PSALM 115 - TRUST IN THE LORD

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 115

This is the third of the Hallelu Psalms, which we know to be sung at the Jewish Passover. Again, we remember how Jesus would have sung this Psalm at the end of His Passover Meal with His disciples, on the night of His betrayal. It is also possible that this Psalm in particular was also sung at the time of Ezra, when the Jews were dedicating their new Temple, after returning to Jerusalem from exile. 

It was a Lithurgi Psalm , sung by a group of PRIESTS AND WORSHIPPERS - "a single voice leading with the congegraton joining in response". We also know there was a lot of Hebrew REPITITION:

* "Not to us, Lord, not to us"....

* "Trust in the Lord, He is your help and shield."

* "He will bless....."

* "Praise the Lord.....Praise the Lord."

Why? Because these were important statements and promises - not only for the Israelites, but for the Priests to remember, and also the Gentiles - "all those who would fear the Lord" - and of course for us today and our children!!

A GOD OF MERCY, GRACE & TRUTH -                              Read Psalm 115:1; Exodus 12 - 15

"Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us. But TO YOUR NAME GIVE GLORY." Psalm 115:1a

"This is a Godly man's motto." John TRAPP

Lord, it is not what we can do, but we can do it in YOUR POWER and IN YOUR WILL. We want to serve You, but we can only do it in YOUR STRENGTH AND WISDOM. We are only "participators" in God's work. THE GLORY ALL GOES TO GOD AND HIS NAME!

Back to the first Passover in Egypt, the Israelites were given lots of instructions from God, which THEY FOLLOWED:

* About what they should eat: roasted lamb and unleavened bread.

* Putting the blood of the lamb on the doorposts.

* Dressing for their departure: tucking their cloak in the belt and sandals on their feet. 

The Israelites "bowed down and worshipped God" for although they had obeyed His instructions, they knew that it was God, not man, that would save them.

"Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendents. When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as He promised,  observe this ceremony. And when your children ask you: "What does this ceremony mean to you?", then tell them, "It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when He struck down the Egypotians." Then the people bowed down and worshipped." Exodus 12:24-28 (NIV)

After they had been led out of Egypt, through the Red Sea, and had watched the destruction of their Egyptian enemies, Moses and Miriam led God's people in a famous song to the Lord.

"Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you - MAJESTIC IN HOLINESS, AWESOME IN GLORY, WORKING WONDERS? ......In your UNFAILING LOVE you will lead your people you have redeemed, IN YOUR STRENGTH, you will guide them to your holy dwelling."                                                                                                                        Exodus 15:11-13 (NIV)

Why do we glorify the Lord? Because of His MERCY, GRACE AND TRUTH. Because of HIS LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS. In the 1st Chapter of John we are reminded of this when we meet with Jesus, who came to earth, the Son of God, "full of grace and truth".

"The Word became flesh and made His dwelling place among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."John 1:14 (NIV)

COMPARING OUR SOVEREIGN GOD WITH HEATHEN IDOLS - Read Psalm 115:2-8; Ezra 6:13-22

When the Jews came back to Jerusalem after their exile in Babylon, they rebuilt the Temple and they celebrated the Passover. 

"The Temple was completed on the third day of the month of Adar, in the 6th yearof the reign of King Darius. Then the people of Israel - the Priests, the Levites and the rest of the exiles - celebrated the dedication of the House of God with joy." Ezra 6:15-16 (NIV)

"On the 14th day of the first month, the exiles celebrated the Passover.....The Israelites who had returned from exile ate it with all who had seperated themselves from  the unclean practices of their Gentile neighbours in order to seek the Lord, the God of Israel."  Ezra 6:19 & 21 (NIV)

Most of the Israelites were cured of their idolatry, and even some of the Gentiles met with them in worship at the Temple.  But there were still people living in the land who worshipped idols and mocked them,  telling them they had no reason to worship their God. 

"Why should the Gentiles say: "So where is their God?" Our God is in Heaven, He does whatever He pleases." Psalm 115:2&3

A beautiful contrast is made between ISRAEL'S (OUR) LIVING GOD and the HEATHEN IDOLS. 

ISRAEL'S (OUR) LIVING GOD:                                 

• God made everything.
• "God is in Heaven" - Living and Sovereign.
• He sees their distress and answers their needs.
• He "does whatever He wishes".
• He hears their prayers and comes to their assistance.
• God offers salvation and eternal life through His Son Jesus.

GENTILE HEATHEN IDOLS

• They are made by human hands.
• They are on earth and "hard" and "worthless".
• "They have eyes but cannot see" - they are blind.
• "They have ears but can hear", hands and feet but cannot move. They are deaf and motionless. 
• Idols are "hard" and "unfeeling" - they never have life, and don't offer life to anyone, "for those who make them will be like them".

"Those who make them will be like them, so will all who trust in them." Psalm 115:8 (NKJV)

Today we still worship idols for security and well being. But they bring us down,  rather than CLOSER TO GOD. We spend "worthless time" in their pursuit, rather than IN THE PRESENCE OF OUR HEAVENLY FATHER - praying, reading His Word, doing His service and worshipping Him.

We too become what we WORSHIP, We need to make "ourselves into God's image", taking great care that JESUS CHRIST is the CENTRE of OUR WORSHIP. 

"Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of GOD'S MERCY, to offer your bodies, as a LIVING SACRIFICE, holy and pleasing to God - this is YOUR TRUE AND PROPER WORSHIP."                                                                                                                     Romans 12:1 (NIV)

"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiriutual fervor, SERVING THE LORD."                                                                                                                         Romans 12:11 (NIV)

TRUST IN THE LORD: OUR HELP AND SHIELD -                      Read Psalm 115:9-11

This is the first repetitive part of the Psalm, and more than likely the Leader in the Temple is calling the people - the Israelites, Priests and Gentile believers - to "TRUST IN THE LORD, FOR HE IS OUR HELP AND SHIELD". 

"We put our HOPE IN THE LORD.  HE IS OUR HELP AND SHIELD." Psalm 33:20 (NLT)

So who were these three different groupos of people:

1. THE ISRAELITES (JEWS)

We know them as GOD'S CHOSEN PEOPLE - first of all when God tells Abraham in Genesis 17, that He will make him a father of a great nation, and He made His covenant with Him.

