PSALM 69 - DELIVER ME

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 69, Read 1 Samuel 17-22, 2  Samuel 5, 6, 8, 11-15, 21&24

When David wrote this Psalm he was in deep distress. This could have been at many times in his life, for as we read his story in full, we have found that he had many reasons to cry out to the Lord for deliverance.

1. When Saul and his armies were chasing him and David had to go into hiding. (1 Samuel 18-22)

2. When he was was fighting those giants, the Philistines and many other enemies.
(1 Samuel 17&29); (2 Samuel 5, 8 &21)

3. When his own son Absalom was against him, trying to taking his his throne.  (2 Samuel 13-15)

4. But the hardest of all would have had to have been when facing his own inner battles with pride, guilt and temptation. (2 Samuel 6, 11-12, 24)

David discovered that God was his only help in these times of need. All he needed to do was reach out to Him.

"In my distress I prayed to you Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?" Psalm 118:5-6 (NLT)

"I sought the Lord and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4 (NIV)

"Prayer spawned David's success......"he strengthened himself in the Lord His God" (1 Samuel 30:6) When Saul's soldiers tried to capture him, David turned toward God....When David soaked His mind in God, He stood! When he didn't, he flopped! Do you think he spent much time praying the night he seduced Bathsheba? Did he write a psalm the night he murdered Uriah? Invite God's help. Pick up the stone of prayer/"  (Max Lucado, 2006)

"You have been my defense and refuge in my day of trouble."  Psalm 59:16  (NIV)

CRYING OUT TO THE LORD - Read Verses 1-12

The more David cried out to the Lord in his weariness, the more relief he received, and his faith and hope were strengthened. 

"Falling down is the first step to learning to walk." Bob Gass (2002)

David was God's chosen and blessed King. The enemy knew he had `God given potential', and he was out to stop him reaching it. Part of David's inner being was eager to serve God, but the other part, 'the sinful nature', needed to go to God daily for strengthening. In God's presence he was able to see himself as God saw him. 

"At the POINT OF REPENTANCE COMES RESTORATION. When God lifts you up your spirit is revived and your body, mind and emotions are healed. Prayer puts s shield of DIVINE PROTECTION around you. Don't live without it! " Bob Gass (2002)

Confession of sin is very serious. Our supplications need to be earnest. Only then, our pleas, like David's, can be POWERFUL.

"Save me, save me, O God, from sinking and despairing." Hebrews 5:7

Like David, we need to believe in God's restoring and healing power. We need to have a "zeal for God" and a reason for hope.

DAVID'S REQUESTS - Read Verses 13-21

In these next verses we read of David supplications:

1. "But I keep calling to you, Lord! I know you will bend down to listen to me, for now is the           season of favour. Because of your great love for me, your answer to my prayer will be my sure         salvation........Oh Lord God, answer my prayers! I need to see your tender kindness (mercies),         your grace, your compassion, and your constant love."    Psalm  69:13&16 (TPT)

David begins with a pleading for God's mercy and truth. He was very committed to a his servitude of the Lord and found it hard at times to cope with the `spiteful reproaches' he received when he fasted and prayed. We too often face these difficulties, but like David we should grasp God's grace and "continue to speak  well of God under these hardships."

Jesus pleaded for mercy from His Father, for He knew the reproach, shame and dishonour He would face. He knew that His enemies would soon stand before, but He is also knew that it was up to Him to take on the sins of the world on the cross, the sign of His Father's `mercy, grace, compassion and constant love.'

2. "Come running quickly to your servant. In this deep distress, come and answer my prayer. Set me free so my enemies cannot say that you are powerless.  Come closer as a friend and redeem me.....You know what I am going through, and you see it all."

 Psalm 69:17-19 (TPT)

David continually pleaded with the Lord when faced with distress and affliction. He remembered trials of the past, but most of all he remembered the victories. This gave him strength to face the future. 

"Write today's worries in sand, chisel tomorrow's victories in stone." Max Lucado  (2006)

Jesus knew that He would suffer his death on the cross, but He also knew the victory of His resurrection. 

3. "I was hungry and they gave me bitter food. I was thirsty and they offered me vinegar." 

       Psalm 69:21 (TPT)

David pleaded the unkindness of his friends and his disappointment in them. He was feeling hurt and let down. They had failed him, especially in times when he needed encouragement. 

