PSALM 142 - David's Prayer From a Cave

 INTRODUCTION - Psalm 142, Psalm 57; 1 Samuel 22&23

David endured a lot of hardship while he waited to be anointed King. Yet he still trusted in the Lord each step of the way. David fled into Israelite country, after he had been in Gath with the Philistines. In Gath he had acted like an "epileptic", because he wanted to be thrown out of town. Yet, after they did this, he had no where else to go. He was still on the run from Saul, so he couldn't go back into the palace in Jerusalem.  So he found REFUGE IN A CAVE!

"Sure he went "wacko" for a couple of days, but later in the Cave of Adallom he gathers himself together. The faithful shepherd boy surfaces again. The giant killer rediscovers his courage. He had no where to lay his head, but at least "he kept it" Max Lucado

In the Cave at Adallom, DAVID CRIES OUT TO THE LORD. He knew God was his ONLY REFUGE. He returns his focus onto God, and in this Psalm, like Psalm 54, we find David as a "wilderness survivor". Wherever this cave was, specifically - probably in the wilderness of Bethlehem - we know in it, DAVID FELT SAFE from his pursuers.

"Several years had passed since he first fled from Saul, and the effect on David's spiritual nature was a deepening of hos unconditional dependence on God." Alexander McLaren

"Hear  my prayer God, listen to what I say. Strangers turn against me, and cruel people want to kill me. They do not care about God.  Selah! See, GOD WILL HELP ME; THE LORD WILL SUPPORT ME."                                                                                  Psalm 54:2-4 (NCV)

"Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I TAKE REFUGE. I will TAKE REFUGE in the SHADOW OF YOUR WINGS, until the disaster has passed." Psalm 51:1 (NIV)

David cried out for HELP AND MERCY, like he had done many times before, but he also wanted to CELEBRATE and "praise the Lord in public." He wanted to share his faith with others, so they too would be "showered with God's blessings." He knew he would eventually become their king. 

This is also a PRAYER OF CELEBRATION. Although David was, at first, alone in this cave, he was later joined by family and other desperate men who wanted to support him. These 400 men, we believe, may have been soldiers. They were "wild and tough", and were encouraged by DAVID'S WORDS AND ACTIONS. 

This was a Psalm of Instruction (a Maskel), because of "the lessons David learnt himself in the save.", as he PRAYED TO THE LORD, and DESIRED TO TEACH OTHERS. 

"David left Gath and escaped to the Cave at Adullam. When his brothers and his father's household heard about it, they went down to him there. All those who were in distress or in debt, gathered around him, and he became their commander. About 400 men were with him."                                                                                                     1 Samuel 22:1-2 (NIV)

"David longed to PRAISE GOD for answering his prayers. He promised that when God rescued him, he would continue to WORSHIP HIM. He will gather his men together and CELEBRATE GOD'S GOODNESS. It is important to celebrate our answered prayers, because this INCREASES OUR FAITH and LOVE OF GOD." Nicky Gumbel

GIVING OUR NEEDS TO GOD -  Read Psalm 142:1&2,                                                                                Philippians 4:4-9

"Who hasn't struggled with demoralizing seasons of darkness? We all suffer from grief and sorrow from time to time, but DEPRESSION is a different matter altogether..... DEPRESSION  has been described as a "black hole", an "abysmal cave", which includes discouraging feelings that refuse to go away. Yet, it is much deep and complicated, lasting longer than just despondency.  Depression is a feeling of listlessness and discouragement, and is much more serious." Charles Swindoll

"I CRY OUT TO THE LORD. I plea for the LORD'S MERCY. I pour out MY COMPLAINTS and and tell Him ALL MY TROUBLES." Psalm 142:1&2 (NLT)

There are 4 important parts of these opening verses:

1. David writes this MASKIL to give him insight into how to handle times of OVERWHELMING DEPRESSION. For David, "the beginning and end of his troubles" could only be helped by "pouring out his laments to God". Pour out our  "troubled thoughts" - BRING THEM TO THE LORD. 

2. David was TROUBLED BY HIS CIRCUMSTANCES. , yet he called out his heart and soul to the Lord. He encourages us to never hold back "our complaint and cares" - our "our supplications". His prayers were not just "silent emotion", which often lead to FURTHER ANXIETY. The Lord needs to HEAR OUR VOICE. 

"You can cry out to the Lord  with THOUGHTS, FEELINGS and ACTIONS, but David cried out to the Lord with HIS VOICE." David Guzik

3. David was in a cave - ALONE AND DESOLATE. We don't know know exactly which cave this was. He spent a lot of time in the CAVE OF ENGEDI and the CAVE OF ADULLAM, but it was more than likely the latter one.

"Caves make good CLOSETS FOR PRAYER; their gloom and solitude are helpful for the EXERCISE OF DEVOTION. If David had prayed as much in his palace as he did in the caves, he may never have fallen into the acts which brought him such misery." Charles Spurgeon

4. David's cry was more than just ASKING FOR HELP, it was an "ALLEGIANCE TO YAHWEH". It was actually a PRAYER and nothing held him back! He comes FACE TO FACE WITH GOF, and was 'TOTALLY HONEST". 

"TWICE he calls to the Lord, and TWICE he brings to Him his complaints.....From the interior of the cave David "thunders out his pitiful needs and heartrending groans....He felt  WORTHLESS and completely DEPRESSED. He needed to feel NEEDED and NECESSARY." Charles Swindoll

Sometimes we feel this way, we "hit rock bottom" and our "self image is shot". God longs to HEAR OUR PRAYERS. Express your THOUGHT AND WORRIES - don't worry HE'S HEARD WORSE.

" Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation,  BY PRAYER AND PETITION , WITH THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. And the PEACE OF GOD which transcends all understanding, will GUARD YOUR HEARTS IN CHRIST JESUS." Philippians 4:6&7 (NIV)

GOD IS MY REFUGE - Read Psalm 142:3-5; 1 Samuel 22:1&2

"When my spirit grows faith within me, it is YOU WHO WATCH OVER MY WAY.   In the PATH WHERE I WALKED,  people have hidden a snare for me." Psalm 142:3 (NIV)

David was "swallowed up in struggles", but he had GREAT ENCOURAGEMENT, knowing that GOD HAD A PLAN FOR HIS LIFE - God knew HIS JOURNEY AND HIS PATH - even though at this stage, he couldn't see it for himself. David knew that God knew the "snares" that were set before Him and He depended on God TO SAVE HIM.

"Traps were laid by Saul and his men. Spies were everywhere. He was a marked man. I used to wonder why we ever needed to utter words in prayer, since already GOD KNOWS EVERYTHING .....In the middle of confessing his darkest thought, David acknowledges that GOD KNOWS EVERYTHING, even the THOUGHTS AND EMOTIONS he had not shared with anyone else." Charles Swindoll

We throw that we too have problems and difficulties (our snares and traps), the CHALLENGES that we have ahead of us. We know that GOD CARES FOR US, just as did David, and even though people may forsake us, we know we can COMETO GOD and FIND REGUFE AND STRENGTH. We can TRUST  our powerful God, for HE IS ON OUR SIDE. We don't have to face the bad times ALONE. Many times it seemed that David had no inheritance, but God was his "PORTION". He wanted to be victorious in the land of the living.

