Read Psalm 29
Here is another short psalm and prayer of David's, but again the message is so simple and clear, it doesn't need a lot of words.
GOD is ALL POWERFUL and MAJESTIC. He is IN CONTROL over ALL THINGS, including nature and the `storms of life' that we have no control over. He will give us strength and peace to help us through those `storms' if we simply TRUST IN HIM.
Last night on the news there were some beautiful and amazing pictures of the storms coming over Sydney. As I sat in my caravan, the `storms' of my day, both the literal rain and thunder, and my anger with `my girls' and my feelings of inadequacy, had passed. Watching the storm as it had passed was actually not scary, but comforting as I thought of the magnificent glory of God.
As David wrote this Psalm it is thought there may have been a great storm raging around him - rain, thunder, lightning. It seemed like a great time for meditation.
"David interpreted each clap of thunder as a call to himself and other rulers to give glory to God in His greatness." Matthew Henry.
1. Have you ever stopped to acknowledge God's glory in the magnificence of a storm? What other natural phenomenon do you see God's glory?
When we acknowledge God magnificence and beauty in a storm - literally and in the storms of life - we are acknowledging His LOVE for us, His SOVEREIGNTY, and the STRENGTH AND PEACE He gives us.
"Peace and strength are blessings of immeasurable value that God intends for ALL HIS PEOPLE - that includes YOU!!". Matthew Henry
"The Lord gives strength to His people. The Lord blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11 (NLT)
2. Take time to acknowledge that God's immeasurable blessings of love, strength and peace are for you, and thank God for them.
New Matthew Henry Commentary, Edited By Matthew H Manser.
Holy Bible, New Living Translation (1996), Tyndale Publishers.
Friday, March 28, 2014
PSALM 28 - PRAYERS IN TROUBLED TIMES
Read Psalm 28.
With David discovering the `way' to overcome his fears through praise, seeking the Lord and waiting on he now continues to pray anytime of the day and in any circumstance. In this short psalm David is in great distress and is calling out to the Lord for help. He desperately needs to know that God is hearing his prayers.
Saul was seeking him every day and he was always surrounded by evil men. He didn't want to be tempted to fall into their evil ways. Mostly, he did not want to face his enemies and his trials alone. Yes, he surrounded by Saul and his enemies every day, but he was never delivered into their hands.
"Behold, God is my helper. The Lord is the supporter of my life."
The same can be true when we face our trials. Come to God each day in prayer and we may still be surrounded by our `enemies', but we can have peace in their midst, and can rejoice in our ultimate deliverance.
1. Do you have this peace and joy in the midst of your trials? Come to God today in prayer and seek His ultimate deliverance.
David had a bold and earnest belief that God would answer his prayers. Now he prays with thanksgiving.
"Praise the Lord for He has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out with songs of thanksgiving." Psalm 28:6&7
2. Do you have a bold an earnest belief that God will answer your prayers? Pray with thanksgiving.
David concludes with a short prayer and prophecy for his people - the Church:
* The SHEPHERD will SAVE us.
* The SHEPHERD will BLESS us.
* The SHEPHERD will FEED us.
All we need to do is TRUST IN OUR SHEPHERD!
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 1996, Tyndale Publishers
New Matthew Henry Commentary, Edited By Matthew H Manser.
With David discovering the `way' to overcome his fears through praise, seeking the Lord and waiting on he now continues to pray anytime of the day and in any circumstance. In this short psalm David is in great distress and is calling out to the Lord for help. He desperately needs to know that God is hearing his prayers.
Saul was seeking him every day and he was always surrounded by evil men. He didn't want to be tempted to fall into their evil ways. Mostly, he did not want to face his enemies and his trials alone. Yes, he surrounded by Saul and his enemies every day, but he was never delivered into their hands.
"Behold, God is my helper. The Lord is the supporter of my life."
The same can be true when we face our trials. Come to God each day in prayer and we may still be surrounded by our `enemies', but we can have peace in their midst, and can rejoice in our ultimate deliverance.
1. Do you have this peace and joy in the midst of your trials? Come to God today in prayer and seek His ultimate deliverance.
David had a bold and earnest belief that God would answer his prayers. Now he prays with thanksgiving.
"Praise the Lord for He has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out with songs of thanksgiving." Psalm 28:6&7
2. Do you have a bold an earnest belief that God will answer your prayers? Pray with thanksgiving.
David concludes with a short prayer and prophecy for his people - the Church:
* The SHEPHERD will SAVE us.