Jesus would face this worse suffering of all as His true followers, His disciples, would forsake Him and leave Him at His time of need. 

We can't expect the same from God, for "He is our omnipresent Father of mercy and the God of all comfort and consolation."

PROPHECIES - Read Verses 22-29

These next verses are also prophecies for those Jews who were not only David's enemies, but would later be the crucifiers of Christ.

1. Their table would be a snare - they would live in fear. Their"feasts' would turn to ashes. They would be "feeble, trembling continually". 

2. They wouldn't have the comfort of peace, but would be blinded, "groping around in the dark.".

3. They would fall under God's anger and indignation. 

"Pour out your fury on them all! Consume them with the fire of your anger." Psalm 69:24 (TPT)

"Salvation cannot save those who are not willing to be ruled by it." Matthew Henry

4.Their nation would be in ruin. They would not only lose their homes, but their temple and their possessions. They would become "homeless and desolate". 

5. Those that are self willed and proud will not come into God's righteousness. They will be cut off from all hope of having happiness. Their `names will be blotted out of the book of life.'

"Pile on them the guilt of their sins! Don't let them ever go free! Leave them out of your list of the living! Blot them out of your Book of Life." Psalm 69:27&28  (TPT)

Matthew Henry Commentary, 2018, BlueLetterBible. 

Dr Brian Simmons, The Passion Translation, 2015, Broadstreet

JOY & PRAISE - Read Verses 30-36

David, as usual, concludes his psalm with praises, thanksgiving and songs of joy. 

"I will praise God's name in song and glorify Him with thanksgiving." Psalm 69:30 (NIV)

Often we treat THANKSGIVING as an extra in our time with God. Even though David was feeling down, a thankful heart was his key to entering God's presence. As he reflected on the events of his life, He was reminded that GOD WAS MERCIFUL, LOVING AND FAITHFUL.

'Sincere praise fans our small spark of faith into a large blaze.' God is our constant admiration. God is always at work in our lives, first, as we see in David's life, then as you draw Him to yourself. By resolving to praise God, David encourages his people to praise Him too. Acknowledging humble praises are more pleasing to God than costly sacrifices.

CONCLUSION

David had fought battles with giants, had run away and hid from his enemies, and had faced those inner demons of pride, guilt and temptation. Still, his faith remained strong in His Heavenly Father, because He continued to realize that God would always be with Him. All he needed to do was REACH OUT TO HIM for DELIVERANCE!

The Holy Bible, New International Version, 2011, Biblica

Simmons, Brian, "The Psalms - Poetry on Fire", The Passion Translation, 2005, Broadstreet.

Henry, Matthew, `Commentary on Psalm 69" ,2018, Blue Letter Bible.

Bass, Bob, 2002, "Help, I'm Being Tempted", Synergy Publishers. 

Lucado, Max, 2006, "Facing Your Giants - God Still Does the Impossible', Thomas Nelson

PSALM 68 - A Song of Victory and Celebration

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 68, 1 Samuel 4-6, Exodus 37-40

This Psalm of David was written during a celebration procession, when David was bringing the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. There is a lot of praise for the provision and protection that God gives His people.

David was a man "after God's own heart" whose greatest desire was to serve as king over God's people, as God desired of him. That doesn't mean he was perfect. We know he made lots of mistakes and he failed, but in those times we saw how he came back to God and aligned himself with His will. This was one of those times.

In David's day, the central place of worship was the `tabernacle', with the centre being the Ark of the Covenant, for this was where where God's glory and presence was believed to dwell. Under Saul's reign, this emphasis of worship had been neglected, and the Ark of the Covenant had been carted off by their enemies. It had been "left to gather dust for 30 years in the house of a priest", but was no longer cherished by the Israelites.

The Ark of the Covenant had been so important to their ancestors, the Lord had given Moses specific directions on how it was to be built and carried. Everywhere the Ark went with God's people's, God's present rested. When David too over the throne, David realized the Ark of the Covenant was not in it's rightful place - with God's people in Jerusalem. There was no central place for worship and the Israelite's heart for God and their spiritual walk had dwindled.

As David writes this psalm he is encouraging his people by reminiscing about the past and giving them hope for the future. He is giving them a choice - to continue in the way Saul had been living, in fear of God; or they could live as God wanted them to, "in joy, rather than despair."