"Find REFUGE IN GOD'S PRESENCE. Find COMFORT IN GOD'S PEOPLE." Max Lucado

"Look at the right and see; for there is no one who regards me. There is no escape for me; no one who cares directly for my soul. I cried out to the Lord, I said: "YOU ARE MY REFUGE AND MY PORTION in the land of the living." Psalm 142:4&5  (NASB)

David expressed his loneliness and his fears, but also HIS TRUST IN GOD. Surrounded by Saul and his enemies, David knew that God knew everything about his situation. David knew that GOD WOULD NEVER ABANDON HIM. David's prayer "reflects a man" who would not let his feelings CUT HIM OFF FROM THE LORD and the HELP HE WAS PROMISED. 

Later he would be surrounded by a group of "righteous people". He was reminded of this when his family and a group of "discontented people gathered around him". He would later be joined by an army of 400 men. 

"David escaped Gath and escaped  to the Cave of Adullam. When his brothers and his father's household heard about it, they went down to him there. All those who were distressed, in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander. And 400 men were with him."                                                                                                    1 Samuel 22:1-2 (NASB)

"We are not alone in our struggles. God has surrounded us with a A COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE to LOVE AND SUPPORT US. We can choose to find COMFORT AND STRENGTH in or relationship with Him and other believers."Cindy Tutch

GOD GIVES FREEDOM AND SAFETY -                                     Read Psalm 142:6&7

"Set me FREE from my prison, that I may PRAISE YOUR NAME. Then the righteous will gather around me, because of YOUR GOODNESS." Psalm 142:6 (NIV)

David's prayer ends with a "CRY OF DELIVERANCE" - confidence that the LORD WOULD ANSWERE HIM. David understood his weakness, but he also knew that GOD WOULD STRENGTHEN HIM. As David has told us his troubles, he has highlighted two things:

1. HE FEELS LIKE A FUGITIVE AND A PRISONER.

2. HE LONGS TO BE FREE AND SAFE.

There ware times we feel this same way, and it is "human nature" to dwell on our difficulties, in a "spirit of despair". Like David we can feel isolated and trapped, but when we share our troubles with the Lord, our FREEDOM can lead to "CELEBRATION AND PRAISE". Hopefully, as David did, WE CAN SHARE OUR FAITH WITH OTHERS.

"Looking into the future, David declares, "The righteous will surround me and deal bountifully with me." Psalm 142:7 (NIV)

"David wanted to teach the desperate men who were with him , to seek HELP FROM GOD. like he was doing." David Guzik

What FAITH David had! He was looking forward and claiming VICTORY! He knew that they would be asking him to be king - as a leader over God's people. Because we TRUST IN GOD in the difficult days, HE STRENGTHENED US TO BE HIS SERVICE. We can "REST IN ASSURANCE" that God will heal us physically, emotionally and spiritually. 

'Now David was to be king over Israel. What was the way to Jerusalem for David? What was the way to the throne? Well, it was round by the way of Cave Adallum." Charles Spurgeon

"Those who emerge with emotional stability and inner strength - those are the ones who can MINISTER TO OTHERS." Charles Swindoll

CONCLUSION - Read Psalm 142, Psalm 34; Romans 8:8-32

David began his song with COMPLAINTS, but ended it with CONDIFENCE and TRUST, PRAISE and CELEBRATION. David began with a sense of ISOLATION, bur ends it with COMPANIONSHIP AND SUPPORT. David began in PRAYER and WEAKNESS, but closes with the knowledge of GOD'S GOODNESS, leading to a BOUNTIFUL BLESSING.

"Taste and see that the LORD IS GOOD; blessed is he who TAKES REFUGE IN HIM."                                                                                                                  Psalm 34:8 (NIV)

David out cried out to the Lord with his troubles, and the Lord had HEARD HIS CRIES, and DELIVED HIM from his troubles. The Lord will do the same for us, IF WE SEEK HIS PRESENCE.  In the "cave of depression" PRAY TO THE LORD and hold nothing back. Tell Him all your troubles and TRUST AND RELY ON HIM, ALWAYS! Stand firm in YOUR FAITH! Remember the CAVE may "seem endless", but it is part of "HIS  DIVINE PLAN".

"The righteous cry out and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from their troubles. The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:17&&18 (NIV)

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us.....And we know that in all things, GOD WORKS FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE LOVE HIM, and have been CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE." Romans 8:18&28 (NIV)

"The Holy Bible - New American Standard Bible" , 1995, The Lockman Foundation

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

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

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

GUMBEL, Nicky and Pippa, "The Bible - Classic Version", Alpha, You Version.

GUZIK, David, "Psalm 142 - My Only Refuge - Enduring Word Commentary", www.enduringword.com

LUCADO, Max, "Facing the Giants - God Still Does the Impossible," 2006, Thomas Nelson

MACLAREN, Andrew, "The Life of David Reflected in the Psalms", 1888, Houder & Stoughton

SPURGEON, Charles, "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms - Volume 6", 1885, Logos Research System Inc.

SWINDOLL, Charles, "Living the Psalms - Encouragement for the Daily Grind.", 2012, Worthy Publishers

TUTCH, Cindy, "Believe His Prophets - Daily Bible Readings", 2023, www.revivalreformation.com

PSALM 141 - GOD'S PUN ISHMENT AND REBUKE

INTRODUCTION -  Read Psalm 141; 1 Samuel 26; Hebrews 12,

                                                

                                                   Revelation 3:7-22

No one ever enjoys being REBUKED AND PUNISHED when we do something wrong, but we can LEARN SO MUCH - especially that GOD CARES FOR US. David, when writing this Psalm regards discipline and rebuke as a KINDNESS, and we need to continually LIFT OUR PRAYERS UP TO THE LORD. 

"Let a RIGHTEOUS (godly) MAN strike me - it is a KINDNESS; If they correct (rebuke) me, that is SOOTHING MEDICINE (oil on my head). Don't let me refuse it, for my PRAYER is still against evildoers (the wicked) and their deeds." Psalm 141:5 (NIV/NLT)

"God's discipline is always GOOD FOR US, that we might share is in HIS HOLINESS. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening! But afterward, there will be a PEACEFUL HARVEST OF RIGHT LIVING for those who are trained in this way." Hebrews 12:10-11 (NLT)

"As we go through the REFINER'S FIRE, it is in the form of DISCIPLINE. He wants us to be EARNEST AND REPENT." Nicky Gumbel

When Jesus allows us to go through rebuke and discipline, it is because HE LOVES US. John writes some messages from Jesus to the Early Churches, reminding them, that even though they may often fail, we still have HIS ENCOURAGEMENT. 

"Look, I will force those who belong to Satan's synagogue...... to come and bow down at your feet. I will acknowledge that you are the ONES I LOVE." Revelation 3:9 (NLT)

How do we respond to these challenges:

* BY MAKING THE MOST OF EVEVY SITUATION. Doors may "open and shut", but we, like the Christians in Philadelphia, need to "endure patiently". Jesus promises to be with us always, through all trials.

"Because you have obeyed my command to PERSEVERE, I will protect you from a great TIME OF TESTING, that will come on the whole world." Revelation 3:10a (NLT)

* OPEN YOUR HEART TO JESUS. Like the Christians in Laodicea, we are not to be "lukewarm" in our faith, or "spiritually poor". Jesus wants us to go through the "open door" and to have a meal with Him.

"Here I am, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and OPENS THE DOOR, I will come in and EAT WITH THAT PERSON, and THEY WITH ME." Revelation 3:20 (NIV)

David wrote this Psalm (prayer) to show how he was dealing with the sin and evil in his life. David promised David, as He does us, that we can cast all our anxities (troubles) on Him.