* The SHEPHERD will BLESS us.
* The SHEPHERD will FEED us.
All we need to do is TRUST IN OUR SHEPHERD!
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 1996, Tyndale Publishers
New Matthew Henry Commentary, Edited By Matthew H Manser.
PSALM 27 - DAVID FACES HIS FEARS
INTRODUCTION - READ PSALM 27
Before I left to join the circus I was pretty much paralyzed with fear - fear of the unknown, fear of failure again, fear of rejection. After 3 years of pretty much being unemployed, depression had taken away my confidence. I was even afraid of meeting my grandchild.
So far the last 3 months I have been ready Psalms 26 and 27 every day, giving my past to the Lord and finding peace in my future. I have finally been able to give my fears to the Lord and have found courage to face what lay ahead.
What a great help David and His (my) Lord have been!
1. Do you have any fears that are holding you back? Give them to the Lord today.
FACING FEAR WITH PRAISE AND WORSHIP.
READ PSALM 27:1, 4-6; EPHESIANS 5:19 & 20.
According to Charles Swindoll, "The key to facing our fears is found in Psalm 27:1"
"The Lord is my light and my salvation - so why should I be afraid?
The Lord is my fortress protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?"
Psalm 27:1
The Lord is our omnipresent God, a very personal and faithful companion. This is how David saw him and why he usually began his psalms with a reminder of God's attributes - praise and worship - and was then able to face his fears.
In verses 4-6 we see how David's greatest desire was to be in God's presence. He had always wanted to be the one to build God's temple, so he could spend time there each day with the Lord. We read in 2 Samuel 7 that God didn't want David to build His temple, this task was given to David's son Solomon. God wanted David to know that he belonged in the midst of his people, in their everyday lives, not just in a building.
So I am sure David would praise and worship his Lord at anytime of the day and at any place. I love to go on my walks in the park in the morning and sing to the Lord, or while I do the the housework, or I am feeling a little anxious. Of course I praise the Lord when things are going great. As my Dad would say, "A little PRAISE TO THE LORD each day will keep you walking along HIS WAY."
"Instead be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves and making music to the Lord in your hearts/ Give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-20
2. Why do you think `a little bit of `praise each day will keep you walking along His way."?
REMEMBERING PAST VICTORIES
READ PSALM 27:2-3; HEBREWS 11:32-40
I have been keeping a journal for many years. I wrote my first book in the early 90's and in the last 5 years I have starting blogging. It may seem a little egotistical to read your own work, but now and then when I find things are really getting me down, reading over my past challenges and victories is one way I find I can conquer my fears.
I believe this is what David did too. When struck by fear, David thought about his past battles, not so much to see how he conquered them, but how by drawing on God's strength and omnipotence he was able to find inner courage to overcome his fears in the past.
"Though a mighty army surrounds me I will not be afraid. Even when I am attacked,
I will remain confident." Psalm 27:3
In Hebrews 11 we read about the faith of David and many others, who trusted God and placed their fears in His hands. When they did this their `weakness was turned into strength' and they became `strong in battle'. But we also have a greater VICTORY to look forward to because of the resurrection of our Saviour Jesus Christ, and when we remember this ULTIMATE VICTORY we have NOTHING TO FEAR.
"Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of Judah, the heir to David's throne has won the victory."
Revelation 5:5a
3. Can you remember times in the past when God rescued you? Do you keep a journal? Now might be a good time to start.
SEEKING GOD - PSALM 27:7-12
Our first human response to fear is PANIC. Even when we have grown up with past victories and our faith is intrenched in the Lord's promises; we are still emotional people. Our response to fear is usually to `fight' in our own strength, or to `flee'. It has taken a while, but I am finally starting to learning that if I seek the Lord first, then I am less likely to `fight' or `flee'.
After his praise and worship time and the recalling of his past victories, God had reminded himself of God's greatness and faithfulness. He was then able to seek God with His needs. With new strength and confidence David didn't pray with weak-hearted requests. He approached God boldly, determined and positively.
`David did not ask for anything God had not already promised." Charles Swindoll.
When we seek God in prayer we need to pray in boldness, without doubting. We are to pray fervently, claiming God's promises and remember, "You have nothing to fear because you have Him who has conquered fear."