Here David is rejoicing and celebrating in victory the return of the Ark to Jerusalem, with the sound of music and praises. The delight of obedience beating in his heart. But it wasn't always that way!

HISTORY - Read 2 Samuel 6,   1 Chronicles 13&15, Exodus 25:12-14. 

The Ark of the Covenant was not just any piece of furniture, it was absolutely holy, and God had given careful instructions about how it should be carried. He also said it should only be carried by Levites and the poles were to be held on their shoulders. But this is where David got `a little bit lazy'.
In his exuberance, he wanted it to get to Jerusalem quickly and the easiest way he knew how.

They had gathered near the home of the priest Abinadab. His two sons Ahia and Uzzah are put in charge of the Ark's transport - 'ON A HORSE DRAWN WAGON'. Trumpets blast, songs erupt and all goes well; for the first couple of miles. Then the road gets a little rough; the oxen stumble, the wagon shakes and the Ark shifts. Uzzah extends out his hand to steady it - and 'HE DIES'.

Why did he die? It seemed like the right thing to do - it was practical after all. He was just stopping the Ark from falling and maybe even breaking. But think, if they had been carrying it the way God commanded in the first place, maybe it wouldn't have fallen. You see, Uzzah knew the law. He was a priest, a descendent of Aaron, and the Ark and been in the house of his father all his life. He had grown up with it. Yet maybe he had `adopted David's no care attitude': "We need to get it down there. Who cares how we do it, as long as it is done." Could this be what had made God angry? Could it had been his disobedience? Could it have been that Uzzah, having been around the ark so long, had simply forgotten the holiness that it represented, `becoming too familiar with an irreverent attitude'. Or simply, Uzzah felt it was `his responsibility' to save the Ark, rather than putting his faith in God.

And what about David, standing by the corpse, angry at God, and maybe a little angry at himself? Maybe he was feeling a little unworthy, a little guilty for letting the Lord down. Is this how we feel when we do things how way, rather than God's? Deeply distressed, David returned to Jerusalem, leaving the Ark in the home of Obed-Edom. He was receiving all the blessing of God's presence, while David sought the Lord's grace and His will, and while his people continued to suffered.

Three months later, David called on the priests, and this time, they would follow the Lord's directions.

"They used special poles to carry the Ark of God on the shoulders as Moses had commanded, JUST AS THE LORD SAID THEY SHOULD." 1 Chronicles 15:14-15 (NIV)

This time they didn't hurry. They stopped for sacrifices and worship along the way. They had the presence of God with them, and this was the reason for David's celebration. When we begin to care about the things God cares about, we become people, like David, `after God's own heart'. Finally, the Ark of the Covenant is brought into Jerusalem, and what is David doing?

"David was dancing before the Lord with all His might and David was wearing a linen ephod. David and all the house of Israel were bringing up the Ark and shouting with the sound of a trumpet."  2 Samuel 5:14-16 (NIV)

Why are they so happy and excited? Because they are rejoicing before God in OBEDIENCE. What more could they want? When you receive GOD'S GRACE, you are free to CELEBRATE and the more confident you are in GOD'S PRESENCE, as a `man or woman after God's heart', the more you want to sing His praises.

Lucado, Max, 2006, "Facing Your Giants", Thomas Nelson
Swindoll, Charles, 1997, "Great Lives: David, A Man of Passion & Destiny", Thomas Nelson
Got Questions, 2018, "Why did God strike Uzzah dead for Touching the Ark of the Covenant."

SALVATION & VICTORY - Read Psalm 1-14

"God, go before us, and take care of our enemies. It's too dangerous ahead without you. The spirit of confident dependence is appropriate for every believer." David Guzik, 2018

David wanted the people to begin their worship by extolling God. He had taken care of them in the past by giving them victory over their enemies; and he has been their Saviour and Protector when he first brought their families out of Egypt, through the wilderness into the land which they now possess - Jerusalem.

"The most oppressed in Egypt were chained and imprisoned, but the Divine Emancipator brought them forth into perfect liberty. He who did this of old continues His gracious work." Charles Spurgeon.

In Verses 7-1, David reminds his people how God had been with their ancestors in the wilderness and provided for their needs. As God was with the Israelites in the wilderness, HIS MIGHT was on their side. No other nation could defeat them when they walked in God's presence. They were also PROVIDED FOR, never suffering hunger or thirst.

