PSALM 89 - GOD'S COVENANT TO DAVID

INTRODUCTION: Read Psalm 89, 2 Samuel 7:1-29

This COVENANT PSALM , a musical maskil, written by Ethan the Ezrahite, celebrates David's glorious reign and the COVENANT PROMISE given to him by the Lord. Was David's reign successful only because of this promise? It certainly helped - for David trusted in the sustainable LOVE and FAITHFULNESS OF HIS FATHER GOD.

When this Psalm was first written, it would have been performed with music and dancing, and some movement like the raising of hands in worship. Maskils were also written for instruction and meditation in the tabernacle and temple, and would have been performed as a form of teaching. 

"The Psalmists were composing for the human voice to be heard at a Public Event." Steve Turner. 

Like our world today, it was probably written in a time of conflict and unknown, possibly the time of Rehoboam's reign, and Ethan may have been an old man. Troubles were coming thick and heavy upon David's kingdom and in the Land of Judah. Ethan and the Israelites were fearful and anxious, but they discovered, through trusting God, that they could have VICTORY THROUGH DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES, they could overcome conflict and that GOD WAS THE OVERALL OMNIPOTENT LORD.

Ethan begins by affirming his faith in God and His covenant with David and his family. He praises and magnifies the Lord for His love, faithfulness, mercy and justice towards his people. This leads to a song of joy for the people "who have such a God to be their glory and defence." (Charles Spurgeon)

We then read in full length the terms of GOD'S COVENANT FOR DAVID, which is followed by a mournful complaint and petition to a God whom Ethan trusted. He closes the Psalm with a hearty praise filled benediction and a double "Amen"!

"Ethan, the Psalmist was a visionary, who could "hear the waters and see the heavens rejoicing". Yet this Psalm was not always "jolly". He is brutal and honest, "frank about the days it seems God has switched off the phone." (Steve Turner)

GOD'S LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS - Read Psalm 89:1-4; 2 Samuel 7:1-29

What makes a parent's love so great? Picture a mother singing and caressing her child. It doesn't matter how long they cry and what they do when they grow up, children will always have the love of his/her parents.

Some writers compare a parent's love to that of God's, but the fact is, "no parent is as crazy about their children as God is"; and no one loves them like God does. GOD'S LOVE IS THE PUREST AND DEEPEST LOVE THERE IS.

"Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? Even if this is  possible, I would not forget you! See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands. Always in my mind is a picture of Jerusalem's walls in ruins."  Isaiah 59:15&16  (NLT)

God promises to be LOYAL AND FAITHFUL - the centre of his covenant with David. David had mucked up and made some stupid mistakes, but God was merciful - HE FORGAVE HIM. 

God did the same for us. He sent His only Son to die on the cross, so that we could have FORGIVENESS.  We may not be kings, we are just his simple children; but we, like David, have been redeemed from our stupid mistakes (our sins). And God never gives up on us. We too can praise Him for His never ending love and faithfulness.

"Whatever we may experience in our lives, we should still PRAISE GOD for HIS MERCIES, LOVE and FAITHFULNESS. These will most certainly never change, whether we perceive them or not."

                                                                                         Charles Spurgeon

"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations."  Psalm 89:1 (NIV)

"In times of trouble we trust in God's faithfulness - it is oiur anchor and it holds fast - it is our stay."

                                                                                                      Psalm 57:1 (NLT)

Sometimes when hard times come we are apt to forget or doubt God's promises, but then we may hear testimonies from His people who have experienced trials even greater than ours, and have come through them; and our faith is encouraged.

David was the Lord's elect and through God's covenant He would recieve a "never ending fulfillment through Jesus Christ, the great King of the Jews". This COVENANT OF GRACE was for all God's children and for Ethan, the Psalmist, it was the "solid ground" of his faith. 

"For when you die and are buried with your ancestors, I will raise up one of your ancestors, your own offspring, and I will make His Kingdom strong. He is the one who will build a house - a Temple - for my name. And I will secure His throne forever. I will be his father, and I will be His son. If he sins, I will correct and discipline him with the rod, like any father would do. But My favour will not be taken from him as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from your sight. Your house and your kingdom will continue before me for all time, and your throne will be secure forever."  

                                                                                    2 Samuel 7:12-16  (NLT)

Truly in Jesus we too have the fulfillment of hope. David's dynasty would never decay, for we now know that Jesus has come to reign over God's people forever. He is loving, faithful and omnipotent, He sits on His Father's throne and supplies all our needs.  

"In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God.......The One who is the True Light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He came into the very world He created, but the world didn't recognize Him. He came to His own people, and even they rejected Him. But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God.....So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father's One and Only Son."  John 1:1,2,9-12,14  (NLT)

PRAISE AND MAGNIFYING THE LORD - Read Psalm 89:5-14

"Looking down at what God had done with His COVENANT OF GRACE, the Heavens were filled with adoring wonder."  Charles Spurgeon

When Jesus, the "Son of David" was born "the heavens broke forth with music", and the saints came together to worship Him in the worship, to "magnify the faithfulness of God."

"That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid", he said, "I bring you Good News that will bring great joy to all people". The Saviour - yes, the Messiah, the Lord - has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize Him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snuggly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger." Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast of others - the armies of Heaven - praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the Highest Heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." Luke 2:8-14 (NLT)

"At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting  for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah. That day the Lord led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in His arms and praised God, saying, "Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as You have promised, which You have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory of all the people Israel." 

                                                                                        Luke 2:25-29, 31&32 (NLT)

Who in Heaven can be compared with our Lord. Jesus, both as God and man, was far beyond the angels. Today, He too is to be devoutly worshipped. What a challenge for us! Ethan dwelt on God's greatness, His faithfulness, mercy, love, righteousness and justice. To Him, God our Father, was GOD ALONE!

How reverent should our worship be? The more we dwell in the presence of God and His Son Jesus, the more we need to adore Him. God's children need to earnestly pray:

"Our Father, who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Your Name;

Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in Heaven."