"So let us come boldly to the throne of grace. There we will receive His mercy and will find grace to help us when we need it most." Hebrews 4:18
"Confess your sins to each other and pray to each other and you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results." James 5:16
"Don't worry about anything. Pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done." Philippians 4:6
"Can a woman forget her nursing child and have compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I will inscribe you on the palms of my hands." Isaiah 49:15-16
4.a) Why would seeking God first keep us from wanting to fight and flee?
b) Do you have any specific needs you need to bring to God?
WAIT ON THE LORD - READ PSALM 27:13&14; HEBREWS 4:9-11
David knew, even though he had these `strategies' to conquer fear and was feeling a lot more at peace in the Lord, that this did not necessarily mean that his situation would change. Enemies were still surrounding him and he would still face trials and temptations. The only way to find real strength and courage was to WAIT ON THE LORD. This is a spiritual discipline that grows with prayer and faith; and I can tell you from experience, it's worth the WAIT.
"Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes wait patiently for the Lord."
Psalm 27:14
"But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will sour high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not grow faint." Isaiah 41:3
5. How can we cultivate the spiritual discipline of patience and waiting on the Lord?
CONCLUSION
Follow David's example each day:
* Call to mind PAST VICTORIES each day.
* Celebrate and PRAISE the greatness and faithfulness of God.
* SEEK THE LORD and express your daily needs BOLDLY.
* WAIT ON THE LORD! Let the fearful circumstances become an opportunity to strengthen you.
Surrender them to God's control, then choose to leave them in God's hands.
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 1996, Tyndale Publishers
"Living the Psalms" (2012) Charles R Swindoll, Worthy Publishing
Before I left to join the circus I was pretty much paralyzed with fear - fear of the unknown, fear of failure again, fear of rejection. After 3 years of pretty much being unemployed, depression had taken away my confidence. I was even afraid of meeting my grandchild.
So far the last 3 months I have been ready Psalms 26 and 27 every day, giving my past to the Lord and finding peace in my future. I have finally been able to give my fears to the Lord and have found courage to face what lay ahead.
What a great help David and His (my) Lord have been!
1. Do you have any fears that are holding you back? Give them to the Lord today.
FACING FEAR WITH PRAISE AND WORSHIP.
READ PSALM 27:1, 4-6; EPHESIANS 5:19 & 20.
According to Charles Swindoll, "The key to facing our fears is found in Psalm 27:1"
"The Lord is my light and my salvation - so why should I be afraid?
The Lord is my fortress protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?"
Psalm 27:1
The Lord is our omnipresent God, a very personal and faithful companion. This is how David saw him and why he usually began his psalms with a reminder of God's attributes - praise and worship - and was then able to face his fears.
In verses 4-6 we see how David's greatest desire was to be in God's presence. He had always wanted to be the one to build God's temple, so he could spend time there each day with the Lord. We read in 2 Samuel 7 that God didn't want David to build His temple, this task was given to David's son Solomon. God wanted David to know that he belonged in the midst of his people, in their everyday lives, not just in a building.
So I am sure David would praise and worship his Lord at anytime of the day and at any place. I love to go on my walks in the park in the morning and sing to the Lord, or while I do the the housework, or I am feeling a little anxious. Of course I praise the Lord when things are going great. As my Dad would say, "A little PRAISE TO THE LORD each day will keep you walking along HIS WAY."
"Instead be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves and making music to the Lord in your hearts/ Give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-20
2. Why do you think `a little bit of `praise each day will keep you walking along His way."?
REMEMBERING PAST VICTORIES
READ PSALM 27:2-3; HEBREWS 11:32-40
I have been keeping a journal for many years. I wrote my first book in the early 90's and in the last 5 years I have starting blogging. It may seem a little egotistical to read your own work, but now and then when I find things are really getting me down, reading over my past challenges and victories is one way I find I can conquer my fears.
I believe this is what David did too. When struck by fear, David thought about his past battles, not so much to see how he conquered them, but how by drawing on God's strength and omnipotence he was able to find inner courage to overcome his fears in the past.
"Though a mighty army surrounds me I will not be afraid. Even when I am attacked,
I will remain confident." Psalm 27:3
In Hebrews 11 we read about the faith of David and many others, who trusted God and placed their fears in His hands. When they did this their `weakness was turned into strength' and they became `strong in battle'. But we also have a greater VICTORY to look forward to because of the resurrection of our Saviour Jesus Christ, and when we remember this ULTIMATE VICTORY we have NOTHING TO FEAR.
"Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of Judah, the heir to David's throne has won the victory."
Revelation 5:5a
3. Can you remember times in the past when God rescued you? Do you keep a journal? Now might be a good time to start.
SEEKING GOD - PSALM 27:7-12
Our first human response to fear is PANIC. Even when we have grown up with past victories and our faith is intrenched in the Lord's promises; we are still emotional people. Our response to fear is usually to `fight' in our own strength, or to `flee'. It has taken a while, but I am finally starting to learning that if I seek the Lord first, then I am less likely to `fight' or `flee'.
After his praise and worship time and the recalling of his past victories, God had reminded himself of God's greatness and faithfulness. He was then able to seek God with His needs. With new strength and confidence David didn't pray with weak-hearted requests. He approached God boldly, determined and positively.
`David did not ask for anything God had not already promised." Charles Swindoll.
When we seek God in prayer we need to pray in boldness, without doubting. We are to pray fervently, claiming God's promises and remember, "You have nothing to fear because you have Him who has conquered fear."
"So let us come boldly to the throne of grace. There we will receive His mercy and will find grace to help us when we need it most." Hebrews 4:18
"Confess your sins to each other and pray to each other and you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results." James 5:16
"Don't worry about anything. Pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done." Philippians 4:6
"Can a woman forget her nursing child and have compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Behold, I will inscribe you on the palms of my hands." Isaiah 49:15-16
4.a) Why would seeking God first keep us from wanting to fight and flee?
b) Do you have any specific needs you need to bring to God?
WAIT ON THE LORD - READ PSALM 27:13&14; HEBREWS 4:9-11
David knew, even though he had these `strategies' to conquer fear and was feeling a lot more at peace in the Lord, that this did not necessarily mean that his situation would change. Enemies were still surrounding him and he would still face trials and temptations. The only way to find real strength and courage was to WAIT ON THE LORD. This is a spiritual discipline that grows with prayer and faith; and I can tell you from experience, it's worth the WAIT.
"Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes wait patiently for the Lord."
Psalm 27:14
"But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will sour high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not grow faint." Isaiah 41:3
5. How can we cultivate the spiritual discipline of patience and waiting on the Lord?
CONCLUSION
Follow David's example each day:
* Call to mind PAST VICTORIES each day.
* Celebrate and PRAISE the greatness and faithfulness of God.
* SEEK THE LORD and express your daily needs BOLDLY.
* WAIT ON THE LORD! Let the fearful circumstances become an opportunity to strengthen you.
Surrender them to God's control, then choose to leave them in God's hands.
Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 1996, Tyndale Publishers
"Living the Psalms" (2012) Charles R Swindoll, Worthy Publishing
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Psalm 26 - David's Life Resolutions
INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 26.
Psalm 26 is another of David's meditative prayer's of reflection, where we find an older man looking back over how he has best tried to live his life committed to serving God, and in return we see how God has blessed him.
David's 5 life resolutions were summed up in this psalm as:
1. Walking in integrity and being honest with God.
2. Always remembering God's love and obeying His Word.
3. Refusing the temptation to get even when mistreated and maintaining a positive attitude.
4. Being faithful in public worship.
5. Standing patiently and waiting on the Lord.
Now we all know that David wasn't perfect. He made mistakes. But in studying the life of David over the last few years, I have had to confess that my struggles at times have been somewhat similar - times of failure, mistreatment and definitely having to wait patiently on the Lord. But like David, I too have attempted to keep these resolutions, for it is only in so doing that I have been able to look forward to the Lord's continued blessings.
1. WALKING IN INTEGRITY AND BEING HONEST WITH GOD.
Read Psalm 26:1-2; Deuteronomy 8.
"Declare me innocent, O Lord, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the Lord without wavering." Psalm 26:1 (NLT)
"Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey His commands." Deuteronomy 8:8:2 (NIV)
God put the Israelites through and intensive 40 year test, so he could expose the conditions of their heart and refine them. David believed his mistreatment by Saul and the later trials when he was expelled from his kingdom by his son Absalom were for a similar reason - to humble and develop his integrity.
