PSALM 25 - DAVID IN PRAYER AND MEDITATION.

INTRODUCTION - READ PSALM 25.

This prayer and meditation of David's in Psalm 25 is a very personal and reflective one and has therefore put me in a similar mood. Consequently, I have not felt like doing a lot of historical `exegesis'. But to make sure I am making the correct interpretation of scripture and not leading people astray I thought I better take a quick look at my old mate Charles H Spurgeon's `Treasury of David'.

According to Charles, David is seen here as `faithful miniature, a man after God's own heart'. This psalm was probably written in David's latter years, for he mentions the `sins of his youth'.  He also talks about `the great rebellion against him', which would probably be ascertained as the time of Absalom's revolt.

Charles also refers to the mood of the writer, David, as one of `prayer and meditation'.  He begins with his usual prayer of exultation in his God in whom he trusts.

           "O Lord, I give my life to you. I trust in you my God."  Psalm 1:1&12  (NLT)

He then goes on to meditate on God's promises: His unfailing mercy, compassion, faithfulness and love.

"Remember O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past.....remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord.....The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep His covenant and obey His commands."  Psalm 25:6.7&10.  (NLT)

In humility David then prays a prayer of confession for his past sins, seeking forgiveness, and then with confident faith and trust he meditates on the salvation and future protection he and his people will receive from His Father God.

"May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in You.  O God ransom Israel from all its troubles." Psalm 25:21&22  (NLT)

                       ........................................................................................................

There are many kinds of prayer - times to get together in corporate prayer and times for quiet, reflective prayer.

"But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you and pray to your Father in private.  And your Father who sees everything will reward you."  Matthew 6:6  (NLT)

We are also taught many ways to pray. eg ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication).
In Matthew 6 and Luke 11:2-4, we see how Jesus took the time to teach his followers and listeners to pray.

"Our Father in Heaven, may your name be kept holy.
May Your Kingdom come, may your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.
Give us today the food we need.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation, but rescue us from the evil one."  (Luke 11:2-4)

How similar this prayer was to an `older' man who was tired, stressed and unsure about his future. For David knew only one place to go - to the knees of His Heavenly Father. For most importantly `Prayer is a place to bare your soul without fear', and to `come away cleansed and comforted'.

1. Do you have a special kind of prayer that you use as a template? Why have you chosen this one? 

2. What does it mean to `bare your soul without fear'? How can you feel totally `cleansed and comforted?"

SEEKING GUIDANCE IN PRAYER - Read Psalm 25:1-5

In a number of the Bible versions I have read this Psalm is titled, `A Prayer for God to Guide'. The words `TRUST' and `GUIDING IN THE TRUTH' are used a number of times. So it would be logical to comprehend that throughout our lives that God has a plan, and it is God's desire that we seek His guidance and trust Him in that plan. That's why He has given us HIS WORD!!  That's why He wants us to come to Him in PRAYER!!

    "Lord, tell me your ways. Show me how to live. Guide me in your truth. I trust you all day long." Psalm 25:4&5   (ICB)

3. Have you had an experience in your life when you have needed to seek guidance in a situation? Did you go to God first, seek another's advice or just go out on your own?  What happened?

                                                           THE BIBLE

                              
                               As a child I sat and wondered, feeling alone and scared.
                               I needed someone to be my friend, someone who really cared.
                               So I asked my Mum about it, I asked her where I could look.
                               She said, "Try reading the Bible".
                               I thought, "Now that's a strange book."

                               But I started from the beginning and 
                               I read right through to the end.
                               I learnt that I had a BROTHER, 
                               And He was my SAVIOUR AND FRIEND.
                               I never let Him leave me, I always knew He was there,
                               At home, at school, at work, at play, my friend was everywhere.

                               As I grew older I needed more, someone to guide me along.
                              There were paths and paths, which one do I take, 
                              I didn't want to go wrong.
                              This time I asked my minister, He always had lots to say.
                              He said, "Try reading the Bible", 
                              He said that would show me the way.

                              So I started from the beginning and 
                              Read right through to the end
                              I learnt that I had a SHEPHERD, 
                              And He was my SAVIOUR AND FRIEND.
                              I never let Him leave me, I always knew He was there,
                              At Church, at home, when studying at school, 
                              My SHEPHERD was everywhere.

                              Now I've come to a mountain, how do I get across.
                              I need someone to take my hand, to keep me from getting lost.
                              This time I'll ask my father, `cause I know he really cares.
                              He'll probably say, "read the Bible"
                              `Cause I know he knows what's there.