"When Abram was 99years old, the Lord appeared to Him and said: "I am the God Almighty; walk before Me faithfully and be blameless." Abram fell facedown, and God said to him: "As for Me, this is my covenant with you: You willl be the father of many nations. You will no longer be called Abrah, your name will be Abraham. I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations lof you, amd kings will come from you.I will establish an everlasting covenant between me and your descendents after you, for generations to come, to be their God. The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and you descendents after you; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD." Genesis 17:1, 3-8 (NIV)

In the New Testamentm, Jesus reminds Simon Peter and His disciples that they too are GOD'S "CHOSEN". Simon Peter told Jesus that he would always follow after Him, because HE WAS THE "HOLY ONE OF GOD".

"Simon Peter answered Him: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of ETERNAL LIFE. We have come to BELIEVE that you are the HOLY ONE OF GOD." Then Jesus replied, "Have I not CHOSEN YOU, the twelve?" Joihn 6:68-70 (NIV)

2. PRIESTS

The Priests were of the Family of Aaron, descendents of Aaron. They, like our Priests, Ministers and Pastors, were all SERVANTS OF THE LORD, whose job it was to "witness", preach and teach God's Word to the People of God., 

"Ministers must be patterns to others, depending on God, living in the faith." John Trapp

3.  GENTILE BELIEVERS

These were the Non-Jewish people who still "feared the Lord" and still desired to be a "child of God". In the Old Testament they are mentioned as those who "respected and feared the Lord, but were not of the Jewish faith.". In the New Testament we hear of Gentile believers in the Early Church.

"As for the foreigner who does not belong to your people Israel but has come from a distant land because of your name - for they will hear of your great Name and mighty hand and your outstretched arm - WHEN THEY COME AND PRAY TOWARDS THIS TEMPLE." 

1 Kings 8:41&42 (NIV)

"In Caesarea there lived a Roman army officer named Cornelius, who was a Captain of the Italian Regimant. HE WAS A DEVOUT, GOD FEARING MAN, as was everyone in His household. He gave generously to the poor and PRAYED REGULARLY." Acts 10:1&2 (NLT)

"Brothers - you Sons of Abraham and also you GOD-FEARING GENTILES - this message of salvation has been sent to us." Acts 13:26 (NLT)

We too today, as children of God and followers of our Lord Jesus Christ, are just like the Gentiles in the early Church. We too need to TRUST IN THE LORD, because of who HE IS and what HE HAS DONE FOR US, in the past and what we  know HE WILL DO in the future - FOR HE IS OUR HOPE AND SHIELD.

"I pray that God the source of our HOPE,  will fill you completely with joy and HOPE and peace, because YOU TRUST IN HIM. Then you will overflow with CONFIDENT HOPE through the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 (NLT)

THE LORD WILL BLESS US - Read Psalm 115:12-15;                Genesis 12:1-3; Matthew 5:3-12

Israel knew that God had remembered them in the past and they would be BLESSED in the future. So did the Priests - Aaron's descendents; and finally, the Gentiles who feared the Lord also knew they would be BLESSED, because they had come to TRUST IN THE LORD. 

"It is in HIS NATURE TO BLESS, it is HIS PREROGATIVE TO BLESS; HE PROMISES TO BLESS, and therefore, be sure: HE WILL BLESS, and BLESS and BLESS." Charles Spurgeon

"May the Lord cause you to flourish, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of Heaven and earth." Psalm 1:14&15

What kind of blessings does the Lord give us?

1. CHILDREN AND FAMILY

Most of all in the Bible we read how God blessed people with children and great families. In Genesis 12:1-3, we read how Abraham was blessed by God with a promise that he would have a family. In fact, he would be the father of a great nation, and "all people on the earth would be blessed through him."

"I will make you into a great nation. I WILL BLESS YOU and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others......All the families on the earth will be blessed through you." Genesis 12:2&3

2. SUCCESS FOR THE FUTURE

As Abraham was promised, we too are promised that we will have a BLESSING WITH SUCCESS in our lives. It may not be what we desire, but we will have WHAT WE NEED. The Hebrew word, "esher" which is again, often used in Psalms is translated as "HAPPINESS". GOD'S CHASTISEMENT IS ALSO A BLESSING, though we may not see it, for it is a DISPLAY OF GOD'S LOVE. 

"They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplined us for our good, in order that we may share in His holiness." Hebrews 12:10 (NIV)

In the New Testament, spoecifically in the Beautitudes,  we find the Greek word, "makiarios", is used for the word "happiness", that we can usually find when "when follow God's will in our lives" and endeavouring to live as Jesus would want us too. 

"God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.....God blesses those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.....God blesses those who are pure, for they will see God......God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs." Matthew 5:3,6,8-10 (NLT)

3. FORGIVENESS

In the Psalms and the New Testament we also read a lot about those who are BLESSED BY FORGIVENESS (the Greek word "eulego"). The forgiveness (mercy and grace) of God, Jesus Christ through His death on the cross, and even our forgiveness of others. 

"BLESSED ARE THOSE WHOSE TRANSGRESSIONS ARE FORGIVEN, whose sins are covered."   " Psalm 32:1 (NIV)

"GOD BLESSES THOSE WHO ARE MERCIFUL, for they will be shown mercy."

                                                                                                 Matthew 5:7 (NLT)

In all these blessings: PRAISE, HAPPINESS (JOY), CHASTISEMENT and FORGIVENESS, we can have confidence, for God is our Father of all LOVE, MERCY and GRACE, TRUTH and FAITHFULNESS. 

"But blessed is are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence."                                                                                                            Jeremiah 17:7 (NIV)

CONCLUSION: PRAISE THE LORD -                                   Read Psalm 115:16-18;   Genesis 1:26-30

"This Psalm has come full circle back to God and to His people." Pat and David Alexander

The Heavens are the Lords. He is the Sovereign Creator of both the heavens and the earth. In         Genesis 1:26-30, we are reminded that even though God is Sovereign, He gave "man dominion over the earth". What does this mean?