The same can be true for us, but we would hope it would not take 40 years. But by having a close, open and honest relationship with the Lord and accepting the hard times that come our way as times of growth and refinement, we will truly find blessings from the Lord.
1. Why is it difficult to be open and honest with the Lord when we are going through hard times?
2. ALWAYS REMEMBERING GOD'S LOVE AND OBEYING HIS WORD
Read Psalm 26:3, John 14:15-26
"For I am always aware of your unfailing love and I have lived according to your truth."
Psalm 26:3 (NLT)
"If you love me, keep my commands, and I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever - the Spirit of Truth." John 14:15 (NIV)
If you are truly confident in God's love, you will find great delight in pleasing Him, just as David did. David knew that obeying God and keeping his eyes on His truth was his greatest delight.
2. What is your greatest challenge - remembering God's love or obeying God? Why?
3. I WILL REFUSE THE TEMPTATION TO GET EVEN AND
WILL MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
Read Psalm 26:4-7a, 9-11
"I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites. I hate the gatherings of those who do evil and I refuse to join in with the wicked." Psalm 26:5
I probably found this the hardest `resolve' to keep as bitterness and negative thoughts would forever come up to haunt me at different times in my life, especially when people around me would make comments like: "Why put up with that?", "You deserve justive", "Fight back".
There were a number of times David had the opportunity to `get back' at Saul and he could have easily fought with his son Absalom. But he never yielded to the vengeful rhetoric of others around him. Why not?
Well, we don't really know. He probably just trusted God to protect him. For me, keeping this resolve was just something my father taught me, `Revenge is never the way to go'.
As Charles Swindoll puts it:
"Do not let mistreatment cause you to turn to a godless crowd or adopt their way of handling things. It may seem logical, but getting even often backfires and it never glorifies God."
I was also taught many a time:
"For as a person thinks in his heart, so he shall be." Proverbs 23:7a (NKJV)
When a heart is full of bitterness it is difficult to maintain a positive attitude. Oh, you can smile on the outside - and I am famous for that - and everyone may think that life is grand. But on the inside your are still fighting inner turmoil.
Joyce Meyer reminds us that if we are able to give this inner turmoil to the Lord and remind ourselves of the promises in His Word each day, positive thoughts, rather than the negative will flow easier. One of my favourite promises is this:
"We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Romans 8:28 (NIV)
"This scripture does not say that all things ARE good! But it does say that all things work together FOR good." Joyce Meyer
WHAT A POSITIVE PROMISE!
3. Refusing to get even while maintaining a positive attitude is something we cannot do on our own. What are some practical ways we can seek God's help and the help of others?
4. BEING FAITHFUL IN PUBLIC WORSHIP - Read Psalm 26: 7b & 8
"I love your sanctuary Lord, the place where your glorious presence dwells." Psalm 26:8
"The one thing I ask of the Lord, the one thing I seek most - is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfection and meditating in His temple." Psalm 27:4
"What joy for those who choose to bring you near, those who live in your holy courts. What festivities await us in your holy temple." Psalm 65:4
"A single day in your courts is better than anywhere else." Psalm 85:10
Even when times were tough David found that going to the temple and worshiping the Lord was the best place to be. He didn't try to handle things on his own, but went straight to God - to the place where He could sense His glory.
Mark and I have been very busy these last couple of weeks, starting our new life at the Circus, and I wasn't sure whether we would have a chance to get to Church. Worship and Christian fellowship for us is more than just a religious habit, but vital to our spiritual enrichment and personal encouragement. So it was truly a blessing to be able to visit with God's people at a local Church fellowship last week. We were disappointed when we went back to Church this week and discovered it was closed - they only met once a fortnight.
We were able to have our private worship time together, and this was important for us personally - but as David reminds us, public worship also is important for reaching out to others as well.
"Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now as the day of his return is drawing near." Hebrews 10:25 (NLT)
"I exalt you my God and King and praise your name forever and ever. I will praise you everyday; yes, I will praise you forever.......I will meditate on your glorious, majestic, splendour and wonderful miracles.......The Lord is close to all who call on Him, yes to all who call on Him in truth.........I will praise the Lord, and may everyone on the earth bless His name forever and ever." Psalm 145: 1,2,5,18 & 21 (NLT)
4a) Why is worshipping God so encouraging when the trials of life intensify?
b) Why is it so important to worship with other believers?