                               So I'll start from the beginning and
                               I'll read right through to the end.
                               I'm sure that I'll find my FATHER, 
                               For He is my SAVIOUR AND FRIEND.
                               I'll never let Him leave me, I'll always know He's there.
                               At work, at home, and when I'm alone, 
                               My Father is everywhere.


                               Ruth Cheater  

A PRAYER OF CONFESSION   -  Psalm 25:6-11

There are many directions to take and sometimes we do make the wrong choices. David did, and like him we may feel disgraced and lost. It is hard for us to forget the `causes' for we may still have the `scars'. But I have some GOOD NEWS:  Jesus also has some SCARS, and because of HIS SCARS, God had forgotten the CAUSE - OUR SINS.

David knew that to seek God's forgiveness he had to confess his sins.  But that was just the beginning.  He also had to grasp the truth:  His merciful, loving and faithful Father would also forget the `cause' and he could truly have deliverance and salvation.

"Lord, remember your mercy and love. You have shown them since long ago. Do not remember the sins and the wrong things I did when I was young. But remember to love me always, because you are a good God. The Lord is good and right and points sinners to the right way." 
 Psalm 25:6-8  (ICB)

"But if we confess our sins, He will forgive our sins because we can trust God to do what is right. He will cleanse us from all the wrongs we have done."  1 John 1:9  (NCV)

4. Is there a sin in your life that you keep remember, regretting and confessing to God? Decide today to do what God does - forgive and forget. 

                                             NO FISHING

                            When Jesus forgives, He forgets what I've done
                            And the bad things I did have now gone.
                            When Jesus forgives, He forgets what I've done
                            And the bad things I did have now gone.

                           `Cause He's thrown them in the
                            Deepest part of God's forgetful sea
                           Where there's a great big sign that says `No Fishing'
                           He's thrown them in the deepest 
                           Part of God's forgetful sea
                           Where there's a great big sign that says `No Fishing'

                          No fishing, no fishing, no fishing.
                          No fishing, no fishing, no fishing.
                          No fishing, no fishing, no fishing, no fishing.
                          They're very deep in God's forgetful sea.         Jennie Flack. 

PRAYER FOR HIS PEOPLE AND FUTURE DELIVERANCE 

Read Psalm 25:12-22;   2 Samuel 13-14;  30-31.

We've looked at this story before, so here's just a quick recap. David's daughter Tamar had been raped by her half brother Amnon, who was then killed by her brother Absalom in revenge.  Sounds like an episode of Law and Order - SVU.  Anyway, afraid of his father David, Absalom fled Jerusalem. Later, when David had lost the respect of his people, because of some bad choices he had made, Absalom returned, fast talked the people of Israel into siding with him against his father, and forced David out of the city.

This is where we find David. In a time of distress, calling on the Lord. He has sought forgiveness for his sins and now seeks protection, salvation and renewed hope for himself and his people. Could it have been that David was thinking about his situation at the time and it current troubles, or looking further ahead, to the future Messiah?

"God save Israel from all their troubles."  Psalm 25:22 (NLT)

"We had hoped He was the Messiah, who had come to rescue Israel." Luke 24:21 (NLT)

We know that David's psalms were often prophetic, and David more than likely was looking at the future.  But we can accept Jesus Christ as our Saviour NOW! We can have that renewed hope NOW! Because Jesus died and lives for us NOW!

5. Do you know anyone who needs to know the Saviour or have renewed hope in Him NOW? 

CONCLUSION

David began his prayer in adoration, he sought guidance, forgiveness and salvation and he knew that the only way his kingdom would ever be returned to greatness was if its people too would follow God, pray the way he prayed and live the life he endeavored to live- in faith and trust in His Father God.

We need to pray as David prayed, for guidance in our own lives, our Church, our communities and our countries - so we too can have this same salvation and renewed hope in Christ.

*New Living Translation (NLT) 1996, Tyndale House

*International Children's Bible (ICB) 1986, Thomas Nelson.

* New Century Version (NCV) 1986, Thomas Nelson.

* "The Everything History of the Bible Book", (2006), Jeffrey Donley, F&W Publications

* "The Treasury of David" (1834)Charles H Spurgeon , Spurgeon Archive (Online)

*"Praying and Getting Results" (2001), Bob Gass, United Christian Broadcasters

*"Facing the Giants" (2006) Max Lucado, Thomas Nelson

* "In The Palm of His Hand" (1995) Ruth Cheater  (Unpublished works)

* "Jibes & Vibes" (1984) Jennie Flack  (CD)










             

PSALM 24 - DAVID'S PSALM OF ASSURANCE

INTRODUCTION -   Read Psalm 24

Many biblical scholars agree that David wrote this Psalm after he brought the Ark of the Covenant into the city of Jerusalem. This could be true - we don't really know; but I do believe that David wrote these words to be of great encouragement and assurance to his people.  I know they have been to me and I hope they are to you too.