"Cast your burden on the Lord and He will sustain you. He will never permit the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22 (NIV)

WORSHIP AND PRAISE THE LORD - Read Psalm 141:1&2

"Lord, I lift up my hands and my voice IN WORSHIP. I FIX MY EYES UPON YOU. Set a guard over my mouth and lips and keep my heart from evil."  Nicky Gumbel

"May my prayer be set before You like INCENSE, may the lifting of my hands be like an evening sacrifice." Psalm 14:2 (NIV)

When a child cries out to his father, he HEARS HIM, just as the LORD HEARS US as we "lift our hands" and voices to him in PRAISE AND WORSHIP. The lifting of our hands symbolizes the whole "opening of our body to God". 

"Prayer RISES TO HEAVEN like incense. Prayer PLEASES GOD as incense has a pleasing smell. Prayer NEEDS FIRE TO BE EFFECTIVE, as does incense." David Guzik

David wrote this Psalm in a cave, when a fugitive from Saul. The incense was used for his evening sacrifice and WORSHIP, when he couldn't go to the Tabernacle in Jerusalem. INCENSE connected to WORSHIP needs to be "pure and prepared", as prayers are offered to God. 

"Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls FULL OF INCENSE, which are the PRAYERS OF GOD'S PEOPLE.... worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered - to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength, and HONOUR AND GLORY AND BLESSING."                                                                                            Revelation 5:8b&12 (NLT)

COMMITTMENT TO RIGHTEOUSNESS -                          Read Psalm 141:3-7, Matthew 5:3-16; 1 Samuel 26

"Therefore, confess your sins to each other and PRAY FOR EACH OTHER so that you may be healed. The PRAYER OF A RIGHTEOUS PERSON is powerful and effective." James 5:16 (NLT)

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for RIGHTEOUSNESS, for they will be filled."                                                                                                         Matthew 5:6 (NIV)

Our commitment to righteousness is seen in the WAY WE LIVE - our integrity with words and actions, the correction that comes as "soothing medicine' and our leadership which is in God's hands.

1. INTEGRITY SHOWN IN OUR WORDS AND ACTIONS

"Set a guard over my MOUTH, Lord. Keep watch over the door of my LIPS. Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil." Psalm 141:3 (NIV)

David didn't want the MOUTH used in worship, to be for sinful words (lying, bad language, complaints). He asks God to 'GUARD HIS MOUTH AND WATCH OVER HIS LIPS". When ever we speak to people or perhaps share with them, with the preaching of a sermon, it is important that we pray for the Lord's blessing over our words.

David also didn't want his HEART to be affected by the evil around him. He didn't to be filled with a vengeful spirit. He did not want to follow people "iniquity". When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, He told them: "Do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil." We too need to make sure our hearts and thoughts are not drawn into evil. Our actions need to "become our habits", and these become a "righteous character". The Holy Spirit helps us develop these righteous ways.

"But seek first His Kingdom and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, and all these things will be given to you too." Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

2. CORRECTION COMES AS SOOTHING MEDICINE.

"Let the godly strike me! It will be A KINDNESS! If they correct me, it is SOOTHING MEDICINE. Don't let me refuse it. But I pray constantly against the wicked and their deeds." Psalm 141:5 (NLT) 

"Blessed is the one whom God corrects; do not despise the discipline of the Almighty."                                                                                                          Job 5:17 (NKJV)

David was willing to accept the "righteous (godly)" correction from the Lord, for it was HEALING AND HELPFUL, "as oil in the head" - soothing medicine. He would accept the kind rebuke from a friend, like Jonathon, and he prayed constantantly for his enemy Saul. He too would rebuke him in kindness.

"David answered Saul: "Let the young men come over and get your sword. The Lord rewards everyone for their RIGHTEOUSNESS AND FAITHFULNESS. The Lord delivered you into my hands today, but I would not lay a hand on the LORD'S ANOINTED. As surely as I value your life today, so may the Lord value my life and deliver me from my trouble." 1 Samuel 26:22-24 (NIV)

"As many as I love, I REBUKE AND CHASTEN. Therefore, be zealous and REPENT."                                                                                                                   Revelation 3:19 (NKJV)

3. LEADERSHIP IN GOD'S HANDS

"When their leaders have been thrown down a cliff, the wicked will listen to my words." 

                                                     Psalm 141:6 (NLT)

The meaning of this verse - having "judges and leaders" thrown over a cliff, is unsure. David could have been talking about King Saul, his chief enemy. Over his years of wandering, David had learnt  about TRUSTING AND WAITING ON THE LORD. He knew that one day he would be a King - the leader of God's people. Yet, unlike King Saul, who was indeed, "the Lord's anointed one." and had fallen away in his service of the Lord, David had developed a "true integrity" when it came to sin and forgiveness - living a life worthy of His Father God. HE WAS INDEED THE LORD'S ANOINTED ONE. 

"Then Saul said: "I have sinned. Come back David, my son. Because you considered my life precious today, I will not try to harm you again. Surely I have acted like a fool and have been terribly wrong. Here is the king's spear .........May you be blessed, David, my son; you will do great things and SURELY TRIUMPH". So David went away and Saul returned home." 1 Samuel 26:21&25 (NIV)

TRUST IN THE LORD - Read Psalm 141:8-10;                               1 Samuel 26:9-11;  Hebrews 12:1&2

"But my eyes are fixed on the SOVEREIGN LORD. HELP ME TO TRUSY IN  YOU (my refuge). Keep me safe from the traps set by evildoers, from the snares they lead for me. Let the wicked fall into their own nets. LET ME PASS BY SAFELY." Psalm 141:8-10 (NIV/NLT/CEV)

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a such a great cloud of witnesses. and let us throw off EVERYTHING THAT HINDERS and the SIN THAT SO EASILY ENTANGLES. Let us run with PERSERENCE the race that is marked for us, FIXING OUR EYES IN JESUS, the pioneer and perfecter of OUR FAITH." Hebrews 12:1&2

We are urged to FIX OUR EYES ON JESUS. Even though, we may still, at times, have some evil thoughts, we shouldn't PUT THEM INTO ACTION. With our eyes on the Lord, we can trust Him and follow His will for our lives. 

David knew that he needed GOD'S PROTECTION. He trusted in the Lord to KEEP HIM SAFE from all his enemies' "traps and snares". We too know that we can be SAFE IN GOD'S HANDS. We will not "grow weary or lose heart", if we keep our eyes on our SOVEREIGN LORD AND HIS SON JESUS.

"But David said to Abishai, "Don't destroy King Saul. Who can lay a hand on the Lord's anointed and be guiltless? As surely as the Lord lives, He himself will strike Saul, or his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. But the Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord's anointed."   1 Samuel 26:9-11 (NIV)

"GOD'S SOVEREIGNTY IS ABSOLUTE! Nothing can overrule HIS PLANS. Because of GOD'S SOVEREIGNTY, we can REST AND TRUST IN HIM. We can know that in EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE IN OUR LIVES, we are in GOD'S CARING HANDS." Ruth Chou Simmons

CONCLUSION 

"No matter how great the difficulty we face, GOD IS GREATER." Ruth Chou Simmons

Do you feel unable to bear your burdens and worries ALONE? Are they weighing on your HEART? Do you lack courage at times to continue your journey?  God is always ready to be with  YOU. He will give you PERSEVERENCE. GOD SUSTAINS US in His will.  God is our SUSTAINER, our STRENGTH, our SUPPORT , our RESCUER, COMFORTER AND PRESERVER. 