                                                  Matthew 6:9&19 (NIV)

OMNIPOTENT GOD

God's strength is shown in how He overthrew Egypt and Israel's other enemies. He scattered them with His strong arm, The skill and strength of men was expressed in their arms and hands, particularly their right hand. God used this metaphor to describe God's might in creation. 

"Your arm is endowed with POWER; your hand is STRONG, your right hand EXALTED." Psalm 89:13

The name RAHAB means PROUD ONE, and in Canaanite mythology, Rahab, the sea monster, was killed at creation. In the Middle East there are many legends of gods who were fought during creation. Ethan probably used these stories to draw attention to the TRUE, OMNIPOTENT GOD.

"By His power He churned up the sea; by His wisdom He cut Rahab to pieces. By His breath the skies became fair; his hand pierced the gliding serpent." Job 26:12&13 (NIV)

GOD - THE CREATOR

God is not only the CREATOR OF ALL HEAVENS AND EARTH, and all that is on them, but He is the SUSTAINER, BUILDER AND UPHOLDER of them all. God is the sole creator of the Universe; everything in the Universe owes its existance to God's sovereign will.

"The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it."

                                                                                                 Psalm 89:11

Satan is represented by a serpent or a dragon, and the sea as a dangerous place. RAHAB - the sea serpent was another manifestation of him. God killed the serpent and brought order to the world through creation.

"In the beginning GOD CREATED the Heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit was hovering over the waters. And God said, "Let there be light", and there was light."  Genesis 1:1-3  (NIV)

"For IN HIM all things were CREATED, things in Heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers, or rulers or authorities; all things have been CREATED through Him and for Him" Colossians 1:16  (NIV)

Turn all points of the compass - North, South, East and West - and God will be there. The "regions of the snow" and "the gardens in the sun"; "the land of the dawning" and the "home of the setting sun."  Charles Spurgeon

OUR RIGHTEOUS AND JUST GOD

We have a God who is RIGHTEOUS AND JUST. If this were not so we would still be living in a life of sin and guilt. Jesus, God's Son reigns because of His righteousness and justice. 

"RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before You." Psalm 89:14

GOD'S FAITHFULNESS, MERCY AND LOVE

Ethan was often repetitive with his examples of God's FAITHFULNESS, MERCY AND LOVE. But it is "great refreshment" to "gracious hearts" , so we cannot dwell on them too much. Thoughts of His COVENANT GRACE should never leave us. The "more we draw close to Him, the more we see His glories", and the more we will humbly worship.

"As a mother humbly calms her baby, so the Lord calms the fury of the sea, the anger of men and women, the tempest of adversity and the rage of hell. We delight in His great love, and in this we have our ultimate salvation."  Charles Spurgeon

Before we come to God with our complaints and arguments, like Ethan does later in this Psalm, we need to acknowledge that He is indeed a "GOOD GOD". If we keep hold of these truths, we "can have peace in our days of trouble." 

Ethan, like many other Psalm writers are inspired to worship when they consider God's GREATNESS, HIS CREATION, RIGHTEOUSNESS, JUSTICE,  FAITHFULNESS, MERCY AND LOVE. We too should have this same inspiration as we marvel at the extravagance and care of our God.

"When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" 

                                                             Psalm 8:3&4 (NIV)

GOD'S GLORY AND DEFENSE - Read Psalm 89:15-18

God gave David and Ethan many blessings, for they were both "men after His own heart." Those of us who have experienced God's LOVE, MERCY, JUSTICE AND STRENGTH are indeed blessed too.

WE ENJOY GOD'S FAVOUR AND FELLOWSHIP

The Lord is "all sufficient" and we will continue in communion with Him. 

"The covenant promises are precious and those who understand their meaningand recognize their own personal interest in them are highly favoured." Charles Spurgeon

THEY REJOICE ALL DAY LONG

When we have a personal relationship with the Lord, we know "His person, His name, His character". It is in this relationship that we can find our "source of joy."

"Blessed are those who walk in the light of your PRESENCE. They rejoice in Your Name all day long; they celebrate Your righteousness." Psalm 89:15&16  (NIV)

THEY FIND STRENGTH IN GOD

No man who finds strength in God can give glory to himself. All honour belongs to God Himself. God is "holiness", and it is in the "Holy One" that we find ths strongest foundation for our faith. 

A creature full of strength and courage lifts up his "horn". The horn in Eastern culture was an ornament that was worn by people who were confident and in good spirits. We don't need to wear such "vanities", for our strength is found in the love and encouragement of Christ Himself. 

"You are our glory and strength and by Your favour, You exalt our horn." Psalm 89:17

THEY FIND HIS PROTECTION

The Lord is our protector and shield. As David was the "shield" of his nation, so the God of Israel is our ruler and defence. 

"But You, O Lord, art a shield around me; You are my glory, the One who lifts my head high."

                                                                                                           Psalm 3:3  (NLT)

"The Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart trusts in Him and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy and with my song I praise Him."  Psalm 28:7 (NLT)

THEY SHARE IN GOD'S COVENANT OF GRACE

God doesn't break His promises or act unjustly, particularly when it comes to making a covenant with His people. We have this same GRACE to claim because God made this covenant for us too. This grace was made perfect in Jesus Christ. 

"For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance - now that He died  as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant." Hebrews 9:15 (NIV)

GOD'S COVENANT WITH DAVID - Read Psalm 89:19-37; 2 Samuel 7

In this part of Psalm 89, Ethan retells the COVENANT PROMISE that God had given David, regarding his family and his Kingdom. His Kingdom would be like no other, and David would be a great leader. He would have a place of security and his son Solomon would sit on the throne after him and would build the Temple David had wanted to build himself.

"Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before Me; your throne will be established forever."  2 Samuel 7:16  (NIV)

God honoured the intention of David's heart. Clearly God had a plan for him that surpassed anything that David could see. It seemed wrong to David that he should live in a palace, when the Ark, which represented God's presence, was still in a tent.