"As part of their provision God sent them plentiful rain in their needy time. This care for them confirmed the special place Israel had in His heart and plan. THEY WERE HIS INHERITANCE." David Guzik, 2018

In the next verses, 11-14, David remembers God's protection in battle. The people of God had come from humble circumstances, yet they shared in David's victories. He is a God of salvation and "His victory is total"! What more could they be glad about.

"May the righteous be glad and rejoice before the Lord. May they be happy and joyful." 
                                                                                                     Psalm 68:3 (NIV)


FUTURE BLESSINGS - Read Psalm 68:15-23

The Lord did not choose any mountain to `set his people upon'; it was one of the greatest mountains. They were to be a people who would be feared and honoured.

Bashan was an impressive mountain, part of Israel's heritage. Yet God favoured Mt Zion. Ancient Israel never had many chariots but God always protected them in battle, and fought for them. God has power greater than a million chariots, and he often chooses the weak to confound the strong.

The Lord daily blesses His people, and He will continue to give us salvation and victory!

"What a glorious God! HE GIVES US SALVATION over and over, then daily He carries our burdens. Our God is a mighty God who SAVES US OVER AND OVER."  Psalm 68:19 (TPT)


THE CELEBRATION OF GRACE - Read Psalm 68:24-27

The bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem was not David's parade, but God's procession - all the honour went to Him.

"As the Ark, the throne of the invisible God leads the procession up to its resting place, it's progress is a VICTORY MARCH completing the exodus." (Kidner)

The small tribe of Benjamin had a prominent role, showing wonderful grace on David's part, as this was the tribe Saul had belonged to. 

"God's people have seen your VICTORY MARCH; God, my King, marched into the Holy Place."
                                                                                           Psalm 68:24 (NIV)


A PRAYER FOR GOD'S CONTINUED GUIDANCE - Read Psalm 68:28-35

David was grateful for his victories but he knew there would be challenges ahead. He prayed for strength, as these victories would be a great FOUNDATION for the future. David was confident that with God's presence in their midst, he and his people would survive and thrive.

"Give it up for God, for HE ALONE HAS ALL STRENGTH and power! Proclaim His majesty! For His glory shines down on Israel. His mighty strength soars in the clouds of glory. God, we are consumed with awe, trembling before you as your glory streams from your Holy Place. The God of power SHARES HIS MIGHTY STRENGTH with Israel and with all His people. GOD! WE GIVE OUR HIGHEST PRAISE TO YOU."   Psalm 68:34&35  (TPT)


CONCLUSION

With the Ark of the Covenant safely in Jerusalem, and it is now again their central place of worship.  David and his people were now celebrating their victory. With their highest praises they looked forward to a promising future, with David as their king and God as their Sovereign.

Do you want to be free to celebrate your victories like David and the Israelites? Then remember that God is Sovereign is of your life, become a `man or woman after God's heart', be obedient to His will, and make sure His presence is abiding in your home, your work and your life.

The Holy Bible, New International Bible, 2011, Biblica.
The Passion Translation, 2017, Passion & Fire Ministries. 

Guzik, David, 2018, "The Victorious Procession of God to Zion.", Enduring Word

PSALM 67 - GOD'S GRACE, HIS SALVATION & HIS PRAISES

GOD'S GRACE, HIS SALVATION & HIS PRAISES - Read Psalm 67

This is a Psalm of David written for the Chief Musician, who in a Spiritual sense could be God Himself. In a practical sense it was for the leaders of David's choirs, Hemor and Asaph. Beginning with the Aaronic Blessing, it was pronounced by the High Priests on the people of Israel. This blessing - GOD'S GRACE - is also for us today.

"The Lord bless and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

To 'BLESS AND KEEP YOU', simply means to watch over you and give you the good things you need. 'BEING GRACIOUS' means to be `kind' and forgiving when 'you don't have to be' or don't feel like it. When 'GOD MAKES HIS FACE SHINE UPON YOU', He is gracious and blessed. He is happy, `with a big smile on His face'. (Gordon Churchyard, 2001)

But this graciousness and blessedness did not stay with the Israelites, it went out to the whole world, along with His goodness through SALVATION, which is also available to us today. David knew God's mercy and grace, and he wanted all His people to know it. As Max Lucado reminds us: "His grace erases guilt, His oversight removes fear, His direction removes confusion."