5. STANDING PATIENTLY AND WAITING ON THE LORD
Read Psalm 26:12
"Now I stand on solid rock and I will publicly praise the Lord." Psalm 26:12
"For examples in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord." James 5:10
This is another of those resolutions that is often difficult to keep, for as humans we have a need to rush ahead of God and want to `solve' every problem ourselves. Sound familiar!
But David had found a calmness in the Lord. He had learnt how to wait quietly on the Lord - maybe it had been by endeavouring to keep these 4 other resolutions - to be open and honest with the Lord, remembering His love and His Word, refusing to allow temptations and bitterness to overpower him while maintaining a positive attitude and being faithful in public worship.
It has taken me a long time I have to confess, but I have believe I am beginning to find that inner peace that is allowing me to wait patiently on the Lord. I have learnt to trust in the Lord's leading, to enfold myself in God's love and His Word, to give my negative thoughts and bitterness to God and most of all to remain faithful in my public worship. I think it is working, and I now I just want to continue to grow and share this peace with others.
"Then you will experience God's peace which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
"Living the Psalms" (2012) Charles R Swindoll, Worthy Publishing
"Battlefield of the Mind" (2000) Joyce Meyer, Warner Faith Printers
" Holy Bible, New Living Translation" (NLT) (1996) Tyndale Publishing.
" New King James Version" (NKJV) (1982) Thomas Nelson
"New International Version" (NIV) (2013) You Version .
Psalm 26 is another of David's meditative prayer's of reflection, where we find an older man looking back over how he has best tried to live his life committed to serving God, and in return we see how God has blessed him.
David's 5 life resolutions were summed up in this psalm as:
1. Walking in integrity and being honest with God.
2. Always remembering God's love and obeying His Word.
3. Refusing the temptation to get even when mistreated and maintaining a positive attitude.
4. Being faithful in public worship.
5. Standing patiently and waiting on the Lord.
Now we all know that David wasn't perfect. He made mistakes. But in studying the life of David over the last few years, I have had to confess that my struggles at times have been somewhat similar - times of failure, mistreatment and definitely having to wait patiently on the Lord. But like David, I too have attempted to keep these resolutions, for it is only in so doing that I have been able to look forward to the Lord's continued blessings.
1. WALKING IN INTEGRITY AND BEING HONEST WITH GOD.
Read Psalm 26:1-2; Deuteronomy 8.
"Declare me innocent, O Lord, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the Lord without wavering." Psalm 26:1 (NLT)
"Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey His commands." Deuteronomy 8:8:2 (NIV)
God put the Israelites through and intensive 40 year test, so he could expose the conditions of their heart and refine them. David believed his mistreatment by Saul and the later trials when he was expelled from his kingdom by his son Absalom were for a similar reason - to humble and develop his integrity.
The same can be true for us, but we would hope it would not take 40 years. But by having a close, open and honest relationship with the Lord and accepting the hard times that come our way as times of growth and refinement, we will truly find blessings from the Lord.
1. Why is it difficult to be open and honest with the Lord when we are going through hard times?
2. ALWAYS REMEMBERING GOD'S LOVE AND OBEYING HIS WORD
Read Psalm 26:3, John 14:15-26
"For I am always aware of your unfailing love and I have lived according to your truth."
Psalm 26:3 (NLT)
"If you love me, keep my commands, and I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever - the Spirit of Truth." John 14:15 (NIV)
If you are truly confident in God's love, you will find great delight in pleasing Him, just as David did. David knew that obeying God and keeping his eyes on His truth was his greatest delight.
2. What is your greatest challenge - remembering God's love or obeying God? Why?
3. I WILL REFUSE THE TEMPTATION TO GET EVEN AND
WILL MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
Read Psalm 26:4-7a, 9-11
"I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites. I hate the gatherings of those who do evil and I refuse to join in with the wicked." Psalm 26:5
I probably found this the hardest `resolve' to keep as bitterness and negative thoughts would forever come up to haunt me at different times in my life, especially when people around me would make comments like: "Why put up with that?", "You deserve justive", "Fight back".
There were a number of times David had the opportunity to `get back' at Saul and he could have easily fought with his son Absalom. But he never yielded to the vengeful rhetoric of others around him. Why not?
Well, we don't really know. He probably just trusted God to protect him. For me, keeping this resolve was just something my father taught me, `Revenge is never the way to go'.