David started with a reminder - an exultation of God as the GREAT CREATOR, and his greatest creations - the earth and His people He loved.

God created His people for a special purpose - to have a relationship with Him, their SAVIOUR, and to do this they needed to live a life of purity, worship and honesty, seeking God's will not their own, in every area of their lives.

Finally, we are to meet with the KING OF GLORY - our Lord Jesus Christ. Just as David was at the gate of Jerusalem waiting for His people to open it so he could bring the Ark of the Covenant through, Jesus waits at the door of our hearts, waiting for us to open it and let Him in.

1. I had highlighted 2 verses in my Bible that had always been special to me:  about being God's creation and being able to have a relationship with Him.  I had never thought much about the King of Glory?  Now I have even more to ponder on.  What to do feel when you think about God as your Great Creator, Saviour and King of Glory?

GOD -OUR CREATOR  -   Read Psalm 24:1&2

David knew His God, His Creator, personally. I can imagine David as a shepherd or soldier standing on the mountain, or as a king at the window of his palace, looking over God's amazing creation - His earth, and just singing songs of adoration and worship.

I think it would have given him great strength and comfort knowing that God made him. He belonged to this LOVING, CARING, OMNISCIENT God, who knew all about his present and his future life. He didn't have to handle anything alone - all He needed to do was trust in His GREAT CREATOR.

                                           "The earth belongs to the Lord and everything in it - 
                                                             the world and all it's people."
                                                                  Psalm 24:1

2. Is there something today you really need to seek God's comfort and strength in? Remember you don't have to handle it alone. 

WE HIS CREATION  -  Read Psalm 24:3-6

                                         "Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? 
                                                     Who may stand in His holy place?
                                                    Only those whose hands are pure, 
                                             who do not worship idols,  and never tell lies."
                                                                            Psalm 24:3&4

David wasn't perfect but He knew God had created His people for a purpose and that purpose included:

* WORSHIPING GOD
* SPENDING TIME IN HIS PRESENCE.
* RECEIVING HIS BLESSINGS
* FOLLOWING HIS WILL & LIVING A RIGHTEOUS LIFE.
* ACCEPTING HIS GIFT OF SALVATION.

To be able to do these things we need to have pure hearts, to be committed to following and serving only God and to living lives of  honesty and integrity.  David knew this wouldn't be easy which is why he added Verse 6.
                                                  "Try to follow God and look to the God 
                                                        of Jacob for help."  Psalm 24:6

Throughout the Old Testament you will find that the Israelites always knew that they could call on God for help. They sometimes turned away or tried to handle things on their own, but our omnipresent God never turned away from them, and He will never turn away from us, for we always have the promised Holy Spirit.

                               "But the Helper will teach you everything 
                            and will cause you to remember all that  I have told you. 
                        This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name.
                       I leave you my peace; my peace I give to you. I do not give it to you as 
                      the world does  So do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid."  
                                                                                           John 14:26&27.

3. Are there any of these things you need to ask the Holy Spirit for help with? 

THE KING OF GLORY -  Psalm 24:7-10

                           "Who is the King of Glory? The Lord, strong and mighty.
                           The Lord, invincible in battle. Gates open wide, aged doors, 
                          so the glorious King will come in. Who is the glorious King? 
                         The Lord all powerful - He is the glorious King."  Psalm 24:7-8

David was not talking about himself when he was talking about this King of Glory.  He was a king yes, and he may have been waiting at the gate of Jerusalem with the Ark of God's Covenant, but I believe he was speaking more prophetically about the King of Kings -Jesus Christ.

He repeats this passage twice, so how important this must have been in God's ultimate plan of creation. Jesus Christ,our strong and mighty, all powerful King is standing at the door of our hearts and He wants us to open it.
                                         "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. 
                                               If you hear my voice and open the door,
                                      I will come in and eat with you and you with me."  
                                                                           Revelation 3:20

No one can open that door for you. It is your decision.  I opened the door a long time ago, and I let Jesus into my heart, and the exciting thing is that He has never left me. There are many times I have needed that all powerful, glorious, invincible King to help me through some real battles.  He's never let me down.  Things haven't always turned out the way I wanted, but I know I have never been alone. But you see, that's the way OUR GOD - THE GREAT CREATOR, OUR SAVIOUR, OUR KING OF GLORY PLANNED IT!!