The Ark had been taken by the Philistines many years before to try and prevent their plagues, and even though it had now been returned to Jerusalem, David was afraid that his people may have forgotten why it was important for them. David brought it back so it could again stand as a symbol of GOD'S ACTIVE PRESENCE in their lives, in the centre of their city. David wanted to lead his people in worship.

But David was a great soldier and he still had enemies to defeat. They would need the "travelling tent". David also needed to learn that "sometimes the purposes of God cut across the desires of our hearts." (Iain Campbell.)

"But that night the Word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying: "Go and tell my servant David, "This is what the Lord says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? I have not dwelt in a house since the day I brought the Israelites out of Egypt to this day. I have moved from place to place with my a tent as my dwelling. Wherever I have moved, with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar".  2 Samuel 7:4-7  (NIV)

"David, this life is not about DOING FOR ME, it's about RECEIVING FROM ME."

                                                                                     Nancy Guthrie. 

David was a king like no other, humble and faithful to God. Yes, he made mistakes, but that is why God was giving him this GRACE COVENANT. From God's promise to David sprang the hope of our Messiah - Jesus, who sits on the eternal throne in Heaven. The promise was fulfilled in Jesus who came from David's lineage and will reign forever.

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. From the greatness of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over His Kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Almighty will accomplish this."  Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV)

"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel (which means "God with us")  Matthew 1:22&23

We can be sure, just as David and Ethan were, that God is a faithful God and He keeps His promises. His purposes and plans are greater than ours!

COMPLAINT AND PETITION - Read Psalm 89:38-51

We don't know exactly when this Psalm was written, but we do know that it was probably when Ethan was old and near death. Also, it was in a time when God was angry with his people, for disobeying Him, and ceasing their worship, long after the reign of David. Ethan asked these questions:

"How long Lord? Will you hide yourself forever? How long will your wrath burn like fire? Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all humanity! Who can live and not see death or who can escape the power of the grave? Lord, where is your former great love, which in your faithfulness you swore to David?" Psalm 89:46-49

Ethan was feeling let down, but he had lived with God as his provider for many years, so even though he was a little disallusioned, he still held on to his hope.  He still believed that God would be faithful and loving to the end. Ethan still made an honest plea with God and prayed for mercy. 

We too can take hope in disapointment and conflict. Things may not change, but GOD IS STILL OUR PROVIDER.  God still watches over us, even when we are not looking.  WHEN GOD GUIDES, HE PROVIDES, and the COVENANT OF GRACE which in now fulfilled in Jesus Christ is true for us today.

A CONCLUSION OF PRAISE - Read Psalm 89:52

Ethan finished this Psalm with a declaration of confident, heart felt PRAISE. He was a man who knew and trusted God's promises and with this doxology invited the people of God to join with in praise. "Amen and Amen".  He still invites us to join him today!

"He ends where he began. He sailed around the world and reached port again. Let us bless God before we pray, while we pray and when we have done praying, for He always deserves it from us."

                                                           Charles Spurgeon.

"Got Questions, Your Questions, Biblical Answers - What is the Maskil in the Book of Psalms?", (2021), Got Questions Ministries.

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", (2009), A Lion Book

Gass, Bob, "The Best of the Word Today", (1996), Bridge-Logos

Guthrie, Nancy, "The Wisdom Books - Seeing Jesus in the Psalms and Wisdom Books", 2009, Crossway

Guzik, David, "Psalm 89, Commentary - God's Covenant with David", (2020), ewb@enduringword.com

Spurgeon, Charles, "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms" (1885) (2021), Christianity.com

International Children's Bible, "Magnify - Big Book of Bible Games, Psalms & Proverbs", 2006, Thomas Nelson

New Century Version, "Max Lucado's Devotional Bible - Experiencing the Heart of Jesus", 2003,

Thomas Nelson

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

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

PSALM 88 - A PRAYER OF DISTRESS

INTRODUCTION: Read Psalm 88, 1 Chronicles 6:33, 16:41&42, 25:1&6

For both Christians and Jews today the Psalms are a book of prayers. Many of the Psalmists teach a lot about prayer, including their reaction at times to trials and tribulations; and their reactions to what they sometimes feel about "being unjustly wronged", by God Himself.

This prayer by Heman the Ezrahite is seen as the darkest of all Psalms, for here is a man whose life is ebbing away, and he doesn't know how to face death. He is in the grip of darkest distress, including grief, guilt, lonliness and depression.

Philip Yancey believes that when we have these feelings inside us, we often blame God. Why? Because, "rather than suppress my reaction to horror and the outrage at evil, taking justice into my own hands, I deliver these feelings, stripped bare, to God." 

"In writing as they do, the Psalmists express their outrage to God, not the enemy." Dorothy Sayers.

This is what Heman, the Psalmist may be doing here. Not only a man of great wisdom, he was also one of three grand musicians; and as a man of great faith he persistantly cried out to the Lord in prayer. 

"You will find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

PART 1: A SICK MAN'S SUFFERINGS - Read Psalm 88:1-8;                         2 Corinthians 12:7-10; Jeremiah 29:11-13, 38; Job 23.

Heman, the writer of this Psalm, was "overwhelmed with troubles". He was grieving because he was close to death, losing not only his physical strength, but his mental and spiritual strength were also declining.  He felt God was letting him down, and he felt alone and depressed; "shut in", with "no way of escape". Does this sound familiar?

Yet, Heman had begun this Psalm with a ray of hope. He based his faith on God's salvation and the fact that he could come to the Lord in prayer whenever he felt down and out, and that the Lord would always be there listening. This may have been something he had learnt from David. 

"I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray."

                                                                                   Psalm 17:6   (NLT)

Heman's prayer was personal and he prayed earnestly day and night. He prayed from the heart and persevered through all the obstacles that faced him.

A.  PHYSICAL HEALTH

"I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me, but the Lord said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."  

                                                                              2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (NIV)

Like Paul, Heman had an illness that we really don't know a lot about. It was probably a "lifelong infirmity", "a chronic disease", and we do know that it was heading in the "direction of death."