* We need to care for it.

* We need to us its resources for the good of humanity.

"Remember that behind the gift, IS THE GIVER." John Trapp

The "GIVER" created us in His image, to be like Him, and as GOD, we know HE CARES FOR THE WORLD, and as the people HE MADE, HE EXPECTS THE SAME OF US.

"Then God looked over all He had made, and He saw that it was very good. And evening passed, and morning, the sixth day." Genesis 1:31 (NLT)

The Psalmist knew that not only God, but His Son Jesus were worthy of OUR PRAISE, became He came to conquer sin and death. And we who have accepted Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, and can now live eternally, CAN "PRAISE HIM FOREVER AND EVER.""

"The GRACE OF OUR LORD was poured out on me abundantly, along with the FAITH AND LOVE OF JESUS CHRIST. Christ Jesus came into the world to SAVE SINNERS.....I WAS SHOWN MERCY so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His immense patience and an example for those who would BELIEVE IN HIM and RECEIVE ETERNAL LIFE."                                                                                                                  1 Timothy 1:14-16

"But we will PRAISE THE LORD, forever and ever. PRAISE THE LORD!" Psalm 115:18

Neander, Joachim (Composer), Winkworth, Catherine (Translater) (1680/1870)  "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty".  Moen, Don (Performer) (2014) "Hymns of Hope", You Tube.

Oswin, Anton (Arranger), (2017), "I Will Sing Unto the Lord". Choir of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi (Performers), Reverend Father Vijay (Conductor), You Tube

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

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

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

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook of the Bible - 4th Edition", 2009, Lion Hudson Publishers

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

Trapp, John, "A Commentary on the Old and New Testament - Volume 2", (1662) (2022), Reformation Heritage Publishers

Guzik, David, "Psalm 115 - The Lord our Help and Shield", 2020, www.enduringword.com, You Tube

Le Boutillier, David, "Psalm 115 - We Will Bless the Lord", 2019, Calvary Chapel, Ontario,     You Tube

PSALM 114 - THE ISRAELITES DELIVERANCE

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 114

Psalm 114 is the second in a series of "Egyptian Hallel" Psalms, seven, as we know, are part of the Jewish Passover Festival. This was Israel's "central act of redemption" under the OLD COVENANT. The Israelites remembered how God rescued them when they were slaves in Egypt, and He made them HIS OWN PEOPLE.

"Then Moses and the Israelites sand this song to the Lord: "I will sing to to the Lord for He is highly exalted. Both horse and rider He has hurled into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my defense, He has become my salvation. He is my God and I will praise Him. My father's God and I will exalt Him." Exodus 15:1&2 (NIV)

We remember how Jesus sang these songs at the Last Supper with His disciples and under the NEW COVENANT at His death and resurrection - "our central act of redemption", we have been called to remember and to celebrate how Jesus has SET US FREE.

"For I received from the Lord what I first passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said: "This is my body which is for youy; do this in remembrance of Me." In the same way, after supper, He took the cup saying, "This cup is the New Covenant in my blood; do this whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes."

                                                                                                 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (NIV)

"This SONG OF CLIMAX is ONE AND INDIVISABLE. True poetry has reached it's climax, no human mind has been able to equal it; much less excel, the grandeur of this Psalm."                                                                                                                          Charles Spurgeon

GOD BROUGHT ISRAEL OUT OF EGYPT -                         Read Psalm 114:1&2

"When Israel went forth from Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of a foreign language. Judah became God's sanctuary and Israel,  His dominion." Psalm 114:1&2 (NASB)

The Israelites had been in a foreign country for over 400 years. It was never really their home for they "spoke a different language". They were also treated cruelly, like slaves - often beaten because they didn't understand their orders. The emphasis in this passage is that "Israel did not belong in Egypt."

But we know it was God's plan to set them free - to deliver them from these cruel people. The "language of the world" is often difficult for Christians - God's children "who are compelled to hear it in their everyday lives." It is a blessing when we can fellowship with other Christians. 

"The leading TRIBE OF JUDAH represented the whole nation that became God's dwelling place - HIS SANCTUARY. These godly people in His Tabernacle represented GOD'S PRESENCE."

                                                                                                           David Guzik

When they were seperated as a "Tribe of Priests", their motto was: "HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD". Judah was the Lord's "holy people" set apart for His special use. Now, they led the way in the wilderness, SPIRITUALLY and as a ROYAL TRIBE. The nation of Israel were also under GOD'S DOMINION - HE WAS THEIR KING! He wanted them to honour Him as their "Lord and Master - Adonai", not merely their helper or mascot.

"The people were a SHRINE OF DEITY, their camp was ONE GREAT TEMPLE."                                                                                                                                  Charles Spurgeon

When the Lord is present in our Church and in our lives, we need to "accept him as we rule obediently", It is an "honourable priviledge" to be a CHILD OF GOD - ONE OF HIS PEOPLE.

THE PARTING OF SEAS AND THE SKIPPING OF MOUNTAINS - Read Psalm 114:3-6; Exodus 14, 16:19-20;             Joshua 3&4

As in other places of Poetry, the Psalmist describes nature as responding to God in "fear and reverance". In Psalm 114:3 he mentions the PARTING OF THE RED SEA AND THE JORDAN RIVER as the BEGINNING AND END of ISRAEL'S JOURNEY TO THE PROMISED LAND. 

"The Red Sea looked and ran away; the Jordan River turned back." Psalm 114:3 (NCV)

"When the waters divided they simply responded to the AWESOME PRESENCE OF GOD - a BEAUTIFUL POWERFUL PICTURE." David Guzik

"The poet does not sing of natural laws......but to Him the PRESENCE OF GOD with His people is EVERYTHING. In his lofty song he tells how the river was driven back because THE LORD WAS THERE." Charles Spurgeon

In Exodus 14 we read how the people crossed the Red Se with "a wall of water on the right and another on the left". This was the DAY OF DELIVERANCE FOR THE ISRAELITES. Then again in Joshua 3, we read how the Jordan River parted to let the Israelites pass over into the Promised Land. 