"Next time your day goes South, here is what you do. Step yourself into the grace of God. Saturate your day in His love. Marinate your mind in His mercy." Max Lucado, 2006. 

David had even a bigger vision - He wanted God glorious, happy face to shine all over the world, and he wanted the PRAISES OF THE LORD to be heard.

"There is something wonderful about a lot of people praising God, and our walk with God is incomplete until we are praising Him." David Guzik, 2018

What does real joy mean? It is a happiness you feel deep, down inside. God does many things that show His power and this inner joy leads to an "inner awe - a good sort of fear of God" (Gordon Churchyard, 2001) All nations should sing with this inner joy and awe, and this should make us even more excited and determined to live in God's grace and to tell others about His salvation - "more passionate about spreading the Gospel". (David Guzik, 2018)

"May the people praise you, O Lord. May all the people praise you." Psalm 67:3&5  (NIV)

This psalm was written in harvest time, probably for the Harvest Festival. The abundance of their harvest, their food and also their children and families was another reason the Israelites had for praising the Lord. It is also another reason we can continue with our praises.

"God created us to experience HIS GRACE and  HIS SALVATION and to consequently enjoy HIS PRAISE. When we do this, the earth itself is happy because people are doing what God created it to do. BLESSING IS THE RESULT!" David Guzik, 2018


The Holy Bible, New International Version, 2011, Biblica

Churchyard, Gordon, 2001,"Psalm 67 - The Whole World for Jesus", www.easyenglishbible. 

Guzik, David, 2018, "A Missionary Prayer", www.blueletterbible.

Lucado, Max, 2006, "Everyday Deserves a Chance", Thomas Nelson Inc. 

Psalm 66 - SINGING A SONG OF PRAISE

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 66

Although most psalms and songs of praise have been attributed to David, this one is likely to have been written during the time of  King Hezekiah, who had overcome a time of great affliction, and not only had a heart filled with gratitude, but he always called on his people to join him.

It is likely to have been written 'just after they had won another battle with the Assyrians', and they were remembering not only this victory and salvation, but also how God has 'saved their people', the Israelites, from the Egyptians, and 'brought them to this promised land'. (Gordon Churchyard, 2001)

The psalm writer, whoever he may be, had confidence in a merciful, loving God, and he wanted to express his praise and worship with 'enthusiasm and grateful devotion'. His songs of praise flowed from a heart truly filled with gratitude. He delighted in praising God and called `on the whole earth' to join him.

He gives us guidelines for our praise:  

1. Worship and awe of God's omnipotence.
2. Thanksgiving for God's salvation and protection.
3. A reminder of God's everlasting love, mercy and restoration.

Let's join with all God's people in singing and shouting His praises!


1. PRAISE & WORSHIP FOR GOD'S OMNIPOTENCE - Read Psalm 66:1-7, Exodus 12, 
2 Kings 18&19, 2 Chronicles 32

The Psalmist calls everyone, everywhere to bring joyous, glorious praise and worship to the Lord; thanking Him for His great and powerful miracles.

"Every year the Jews have a Passover. They have done this for 3500 years, to remember when God took their ancestors out of Egypt to the Promised Land." (Gordon Churchyard, 2001).  

They probably use this psalm during this time.

They are continually praising Him in recognition of His ultimate triumph over His enemies, every time they have a physical battle. We can do the same, whether it is is a physical or spiritual one.

"So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you..... Come let us rejoice in Him.  He rules forever in His power. His eyes watch the nations - let not the rebellious rise up against Him." Psalm 66:3&7 (NIV)

The Psalmist chose these events to show how God cares for His people, not just as a `passive observer but as a an active participant' in our lives. (David Guzik, 2018)

2. GOD'S SALVATION & PROTECTION - Read Psalm 8-15, 2 Kings 20:1-11, 
2 Chronicles 29-31

"Praise God all you peoples. Praise Him everywhere and let everyone know you love Him. There's no doubt about that; GOD HOLDS OUR LIVES SAFELY IN HIS HANDS."  Psalm 66:8&9 (TPT)

Now it gets personal - what God has done in our lives, He will continue to do. HE HAS SAVED US, and HE WILL CONTINUE TO PROTECT US! Things may seem bad at times, but if we trust in Him, we can have faith it will get better.