"Grief hemmed him in like a deer in a hunt, surrounded by dogs." Charles Spurgeon

In the Old Testament, unlike Paul, and Christians today, who have the hope after the death and resurrection of Christ; the Jews in Heman's day did not have a lot to look forward to it seemed when it came to the afterlife.  No Israelite, except Enoch and Elijah, ever went to Heaven. 

"Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away."                      Genesis 5:24 (NIV)

"When the Lord was about to take Elijah up to Heaven in a whirlwind, Elijah and Elisha were on their way to Gilgal......As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses appeared and seperated the two men, and Elijah went up to Heaven in a whirlwind." 

                                                                    2 Kings 2:1&11 (NIV)

Some psalmists believed that there was an alternative to Sheol (God's undesirable judgement), where they would be in fellowship with God; but the ressurection and eternal life were not mentioned until later in Daniel's time and other prophecies. 

"You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay." 

                                                                           Psalm 16:10

"But God will redeem me from the realm of death; He will surely take me to Himself." Psalm 49:15

"Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake; some to everlasting life, others to shame and contempt."  Daniel 12:2

It is sad, that Heman didn't have this hope, but like Paul, he could "find strength in his weakness" through prayer and a relationship with His Father God. 

B. MENTAL HEALTH

Another sympton of Heman's illness was his depression. This came about by guilt and lonliness, something many of us will have experienced. Heman felt the "wrath of God like the waves of the sea, which rage and dash with fury on the shore." His disease could have been something that kept him "legally seperated" from friends, or "his good name could have been injured" and his friends had turned their backs on him. 

Either way, like Jeremiah who had been "cast away" in the cistern, Heman felt like he was in a pit of lonliness and depression, "into the lowest pit,  into the darkest depths". He felt utterly forsaken!

"I am forgotten, cut off from your care. You have thrown me into the lowest pit, into the darkest depths. Your anger weighs me down; with wave after wave you have engulfed me. You have driven my friends away by making me repulsive to them. I am in a trap with no way of escape."  

                                                                          Psalm 88:6-8  (NLT)

C. SPIRITUAL HEALTH

At times Heman felt like even God had forsaken him. Jeremiah and Job struggled with at times. But, as great men of faith, they knew where to go when "the ashes of disapointment and failure", grief and lonliness hit them. 

"But if I go to the East, He is not there; if I go to the West I do not find Him. When I go to the North, I do not see Him; when He turns to the South, I catch no glimpse of Him. But He knows the way that I take; when He tested me, I will come forth as gold." Job 23:8-10

"Perhaps you too think that God only works when blessings come. No! It is when blessings are delayed that He works on our faith and character. His blessing is the reward that comes after we learn obedience through experience. I wouldn't take anything in exchange for what I've learnt during hard times."  Bob Gass

Heman continued to pray - for, "nothing can make a true believer cease praying". He eagerly pleaded for mercy. He prayed as an afflicted child of God; his eyes wept, his voice cried, his hands outstretched and his heart broke.

"My eyes are blinded by my tears. Each day I beg for your help, O Lord; I lift my hands to You for mercy."   Psalm 88:9

PART 2: A PRAYER FOR MERCY AND DELIVERANCE -  Read Psalm 88:10-18

Hamen, the Psalmist, like many in his lifetime, were uncertain about many things, including the afterlife, but one thing he was certain abour was that GOD ANSWERED PRAYERS! He knew that if he prayed daily, God would be there to meet his needs. Like David, he prayed in the morning, and He set his focus on the Lord, even though he was suffering trials and tribulations. Determined to keep in touch with His Father God, he cried out to Him.

"In the morning Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." Psalm 5:3 (NIV)

"But I will sing of Your strength, in the morning I will sing of Your love; for You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." Psalm 59:16 (NIV)

"But I cry to You for help, Lord, in the morning my prayers comes before You." Psalm 88:13 (NIV)

"Nothing can make a true believer cease praying; it is part of their nature, and pray they must. A genuine believer holds on till he wins his suit." Charles Spurgeon'

Heman pleaded for mercy. Troubles and guilt came upon him every day and he felt like he was drowning in the Lord's wrath - in spiritual distress. He was afflicted and alone, but the Psalm ends here, with no answer. But still, "I want to cry out to the Lord."

"Even in affliction, he believed in God - it was a crisis of faith, not unbelief." David Guzik

"The secret of it was determination, his desire to keep in touch with God, crying to Him and going out to meet Him at the break of each new day."  Morgan

CONCLUSION

When Paul Simon began his song "Sound of Silence", with the words, "Hello Darkness, my Old Friend", he was like the psalmist Heman, and many of us today. The difference was, Heman was crying out to God, a God that he knew would save him from his depression,  even when close to death. 

"I am familiar only with sadness. I am a child crying out in darkness, but will my Heavenly Father leave his child there?" Charles Spurgeon 

We can thank our Heavenly Father, that as His children, even in the midst of darkness, trials and tribulation - in the midst of distress - he will not leave us - HE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE, because we trust in Him.

"I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for Hew is right beside me."                      Psalm 16:8 (NLT

"For I know the plans I have for you" says the Lord, "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days, when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me."   Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NLT)

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

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

Simon, Paul, "Sound of Silence", 1966, Paul Simon Music'

Alexander, Pat & David, (2009) "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", Lion.

Gass, Bob, (1996), "Best of the Word Today", Bridge-Logos

Guzik, David, (2020) "Psalm 88 - A Desperate Prayer from Deep Affliction: Enduring Word Bible Commentary", ewm@enduringword.com

Spurgeon, Charles. H,  (1885) (2021) "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms",  Christianity.com

 

PSALM 87 - GOD'S LOVE FOR HIS PEOPLE

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 87

God was devoted to His people in Jerusalem and also the Gentiles. This psalm, by the Sons of Korah was indeed a Psalm of Celebration - a Festival Psalm looking forward to the glorious future that God had planned for His people and their Holy City, Jerusalem.