New Living Translation, 1996, Tyndale Publishers

"That's The Way God Planned It" - 









             

Psalm 23 - The Shepherd's Psalm

INTRODUCTION

Read Psalm 23

One of the most well known and most recited of David's psalms would have to be Psalm 23 - his Shepherd's Psalm. It has been put to music in hymns, modern songs and even children's ditties. Poets have also placed their own personal interpretations on the comforting, strengthening words of this psalm.

But what about David? Why did he - a shepherd himself, and a king - write this psalm to His Lord, HIS  SHEPHERD? I believe it was because:  David:

* David knew that the Lord, His Shepherd CARED for him.

* David knew how important it was to TAKE QUIET TIME out each day to be with his His Shepherd.

* David knew that when he was lost and had gone astray, it was His Shepherd who would FIND HIM  and BRING HIM BACK to the right path.

* David knew that even in the darkest valleys of his life, The Lord, his Shepherd would ALWAYS BE CLOSE TO HIM.

* David knew it was only in his Shepherd that he could TRUST to take care of every physical and spiritual need in his life

* David knew that he would be SPENDING ETERNITY with his Lord - his Shepherd, so he had confidence and peace, in life and death.

Do you know these same things? Do you have this same confidence, peace and trust? I hope this psalm is for you, like me, not just another recitation, song or poem; but is truly, like David, a promise that you can take with you each day and keep on your heart.

1. Is Psalm 23 one of your favourite psalms or just something you have learnt at School or Sunday School? Would you like to share about how this psalm has helped you?

THE SHEPHERD CARES  -   Read Psalm 1:1

David himself had been a shepherd so he knew what it meant to care for sheep. He knew the tender feelings a shepherd has for his sheep. He knew how much his sheep needed their shepherd, so in boldness, this was how he was able to speak about His Lord .

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I have all that I need." Psalm 23:1  (NLT)

Isaiah spoke of a caring, nurturing Shepherd, the same Lord that David spoke of.

"Like a Shepherd, He will care for His flock, gathering the lambs in His arms, hugging them as He carries them, leading the nursing ewes to good pasture."  Isaiah 40:11  (The Message)

Later in the New Testament, Jesus identifies Himself as this same `Good Shepherd'.

"I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd who puts the sheep before Himself, sacrificing Himself." John 10:11 (The Message)

2. What adjectives best describe Jesus, the Lord and Shepherd in your life?

SPENDING TIME WITH THE SHEPHERD

Read Psalm 23:2&3

Francis Rous was born in 1581 to a godly father and mother. Brought up in East Cornwall, he believed, like David that it was necessary to spend quiet time each day in the presence of his Lord and Shepherd. Francis immersed himself in the Word of God and the writings of the early church fathers.

As a `Calvanist Conformist' he believed in salvation through forgiveness of sins and acceptance of Jesus as his saviour.  As a member of parliament he strived for unity in the churches during the Scottish Reformation.

In 1650 Francis Rous contributed to the first metrical (hymn) version of Psalm 23, put together in what is called the Scottish Psalter.  There are a number of different versions, but I like this original one:                    
             

         The Lord's my Shepherd, I shall not want
         He makes me down to lie.
        In pastures green, He leads by streams
       The quiet waters by. 

        My soul He doth restore again  
        And me to walk doth make.
        On in the paths of righteousness                        E'en for His own name's sake.

             (Francis Rous)        


3. Why do you find it important to spend quiet time with the Lord each day? 

TRUSTING THE SHEPHERD

Read Psalm 23:3-5

We can trust our Shepherd, just as David did.

* To GUIDE US along those paths of righteousness, when we might be led astray.  God wants to lead his sheep away from the `dirt and filth' into a godly, righteous life, instructing us to live by His Word. We know there was a time in David's life when he needed his spiritual mentor Nathan, to bring him words from the Lord, and to bring him to his knees and back in right standing with Lord, his Shepherd. The same may be true in our own lives and our Shepherd is waiting for us to take His hand and guide us back to Him.

* To LEAD US through those dark valleys when we feel alone and afraid. He not only LEADS, but he TAKES US THROUGH. He is right there WITH US. His presence gives us strength and encouragement for each day, until we come out of the valley and can see the light ahead.

* To GIVE US all we need for every day life, for both our body and soul. We need our physical hunger and thirst satisfied, but we also need our spiritual desires met, and our Shepherd knows exactly what we need. All we need to do is TRUST HIM.