As Charles Swindoll puts it:
"Do not let mistreatment cause you to turn to a godless crowd or adopt their way of handling things. It may seem logical, but getting even often backfires and it never glorifies God."
I was also taught many a time:
"For as a person thinks in his heart, so he shall be." Proverbs 23:7a (NKJV)
When a heart is full of bitterness it is difficult to maintain a positive attitude. Oh, you can smile on the outside - and I am famous for that - and everyone may think that life is grand. But on the inside your are still fighting inner turmoil.
Joyce Meyer reminds us that if we are able to give this inner turmoil to the Lord and remind ourselves of the promises in His Word each day, positive thoughts, rather than the negative will flow easier. One of my favourite promises is this:
"We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Romans 8:28 (NIV)
"This scripture does not say that all things ARE good! But it does say that all things work together FOR good." Joyce Meyer
WHAT A POSITIVE PROMISE!
3. Refusing to get even while maintaining a positive attitude is something we cannot do on our own. What are some practical ways we can seek God's help and the help of others?
4. BEING FAITHFUL IN PUBLIC WORSHIP - Read Psalm 26: 7b & 8
"I love your sanctuary Lord, the place where your glorious presence dwells." Psalm 26:8
"The one thing I ask of the Lord, the one thing I seek most - is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfection and meditating in His temple." Psalm 27:4
"What joy for those who choose to bring you near, those who live in your holy courts. What festivities await us in your holy temple." Psalm 65:4
"A single day in your courts is better than anywhere else." Psalm 85:10
Even when times were tough David found that going to the temple and worshiping the Lord was the best place to be. He didn't try to handle things on his own, but went straight to God - to the place where He could sense His glory.
Mark and I have been very busy these last couple of weeks, starting our new life at the Circus, and I wasn't sure whether we would have a chance to get to Church. Worship and Christian fellowship for us is more than just a religious habit, but vital to our spiritual enrichment and personal encouragement. So it was truly a blessing to be able to visit with God's people at a local Church fellowship last week. We were disappointed when we went back to Church this week and discovered it was closed - they only met once a fortnight.
We were able to have our private worship time together, and this was important for us personally - but as David reminds us, public worship also is important for reaching out to others as well.
"Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now as the day of his return is drawing near." Hebrews 10:25 (NLT)
"I exalt you my God and King and praise your name forever and ever. I will praise you everyday; yes, I will praise you forever.......I will meditate on your glorious, majestic, splendour and wonderful miracles.......The Lord is close to all who call on Him, yes to all who call on Him in truth.........I will praise the Lord, and may everyone on the earth bless His name forever and ever." Psalm 145: 1,2,5,18 & 21 (NLT)
4a) Why is worshipping God so encouraging when the trials of life intensify?
b) Why is it so important to worship with other believers?
5. STANDING PATIENTLY AND WAITING ON THE LORD
Read Psalm 26:12
"Now I stand on solid rock and I will publicly praise the Lord." Psalm 26:12
"For examples in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord." James 5:10
This is another of those resolutions that is often difficult to keep, for as humans we have a need to rush ahead of God and want to `solve' every problem ourselves. Sound familiar!
But David had found a calmness in the Lord. He had learnt how to wait quietly on the Lord - maybe it had been by endeavouring to keep these 4 other resolutions - to be open and honest with the Lord, remembering His love and His Word, refusing to allow temptations and bitterness to overpower him while maintaining a positive attitude and being faithful in public worship.
It has taken me a long time I have to confess, but I have believe I am beginning to find that inner peace that is allowing me to wait patiently on the Lord. I have learnt to trust in the Lord's leading, to enfold myself in God's love and His Word, to give my negative thoughts and bitterness to God and most of all to remain faithful in my public worship. I think it is working, and I now I just want to continue to grow and share this peace with others.
"Then you will experience God's peace which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
"Living the Psalms" (2012) Charles R Swindoll, Worthy Publishing
"Battlefield of the Mind" (2000) Joyce Meyer, Warner Faith Printers
" Holy Bible, New Living Translation" (NLT) (1996) Tyndale Publishing.
" New King James Version" (NKJV) (1982) Thomas Nelson
"New International Version" (NIV) (2013) You Version .
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
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)
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
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)
Friday, December 27, 2013
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" -
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" -
Friday, December 6, 2013
Psalm 23 - The Shepherd's Psalm
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)
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