Many believe it was written for David's Zion alone. This could have been during Solomon's time, but more than likely at the time of the rebuilding. All are included as "citizens" , even Jeruslam's past enemies, like the Philistines and those who held them in bondage, like the Egyptians and the Babylonians.

It seems to have been written when the Israelites were enjoying a "positive history" when "glorious things were being spoken. 

This Psalm celebrates God's identity with HIS PEOPLE. He has rescued us from sin and brought us together as ONE BODY, HIS CHURCH, for His glory and praise. It is one of the "Songs of Zion", together with Psalm 48 and 84, which describe the joy and beauty of Jerusalem, the city.

"Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised in the city of our God! His Holy Mountain, beautiful in elevation, the joy of the earth, Mount Zion in the far north, the city of the great King." Psalm 48:1&2 (ESV)

"How lovely is your dwelling place O Lord of Hosts! My soul longs, yes faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for the joy of the living God..........Blessed are those who dwell  in your house, ever singing your praise.....For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere." 

                                                              Psalm 84:1,2, 4 & 10a. (ESV)

GOD ESTABLISHED HIS PEOPLE -  

Read Verses 1-4, 2 Samuel 5&6, Hebrews 9:11- 10:25

In 2 Samuel 5 & 6 we read how David "took the stronghold of Zion".  Jerusalem was the "first rate choice of a capital". It was centrally located and tribally neutral. To the city of David, his new capital,  he brings down the Ark of the Covenant in a triumphant celebration - marked with the "exuberance of Jewish worship". Even the king danced with joy. 

For the Israelites, the Ark became known as the "dwelling place of God" - the holiest of holies. It represented God's presence and His work of redemption in His land. It was sacred, and not even the Levites were allowed to touch it, which is why they carried it on poles. 

* Later the Ark was placed in Solomon temples, as David was not allowed to build it, because he had been a warrior, and God's Temple was to be a foundation of peace. The people offered their sacrifices and worshipped there, yet, a curtain was placed around the Ark, so that no one, except the priests in their "priestly service"  could "enter into God's presence". 

* In the Temple in Jerusalem,  Jesus Himself observed the Jewish feasts and Temple rituals, honouring His Father.  Even, as a child he taught with great wisdom to the Jewish leaders.

* In Jerusalem, Jesus died for our sins, and it was at this time that the curtain was torn. This curtain divided the Sanctuary (the Ark) from the body of the Temple. Once a year the High Priest passed through to intercede for the people. Now no intermediary was necessary, for we could all have access to the presence of God.

"But when Christ came as High Priest of the good things that are now already here, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands. He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption."    Hebrews 9:11&12 (NIV)

"Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water."  Hebrews 10:19-22 (NIV)

* Finally, the Church was born at Pentecost, after Christ was resurrected. The Apostles were sent out from Jerusalem to preach the gospel to the world.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; and behold, I am with you always to the end of the age." 

                                                              Matthew 28:18&19 (ECV)

"You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain and with your blood you purchased for God, persons from every tribe and language and people and nation."

                                                                          Revelation 4:9 (ECV)

                                                                                    

"God chose His place Zion to centre His redemptive work for the whole world." David Guzik

GOD MAKES HIS ENEMIES TO BE HIS PEOPLE -   

 Read Verses 5&6; Acts 11:1-18

"I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them that know me. This will be a glorious subject to speak of concerning Zion, that her old foes are newborn and have become her friends, worshipping in the temple of God. EGYPT which oppressed Israel shall become a sister nation and BABYLON in which the Israelites endured captivity shall become a fellow worshipper......Behold, PHILISTIA, TYRE and ETHIOPIA - these also shall bow before the Lord...... they shall not be too far off from salvation." Charles Spurgeon

After speaking about His people - the Israelites, in Jerusalem - God went on to speak of His promised salvation for their enemies. You see God has power to forgive everyone, to extend His grace and mercy to all people.

Babylon was the capital of Assyria, the other "super power" of the day. What do you think the Israelites would have thought when the names of Egypt and Babylon - their places of slavery and bondage, oppression and captivity - were mentioned? What about Philistia, who they had fought with continually, and even captured their Ark, the home of their God. Tyre and Cush were also ancient enemies.

This truth is God can make His own enemies - the Gentiles - into His children and heirs with His Son is amazing. Paul spoke of this often in his ministry. 

"For He chose us before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will, to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the one He loves." 

                                                                                         Ephesians 1:4-6 (ECV)

"So you are no longer a slave, but GOD'S CHILD; and since your are HIS CHILD, you are also HIS HEIR." Galatians 4:7 (ECV)

Remember how Peter was sent to the home of Cornelius the Centurian, a Gentile. He was called in a vision, and went under sufferance, as he felt it was againt Jewish law to associate with Gentiles. God showed him that no one was unclean or impure in His sight, and later when he explained his actions to the other disciples and Christians in Jerusalem, we see he was challenged by this great truth.

"So then, even to the Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life." Acts 11:18 (ECV)

"Our God is a God who makes His enemies to be His people." Ken Puls. 

 CONCLUSION: GOD'S LOVE FOR HIS PEOPLE - 

Read Verse 7,  Read Zechariah 3:17

"The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."

                                                                             Zechariah 3:17  (NIV)

This is one of many verses in the Bible that speaks of God's great love for His people. He wants us to draw near to Him and delight in being the children of a loving Father.

As His children we are "vessels of God's mercy and grace", and we too can show forth his love. We can:  

* bring light into the darkness.

* change peoples lives and

* be a reflection of His glory.

"OUT OF ZION, THE PERFECTION OF BEAUTY, GOD SHINES FORTH." Psalm 50:2  (ECV)

The Holy Bible, "New International Version" (2011) Zondervan

New Testament & Psalms, "English Standard Version" (2016) Gideons

ALEXANDER, Pat & David, (1999), "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", Lion UK.