"The Lord did this so all the people would know that HE HAS GREAT POWER and so you would always RESPECT THE LORD YOUR GOD." Joshua 4:24 (NCV)

In Psalm 114:4 we read how the mountains and hills "skip like rams and lambs" with strength and joy. They "spring in God's presence" and "tremble in fear and adoration". This probably has something to do with the manifestation of earthquakes, again in GOD'S PRESENCE. Their "skipping" may also be becaus they are HAPPY with the LORD'S DELIVERANCE AND SALVATION. 

"On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled. The Moses led the people out of the camp to meet with God, as they stood at the foot of the mountain. Mt Sinai was covered with smoke because the Lord descended on it in fire. The smoke billowed up from it a furnace, and the whole mountain trembled violently. As the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and the voice of God answered him." Exodus 16:16-19  (NIV)

"Nature recognized His presence and obeyed His will. The sea fled. Jordan was driven back, mountains and hills were moved." G.Campbell Morgan

"God knows we know the answers to the Psalmist's questions and He wants us tio TREMBLE at HIS GREATNESS, when we are assured of HIS PRESENCE IN CREATION." David Guzik

The God of Jacob is exalted as having dominion over RIVERS, SEAS, MOUNTAINS, HILLS and all creation. God has come nearer to us when he assumed the NATURE OF JESUS CHRIST. As we repent of our sins, we receive forgiveness and ACCEPT JESUS AS OUR SAVIOUR. We feel the MIGHTY AWE of BOTH THE FATHER AND THE SON IN OUR MIDST.  

WATER FROM THE ROCK - Read Psalm 114:7&8; Exodus 17

"Tremble earth at the PRESENCE OF THE LORD and at the PRESENCE OF THE GOD OF JACOB." Psalm 114:7 (NLT)

"Let the believer feel that God is near and we will serve the Lord will fear, joy and trembling. The Lord is most reverend when HE IS MOST LOVED." Charles Spurgeon

Not only do the seas, rivers, mountains and hills respect HIS OMNIPOTENCE AND OMNIPRESENCE, but now God give His people water from the rocks to show HIS LOVE AND COMPASSION. 

"The Lord answered Moses: "Go out in front of the people. Take with you some of the elders of Israel and take in your hand the staff with which you struck the Nile, and go. I will stand there beside at the rock at Horeb.  Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink."

So Moses did this in sight of the elders of Israel. And he called this place Masseh and Meribah because the Israelites quarrelled and because they tested the Lord saying, "Is the Lord among us or not?" Exodus 17:5-7

The Israelites not only complained in the wilderness about being hungry, now they were thirsty. Yet again, God was compassionate and caring, meeting their needs. The believer feels GOD IS NEAR not only because "MOUNTAINS MOVE", but "ROCKS YIELD WATER". 

"He turns the rock into a pool, the hard rock into springs of water." Psalm 118:8

CONCLUSION - GOD MEETS OUR PERSONAL NEEDS

Psalm 114 ends, as Psalm 113 does, with a declaration of GOD'S LOVE, COMPASSION AND PROVISION. He CARES FOR OUR PERSONAL NEEDS! When we are thirsty, down, attacked and tempted - GOD CARES!

We need to remember that with Israel's deliverance came A VICTORY and we too have A VICTORY OVER SIN AND DEATH, IN JESUS CHRIST!

"But God raised Him from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to hold Him." Acts 2:24 (NIV)

"But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ, even when we dead in transgression... IT IS BY GRACE YOU HAVE BEEN SAVED."                                                                                                      Ephesians 2:4&5 (NIV)

We can therefore join with the Israelites and the Psalmist with their "Hallelu Psaises". We too have been led out of bondage and guided to the PROMISED LAND, when one day we will have "Heavenly manna" and "water from the rock."

                                              PRAISE THE LORD!

"The Holy Bible - New Century Version", 2005, Thomas Nelson 

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

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

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

GUZIK, David , "Psalm 114 - The Mighty Presence of God Delivers His People from Egypt - The Enduring Word Bible Commentary", 2020, ewm.@enduringword.com

MORGAN, G. Campbell, "Psalm 114 - The Might of the God of Jacob - Exposition on the Whole Bible: Psalms - Book 5", 1947/2023, studylight.org

SPURGEON, Charles. H,  "The Treasury of David: Commentary on Psalms - 7 Volume", 1885/2021, Christianty.com

PSALM 113 - A Psalm or Praise to Our Great and Merciful God

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 113

Psalm 113 is the first of six Psalms, known as the "Egyptian Hallel"; used during the Jewish Passover festival, in remembrance of when the Israelites were freed from Egypt. It is a PSALM OF CELEBRATION, PRAISE AND WORSHIP. 

"We are reminded in Matthew 26, when Jesus was having the Passover Feast (the Last Supper) with his Disciples, that this was important to Him, and before He went to the Garden and was later betrayed by Judas, leading up to his Crucifixian, Jesus probably sang these "Egyptian Hallel" Psalms, specifically this one." David Guzik

"Then they sand a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives." Matthew 26:30 (NLT)

Psalm 113, like previous ones, begins and ends with HALLELUJAHS - PRAISING GOD. In Verses 1-3 we are urged to PRAISE GOD over and over again, throughout our day. Then in Verses 4-6 we are given the REASONS WHY WE PRAISE HIM. Finally, in Verses 7-9, we have an illustration of HIS CARE FOR THE POOR, NEEDY AND MOTHERLESS. 

Although we don't know for sure who exactly wrote this Psalm, David, being a "man after God's own heart" (Acts 13:22), we know that PRAISE AND WORSHIP "permeated his life". As a young shepherd boy, to his time in the Palace as king - as a "mature adult". David continually PRAISED THE LORD, so he may have had something to do with the authorship of Psalm 113. David and Paul both remind us  that we need to WORSHIP and PRAISE THE LORD in every moment of our lives.

"Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)'

PRAISE THE LORD - Read Psalm 1-3

EVERLASTING PRAISE

"Praise the Lord! Praise, O servants of the Lord, Praise the nanme of the Lord! Blessed be the name of the Lord, from this time forth and forevermore! From the rising of the sun to its going down, the Lord's name is to be praised." Psalm 113:1-3 (NKJV)

We need to Praise the Lord EVERYDAY, from MORNING TO NIGHT. We are encouraged to GLORY TO GOD again and again - forever. The NAME OF THE LORD - YAHWEH  - is never unworthy of our praise. It is to be CONTINTUALLY ON OUR LIPS!

As servants of the Lord, like the angels (cherubim) in Heaven, we have a special reason to share in God's work and to always be in His presence - therefore, to ALWAYS SING HIS PRAISES. 

"Each of these living beings had six wings, and their wings were covered all over with eyes, inside and out. Day after day and night after night they keep on saying: "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord Almighty - the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come......You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honour and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased." Revelation 4:8 & 11 (NLT)

Worship and praise is CONTAGIOUS. Through Scripture we read of how people led worship, or took risks with their worship:

* MOSES AND MIRIAM broke out in song when they crossed the Red Sea.

* DANIEL openly worshipped God, even though it meant it could have cost him his life.

* And of course, DAVID, overcome with joy, worshipped and danced before the Lord.

For each of these people, fear of what it might look like did not hold them back, and as a result, nations were led into God's presence. Lives were saved and people came back to God. What risks are you willing to take in your worship and praise? When the Three Wise Men came to worhip Jesus, they "BOWED DOWN" before Him.

"They could hardly contain themselves: they were in the right place! They had arrived at the right time". Matthew 2:9&10 (MSG)

Are you willing to approach Him in this way? Or may you prefer to SING, RAISE YOUR HANDS, CLAP or even DANCE. Maybe you even want to say a QUIET PRAYER. 

"Worship is a heart condition, and it's also what people see in your lives everyday." Tim Gardener

YOUR PRAISE can lift the heaviness of another person's heart, giving them a spirit of hope - just what they need to face the future. YOUR WORSHIP might make the difference between their "pressing on" or their "giving up". God is looking for "true worshippers" who will bless His name. Could this be your song?

TRUE WORSHIPPERS

This was also true of Jesus when he spoke with the Samaritans about their worship. He met with a Samaritan woman at the well, and she asked him if Jerusalem was the only acceptable place to worship the Lord, their Father. Jesus explained that at this moment in time, the Samaritans knew little about the "One they worshipped"; but this would change. She knew that the Messiah would come, and then Jesus introduced Himself as the One she had been waiting for. She then went to share this news with her village, and they came out to meet Him. 

"But the time is coming - indeed it is here now - when TRUE WORSHIPPERS will WORSHIP THE FATHER in SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH. The Father is looking for those who will WORSHIP HIM THAT WAY. For God is the Spirit - so THOSE WHO WORSHIP MUST WORSHIP IN SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH." John 4:23&24 (NLT)

"Then they said to the woman, "Now we believe, not because of what you told us, but because we have heard him ourselves. Now we know that HE INDEED IS THE SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD."

                                                                                                    John 4:42 (NLT)

JESUS CHRIST IS PRAISED

Back in 1734, an unknown German hymnwriter wrote: "When Morning Gilds the Skies". It was then translated into English, so all could enjoy the praises of God's works and so that "Jesus Christ could be praised". The hymnwriter, like David in this Psalm, wanted to remind us that our PRAISES should not be limited to Church Services, but should overflow into our everyday lives - our homes and our workplaces. Whether our surroundings are lovely or gloomy, Jesus Christ and His Father God, ALWAYS DESERVE OUR PRAISES. 

                                     

OUR GREAT & MERCIFUL GOD - Psalm 113:4-6

"The Lord is EXALTED over all the nations, HIS GLORY above the Heavens. Who is like our God, the one who sits enthroned on high, who stoops down to look on the Heavens and the earth."

                                                                                                 Psalm 113:4-6

Our GREAT GOD IS:

* EXALTED AND SUPREME - We need to look up with our eyes of FAITH to see God's glory.

* GLORIOUS ABOVE THE NATIONS - His covenant was with "little Israel" - it was no superpower. Yet their great God was more glorious than any other nation.

* HE SITS ENTHRONED ON HIGH AND RULES FROM HEAVEN - The Throne of His glory is in the Highest Heavens. He cares for His angels in Heaven and His people on earth. 

*HE HUMBLED HIMSELF, BENDING DOWN FROM HEAVEN TO EARTH WITH MERCY AND COMPASSION - Although he exists as a God in heaven, exalted on High, he still cares for us and his creation.

"What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" 

                                                                                                Psalm 8:4 (NIV)

"Look, what is man that You look after Him? Or Son of Man, that You think of Him"

                                                                                                  Psalm 144:3 (NIV)

"We can truly appreciate GOD'S GREATNESS until we accept HIS HUMILITY. Jesus is the perfect expression of God humbling Himself." David Guzik

"And being found in appearance as a man, HE HUMBLED HIMSELF by being obedient to the point of death: death on the cross. For this reason GOD HIGHLY EXALTED HIM and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name." Phiilippians 2:8-10 (NASB)

                                   

GOD'S CARE & COMPASSION - Read 113:7-9

"He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; He seats them with princes, with the princes of His people. He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of her children" Psalm 113:7-9 (NIV)

THE LORD CARES FOR THE POOR AND NEEDY.

We can all praise the Lord because He cares for us, but God has special favour that He shows for the "lowest people"; and not only that, HE RAISES THEM UP.

"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the deathof Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body."

                                                             2 Corinthians 4:8-10 (NIV)

"When no hand but His helps us, He interposes and His work is done. It is worthwhile to be cast down to be divinely rised from the dust." Charles Spurgeon

Jesus sang these words as he was about to be lifted from the dust - from the grave. Jesus knew when He sang this song with disciples that He would face death, but He also knew that He would be resurrected. And because of Jesus's resurrected, we too can be lifted up to the heights of Heaven.

"But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 2:4&6 (NIV)

THE LORD CARES FOR THE CHILDLESS WOMAN

In Bible times, not only was it PAINFUL to be childless, but it was a DISGRACE. For some it was viewed as God's disfavour and punishment.