God blesses us, but sometimes the blessing comes with trials and tests. Our backs may be loaded with afflictions and burdens, and we may find these weights hard to bear, but God has show us in the past that He will bring us through.

I love reading the story of King Hezekiah. Oh, he faced many afflictions, but the Lord refined him through those experiences. He came through them, `not bitter, but better'. (Omar C Garcia, 2018)

King Hezekiah made vows to the Lord in his distress and he didn't forget his promises when God helped him through his trial. He was determined to express his gratitude through his offerings; and as we see in this psalm - they  were HIS BEST OFFERINGS - 'an expression of his enthusiastic and grateful devotion'. (Omar C Garcia, 2018)

"In everything that he undertook in the service of God's temple and in obedience to the law and His commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered."
 2 Chronicles 31:21

This too is what the Lord asks of us today. Oh, not the burnt kind, as in the days of the King Hezekiah and the Israelites, but what He asks is OURSELVES.

"Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship."  Romans 12:1 (NIV)

3.GOD'S LOVE, MERCY & RESTORATION - Read Psalm 66:16-20

"If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God had surely listened and has heard my prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me." Psalm 66:18-20 (NIV)

Does it often feel like your prayers are not being answered? It is easy to get discouraged and give up. The Psalmist often felt the need to seek the Lord in prayer, to confess not only his iniquities but those of his `fathers'.

These last verses of Psalm 66 express the psalmist' gratitude for God's goodness and mercy. He acknowledged that unanswered prayer is usually due to unconfessed sin. But still the Lord has an open heart, and is ready to listen to us.

We need to remind ourselves that when we cry out to the Lord HE DOES LISTEN! He has in the past, and HE WILL IN THE FUTURE. God's gift of love and mercy are not something we deserve, yet it signifies our 'unbroken relationship with God' - the greatest reason for PRAISE AND WORSHIP OF OUR HEAVENLY FATHER. (David Guzik, 2018)

"All you lovers of God who want to please Him, come and listen, I'll tell you what He did for me. I cried to Him with all my heart. HE ANSWERED ME! Now my mouth overflows with highest praise." Psalm 66:16 (TPT)

CONCLUSION

This psalm is one of praise and worship, calling to all of God's people to think about God's power and magnificence, his salvation and continual protection and restoration of our lives. It was written as a song, with both words and music, expressing gratitude for God's goodness, mercy and love.

The Psalmist was anxious for others to see and hear about God's greatness and what He had done in His life and for his nation.

We too need to continue with our praise and worship, not just because it is part of our Church liturgy, but because we want others to know about His love, and how thankful we are for what He has done for us.


The Holy Bible, New International Version, 2011, Biblica.
The Passion Translation, 2017, Passion & Fire Ministries.

Churchyard, Gordon, 2001, "Home and Away - Psalm 66", www.easyenglish.bible.Wycliffe Assoc.
Garcia, Omar C, 2018, "Psalm 66 Commentary", www.bibleteachingnotes.com
Guzik, David, 2018, "How Everyone Can Praise God", www.enduring word.com

PSALM 65 - GOD' S GLORY

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 65

Psalm 65 is one of  David's less known "songs of praise". Little is known about the occasion of this psalm, but because the theme is one of thankfulness, particularly for flocks and grains,  it is likely to have been used for Harvest Festivals,   perhaps the Feast of the Tabernacles. Like many other 'praise psalms' it began as a prayer, with David reminding us that God always answers us when we confidently come to Him in faith.

"You are the God who answers prayer; all of  humanity comes before you with their requests" 
Psalm 65:2

"Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3

David also shared with us His personal experiences of God, as MERCIFUL, FAITHFUL, OMNIPOTENT, RIGHTEOUS AND OMNIPRESENT. David was a great inspiration of hope, joy and confidence for his people, and he wanted them to take hold of the truth that God would take care of their every need - big or small - even the simple things like food and water.

"In the Kingdom of Grace, He hears our prayers, pardons our sins, satisfies our souls, protects and supports us. In the Kingdom of Providence, He fixes the mountains, calms the seas, preserves the day and night, and makes our earth fruitful."  Matthew Henry."


GOD'S GLORY - IN PRAYER -   Read Psalm 65:1-4;  Matthew 6:8-13


These first five verses of Psalm 65 are very similar to prayer that Jesus gave to disciples, generations later.