GUZIK, David, (2020), "Psalm 87 - Citizens of Zion", www.enduringword.com

PULS, Ken, (2013). ""The City of God", Crossway

SPURGEON, Charles (1885) (2021), "The Treasury of David, Commentary on Psalms.", www.Christianity.com

PSALM 86 - A PRAYER OF PETITION AND PRAISE.

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 86

Psalm 86 is both a prayer of petition and a prayer of praise. Composed by David, we read of his heartfelt desires to have a relationship with the Lord and at the same time to live a life that is holy and in obedience to God. 

David knew that he had failed his Father God and therefore he sought his Father's mercy and forgiveness. He pleaded with Him to cleanse him, so that he could have confidence in answered prayers. We know that David trusted God, but he needed to have his hope and faith renewed everyday, so he could be full of joy and happiness.

"Bring joy to your servant, Lord, for I put my trust in You." Psalm 86:4 (NLT)

"Teach me Your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to Your truth. Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honour You." Psalm 86:11 (NLT)

Finally, in this Psalm we hear David's admittance that God is the ONLY GOD - faithful and true, the Creator of all things, and most of all there is no one with more LOVE, MERCY, COMPASSION, GOODNESS, and GRACIOUSNESS than Adonai - His Lord and Master.

"For you are great and perform wonderful deeds. YOU ALONE ARE GOD." Psalm 86:10 (NLT)

"But you, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry, and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness." PSALM 86:15 (NLT)

We can't place this Psalm in any specific time in David's life, because it connects to "general circumstances" in his life - his trials, temptations, faults, feelings of guilt and his pleadings for his relationships with His Lord.

David was sincere in his faith, with a great heart for prayer. He "pleads, sobs and trusts" through all the verses of this Psalm, but he is also singing the Lord's praises. 

"I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart. I will glorify Your name forever." Psalm 86:12 (NLT)

A PLEA FOR HELP IN TRIALS AND TEMPTATIONS - Read Verses 1-7

David was feeling down and distressed for many reasons. Most of all he just felt like he'd let the Lord down. "Poor and needy" are figurative words to describe how he was feeling. This is how many of us feel at different seasons of our life - emotionally and spiritually. But we know that our God is full of love and compassion, but we know that we can "CALL ON OUR GOD IN CONFIDENCE, KNOWING HE WILL ANSWER US."

"Bend down and hear our prayer, O Lord. Answer me, for I need your help." Psalm 86:1 (NLT)

"Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; hear my urgent cry. I will call to you whenever I am in trouble, and You will answer me.". Psalm 86:6&7

David's Trust in God's Faithfulness

David wanted to come to God in humility, because whatever the problem was, "he was desperate". He knew that only God could meet his need. We can learn a lot from David, "for he cried to God all day long" and his relationship with God was like no other.  "He could not and would not rely on anyone else for help." 

We too need to rely on God and God alone. Often we try to work out our problems on our own, or qwe seek help from others; but the true joy and happiness comes when we show sincere loyalty and trust in the ONE TRUE GOD AND PROVIDER. 

The Word "Adonai" is used many times, beginning in this passageto show David's loyalty and submission to God. David knew that God was not just a `fairweather friend'. God could be counted on in 'every day of trouble'. 

"David believed the Lord to be a living and potent God and indeed to be GOD ALONE. It was on this account that He resolved in every hour of trouble to call on Him." Charles Spurgeon.

"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 ways." Proverbs 3:5&6 (NIV)

David's Trust in Love and Mercy

David also based his prayer on what he had experienced of God's love and mercy. He knew God was ready to forgive. Many of us wallow in grief and guilt because we are too ashamed to come to God. We don't have the confidence in God's forgiveness and grace, even though we know HE IS OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR. 

David, like us at times, feel unsafe in a world with both "physical and spiritual enemies". He needed to be covered by "God's divine protection". We too need to know that we have this confidence in God's forgiveness, mercy and love.

"O Lord, You are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for help."

 Psalm 86:5 (NLT)

Trusting With Earnest Prayers

He who prays every day and during the day can rest assured that the Lord will hear him, just as he heard David's prayers. The nearer we draw near to God, the greater our joy will be. David's prayers may sound like "vain repetitions", but just like a child cries out for his parent's attention, we need to be equally earnest. 

"Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near." Isaiah 55:6

In these busy and troubling days, we cannot afford to miss out on spending time with our Father. I know, I have experienced in the last couple of weeks what it is like to be "too busy" and "preoccupied" to spend time with the Lord and His Word. I can tell you, it's not good to be "struggling alone".

"The danger comes when the things WE HAVE consume so much of OUR TIME that we have NOTHING LEFT FOR HIM. It's a lot easier to get involved with the WORK OF THE LORD than it is to get involved with the LORD OF THE WORK." Bob Gass

"Guard my life, for I am faithful to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God , have mercy on me Lord, for I call on you all day long. Bring joy to your servant Lord, for I put my trust in you." Psalm 86:2-4 (NIV)

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip of every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." Hebrews 12:1  (NLT)

THE ONE TRUE GOD - Read Psalm 86:8-13

David had lived in a land where they had worshipped heathen gods, but he knew that his God - the God of Israel - was the ONE TRUE GOD. David knew that this ONLY TRUE GOD could not be compared with the pagan gods of other nations. They were bitter, vengeful and cunning; but the ONE TRUE GOD of Israel that he worshipped and followed was LOVING, FAITHFUL and ALL POWERFUL.

David wanted to walk in truth - his natural reaction was obediance to his Father's will; a true servant of God who regulates his life by learning from Him. 

"Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to Your truth. Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honour You." Psalm 86:11 (NLT)

David is now calling on the Lord with a UNITED HEART OF PRAISE, GLORIFYING GOD'S NAME. Personal experience of God's faithfulness, omnipotence and love only lead to PRAISE AND WORSHIP.

"I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your Name forever." Psalm 86:12 (NIV)

"When we consciously focus our emotions and effections upon WHO GOD IS and WHAT HE HAS DONE FOR US, our heart is marvellously united in praise and worship." David Guzik

THE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD - Read Psalm 86:14-17

There is no stronger argument for answered prayer than real life examples. David told how the Lord had delivered him from the lion's and the bear's paws, when he cane up against the Philistine giant.