"Because the Lord had closed Hannah's womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her."

                                                                                                      1 Samuel 1:6  (NIV)

"After his wife Elizabeth became pregnant, she remained in seclusion for five months. "The Lord has done this for me", she said, "In these days He has shown His favour and taken away my disgrace among the people." Luke 1:24&25 (NIV)

"God is above and beyond His creation and yet He's infintely aware of human misery. His love reaches "to the dust", to lift up the poor and needy. Feeling the heartache of a childless wife, God brings joy and respect, instead of disgrace." Pat & Davud Alexander

Our GREAT, EXALTED GOD cares for each of us INDIVIDUALLY! Our MAJESTIC GOD cares for each of us PERSONALLY! That is why God is WORTHY OF OUR PRAISE. 

"In the endless circle of life, let us Bless the Lord, whose mercies never cease."

                                                                               Charles Spurgeon

                                     

Bannister, Elliot B & Hudson, Michael V, "Praise the Lord", Warner Chappell Music

Caswell, Edward & Bridges, Robert S, "When Morning Gilds the Skies", (1734) (1854), Tyndale Publishers

Deming, Paul S, "From the Rising of the Sun" (1974), Integrity Hosanna Music

Paris, Twila & Smith, Michael W, "He is Exalted/Great is the Lord", (1989) (1982), Straightway Music, Meadowgreen Music

"International Children's Bible" (2015) Tommy Nelson Publishers

"New American Standard Bible", (2020) www.lockman.org

"New Century Version - Devorional Bible" - "Experience the Heart of Jesus",  Max Lucado (2003) Thomas Nelsom

"The Holy Bible - New International Version" (2011), Biblica

"The Holy Bible - New King James Version" (1982) Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation" (2015) Tyndale House Publishers

"The Message" - Eugene.H.Peterson (2002) NavPress Publishing

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook of the Bible - 4th Edition" 2009, Lion Hudson Publishers.

Gardener, Tim, "Christmas Journeys - The Wise Men" , 2022, Rouse Hill C3 Church.

Garmin, John, "Lifestyle Worship" 1993, Thomas Nelson

Guzik, David, "Psalm 113 - Praise the Lord - Who Lifts the Lowly", 2021, Enduringword.com

Peterson, William J & Arthe, "The Complete Book of Hymns - Inspiring Stories of 600 Hymns and Praise Songs", 2006, Tyndale Publishers

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

Terry, Lindsay, "Sacrifice of Praise - Stories of the Greatest Praise and Worship Songs.", 2002, Thomas Nelson

PSALM 112: LIVING LIKE JESUS

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 112

Psalm 112 is a COMPANION to Psalm 111. It is not only an ACROSTIC PSALM of the "same length", with "identical stanzas" and "similar phrases"; but as Psalm 111 talks about the GREATNESS OF GOD's WORKS and HIS WORDS, Psalm 112, goes on to share with us about JESUS CHRIST - HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE - and how WE TOO CAN LIVE LIKE HIM. 

"Before these prayers are given to us to pray, they are about Jesus Christ. This is the voice we hear when we read these Psalms. JESUS IS THE MAIN CHARACTER WE ENCOUNTER when we read them and David makes them His own and encourages us to the same." Dietrech Boenhoeffer

When we pray these Psalms after David we pray them with and through Jesus. According to Wesley Hill, an Anglican Priest and Professor, Psalm 112 is "also a prayer of innocence" which is hard to pray when we feel we don't "measure up to righteousness" and deserve God's blessing. But Jesus is the ultimate "BLESSED MAN" - GRACIOUS, FULL OF COMPASSION, JUST AND FAIR; with NEVER ENDING RIGHTEOUSNESS. Because He has made us "ONE WITH HIMSELF", we are not only "permitted to pray this Psalm, but we are commanded to". 

Jesus became our SANCTIFICATION, as in Psalm 111, we discovered, that like His Father,  He is our REDEEMER and SAVIOUR. These Psalms of Innocence give us the JOY AND FREEDOM to hold our heads high, "to not give in to the enemy" but to proclaim to others that we can LIVE OUR LIVES WITH AND LIKE JESUS.

"Therefore, there is NO CONDEMNATION for those who are IN CHRIST JESUS, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit  who gives life has SET YOU FREE from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:1

LIKE JESUS WE ARE RIGHTEOUS IN PRAISE -             Read    Psalm 112:1; 111:10

Psalm 111 tells us WHO GOD IS:

* GLORIOUS AND MAJESTIC.

* RIGHTEOUS AND JUST.

* GRACIOUS AND MERCIFUL.

* FAITHFUL AND GOOD.

And WHAT HE HAS DONE FOR US:

* HE IS OUR CREATOR.

* HE IS OUR PROVIDOR.

* HE IS OUR SAVIOUR and REDEEMER. 

Without the God of Psalm 111, we cannot have the the Jesus, unified in us as His reflection. 

Psalm 111 also ends with a reminder thay our WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING begins with a "FEAR OF THE LORD" and an "OBEDIENCE TO HIS WORD", and to "Him belong ETERNAL PRAISE."

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. And to Him belong eternal praise." Psalm 111:10

Psalm 12 begins with PRAISE, REVERENCE AND OBEDIENCE. If we want to put GOD FIRST IN OUR LIVES and receive His blessing, we need to "fear the Lord" and draw near to Him in awe and reverence.  By putting our faith in God and alligning ourselves with His will, we need to truly live as Jesus lived. 

Jesus was truly a man who "feared the Lord" and took pleasure in His Father's Words - not just a delight in His commandments, but a joyful obedience and love for God's Word.  We too need to have a true desire to put God's Word into practice, as Jesus did.

"Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in His commands."