4. Have you had an experience when you have needed to totally trust the Lord, your Shepherd to GUIDE AND LEAD you?

5. As human beings we naturally like to be in `control' of our lives, but we need to learn to trust the Lord in every area of our lives. It is easy to say, but not always easy to do. Is there an area of your life that you still need to trust God more?

 SPENDING ETERNITY WITH MY SHEPHERD

Read Psalm 23:6

A number of years ago, while at a Christmas service, I received the news that my older sister had died. Being Christmas, I wasn't really sure what I was going to say at her funeral. But the night before I awoke with a vision - it was of my mother (s), my father, sisters, my babies, all in Heaven celebrating Christmas with their Shepherd - their Lord Jesus Christ.  I cried at first, as I actually felt a little left out - but then I smiled! What a wonderful time they would be having.

David looked forward to the day when he would be spending eternity with his Lord, a time when there would be `no more crying, no more death, no more sorrow, no more pain.' He would be in the presence of His Shepherd always. What a wonderful eternity we have to look forward to too.

Until then though, we have the Lord's unfailing love, goodness and mercy surrounding us.

5. Are you looking forward to the day when you can spend eternity with the Lord?  What about now - do you know the Lord's unfailing love, goodness and mercy?  

CONCLUSION

Aunty Dorothy (as we called her) was my special Nanny, just after my Mum died. She loved to write just like me.  My first book was dedicated to her and included her works - one day I intend to have it published.  She had a wonderful faith - she knew her Shepherd's unfailing love, goodness and mercy, and in her last days couldn't wait to meet Him in Heaven. She would have been celebrating at Christmas too.  She wrote this poem and although I wasn't able to be there, I believe it was read at her funeral.

                                           THE SHEPHERD'S PSALM 

                    Horizons were cloudy, cold and dreary, wintry with sleet and rain,
                    And it seemed that the golden sun of joy, never would shine again.
                    But through the gloom came a vision bright, out of the storm came calm -
                    Verses learned at my mother's knee, from the dear old Shepherd's psalm.

                    `THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD, I SHALL NOT WANT'
                    (Ah, wonderful words of cheer)
                   `HE LEADETH ME IN PATHS THAT ARE RIGHT'
                    (Why should I doubt or fear?)
                    Through fearsome gloom, the darkest vale, through pastures green and sweet,
                    He comforts, sustains and helps His own, guiding our faltering feet.

                    So now I sing, though skies are grey and trust through storm and strife.
                    `FOR GOODNESS AND MERCY SHALL FOLLOW ME 
                     ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE'
                     When I enter those golden gates and ties of earth shall sever
                     He promised then, that even I, `SHALL DWELL IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD
                                                                                                                     FOREVER'. 
                              Dorothy Gaunson   
   

`The Bible, New Live Translation' (1996) Tyndale House Publishers

`The Message' (2002) Eugene Peterson, NavPress


"Biography of Francis Rous" , Spiritual Songsters, Stem Publishers.

New Matthew Henry Commentary, Edited By Matthew H Manser.

"In the Palm of His Hand"  - Ruth Cheater & Dorothy Gaunson. 


"The Lord is My Shepherd" - Stuart Townend (You Tube)

Psalm 22 - The Messianic Prophecy

INTRODUCTION

Read Psalm 22

I have found this to be one of the hardest psalms for me to read and study.  I've read it in every Bible version, even going back to the old King James. I've read all the Commentaries, trying to find a gentle light to put on it, but the simple fact is, there seemed to be a time in David's life, no matter how much he trusted in the Lord, when he felt this relationship was breaking down.

There was also a time in Jesus' life when He felt separated from His Father. When you think about it, there may have been a time in your life, when you have felt so alone, that God has seemed far away, and you too have asked this question.

"My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help? Every day I call to you for help, but you do not answer.  Every night you hear my voice, but you do not answer."  Psalm 22:1&2  (NLT)

So, why did David and Jesus ask this question? What were they doing when they asked this question? Well, with David, we are not really sure, but we do know that Jesus was on the cross, with the sins of the world on Him - our sins. And it's simple really, if not a little scary, but our `holy creator cannot have fellowship with sin.'