"Your servant has been keeping your father's sheep. When a lion and bear came and carried off the sheep from the flock, I went after them, struck them, and rescued them from their mouths. When they turned on me, the lion and the bear, I seized them by the hair, struck them and killed them. Your servant has killed the lion and the bear, this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine." 1 Samuel 17:34-37  (NIV)

David knew that the Lord would continue to be COMPASSIONATE, GRACIOUS and MERCIFUL towards him. He knew he had fallen in the past, but God had forgiven him. He knew "God would deliver his soul again".  

The word "Adonai" is used to describe God as STRONG and OMNIPOTENT. It is bold request of David's here to seek God's strengthening power in his time of need. This verse, which we also read in Exodus 34 and Micah 7, remind us, that God can help us in any situation.

"The Lord, the Lord, the COMPASSIONATE AND GRACIOUS GOD, SLOW TO ANGER, ABOUNDING IN LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin." Exodus 34:6&7 (NIV)

"Who is a God like you, WHO PARDONS SIN AND FORGIVES THE TRANSGRESSION of the remnant of His inheritance? YOU DO DO NOT STAY ANGRY FOREVER, but DELIGHT TO SHOW MERCY. YOU WILL AGAIN HAVE COMPASSION ON US; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea." Micah 7:18&19 (NIV)

"But you, O Lord, are a GOD OF COMPASSION AND MERCY. SLOW TO GET ANGRY, FILLED WITH UNFAILING LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS." Psalm 86:15 (NLT)

* Are we grieving? We have a LORD FULL OF COMPASSION.
*Are we struggling with temptation? HIS GRACE IS THERE FOR US.

*Are we guilty with sin or failure? HE IS PATIENT AND MERCIFUL.

*Are we struggling with our faith? WE CAN REST ON GOD'S FAITHFUL PROMISES.

One look on "God's shining face" and "all the darkness will turn into day". When the LORD GIVES US STRENGTH we can overcome all things and continue to serve Him.

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

David was thinking about his past deliverance because he was struggling with trials and temptations in his current situation - he had enemies, both physical and spiritual that were attacking him. but he remembered that "God had rescued him before and would rescue him again". 

He never approached God on the basis of   ' what he deserved'. Anything he received from God was due to grace and mercy, because of God's great goodness. The same is true of our salvation. 

"For it is by grace we have been saved, through faith - and this is not of ourselves, it is a gift of God."Ephesians 2:8 (NIV)

God does nothing by halves. He keeps us safe and brings us joy, so that He will be honoured.

"Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies will see it and be put to shame, for You Lord have helped me and comforted me." Psalm 86:17

CONCLUSION

* He delivers us from temptations and MAKES US HOLY AND PURE.

* He delivers us from troubles WHEN WE TRUST IIN HIM.

* WE WILL HAVE JOY when we surrender all our grieves and guilts, and accept His forgiveness, grace and mercy.

* We can have a sense of confidence, KNOWING GOD ANSWERS PRAYER. 

*When we declare God's greatness, WE TOO WILL BE STRENGTHENED.

If the source of our LIFE, STRENGTH and HOPE were anything LESS THAN THE LORD, we are bound to fail. Our life needs to be ROOTED IN GOD. Our lives are given purpose abd fulfillment when we ACKNOWLEDGE HIM AS OUR SOURCE.

Because our STRENGTH COMES FROM GOD we are sustained through times of pain, difficulty and suffering. We are strong even when we feel weak. In fact, we are promised that GOD'S STRENGTH IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS. No, it is better than that - it is a HOPE that one we will be CHANGED TO BE LIKE JESUS, and His power, love, peace and joy will fill us completely. We will know the ETERNAL BLISS OF ONENESS WITH HIM. 

This is what David prayed for, and why He praised and worshipped His Heavenly Father.

"Every past experience of God's goodness to us is a promise of His continued blessing." David Guzik

"Holy Bible - New International Version", (2011), Zondervan

"Holy Bible" - New  Living Translation", (2015), Tyndale House Publishing

Gass, Bob, 1996, "Best of the World Today", Bridge-Logos

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 86 - Help from the Great God", ewm@enduringword.com

Spurgeon, Charles, 2021, "Treasury of David - Psalm 86 Commentary", Christianity.com

PSALM 85: RESTORATION AND REVIVAL THROUGH JESUS CHRIST

 INTRODUCTION: Read Psalm 85; 2 Kings 25:27-30,  Ezra 2:1&2, 3, 4:1-5; 7:1- 27, 8:15-23; Nehemiah 4:1-23, 8:1-10.

Psalm 85, another of the Sons of Korah, seems to fit of the period of the Israelites return to Jerusalem from their exile from Babylon. There are 3 groups of people and 3 leaders:

1. Zerubbabel was a political and religious leader who "spearheaded" the rebuilding of the Temple.  A part of the nation had returned to the ruined city of Jerusalem, poor settlers of mixed nationalities - a fallen Temple and a mourning land; surrounded by jealous and powerful nations. 

When Zerubbabel `came marching into town', you would think he would given the people hope. Instead, because he came with orders from King Cyrus, he was faced with distrust. Zerrubbabel was an aristocrat, born in captivity, after his parents had been exiled to Babylon. He was also the grandson of King Jehoiachin, the last king of Judah, who had status in the royal Babylonian court. "What right did he have to claim to be "Governor" over their land?"

Not only that, he refused help when it was offered, and the locals in Jerusalem did everything they could to prevent the building of the temple. The returning exiles were only able to lay the foundation of the temple.  It wasn't till 15 years later that building resumed with encouragement from the prophets Haggai and Zechariah. The temple was finally completed in 516BC.

2. Later, Ezra led a spiritual revival of worship and study of the Law of the Lord. Ezra was a priest, a direct descendent of Aaron. These descendents that returned in this time could only live in a small area of the homeland, and they faced many challenges and struggles.