                         "Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your Name,
                           Your Kingdom come, Your will be done,
                           On earth as it is in Heaven.
                           Give us this day our daily bread.
                           Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors
                           And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil."
                                                           Matthew 6:8-13

It began with silent praise, in awe of a great God; for David wanted to give his Father all the glory. He then went on to remind us that "GOD ALWAYS ANSWERS OUR PRAYERS".

"God comes first, and only then can we receive our daily bread. If you don't get that priority straight, you'll never have power in prayer" (Bible Study Tools, 2018)

One of the other reasons people don't always have their needs met is "they don't ask". "You deny yourself when you don't ask, for prayer is the key that unlocks Heaven's treasury."  (Bible Study Tools, 2018)

Though we are overcome with sins (debts), this is a good time to come before the Lord in confession, for David again reminds us, "HE WILL FORGIVE THEM ALL." Because of God's great mercy and the ultimate sacrifice of His Son Jesus' life on the cross for our sins; we can have VICTORY over our temptations and be delivered from the evil one.

The Holy Courts or Holy Temple are representations of God's Heavenly Sanctuary - the Kingdom of God - where God has "power and glory" and we can again bring our praise in His presence.

"Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." 
Matthew 6:33

GOD'S GLORY - IN HIS ATTRIBUTES - Read Psalm 65:5-8

While looking at the glory of God we can't go by the wonders of His creation and His omnipotence.

1. He "established the earth" and "by His own strength He made the mountains". He "set them fast" and "still keeps them". We can still have that same strength and courage if we put our trust in our Father God.

2. He "stills the sea" and it is quiet. The sea can be very noisy and threatening, especially when there is a storm; but when God pleases, He can still the waves and calm the storm. Remember when Jesus gave proof of His divine power and "commanded the winds and the waves and they obeyed Him. Do you want this same calm in the storm of your lives? Reach out and touch the hand of the Father and His Son.

"The child of God in seasons of trouble should fly at once to Him who stills the sea: nothing is too hard for Him." Charles Spurgeon

3. He "renews the morning and evening", providing our daily occupations, daily comforts and communion with God. He helps us with our morning and evening worship.

GOD'S GLORY - MEETING OUR NEEDS - Read Psalm 65:9-13

4. He waters the earth and makes it fruitful. Nothing is more reviving than the rain, refreshing the grass, plants and crops.

5. Out of the earth comes our bread that God has prepared for us. The valleys are stocked with animals - cattle are well fed in the pastures.

GOD HAS IT ALL UNDER CONTROL! There is no greater joy than the `joy of harvest' and we can give all glory to God.

"God is going to meet all our needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." 
Philippians 4:19

CONCLUSION

One very important encouragement that comes from this Psalm 65  is the truth that everyone has access to their Heavenly Father. We can all be saved from our sins, we are loved and accepted by a powerful God, and He wants us all to be blessed with good things.

When David wrote this Psalm he wanted to remind us of God's glory, but he also wanted us to believe in our hearts that we are CHILDREN OF GOD and that we can live in GOD'S KINGDOM.

"But Jesus called the children to Him and said, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." Luke 18:16&17 (NIV)

Most of all, David wanted to remind us that God was SOVEREIGN in our lives, and through each and every day, if we  put Him first in our lives and praise Him for his blessings we will live a life in His will.

The Holy Bible,2011 "New International Version", Biblical
Holy Bible, 2007 "New Living Translation", Tyndall House
Simmons, Dr.B, 2017, The Passion Translation, Broadstreet

Bible Study Tools.com, 2018
Guzik, David, 2015, "Psalm 65 - In the Temple, In the Earth.", Enduring Word.com
Henry, Matthew, "Commentary on Psalm 65", Blue Letter Bible.com
Spurgeon, Charles.H, "Treasury of David", Bible Study Tools.com

PSALM 64 - ETERNAL SALVATION!

Introduction: Read Psalm 64

What a couple of weeks it has been! It started with those `hidden arrows' from the enemy, and by the end of the first week I was overcome with insignificancies. I found myself crying out to the Lord, and as usual, HE CAME THROUGH!

There were many times in David's life when he felt threatened by enemies, both `internally' and externally; and in this Psalm 64, we find him crying out to the Lord again. As usual:

* He is seeking protection from his enemies.
* He wants to hide from those people he feels are conspiring against him.
* He wants to `shut out' the noise of the voices - that are like `poison arrows'.