"Even in your OLD AGE, with grey hairs, I AN HE, I AM HE WHO SUSTAINS YOU. I have made you and will CARRY YOU; I will SUSTAIN YOU and I will RESCUE YOU." Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but GOD IS THE STRENGTH OF MY HEART, and my PORTION FOREVER."  Psalm 73:26 (NIV)

David's journey to KINGSHIP was not an easy one, but because He never failed to follow the Lord's path with his whole body - his 5 senses, his heart and the Holy Spirit, he was a SURVIVOR! Even when he took those steps back to Jerusalem, as the KING OF ISRAEL, we see a committed and strong FOLLOWER OF THE LORD.  

Our PRAYER, like David's is that we too will PUT GOD FIRST IN OUR LIVES, wherever and however DIFFICULT THE JOURNEY.

FLINT, Annie Johnson, "He Giveth More Grace" (Pilgrim- 25 Ways God's Character Leads Us Onward), 1930/2023, Harvest House Publishers

"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", 1987, Thomas Nelson

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

CHOU SIMMONS, Ruth, "Pilgrim - 25 Ways God's Character Leads Us Onward", 2023,        Harvest House Publishers.

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pipppa, "The Bible - Classic Version", 2024, Alpha, New Version

    

GUZIK, David, "Psalm 141 - No Compromise, Enduring Bible Commentary", 2020, www.enduringword.com

PSALM 140: Overcoming Evil and Hard Times

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 140

Psalm 140 was written by David, entitled "For the Musician". Some commentators believe this to be the Lord Himself (Yahweh), while others believe it was for the Music Leaders in the Tabernacle - possibly Asaph and Herman (a singer). 

Whoever it was written to, the theme is apparent - it was not unlike other "Cursing Psalms" that David had written. 

"I see the Cursing Psalms as an important model for how we deal with evil and injustice. We should not be outraged with evil, or take revenge into out own hands, rather we should deliver our feelings, stripped bear to God." Philip Yancey

And this is exactly what David did. He had been abused by King Saul, and had to escape the palace in which he was a soldier and a musician for the king. He hadn't done anything wrong - in fact he was one of Saul's best soldiers. But this led to the JEALOUSY of the king. Saul became a very "troubled soul" with a real anger problem,  making attempts on David's life. Jonothan, Saul's son heard about these "plots" on the life of his friend David, and suggested he "flee into the wilderness", finding a "hiding place".

"Saul now urged his son Jonathon and his servants to assassinate David. But Jonothan, because of his great affection for David, told him what his father was planning. "Tomorrow morning", he warned him, "you must find a hiding place out in the fields." 1 Samuel 19:1-2 (NLT)

Later, in a Cave in Adallum, David sought the Lord, and this faithful shepherd boy and "giant killer", recovered from his fear and returned "his focus on God" to find courage, strength and refuge in Him.

"Wilderness survivors find refuge in God's presence." Max Lucado

"Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me; for in You I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed." Psalm 57:1 (NIV

DAVID PRAYS FOR REFUGE AND SALVATION -  Read Psalm 140:1-5; 1 Samuel 19; Romans 3:3-18; 5:1-5

Last week I watched a war movie: "Escape from Sobibor", a German "death camp" in Poland, for the Polish and later, the Russian Jews. Most families were killed in gas chambers, while others were put to work for the German guards. About 300 people escaped, after killing the German soldiers; but as they were running into the wilderness, many of them stepped on land mines, planted by their enemies. Only 60 prisoners survived till the end of the war. 

This Psalm was written by David in fear of his enemies. Like the Jews in the "extermination camps", David cried out to the Lord in trouble. He escaped Saul's court because of his "evil words and plots" against his life. David prayed for DELIVERANCE (SALVATION). 

"RESCUE ME,  Lord, from evildoers; protect me from the violent, who devise plans in their hearts, and stir up war everyday......KEEP ME SAFE, Lord, from the hands of the wicked, protect me from violent people who devise ways to trip me up......they set traps for me along the path."                                                                                                             Psalm 140:1,3&5 (NIV)

"David prayed to be rescued (saved) from people - their evil thoughts, words and deeds."                                                                                                               Nicky Gumbel

"This desperate plea in this song shows its GREAT URGENCY by having no prelude of praise or contemplation. David went straight to his PLEA FOR SALVATION." David Guzik

"An evil spirit came on Saul as he was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand. While David was playing the lyre, Saul tried to pin him against the wall with his spear, but David eluded him as Saul drove the spear into the wall. That night, David made good his escape."                                                                                                          1 Samuel 19:9&10 (NIV)

David's enemies - mainly King Saul - planned "evil in their hearts".  He not only made violent attempts on David's life, but his words were "slanderous". Their desire for "war and evil things" were often expressed were often expressed in "sharp, poisonous words". David felt both their sting and their poison.

"They make their tongue as sharp as a serpent, the poison of the vipers on their lips."                                                                                                               Psalm 140:2 (NIV)

Paul uses this verse from Psalm 140 when he talks about how unrighteous people can be, unless they put their faith and trust in God. This is what David did, and discovering what might happen to him, it prompted a "thoughtful meditation" (Selah)

"As it is written, "There is no one righteous, not even one". Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit: "The poison vipers are on their lips". Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness." Romans  3:10, 13-14 (NIV)

"The Psalmist was in real trouble from the plotting of evil people and their venomous tongues. He prayed that God would guard them." Pat and David Alexander

Are you feeling overwhelmed by evil or hard times? Are you facing any physical or spiritual struggles? You don't need to do it on your own. God is always present and will help you ENDURE THEM ALL. 

"David prayed for GOD'S STRENGTH when he felt overwhelmed. God gives us ENDURANCE to face whatever situation life brings." Max Lucado

"Not only so, for we we also GLORY IN OUR SUFFERINGS, because we know that SUFFERING PRODUCES PERSEVERENCE; PERSEVERENCE, CHARACTER; and CHARACTER, HOPE. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit." Romans 5:2-5 (NIV)

DAVID'S PRAYER FOR MERCY AND PROTECTION -      Read Psalm 140:6&7, Ephesians 6:10-18

"I said to the Lord: "YOU ARE MY GOD". Listen, O Lord to my CRIES OF MERCY! O Sovereign Lord, the strong One who rescued me, YOU PROTECTED ME ON THE DAYS OF BATTLE."

                                                                                                     Psalm 140:6&7 (NLT)

These two verses of this Psalm, show us how much David trusted and hoped in his Father God. He worshipped, "NO OTHER GOD" - his allegiance being to Yahweh alone. This gave him faith and confidence, as "he cried out to God". This true God was David's strength and salvation. 

David was an excellent soldier and he lived through many battles, both physical and spiritual. God had been David's SHIELD through all these. He also covered David with his COAT OF ARMOUR, which the enemy could not "cut its way" with SWORDS AND ARROWS. 

In AD 62, Paul was imprisoned by the Romans.  His life seemed "grim" and his body "fatigued", but it was here that Paul wrote one of his most powerful Epistles to the Church of the Ephesians. 