"For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching His decrees and laws in Israel." Ezra 6:10

Ezra's account of their return from exile spoke of a God who kept His promises to His people. Through his prayers and teaching Ezra was able to encourage God's people as they re-learnt His laws, repented of past sins and started a spiritual revival in their land.

3. Nehemiah, the third leader, directed the political restoration of the people, encouraging peace and excitement for future Jerusalem. God moved the hearts of secular rulers, and through prayer and his work as Governor, Nehemiah was able to gather the people together, delegating builders, to rebuild the walls and protect the city.

Nehemiah was soft hearted, yet he was a strong motivator. He was able to handle the opposition of the enemies with "fearless conviction", "authentic devotion to prayer" and "no compromising of God's laws". The walls were finished in 52 days. 

"Nehemiah said, "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10b

This story confirms that God has plans for our future. No matter how difficult our circumstances, He promises to support us. God faithfully restored His people as they were diligent in obeying His Word. 

John Calvin, the well known 16th Century revivalist preacher, connects this restoration of Israel with the future Kingdom of Christ. This too is seen in Psalm 85. We see the "continuation of God's grace" as He restores His people and promises, not only His people Israel, but also Christians today, "His future blessings."

GOD'S MERCY and FORGIVENESS - Read Psalm 85:1-3

We know that God has great love for the land of Jerusalem, but HE ALSO LOVES HIS PEOPLE. God is merciful and gracious and wants to forgive and forget our sins. 

How often when we sin, do we feel guilty, because we feel that God is angry with us? I have some great news for you! Not just because of God's great mercy and grace, but we now have the atoning blood of His Son Jesus, that gives us relief knowing WE ARE SAVED. We are not only FORGIVEN, but GOD'S ANGER HAS PASSED, and "OUR GUILT WILL TURN INTO GLADNESS".

"Every believer in Jesus enjoys the blessing of pardoned sin, all of it, every spot, every wrinkle; the veil of love has covered all. Sin has been divinely put out of sight." Charles Spurgeon.

"Who is a God like You, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us, you will tread our sins underfoot, and hurl our iniquities into the depths of the sea."  Micah 7:18&19

"And by that we will have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." Hebrews 10:10

                              "THE LORD CAN CLEAR THE DARKEST SKIES

                        CAN GIVE US DAY FOR NIGHT.

                       MAKE DROPS OF SACRED, SORROW RISE

                      TO RIVERS OF DELIGHT." Charles Spurgeon

REVIVAL THROUGH SALVATION - Read Psalm 85:4-9

Revival means: "Finding joy in nothing else than having a relationship with Jesus Christ". True revival is impossible WITHOUT JOY! We need to be people centred around PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING. We need to enjoy the visitations of the HOLY SPIRIT, and need to abound in the "constant delight" that we are in GOD'S PRESENCE.

"Speak to one another in psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."     Ephesians 5:19&20

In this Psalm, the writer gives thanks for continued revival and restoration in their land. Jonah did the same when God answered his prayers for Ninevah. We too should pray for our land, and give thanks for how God is working in our Churches and in the lives of individual people. 

"But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed, I will make good. I will say: "SALVATION COMES FROM THE LORD." Jonah 2:9

"Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your unfailing love, Lord, and grant us Your salvation."  Psalm 85:6&7

God is unchangeable. He is still the same as He was when this Psalm was written, and so are His mercy and love. If we are waiting for times of refreshment and revival, all we need to do is ASK. When we pray we should come to Him in CONFIDENCE, BOLDNESS AND HUMILITY, pleading with our Saviour and trusting in God's power and salvation.

"Revival is a work of GOD'S MERCY. It isn't earned or deserved. God graciously grants TRUE REVIVAL."  David Guzik. 

True revival is a demonstration of God's work of salvation in His people. God has always been "rich in favour" with His people Israel, and He will continue to open His arms and heart to us.

GOD'S ATTRIBUTES - Read Psalm 85:10-13

These verses are a beautiful description of God's character - HIS LOVE, MERCY, FAITHFULNESS, RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PEACE. Later in the New Testament we see these traits described in God's precious Son Jesus Christ. 

"Mercy and Truth Have Met Together" - Verse 10a

The Hebrew word for "mercy" is "hesed" meaning: "his grace and loyal love". Truth will be renewed by God's grace, as we trust in Him. When God looks down in grace upon us, we look upward in obedience, and God's promises are fulfilled.

"Righteousness and Peace Have Kissed" - Verse 10b

How could this happen, except in Christ's great work of salvation. God will give good things to His repenting people. When we are brought back to follow His way of righteousness, God will abundantly bless us with peace.

"Faithfulness spring forth from the earth and righteousness looks down from Heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before Him and prepares the way for His steps."  Psalm 55:11-13

God's voice is OMNIPOTENT. All we need to do is wait patiently and He will act. He will act with mercy, meekness and gentleness, but also in great strength. We also know our God is OMNIPRESENT, "always near at hand". Whether our nation be "under adversity" or we have a personal struggle, we know that God is close by, ready with encouragement. 

CONCLUSION

Israel was a glorious, blessed people when they became faithful believers - with restoration and revival in their land. We too can live in the glory and presence of the Lord, but more than that, we can look forward to an eternal life with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have ETERNAL LIFE. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but TO SAVE THE WORLD THROUGH HIM." John 3:16&17 (NIV)

GUZIK, David, 2020, "Psalm 85 - Praying for Revival and Restoration", ewm@enduring word.com

NAPPA, Mike, 2019, "Who was Zerubbabel in the Bible?", Christianity.com

SPURGEON, Charles, 2021, "Treasury of David, Bible Commentary" , Christianity.com

SWINDOLL, Chuck, 2021, "Ezra - True Man of the Word"; Nehemiah - God's Masterwork - Softhearted, Hardhat.", Insight for Living

WIKIPEDIA, Psalm 85.

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

MOEN, Don, 1995, "God is Good all the Time" , You Tube