"You are of purer eyes than to behold evil and cannot look on iniquity." Habbakuk 1:13  (KJV)

DAVID'S STORY 

Read Psalm 22:1-5, 2 Samuel 11

We don't know exactly when David wrote this Psalm. We do know he was often taunted because of his faith and had lots of enemies, but worse than any physical persecution is that of the soul. I wouldn't be surprised if this Psalm wasn't written after his adulterous act with Bathsheba, after he had her husband killed. He would have known he had done wrong and these acts would have disappointed God. Although we later know that his repentance was real, and God showed Him forgiveness and mercy. But because we know that God does not have fellowship with sin,  there would have also have been a time for David, when it felt like his `friendship with God was breached'.

In his book `And the Angels were Silent', Max Lucado talks about the lonliness, confusion and desolation you feel when lost in sin. It may be just for a short time until you find your way back, but for a while when it comes to your relationship with God, sin leaves you feeling like an `orphan, abandoned'.

There is GOOD NEWS though!

1. Is there a time in your life when you have felt this lonliness, confusion and desolation because of sin in your life? Were you able to find your way back to God?

MESSIANIC PROPHECY

Read Psalm 22:1, 6-18, Mark 15:16-41. 

Psalm 22 is indeed a Messianic Prophecy, for we know that when he was on the cross:

1) His hands and feet were pierced and he watched them gamble his clothes. (V16&18)

"Then the soldiers nailed him to the cross. They divided his clothes and then threw dice to decide who would get each piece." Mark 15:24 (NLT)

2) He was aware of the people's scorn and mocking words. (V6-8)

"People walked by and shook their heads saying, `You said you could destroy the temple and build it in three days. So save yourself!  Come down from that cross! The leading priests and teachers of the law were also making fun of Jesus. They said to each other. `He saved other people, but He can't saved Himself."  Mark 15:30&31a  (KJV)

3) He was praying (V9-13)

"Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing." Luke 23:34  (NLT)

4) He was in pain, He was thirsty and He'd lost all strength.  (V14&15)

"The placing of the cross in it's socket had shaken Him with great violence, had strained all his ligaments, pained every nerve and more or less dislocated all his bones. Burdened with His own weight, the august sufferer felt the strain increasing every moment of those six long hours. His sense of faintness and weakness were overpowering, while to his own conciousness He became nothing but a mass of misery and swooning sickness"  Charles Spurgeon 1. 

5) He felt abandoned by His Father. (V1)

"Then at 3 o'clock Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?", which means, "My God, My God, why have you abandoned me." Mark 15:34

Yes, David may have felt rejected, with a soul in torment, and we may have had a similar experience at some time; but this would have been nothing compared to the lonliness and pain that Jesus experienced on the cross.  For Jesus not only had our sins laid upon Him, but the sins of the whole world.

"All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned, everyone to his own way and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all." Isaiah 53:6  (KJV)

"The next day John saw Jesus coming and said to Him, `Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world."  John 1:29

"Wait a minute, "To take away the sins"..... I'd never thought about these words.  I'd read them, but I'd never thought about them. I just thought sent sin away, you know, banished it. I thought you just stood in front of the mountains of our sins and told them to be gone. It never occurred to me that you actually touched it - or worse still, that it touched you. That must have been a horrible moment. You really were alone. You really were afraid, just like I was. Only I deserved it, you didn't."  Max Lucado 2

2. What kinds of emotions does Jesus' crucifixion dwell up inside of you?

3. When was the last time you felt lonely and afraid? Remember, it was because of what Christ went through for us that we don't have to feel this way anymore.

THE GOOD NEWS - SALVATION FROM SIN

Read Psalm 22:19-26

Yes, at first this was a hard Psalm to read. Like Max it was a reminder of how sin had once touched my life and I had been separated from God. It was hard to think about the pain and the lonliness my Lord must have felt when He was on the cross - rejected and separated from His Father, and the thought that it was my sin that put Him there.

But just as David found peace and freedom in seeking forgiveness for his sins, I know that it is because of Christ's sacrifice we can now have salvation, and can look forward to eternal life in Heaven with the Lord.

"Jesus' death was undeserved. But as He hung on the cross, he looked beyond the pain to God's bigger story of salvation, and for this He gave His life."  (The Story) 3

"This is the GOOD NEWS. When the Romans nailed Jesus to the cross, they stretched His arms as wide as they could. With His arms wide open, Jesus was physically demonstrating, `I LOVE YOU THIS MUCH! I love you so much it hurts! I'd rather die than live without you!  The next time you see a picture or a statue of Jesus with outstretched arms on the cross, remember He is saying, `I LOVE YOU THIS MUCH!"   Rick Warren 4

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but will have everlasting life. For God sent His Son into the world, not to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved."  John 3: 16 &17

4. Have you found peace, freedom and joy in seeking God's forgiveness and salvation? If so share your story with someone. If you haven't, and want to know how, I would love to help you. 