                                                                                                                Psalm 112:1 (NIV)

"So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accepot the Word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save souls. But don't just LISTEN TO GOD'S WORD, YOU MUST DO WHAT IT SAYS. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves."  James 1:21-22  (NLT)

JESUS' HOUSE OF THE RIGHTEOUS WILL BE BLESSED -  Read Psalm 112:2&3; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Ephesians 1:3-11

"It is a characteristic of the FAITH OF A CHRISTIAN, that through GOD'S GRACE, he/she has been entirely justified." Dietrech Boenhoeffer

Jesus said the CHILDREN OF GOD will be mighty and upright, blessed by His Father; if they continue to follow His ways. Because we are UNITED IN CHRIST and endeavour to LIVE RIGHTEOUS LIVES, we can pass this blessing on the members of our family. This is a PRECIOUS GIFT and something we hope we can delight in.

"Their children will be mighty in th land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are ub their houses and their RIGHTEOUSNESS ENDURES FOREVER." Psalm 112:2&3

"Happy are those who OBEY GOD and CARE FOR OTHERS. Their reward is sure." 

                                                                        Pat & David Alexander

Verse 3 talks about WEALTH AND RICHES - but are these MATERIAL OR SPIRITUAL? Most commentaries talk about both:

MATERIALISM

Godliness doesn't necessarily lead to financial gain, as Paul reminds his friend Timothy; but if we use our monetary blessings wisely, rather on selfish or worthless pursuits,  we will find our "generations will be blessed."

"For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." 1 Timothy 6:10 (NLT)

"GIVE FREELY AND BECOME MORE WEALTHY; be stingy and lose everything."

                                                                                        Probverbs 11:24(NLT)

"Prosperity does not destroy holiness or humility of the heart. His character stands the test of examination, overcomes the temptations of wealth, outlives the afflictions of time and endures the trials of the last day." Charles Spurgeon

SPIRITUAL RICHES

"If we understand this passage spiritually - what wealth can equal the LOVE OF GOD? What riches can rival a CONTENTED HEART? The heart whiuch is cheered with the favour of Heaven are rich to all the intents of bliss." Charles Spurgeon

"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world and we can take nothing out of it." 1 Timothy 6:6&7

The RICHES OF GOD'S KINGDOM:

* don't coprrupt or fade.

* can't be stolen or squandered.

* can't be seen but "shine brightly"

* don't get measured, but "weigh more than an anchor."

* give us strength to hold fast.

* cast us into the life of Jesus Christ Himself.

"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the RICHES OF GOD'S GRACE........In Him, we are also chosen, haviug been predestined according to the plan of Hinm who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will." Ephesians 1:7&11 (NIV)

THE RIGHTEOUS' SIGHT IS CLEAR TO JESUS CHRIST - Read Psalm 112:4

"Even in the darkness, LIGHT SHINES for THOSE WHONARE UPRIGHT, for THOSE WHO ARE GRACIOUS, COMPASSIONATE AND RIGHTEOUS." Psalm 112:4 (NIV)

Darkness is all around us - CONFUSION, SORROW, GRIEF and SIN - in the world, from others who are against us, or simply our own. But God said, "Let there be light". Sometimes, all we see is a difficult situation, but God promised that LIGHT WOULD DAWN! God's word is our LAMP and along with the Holy Spirit and Jesus, His Son, who we know as the "LIGHT OF THE WORLD". 

"Your WORD IS A LAMP to my feet and A LIGHT to my path."Psalm 111:105 (NIV)

"The TRUE LIGHT that gives LIGHT to everyone was coming into the world." John 1:9 (NIV)

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the LIGHT OF LIFE." John 8:12 (NIV)

Daily prayer to God and asking for His light. Jesus light shines in HIS GRACE, HIS COMPASSION and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS. We too can have this light in us, so we can be a light in our dark world.

"YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE BEFORE OTHERS,  that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven." Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)

LIKE JESUS' HANDS WE RIGHTEOUS ARE GENEROUS - Read Psalm 112:5&9; 2 Corinthians 9:6-9; Matthew 25:35-40

"Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.....THey have freely scattered their gifts to the poor,  their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted in honour." Psalm 112:5&9 (NIV)

"These same words are used of His servant: thus we are taught that when the Lord makes a man upright, He makes him like Himself. We are created anew in Christ Jesus  - GRACIOUS, COURTEOUS , FORGIVING, having KIND AND COMPASSION for the needy." 

                                                                                    Charles Spurgeon. 

Jesus is a good man - decent and generous, just and fair. He teaches us to give to those who are need. His head will be lifted high in honour when He sits at His Father's right hand in Heaven. He encourages us to be generous, just and fair in our dealings with people. There is a temptation to abuse our power and refuse to lend to the poor - and simply be selfish. But we want to remember, that we want to LIVE LIKE JESUS, who distributed freely to the needs of others, and we will be wise in our generosity. Jesus and Paul both remind us:

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to look after me."  Then the righteous will answer Him: "When did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?" The King will reply: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:35-40  (NIV)

"Each of  you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all thing, at all times, having all that you need, YOU WILL ABOUND IN EVERY GOOD WORK. As it is written: "The have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever." 2 Corinthians 9:7-9  (NIV)

"Kindness, benevolence and generosity are essential to the perfect character; to be strictly JUST is not enough, for GOD IS LOVE and we must LOVE OUR NEIGHBOURS AS OURSELVES. We must act on the same PRINCIPLES OF GRACE which reign in the heart of God."

                                                                                 Charles Spurgeon

You too will be filled with honour, as Jesus was by His Father, with personal strength and righteousness, if you have a joyous endeavour to give yourself TO HIM and to LIVE LIKE HIM. 

JESUS GIVES THE RIGHTEOUS A BOLD HEART LIKE HIS - Read 112:6-8; Romans 8:18-39

"God's people have their full share of trouble, but they are given the resources to meet their needs. They can withstand 'life's hard knocks' - they are SECURE AND COURAGEOUS."

                                                                                            Pat & David Alexander

WHY IS THIS SO?

1) BECAUSE THEY TRUST IN GOD

"They have no fear in bad news; their hearts are steadfast, TRUSTING IN THE LORD."                  

                                                                                                     Psalm 112:7 (NIV)

"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  (NKJV)

Recently I posted this verse on my FACEBOOK page, to remind myself and others, that GOD WAS IN CONTROL of my life. MANY PEOPLE AGREED WITH ME! 