But as usual, David realizes that God's arrows are greater than any of those his enemies can throw at him. They may be well armed and well hidden - like `snipers' in his armies, but David has a FRIEND who is in a 'higher and more hidden position'. God is greater and He will destroy David's enemies, and give Him eternal salvation.

The same can be true in our everyday lives. God came through for me this week with  a gentle reminder of the gift God had given me to serve Him, a cuddle from my granddaughter -  a reminder that I was still loved, and some encouraging words from friends and my physiotherapist helped too. For God's arrows of love and faithfulness can destroy any the enemy try to throw at us.

David finishes this Psalm, as he does most of them, with WORDS OF PRAISE. We, like David, can:

* Rejoice in the Lord.
* Take refuge in His presence.
*  Sing songs of Praise.

We have a reason to be glad in the Lord, as David did, for we can trust in God and His everlasting promises, and find that ETERNAL SALVATION!


OUR ENEMIES- Read Psalm 64:1-6

The wicked threats of our enemies are often not only from the external, but internally, causing us lots of fear and anxieties. This was true for David. Even though he was a strong, courageous soldier, he knew the crippling fear that these `enemies' could bring upon him. But he also knew the Lord was there to `listen to his complaints', and He knew He would keep him safe.

David had been in battle. He knew how dangerous it was with `hidden snipers'. David's enemies used secret plots, `shot bitter words', like arrows in a secret position, and they didn't seem to fear David or God.

Our `enemies' can seem the same in our lives, especially with words that bring us down. It can be the simplest negative comment that upsets us - they `poison our minds' with all kinds of thoughts. It seems like everyone is plotting against us.

It was bad enough for David when one person was plotting against him,, but when he discovered they were all conspiring, and `encouraging each other in their evil plans' to `set traps, pervert justice, scheme together and plot perfect crimes."  (NIV)  (TPT)

Again, they didn't seem to care about David or the Lord's retribution!


GOD IS GREATER   - Read Psalm 64:7&8, Read 1 Samuel 30:1-8

King David and his soldiers were valiant and victorious on the battlefield, but one time when they returned home from battle they found their entire village had been burnt and their families had been taken hostage by their enemies. David's wife and children had also been taken, so you can imagine he shared the grief of his men.  Still, the men were greatly distressed and they `blamed David and spoke of stoning Him'. 

David's first response, like in this Psalm, was to cry out to God for help, because he knew God was greater than even this enemy. The problem (the arrows) were much bigger than he could handle, but he was sure God would have a plan (his own arrow).

"David strengthened himself in the Lord....David inquired of the Lord, "Shall I pursue the troop? Shall I overtake them?" And He answered him, "Pursue for you shall overtake them, and without fail recover them."  1 Samuel 30:7&8

David went out and God showed him that his enemy could be struck down, it could be destroyed, because GOD IS GREATER.

"You dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."  1 John 4:4  (NIV)


REJOICE IN THE LORD - Read Psalm 64:9&10, Read 1 Samuel 30:9-23

Imagine the joy David and his men felt when they found their families alive and well. Some of them were a little greedy and wanted to keep all the enemies' plunder for themselves; but David knew the reason for their VICTORY - he wanted to `proclaim the works of the Lord', and rejoice with everyone.

Everyone has a reason to rejoice and sing praise to the Lord, especially at this time of year, when we look forward to the coming Easter celebration. When we think about the promise God gave us in His Son Jesus Christ, who died and rose again - and gave us our ETERNAL SALVATION.

Let's sing praises every day not only as we read this Psalm and David's stories of victories over his enemies, or our own stories of God's faithfulness in our lives, but mostly because we know what lies ahead for us.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but will have EVERLASTING LIFE. For God sent His son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world would be SAVED THROUGH HIM." John 3:16&17

"The lovers of God will be glad, rejoicing in the Lord. They will be found in His glorious wrap around presence, singing songs of praise to God."  Psalm 64:10 (TPT)

The Holy Bible, New International Version, 2011, Biblical
Simmons, Dr Brian, 2017, The Passion Translation, Broadstreet Publishing

Guzik, David, 2015, "Psalm 64, Secret Plots & Sudden Shots", Enduring Words.