CONCLUSION

Psalm 22:27-31

David concluded this Messianic Psalm as He always did with words of confidence and praise, in a coming King and Lord, that one day all people would one day worship and serve.

It was confirmed again to me this week that the Lord wants me to continue to tell others about this message of salvation.  Whether it be as a teacher, speaker, as a writer or simply by living a life of serving others - that I'm not sure.  But one thing I do know, that while I still have the strength, and He gives me the opportunities, I will remain faithful.

1. "Lectures to My Students" (1860) Charles H Spurgeon, Sheldon, New York.

2. "And the Angels were Silent" (1987) Max Lucado, W Publishing Group.

3. "The Story" - Selections from the NIV (1969) Max Lucado & Randy Frazee, Hodder & Stoughton

4. "The Purpose of Christmas" - (2008) Rick Warren,  Howard Books


Max Lucado Devotional Bible, New Century Version (1987), Thomas Nelson

The Evidence Bible, King James Version (2003) Ray Comfort, Bridge-Logos

Holy Bible, New Living Translation  (1996), Tyndale House Publishers

Psalm 20 - Boasting in the Name of the Lord

What a week we have had here in Queensland - as my trusty thesaurus calls them - `victories, successes, triumphs, positive results, achievements' - and the list goes go.

We saw our firefighters come home to a heroes welcome after helping NSW fight the savage blazes in the Blue Mountains.  We saw the Churches and a community working together with the police to find a lost Autistic boy on the Gold Coast.  And then there was Monday night when young Demi Em reached her dream and `beat the boys' in X Factor.

What has made these `VICTORIES' even greater, is that in all three instances, we have seen people in the paper, on FACEBOOK and even on live TV, giving glory to the Lord - not boasting in `chariots and horses' but `raising their banners for the Lord', and letting the world know, that without God on their side, there would be no victory.

I am not saying it is wrong to take glory in our own successes, triumphs, achievements and positives results. Our firefighters, policeman, chaplains, communities, churches and of course young Demi deserve their praise - they worked hard to reach their achieved goals, and have every right to feel good about themselves. But wasn't it great to see how they were willing to give their ultimate glory to God.

David was a great King and fought some great battles and he had every right to feel good about himself.   Still, he knew the truth - that with God on his side - to answer his prayers when he called on his name , to give him strength when he needed it, to help his plans succeed, there would be no VICTORY; so he would  `RAISE HIS BANNER FOR THE LORD' and `BOAST IN THE NAME OF THE LORD', and encourage His people to do the same. And hopefully, the Lord would continually to look favourably upon them with continued victories, successes, triumphs, positive results and achievements."

Lets's continually do the same in our own land!

1. Can you think of a situation this week where you can raise your banner for the Lord and boast in His name? 

"In times of trouble may the Lord answer your cry. May the God of Jacob keep you from all harm. May he send you help from His sanctuary and strengthen you from Jerusalem." Psalm 20:1&2

"May he grant you hearts desires and make all your plans succeed. May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory and raise a victory in the name of our God. May the Lord answer all your prayers." Psalm 20:4&5

"Some nations boast in their chariots and horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." Psalm 20:8

The Bible, New Living Translation, 1996, Tyndale House Publishers. 

Psalm 19 - The Glory of God's Work's and His Word.

INTRODUCTION

Read Psalm 19

I've always loved reading and studying God's Word - the Bible. Although as an adult I like to dig a little deeper, I don't think I have lost that sheer wonder I had as a child as I listened to my Dad tell us the stories. I couldn't wait till I could read them myself.  My Mum told someone a story one day (quite embarrassing) that every day after school I would line up all my dolls and my teddy bear, so I could read to them and it would always include a Bible Story.  Those words were then, and still are `more desirable than gold' and `sweeter than honey'.

I don't ever remember being much of a `creationist', though I did spend a lot of time up a big tree in the front yard or riding around the city streets - spending time chatting with God. But it wasn't till I moved to the country many, many years later and began taking morning walks did I really start taking much notice of the glory of God's creation.

My `adopted Mum' does. Mum and Dad spend a lot of time travelling, and every year I spend some real quality time with them, and my eyes are opened anew to the wonder of sunsets, waterfalls and rainbows.

David needed both in his life - the GLORY OF GOD'S WORK'S and the GLORY OF GOD'S WORD - and I believe we do too.  We need to spend time in adoration and praise of God's creation, including ourselves now and then.  We need to respect and honour God's word by spending quality time reading and studying the Bible, bringing God's glory to others by learning to live a life that is pleasing to Him. 

