through the curtain of the God's inner sanctuary."  HEBREWS 6:18-19  (NLT)

"Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be fulfilled."    ROMANS 15:4

GOD - OUR SAVIOUR AND REDEEMER   -  Read Verses 10-20

 "Remembrance of the works of God are a powerful antidote to distributing His promises for HE IS A GOD WHO DOES NOT CHANGE." Matthew Henry

The last verses in this Psalm are a great encouragement, and we can be strengthened as Asaph was as he recalls the greatness of God in displaying his "power" when "redeeming the descendents of Jacob and Joseph."

God has a holy purpose in everything He does. He acts according to His promises, for the good of His people. His ways are like "deep waters that cannot be fathomed.". 

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28  (NLT)

God brought the Israelites out of Egypt, but this was only the beginning of His mercy. He took them under His guidance and protection. He chose many great leaders, starting with Moses and Aaron, but they could only led them with the Lord's help.

"You led your people like a flock of sheep. You led them by using Moses and Aaron." 

Psalm 77:20 (ICB)

His greatest act of mercy has of been sending His own son Jesus - not only as a Shepherd and Saviour and Redeemer for His people the Israelites, but also for us - His children and his sheep. If we come to Him, we can also find compassion in our time of grieving and depression. 

"But ALL WHO BELIEVED AND ACCEPTED HIM, He gave the right to become CHILDREN OF GOD." John 1:12   (NLT)

"For this is how God loved the world HE GAVE HIS ONE AND ONLY SON, that EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM will not perish but have eternal life. GOD  SENT HIS SON INTO THE WORLD not to judge the world, but TO SAVE THE WORLD THROUGH HIM." John 3:16&17 (NLT)

"I am the GOOD SHEPHERD. The GOOD SHEPHERD SACRIFICES HIS LIFE FOR HIS SHEEP." John 10:11 (NLT)

CONCLUSION

How do we know that we can trust in a real, faithful and merciful God? How do we know that God is great and will always be with us?

                                  SIMPLE! TRUST IN HIS PROMISES!

"Holy Bible", New International Version" (2011), Biblica, Inc

"Holy Bible", New Living Translation" (2015) Tyndale Publishers.

"Magnify, "International Children's Bible - Psalms and Proverbs" (2006), Thomas Nelson

Henry, Matthew; Manser, Martin H (2002) "The New Matthew Henry Commentary", Zondervan.

Stawell, Joseph, "The Upside of Down" (1991), Moody Press. 

Swanson, Kevin, "The Book of Psalms - The Heart of the Word."