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the FULL ARMOUR OG GOD so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is against FLESH AND BLOOD, and against THE RULERS, against AUTHORITIES, against the POWERS OF THIS DARK WORLD, and against the SPIRITUAL FORCES OF EVIL IN THE HEAVENLY REALMS. Therefore, put on the full armour of God, so that when the day comes, you may be able to STAND YOUR GROUND, and after you have done everything TO STAND." Ephesians 6:10-13 (NIV)

"VICTORY is in the air and HOPE fills our hearts. We are standing firm, with weapons in our armour,  given to us by the Holy Spirit." Kris Valton

We are called believers, because, like David, "our real world" is the "battlefield of our faith". The devil will do whatever it takes to steal our faith and confidence, just as David's enemies tried to do. With our "SHIELD OF FAITH"  we extinguish the "flaming arrows" of the evil one. Our VICTORY IS ASSURED, and like David our faith is rooted in the "WORD OF GOD - the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT."

"Stand firm them, with your BELT OF TRUTH buckled around you waist, with the BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS in place; with our feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the GOSPEL OF PEACE. In addition to all this, take up the SHIELD OF FAITH, with which you can extinguish  all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the HELMET OF SALVATION and the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD." Ephesians 6:14-17 (NIV)

"For the Word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword; it penetrates even to the dividing sword and spirit, joint and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." 

                                                                                                    Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)

DAVID'S PRAYER OF REVENGE AND JUSTICE -                 Read Psalm 140:8-11; 1 Samuel 24&26

The Polish Jews in the Nazi death camps became very vengeful of their Nazi enemies, especially when they discovered their families were all being murdered. 

"Do not grant the wicked their desires, Lord. Do not let their plans succeed." Psalm 140:8 (NIV)

David also found it hard to deal with the evil he endured, yet he knew how to stand against these wicked attacks. He didn't have to fight these "wars" ALONE. God was on his side and had equipped him courage and strength he needed. He knew that because of his "demands for vengeance", JUSTICE was in the LORD'S HANDS.

David was angry at his enemies because they had been disloyal to his Father God. God was able to help when we was tempted by his anger. He was indeed surrounded by "trouble makers" - slanderers and violent people - but in the midst of all this HE CRIED OUT: "Oh Lord, do not let their plans succeed."

"When you watch TV news, Online and in Newspapers, it sometimes seems that EVIL TRIUMPHS OVER GOOD . The wicked seem to succeed, but when we read  God's Word, we discover that GOD WINS." Nicky Gumbel

Saul was David's long and persistent enemy, but when it came to it, even with all his sins and faults, David knew he was GOD'S APPOINTED KING. When he was attacked he could have lashed out in revenge, but instead, "HE POURED OUT HIS HEART TO THE LORD." He entrusted Sau's punishment to GOD'S JUSTICE, rather than "TAKING IT INTO OUR OWN HANDS." 

"When David finish speaking, Saul called back: "Is this really you,  my son David? Then he began to cry. And he said to David: "You are a better man than I am, for you REPAID GOOD FOR EVIL."

                                                                                    1 Samuel 24:16&17 (NLT)

"God has surely handed your enemy over to you this time", Abishai whispered to David, "Let me pin him to the ground with one thrust of your spear; I won't need to strike twice." "No!" David said. "Don't let kill him. For who can remain innocent  after attacking  the LORD'S ANOINTED ONE." 

                                                                                             1 Samuel 26:8&9 (NLT)

"Vengeance fixes you attention on life's ugliest moments.....You need to see your enemy as GOD'S CHID, and justice as GOD'S JOB." Max Lucado

"I see this CURSING PSALM as an important model of how we can deal with evil injustice. We should not be outraged with evil or take outrage in our own hands. Rather we should deliver our feelings, stripped bear to God." Philip Yancey

CONCLUSION - GOD CARES FOR THE POOR AND NEEDY - Read Psalm 140:12&13 

"I know that the Lord secures justice for the POOR AND NEEDY. Surely the righteous will PRAISE HIS NAME, the upright will live in HIS PRESENCE." Psalm 130:12&13 (NIV)

Our world has so much INJUSTICE, but we know that GOD CARES FOR THE POOR AND NEEDY. Ultimately the righteous want to SING GOD'S PRAISES. Like David, they want to LIVE IN GOD'S PRESENCE. 

The Jews in the Nazi Death Camp, both the Polish and later the Russian soldiers experience great trouble and sorrow, after losing their family and friends. When they triumphed with their escape attempt, and they later made a home and life for themselves in another country. Some gained a greater faith in God, remaining safe and free from their captors.

David too, after lots of running and hiding, gained a greater confidence and never denied his faith in God. He triumphed over his enemies, and later return to be crowned kin in Jerusalem. David ends this Psalm on a note of TRUST, because he knew that those who believed in God would want to live with Him forever.

"David remained confident that God would defend the afflicted people. This would mean justice for the poor and others who suffered affliction from the words of the wicked." David Guzik

"You, dear children, are from God, and have OVERCOME THEM. For the ONE WHO IS IN YOU, IS GREATER than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

"Escape from Solibar",1987, Jack Gould (Producer), Martin Strange (Executive Producer), Netflix, Zenith Productions. 

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

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

ALEXANDER, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible - 4th Edition", 2009, Lion Hudson

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "The Bible - Classic Version", 2024, Alpha/New Version

GUZIK, David, "Enduring Word Commentary - Psalm 140: The Cry for Confidence for a Slandered Saul", 2021, www.enduringword.com

LUCADO, Max, "NCV Devotional Bible - Experience the Heart of Jesus", 2003, Thomas Nelson

LUCADO, Max, "Facing Giants - God Still Does the Impossible,"2006, Thomas Nelson

VOLTON, Kris, "Spirit Wars - Winning the Invisible Battle Against Sin and and the Enemy." 2012, Chosen 

YANCY, Philip, "Prayer - Does it Make a Difference?" 2006, Hodder & Stoughton

PSALM 139: The Attributes of our Father God

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 139 

I have been reading and studying the Psalms for a number of years now, learning from David and other authors, about the ATTRIBUTES OF GOD; but Psalm 139 - David's song -  would have to be my favourite. 

There have been times in my life when I have felt LONELY and INSIGNIFICANT, particularly in times of loss and anxiety. The past few nights I have woken with thoughts of my past sisters, Mary and Miriam. They died many years ago, but not unlike many people who suffer grief and depression, there are still times, like David,  I ask these questions:

1. How well do I know God?

2. How close is God to me?

3. How carefully has he made me?

4. How will God help and protect me?

A lot of us still struggle with "insignificance", but in this Psalm, David helps us see God as 'REAL AND PERSONAL". Why? Because that is who He is? He is alive,  and interested in every part of our lives.

"I hope you find it comforting, as I have, to know that GOD KNOWS, UNDERSTANDS and CARES FOR YOU. GOD IS EVERYWHERE and we never need to feel isolated from Him. It is also true that GOD LOVES YOU, and along with HIS SON, JESUS CHRIST, he is REACHABLE, KNOWABLE, AVAILABLE AND REAL." Charles Swindoll

OUR OMNISCIENT GOD - Read 139:1-6, Romans 8:27-39

This is the doctrine of OMNISCIENCE! God not only knows about every detail of our lives, but He knows what we think. The first verses in this Psalm of David's tell us that no one but God, KNOWS ALL ABOUT US. We are the "object of our living God's total attention" and because of this, we know that HE LOVES AND CARES ABOUT US.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, nor anything in all creation will be able to separate us from the LOVE OF GOD that is in Christ Jesus, our Lord." Romans 838&39 (NIV)

1. OUR ALL KNOWING GOD

David says that "GOD SEARCHES HIM" - He know our thoughts even before they "come into our brains". There may be times we struggle with anxious thoughts - "an identity crisis" - but God never does! He always encourages us with compassion and love. 