Life is full of bad news, bud we need to remind ourselves of these verses, and others like them, so that we can always remember that we are in God's thoughts and that He is in ours. He has a plan for our future and we don't need to fear it.

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a FUTURE AND A HOPE."   Jeremiah 29:15 (NIV)

"The righteous will NOT BE MOVED. Stable people are going to END THE RACE. If we have hope, as believers, we will ENJOY HIS PRESENCE." Paul Le Boutillier

"We are neither fickle or cowardly. When we are undecided as to our course, we are still fixed in oiur hearts. We pay change our plans, but never the purposes of our souls." Charles Spurgeon.

This Psalm is describing something we can be if we TRUST IN THE LORD - we can have STRENGTH AND COURAGE in the Lord, and remember that God works through all things. 

2. WE WILL BE LIKE JESUS

Jesus is strong and will never shift His heart. He is fixed on His Father and He does not fear the wicked. He triumphed over His persecutors and over death, when HE ROSE FROM THE GRAVE.

We are a reflection of Jesus' character and we will NEVER BE SHAKEN - our hearts, if kept like the Son of God's; will want TRIUMPH over our enemies. 

"Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear, and in the end theu will triumph over their enemies." Psalm 112

"For I consider that the suffering of this present time are not worth to be compared with glory that should be revealed to us.....And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose......Yet in all these things are more than conquerors, through Him who loved us." Romans 8:18, 28, 37 (NKJV)

In each of the comentators I read or preachers I watched online, I was touched by their stories of courage and strength - through illness, or struggles; but most of all I was touched by their FAITH IN CHRIST, their desire to TRIUMPH over "enemies" - their many temptations. They desired to become JUST LIKE JESUS in their daily lives and shine for Him, so others would want to come to know Jesus Christ and to LIVE LIKE HIM. 

CONCLUSION - MAKE A CHOICE - Read Psalm 112:10; Isaiah 53:3-8; Luke 9:23-25; John 19

"The wicked will see and be infuriated. They will grind their teeth in anger; they will slink away, their hopes thwarted." Psalm 112:10

This doesn't sound like a wonderful way to end a Psalm - they are usually ended with PRAISE; especially when we think about the HOPE we have LIVING WITH and LIKE JESUS. But if we DON'T FOLLOW HIM , your life is filled with FEAR AND ANGER, because "all your hopes are dwindled." This was the case with the Children of Israel when they saw who they hoped to be their MESSIAH - their KING OF THE JEWS - crucified before their eyes. 

"He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of Sorrows and acquianted with grief. And WE HID OUR FACES FROM HIM; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely He has borne our grief and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God and afflicted. Burt He was wounded for our transgessions; He was bruised for our inuities; the chastisememt for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:5 (NKJV)

"So then Pilate too Jesus and scourged Him. And the soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and they put on Him a purple robe. Then they said: "HAIL, THE KING OF THE JEWS!"And they struck Him with their hands......Therefore, when the Chief Priest and Officers saw Him, they cried out saying, "CRUCIFY HIM! CRUCIFY HIM!".........And He bearing Hios Cross, went out to the place called the Place of the Skull, which is called in Hebrew, Golgotha, and they CRUCIFIED HIM......Now Pilate wrote a Title and put it on the cross, "JESUS OF NAZARETH, KING OF THE JEWS'" John 9:1-3, 6, 17, 19.  (NKJV)

Later we see how Jesus ROSE FROM THE DEAD, and at his SECOND COMING, the wicked will "melt away" and "come to nothing". Why? Because they have not honoured the Lord and obeyed Him, LIVING A RIGHTEOUS LIFE. They have ONLY FOLLOWED THEIR OWN WAYS, and when this happens, it can only lead to DISASTER. 

"The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do what is right." 

                                                                               Proverbs 21:7  (NIV)

"For what will profit a man, if he gains the whole world but loses his soul." Mark 8:36  (NKJV)

SO, WE HAVE A CHOICE!

We can live a life of PRAISE, HONOUR AND OBEDIENCE to the Lord. We can FOLLLOW JESUS AND LIVE LIKE HIM:

* AN HONOURED LIVE.

* A BEAUTIFUL LIFE.

* A BLESSED LIFE.  

"Praise the Lord! Happy are those who respect the Lord, who want what He commands." 

                                                                                              Psalm 112:1 (NCV)

Or we can live a life of FEAR, ANGER AND SELFISHNESS. We can RUN AWAY FROM GOD AND HIS SON JESUS and live:

* AN ANGRY LIFE.

* AN EMPTY LIFE.

* A DREAMLESS LIFE.

"The wicked will see this and become ANGRY; they will grind their teeth in ANGER and then DISAPPEAR. The WISHES OF THE WICKED WILL COME TO NOTHING." 

                                                                                      Psalm 112:10 (NCV)

I thinkj I know which life I will chose. Do you? 

"Then He said, "If any of you wants to become my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. I tell you the truth, some standing here will not die before they see the Kingdom of God." Luke 9:23&24 (NLT)

Sammis,  John H, Moen, Don (1886,2020), "Trust & Obey", Hymns of Hope, You Tube

"Holy Bible - New Century Version" (2005) Thomas Nelson

"Holy Bible - New International Version" (2011) Biblica

"Holy Bible - New King James Version" (1982) Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation" (2015) Tyndale House Publishers

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible - 4th Edition", (2000) Lion Hudson Publishers.

Boenhoeffer, Diedrich; Burtness, James H. (1952/2022) "The Prayer Book of the Bible - Psalms", Broadleaf Books

Spurgeon, Charles, (1885, 2022), "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms", Christianity.com

Collier, Pastor Brenton, "Psalm 112 - The Marks of a Righteous Life", (2020) Calvary Church, Monterey, You Tube

Guzik, David,  "Psalm 112 - The Blessings Upon Those who Fea the Lord." (2020) Enduringword.com

Hill, Reverend Wesley, "Psalm 112 - A Psalm of Innocence" (2019) Wheaton College, You Tube

Le Boutillier, Pastor Paul, "Psalm 112 - Psalm 112 - The Heart of a God Centred Life.", (2022) Calgary Chapel, Ontario, You Tube