1. Can you share 1 experience of how your love for the Word and/or Creation has enriched your Christian life?

 

                       This is a beautiful fish, but I wanted the song. Oh well, God made them both!! After you've watched the fish,it may come up with some songs - go to `GO FISH - `GLORY'.

GOD'S WORKS

Read Psalm 19:1-6

Today as I sit and write the wind is blowing a nice cool breeze, but the sun is still shining. No one but a great God like ours could creates such a perfect Queensland morning. Last night as I looked up into the sky and listened to the rain, there was no fear of being alone, for I had great trust in my omnipotent and omnipresent Creator.

David used his quiet time - we don't know when it was - to meditate on the glory of God's works. He spoke of the heavens and the skies, both in the day and the night. He especially loved to watch the rising and the setting of the sun. Most of all, I believe David loved to listen for the silent messages that came from God in the promises of His love, faithfulness and omnipresence. While meditating on the glory of God' works, David again found his Rock.

"God's glory is on tour in the skies, God's craft on exhibit across the horizon.....their words aren't heard, their voices aren't recorded, but their silence fills the earth: unspoken truth is spoken everywhere."  Psalm 19:1,3&4  (The Message)

2.Take some time to meditate on God's works. What silent promises have you received?

GOD'S WORD

Read Psalm 19:7-13

David knew the value of gold. He was surrounded by it. But to him God's word was more valuable than this. It gave him strength, wisdom, joy and purity that no gold could have brought him.

Living in the wilderness, David lived off the land.  Not only was the honey, straight from the bees, sweet to taste, but it provided instant energy.  So it is true of God's Word. When we read the Bible with an open heart to what God wants to teach us, it immediately goes to work to give us the strength and energy we need to get us through each day.

David's particular emphasis was on the importance of God's laws for giving `insight for living' as we would read them in the Old Testament (10 Commandments).  David said, `they are right and bring joy to the heart.'  They are `clear and true'. They are warning signs, but not only for David's day, but very relevant for us.  For as Billy Graham simply puts it:

"God gave the law because He loves us. God's commandments were given to protect and promote our happiness, not to restrict it. God wants the best for us. God loves us with an infinite love. He cannot and will not approve of disorder. Consequently, he laid down these laws which, if obeyed, bring harmony and fulfillment, but if disobeyed bring discord and disorder."  Billy Graham *1

Jesus summed these commandments up for us in the Gospel:

"Love the Lord your God will all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and with all your mind, and love your neighbour as yourself. " Luke 10:27 (NLT)

Paul and John also bring them up in their teaching:

"So put to death the sinful earthly things lurking withing you....... Put on your new nature and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like Him. Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves clothe yourselves with tender hearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience....... Clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony."  Colossians 3:5, 10,12&14. (NLT)

"Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions." 1 John 3:18 (NLT)

David knew he wasn't perfect.  He knew there were secret sins lurking in his heart that could easily have overtaken and ruled his spirit. We all have these and like David we need to have the Word of God entrenched in our hearts so we can keep the devil at bay and keep us from falling.  I used to sing lots of songs when I was a child to help me learn Bible Verses, because I was not very good at it, and these are becoming popular again.  Maybe we can ask our children or grandchildren to teach us!!

3.a) How have you benefited from not only reading the Bible each day, but having it entrenched in your heart?
b) What are some ways that you have been able to learn Bible Verses?  What are some verses that have helped you?
c) If you are a new Christian, you may have only just started to read the Bible.  Ask a Christian friend or mentor these questions, and maybe try some of their ideas yourself. 

CONCLUSION

Read Psalm 19:14

David summed up this Psalm very simply, asking the Lord to accept the `words of his mouth' and the  `meditations of his heart'. God had revealed himself to David through His Works and His Word, and these were silent messages.  The meditations of our heart can be silent too, but that doesn't mean that God isn't listening.  As we listen to every silent expression of His love, He too knows how much we long to grow in our faith and desire to serve Him, for like David, God is OUR Rock and OUR Redeemer (Defender, Saviour)

"May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my Rock and My Redeemer." Psalm 19:14


The Bible, New Living Translation (1996) Tyndale Publishers

The Message (2002) Eugene Peterson, NavPress

Living the Psalms (2012) Charles R Swindoll, Worthy Publishers

1. "How to Be Born Again", Billy Graham. 

"Glory" - Go Fish (You Tube)