God knows the "WORDS THAT ARE ON OUR TONGUES", even before we speak them. This should effect the quality of our speech!  Nothing is hidden from our "ALL KNOWING" OMNISCIENT GOD. 

"Before a word is on our tongue, you Lord, KNOW IT COMPLETELY." Psalm 139:4 (NASB)

"God knows what PROMPTS us to think certain things. Therefore, HE UNDERSTANDS the hidden, unspoken motives behind our actions." Charles Swindoll

2. OUR OMNIPOTENT GOD

"You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, to lofty for me to attain." Psalm 136:5&6 (NIV)

As David's song continues, we learn of another attribute of God - His Omnipotence - His ability to "remain in complete control of His universe."  When things go wrong we may ask this question: IS GOD REALLY IN CONTROL? There may be nothing we can do about our situation, but we are reminded of GOD'S OMNIPOTENCE, and "nothing occurs unless it is in HIS SOVEREIGN WILL"

The Lord is in control of "the smallest detail" of our lives. Knowing us as he does, He puts the "necessary controls" upon us:

* He encloses us ('hems us in')

* He puts His hand on us ('his right hand'). 

How do we feel about "the boundaries" God keeps around us. For me I feel compassion and strength. God's "restrictions" also give us "freedom", for we know that God's will and purposes are for "the good of those who love Him".

"And HE WHO SEARCHES OUR HEARTS, knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the WILL OF GOD. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, having been called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE." Romans 8: 27&28 (NIV)

"Because GOD SEES ALL and KNOWS ALL, we can trust where HE TAKES US. David realized that God not only KNEW about his every THOUGHT AND MOVEMENT, but that He truly CARED FOR HIM." Ruth Chou Simmons

OUR OMNIPRESENT FATHER:   Read Psalm 139:7-12;      Jonah 1-2

God's Omniscience and Omnipotence are very important, but even greater than these attributes would have to be HIS OMNIPRESENCE. 

"God is always everywhere at the same time. This gives us assurance that we are never out of HIS PRESENCE, in every moment of our lives. No matter where we are, GOD IS WITH US, and will NEVER LEAVE US." Ruth Chou Simmons

1. WHERE IS GOD?

"Where can I go from YOUR SPIRIT? Where can I flee from YOUR PRESENCE? If I ascend to Heaven, YOU ARE THERE; if I make my bed in Sheol, behold, YOU ARE THERE. If I take the wings of the wings of the dawn, if I dwell in the remotest part of the sea; EVEN THERE your hand will lead me, and your right hand will hold me." Psalm 139:7-10 (NASB)

These next verses remind us that GOD IS WITH US EVERYWHERE. David asks two questions:

*"Where can I go from YOUR SPIRIT"?

*"Where can I flee from YOUR PRESENCE?"

God will never leave us LONELY, but we can always "be at ease in His presence". David used many examples to describe GOD'S PRESENCE. He uses two important phrases to describe these:

* "YOU ARE THERE". 

* " EVEN THERE"

Both in good times and in bad, we can take to hearted these BLESSED WORDS. Like David and Jonah, we can "reach out" and thank the Lord for His mercy and grace in HIS PRESENCE. 

"Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the inside of the fish. . He said: "In my distress I called to the Lord,  and He answered me. From deep in Sheol (the realm of the dead) I cried for help, and you listened to my cry. You hurled me into the depths (the very heart) of the sea, and the currents swirled (engulfed) over me, your waves and breakers (billows)  swept over me ..........What I have vowed, I will make good. I will say, "SALVATION COMES FOR THE LORD". And the Lord commanded the fish and it vomited Jonah up on dry land." Jonah 1:1-3, 9&10 (NASB/NIV)

Just like David and Jonah, we can be assured of "GOD'S SALVATION" - "HIS RIGHT HAND HOLDING US UP". There is no fleeing from the Lord. Even His Son, Jesus Christ, will never let us down.

"You cannot escape GOD'S PRESENCE. HE IS EVVERYWHERE. God's gentle hand is pressing on us. Thank you Lord for His promise: Your right hand holds us fast. Lead us in YOUR PRESENCE and draw us CLOSE TO YOU." Nicky Gumbel

2. DARKNESS AND LIGHT

"Surely the DARKNESS will overwhelm me and the LIGHT around me will be night. Even the DARKNESS is not night to You, and the night is as BRIGHT AS THE DAY. DARKNESS AND LIGHT are as alike to You." Psalm 139:11&12 (NASB)

David's song continues with the "magnificence of God's nearness". He guides us through the "unique difficulties" we face. We grow as we walk through the "darkness and light". GOD'S PRESENCE is a "constant light in the darkness". 

It is encouragement that in both the night and the day we will neve be lonely, for we will "never escape the Lord's notice" for there is no one who is "hidden from Him". It is most comforting to know HE CARES! 

GOD - OUR CREATOR - Read Psalm 139:13-18

How carefully God is watching over our lives. David declared that a God who KNOWS US and is NEAR US can be "intimately in touch with us" as OUR CREATOR. David's song continues with a "celebration of human life." We are a combination of "wonder, beauty, grace and balance". How precious are the humans that GOD CREATED.

1. IN OUR MOTHER'S WOMB

 "For you CREATED my inmost being; YOU KNIT ME TOGETHER IN MY MOTHERS WOMB.....My frame was hidden from You when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the sea. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Psalm 139:13, 15-16 (NIV)

It started in our "MOTHER'S WOMB" - God watching as we were being formed. but even more so he planned our every day life. Like David our lives were "recorded in God's book of life.".

"David acknowledged that GOD WAS HIS CREATOR and author of his life. He realized that the dayys of His life were written in  GOD'S BOOK. The same is true for us." Max Lucado

"You brought me out of the womb; and you made me TRUST even at my Mother's breast. From birth I WAS CAST ON YOU; from my Mother's womb YOU HAVE BEEN MY GOD."                                                                                                           Psalm 22:19&10 (NIV)

2. OUR UNIQUENESS

"I praise you because I am FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Thank you Lord for designing us in such a unique fashion, so "fearfully and wonderfully made." You put us together with unique bodies and personalities. He continues to care for us as we GROW. David was a remarkable man - "a shepherd, a soldier, a poet and a king". Like David, we know that "our bodies are stunning in their design". We know far more about David did about CREATION, and this should make us full of AWE and PRAISE.

"So GOD CREATED MANKIND in His own image, in the image of God HE CREATED THEM, male and female, HE CREATED THEM." Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

3. OUR FUTURE 

"How precious to me are Your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them. Were I to count them, the would outnumber the grains of the sand - when I awake I am still with you."                                                                                                     Psalm 139:17&18 (NIV)

David finishes off this passage with a statement of GOD'S SOVEREIGNTY. David also thought about HIS FUTURE. If God had thought so much about his birth, designing his body,  what great thought He would have put into His plans and purposes for his future - his everyday life. How is your life at the moment? How has God shaped and guided you for YOUR FUTURE?

"The stages of our life are spread out before Him. HE PREPARES ALL OUR DAYS and gives greatb attention to our FUTURE"  Charles Swindoll'

"But the PLANS OF THE LORD stand firm forever, the PURPOSES OF HIS HEART through all generations." Psalm 33:11 (NIV)

David was filled with amazement and adoration:

* Because of God's precious thoughts.

* During the day he felt God's wonderful presence.

Like David, I love to wake up in the morning to spend time in PRAYER and BIBLE STUDY. Sometimes I may have a difficult, DARK  night, but I always awake IN THE LIGHT, knowing that I always have the Lord by my side. David knew that HIS SOVEREIGN LORD's thought and presence were with him day, and we too, as God's children,  can be assured of this, 

"It is a blessing to wake up each day, knowing that the LORD IS WITH YOU, both in his thoughts and presence." Nicky Gumbel

OUR LORD - OUR HELPER AND PROTECTOR -               Read Psalm 139: 19- 22, Luke 6:27-36

"If only you, God, you would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty! They speak with evil intent, your adversaries MISUSE YOUR NAME. Do I not HATE those who HATE YOU, O Lord, and abhor those who are IN REBELLION AGAINST YOU? I having nothing but HATRED FOR THEM; I count them as my enemies." Psalm 139:19-22

David grew angrier the more his enemies were DISLOYAL TO GOD. On "six seperate occasions", David refers to his enemies in "strongest terms". It was "righteous anger", because of their "ungodly behaviour", but he loathed them with deep emotion. David's love for God was so great and he couldn't bare the hatred his enemies showed against His Father God: 

*Speaking against God with irreverence ("blasphemy").

*Taking the Name of the Lord in vain ("profanity").

"Spiritual compromise is a deadly problem. David trusted in God to HELP AND PROTECT HIM, and didn't want and didn't want to take matters into his own hands. He wanted to "align his values with God." Chuck Swindoll

David wanted to imitate God. As a "a man after His own heart". He wanted to leave the final decision in God's hands - a very "wise and Biblical action to take". 

"Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF. I am the Lord." Leviticus 19:18

King David had been a skilled military leader - a "man of war" . He had established Jerusalem as a place of power, but he didn't want to take "matters into his own hands",  abusing God's love, with "hate in his heart". Later we see that Jesus had a "unique perspective" on how we should engage our enemies - those we have 'HATE' towards. 

"DO TO OTHERS what you would have them DO TO YOU." Luke 6: 31 (NIV)

"BE MERCIFUL, as your HEAVENLY FATHER IS MERCIFUL." Luke 6:36

 CONCLUSION: LIFE EVERLASTING -                               Read Psalm 139:23&24 

David sought the Lord, coming to Him in prayer. He was worried and anxious about his angry thoughts. David opened up his "humble soul", asking God to forgive his sinful thoughts and actions. He wanted to bring HOLINESS back into his life. David wanted God to lead him back into FELLOWSHIP WITH HIM, and to learn and grow deeper. 

David finally states a desire to be led back into an "everlasting life", following the paths of righteousness. Do you want to be a person whose walks with God in and  "IMTIMATE AND DEEP relationship.  Becoming a godly person takes time, but if it truly what we want, we can reach out to God and His Son Jesus, and he will lead us on this way.

"This prayer requires a great deal of courage. Open up all the closets of your life - every room and every corner. Ask God examine all your motives and show you what needs attention. Don't take this lightly or let it frighten you." Charles Swindoll

 Trust in the Lord - in his OMNISCIENSE, OMNIPOTENCE and OMNIPRESESENCE. Remember that HE IS YOUR CREATOR. He will LOVE AND CARE FOR YOU, HELPING AND PROTECTING you each step to a WAY EVERLASTING. 

"For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten (one and only) Son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish, but have ETERNAL (EVERLASTING) LIFE."                                                                                                                           John 3:16 (NASB/NIV)

"Far Too Wonderful" (2017), Shane and Shane (Composers and Performers), Faith Displayed (You Tube)

"The Holy Bible - New American Standard", 1995, The Lockman Foundation

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

Chou Simmons, Ruth, "Pilgrim - 25 Ways God's Character Leads Us Onward.", 2023, Harvest House Publishers

Nicky and Pippa Gumbel, "The Bible - Classic Version," 2024, Alpha (You Version)

Guzik, David, "Praise and Prayer to a God who Knows Everything and is Everywhere - Enduring Word Bible Commentary." (2021), WWW.enduringword.com

Lucado, Max, "When Christ Comes", 1995, Thomas Nelson Publishers

Swindoll, Charles R, "Living the Psalms - Encouragement for the Daily Grind", (2012) Worthy Publishing

PSALM 138 - PRAISING THE LORD

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 138

GOD IS LOVING, FAITHFUL, MERCIFUL, OMNIPOTENT AND GRACIOUS. With these attributes, and many more, we can truly TRUST THE LORD to BE WITH US ALWAYS, and to ANSWER OUR PRAYERS.

 " Then you will call on me and come and PRAY TO ME and I WILL LISTEN. You will SEEK ME AND FIND ME, when you SEEK ME WITH ALl YOUR HEART." Jeremiah 29:12&13 (NIV)

Through our difficult times in our lives - sickness, temptation, exhaustion - to name a few; we know that God will "PRESERVE US". David, the author of this Psalm, knows this PROMISE well. Although he had many trials, he always TRUSTED in His omnipotent Father. He didn't have "shelves of self help books", but when "weary and afflicted", he knew his faithful, reliable God would "never change" or let him down. 

"God is our REFUGE AND STRENGTH, an EVER PRESENT HELP in times of trouble." Psalm 46:1 (NIV)

PRAISE OUR FAITHFUL  & LOVING GOD -                         Read Psalm 138: 1-3

David doesn't PRAISE with "empty adoration", his praise is full of FAITH and COMMITTMENT, through "meditation". 

"May the words of my mouth and the MEDITATION of our heart, be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, MY STRENGTH and MY REDEEMER." Psalm 19:14  (NKJV)

So WHY and HOW did David do this?

1. WITH HIS WHOLE HEART.

"I will praise the Lord with ALL MY HEART." Psalm 138:1a (NLT)

"We need a broken heart to CONFESS OUR SINS and a WHOLE HEART to PRAISE THE LORDS PERFECTIONS." Charles Spurgeon

He begins with a "bold declaration" - seeking the Lord with a "whole heart" - reflecting on all God has done for him. 

2. BEFORE THE GODS

"I will sing your praises BEFORE THE GODS." Psalm 138:1b (NLT)

"A witness against impotence of idols - PRAISING THE LORD and the LORD ALONE, not gods of different nations". David Guzik

Why did David do this? We know he wasn't worshipping idols, but maye:

* He wanted to "prove his alliance" with God, and GOD ALONE.

* The gods he was referring to were "judges and  kings". 

3. BEFORE THE HOLY TEMPLES.

"I bow before the HOLY TEMPLE, as I WORSHIP." Psalm 138:2a (NLT)

"They are the people of Israel, chosen to be God's adopted children. God revealed His glory to them. He made covenants with them and gave them His law. He gave them the privilege of WORSHIPPING HIM and receiving His wonderful promises." Romans 9:4 (NLT)

Even though David may not have been worshipping in the Temple (Tabernacle), as, at times, he was in a cave and in exile. He accepted that the TEMPLE was indeed to be the PLACE OF WORSHIP for himself and God's people.

4. BECAUSE OF GOD'S LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS.

"I praise Your Name, for Your UNFAILING LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS." Psalm 138:2b

"The Lord's LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS go hand in hand. Thank you for your amazing LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS towards us.." Nicky Gumbel

"GOD IS FAITHFUL and will never fail us." Ruth Chou Simmons

Like David, our FAITH AND HOPE in God and His Son Jesus, lead to an acknowledgement of HIS LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS. Even when we fall, God is our PROMISE KEEPER. He always ANSWERS OUR PRAYERS. 

5. MAGNIFY GOD'S NAME AND GLORY.

"For His promises are backed by all the HONOUR YOUR NAME" Psalm 138:2c (NLT)

"Abraham never wavered in believing GOD'S PROMISES. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought GLORY TO GOD. He was fully convinced that God was able to do whatever HE PROMISED." Romans 4:20&21 (NLT)

GOD'S TRUTH is communicated to us by HIS WORD and shown through HIS GLORIOUS NAME. We too are encouraged to PRAISE AND WORSHIP the Lord, by HONOURING HIS NAME.

6. THE LORD ANSWERS HIS PRAYERS. 

"As soon as I PRAY, YOU ANSWER ME;  you encourage me by giving me STRENGTH." Psalm 138:3 (NLT)

"The POWER OF PRAYER is the ONE WHO HEARS IT, not says it. Our prayers make a difference, as God hears them and will aide and COMFORT YOU." Max Lucado

The Lord rescued David many times when he called out to Him IN PRAYER. God always responds to us, especially when we are in a time of crisis. He gives us STRENGTH and develops our FAITH.

Thomas Nelson, the writer of the Hymn: "GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS", had to deal with many troubles in his life. His health was poor, causing him to resign from the Methodist Ministry. As an author and composer, he faced a number of rejections of his work, until this hymn was finally published. Although this hymn was not based on "specific circumstances", it came from His love for the Lord and His Word.

PRAISE OUR GREAT AND GLORIOUS GOD  -                      Read Psalm 138:4-6

"May all the kings of the earth PRAISE YOU, Lord, when they hear what you have, May they sing of the ways of the Lord, for the GLORY OF THE LORD IS GREAT. Though the LORD IS EXALTED, He looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty He sees them from afar." Psalm 138:4-6 (NIV)

In the next few verses of this Psalm, David gives His thanks and praise in the "presence of the earth's kings". There are 3 reasons David gives for why he feels the kings need to listen to join with him in HIS PRAISES of a GREAT AND GLORIOUS GOD.

1. THE KINGS HAVE HEARD GOD'S WORD and THEY KNOW HIS WAYS.

David was king of Israel and GAVE PRAISES to the Lord, but he wanted all the kings of the earth to PRAISE GOD too. They would praise Him because others would tell them of 'HIS WORKS AND HIS WAYS."

"Although the Psalmist does not reveal what God has said to have spoken, this likely refers back to Psalm 138:2 where God's Name and Word or PROMISES TO ISRAEL have been exalted." \

                                                                                    Vanessa Lovelace

2. THE 'GLORY OF GOD IS GREAT'

Israel thanked their God for many things, lot least HIS AWESOME AND MAJESTIC POWER, MIGHT AND STRENGTH. They praised the Lord for all the great things God had done, specifically their redemption. GOD IS GREAT AND HOLY and this is another reason we GLORIFY HIM IN WORSHIP.

"The kings of the earth would not only PRAISE YAHWEH (GOD) with words; but with song. This was their response to a GREAT & GLORIOUS GOD." David Guzik

3. OUR GREAT GOD "LOOKS KINDLY" ON THE HUMBLE AND LOWLY.

Although the Lord is exalted, He still CARES FOR THE HUMBLE, but he keeps the proud at a distance, "not keeping company with the arrogant".  David understood that God was great and glorious - our Sovereign Father - yet He still held the MEEK, HUMBLE AND LOWLY in high regard.

"Infinitely great as God is, He regards even the lowest and most inconsiderate parts of His creation; the humble and afflicted man attracts His notice in particular." Adam Clarke - cited by David Guzik.

"God opposes the proud, but gives GRACE to the humble." James 4:7/1 Peter 3:5 (NLT)

"So HUMBLE yourself under the mighty hand of God, and HE WILL LIFT YOU UP."                     1 Peter 3:6 (NIV)

These verses tell of our God's LOVE AND GRACE, as a OUR GREAT AND GLORIOUS Father, and these are true too of His Son Jesus.

PRAISE GOD WHO CARES AND PROTECTS US -   

Read Psalm 138:7&8

Like David, we as Christians, desire to LOVE AND SERVE our Father God and His Son, Jesus. Still, there are times when we FEEL DOWN and LOST; times when we are surrounded by TROUBLES. We don't seem to "have it all together". We can admit that we are "buried and bruised". 

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me. You will stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies. Your right hand will save me." Psalm 138:7 (NKJV)

"I know the Lord is always with me. I will be shaken but He is right beside me." Psalm 16:8 (NLT)

"God will never waste our pain, but will always use it for His glory." Ruth Chou Simmons

In our lives we may face many trials and temptations. In sickness we sometimes question the Lord, but because of his mercy and compassion, we know He will always "PRESERVE AND PROTECT US". If we lay down our pain and regrets, the Lord continues to SUSTAIN and to LIFT YOU UP. We may not understand when these bad thins happen to us, but we cab TRUST IN THE LORD, knowing that HE CARES FOR US. Then we can tell the world about HIS LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS. 

"The Lord will work out the plans for our life - for Your love and faithfulness, O God, endures forever. "                                                                                                                    Nicky Gumbel

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

"Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

CONCLUSION

One of my favourite Christian worship songs is: "GOD WILL MAKE A WAY". It was written by Don Moen, when he experienced a tragic event in his family. Embracing his brother and daughter in law, who had lost their children, Don encouraged them with these verses. It was dark time for them all, but Don still knew that God was still their 'GUIDE,  RESTORER and PROTECTOR' forever. "He works in ways that we may not understand", but HIS MERCY AND GRACE give us assurance, that "He will make a way, when there seems to be no way."

"God, you are RIGHTEOUS, HONOURABLE AND TRUSTWORTHY. You crush darkness and shatter despair. You heal people and restore relationships. You continually invite people to KNOW YOU PERSONALLY. You are GREAT AND MIGHTY, and WORTHY TO BE HONOURED."                                                                                                              You Version

"God's grace guides us each step of the way into His presence." Ruth Chou Simmons

References:

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

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

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

"Praise", 2003, Brandon Lake, Chris Brown and Chandler Moore (Composers/Performers), Elevation Worship, You Tube

"Great is Thy Faithfulness", 1921/2024, Thomas O Chisholm  (Composer), Don Moen & Lenny Le Blanc (Performers), Hope Publishers/You Tube

"God Will Make a Way", 1990, Don Moen (Composer & Performer), Integrity Hosanna Music

Alexander, Pat and David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible - 4th Version", 2009, Lion Hudson'

Chou Simmons, Ruth, "Pilgrim - 25 Ways God Leads Us Onward", 2023, Harvest House Publishers

De Class Walford, Nancy, "Commentary on Psalm 138", 2014, Working Preacher

Gumbel, Nicky and Pippa, "The  Bible - Classic Version", Alpha/You Version

Guzik, David, "God Promises to Honour and Complete His Work - Enduring Word Comentary", 2021, www.enduringword.com

Hoeze, Scott, "Psalm 138 Commentary", 2023, Centre of Excellence in Publishing

Lovelace, Vanessa, "Commentary on Psalm 138", 2023, Working Preacher

Lucado, Max, "NCV - The Devotional Bible - Experiencing the Heart of Jesus", 2003, Thomas Nelson

Peterson, William J and Ardythe, "The Complete Book of Hymns - Inspiring Stories about 600 Hymns and Songs", 2006, Tyndale House Publishers

Spurgeon, Charles, "Six Sermons by C.H Spurgeon", 1856, James Paul, London

Terry Lindsay, "Sacrifice of Praise", 2002, Thomas Nelson