This is a short psalm, written by David, in honour of our SOVEREIGN LORD and HIS KINGDOM. Does He have a throne and wear robes? Is he mighty and can triumph over His enemies? Is He faithful and holy? According to David - He does and He is!
This is also a psalm of omnipotent sovereignty, as David remembers that even though he had opposition throughout his life, the Lord continued to reign.
"Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendour, for everything in Heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the Kingdom; You are exalted as Head over all." 1 Chronicles 29:11 (NIV)
According to Isaiah, when He was called to serve, the Lord was indeed His Sovereign and Holy Lord. He overwhelmingly described the experienced of when he came face to face with Him.
"Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty. the whole earth is full of His glory." Isaiah 6:3 (NIV)
God is the same Sovereign Lord, as He was in Isaiah and David's time. Just like David and Isaiah, I endeavour to live every day in God's presence, and I picture my Sovereign Lord and Father as One who holds me in His powerful, caring hands.
"Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the baby she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have carved you on the palm of my hand."
Isaiah 49:15-16 (NIV)
"The Lord is indeed King over all the earth - eternal, almighty. His love never changes. His Temple is forever Holy with His presence." Pat & David Alexander
THE LORD REIGNS - Read Psalm 93 & Matthew 6:9-13
The Lord reigns GLORIOUSLY & POWERFULLY; ETERNALLY; TRIUMPHANTLY AND MIGHTY; IN TRUTH AND HOLINESS.
1. Gloriously & Powerfully
"Indeed the Lord is robed in MAJESTY and armed with STRENGTH." Psalm 93:2a (NLT)
The word MAJESTY describes a reflection of our God's nature. Words like "glory, honour, praise, kingdom and authority" point to His exaltation position and His role as our King. The well known praise and worship chorus, "Majesty" highlights words like His "throne, crown, and kingdom", and give us the "unique and overwhelming priviledge to know and be loved by the King of Kings".
When you say "Thy Kingdom Come" , you are inviting the Lord into your world. "Come my King". Take Your throne and be present in my heart and life.
"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need." Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)
The Lord's power is felt in His Kingdom and is established in our hearts. He is clothed in strength and is always powerful. When we say, "They Will Be Done" we are trusting in GOD'S OMNIPOTENCE and we are praying for guidance in every area of our lives.
"Hosanna! Hosanna! All power is in Thine hands and we rejoice to have it." Charles Spurgeon
2. Eternally
"Your throne was established long ago; You are from all ETERNITY." Psalm 93:2b
"From everlasting to everlasting; Thy throne is established of old; Thou art from everlasting."
Adam Clarke
It is an everlasting Kingdom for the Lord Himself is eternal. Jeremiah knew that God had an eternal purpose for his life and His people the Israelities. Because God promised, "His Will Be Done".
We don't always understand God's will, but as God promised Jeremiah, they will be good plans, because we have "sat down in His house" and have "sought the heart of God".
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all my heart."
Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NIV)
3. Triumphant & Mighty
"Mightier than the thunder of the great waters. Mightier than breakers of the sea. THE LORD ON HIGH IS MIGHTY." Psalm 93:3&4
The Lord had opposition: but he overcame it. Satan was not just an angel who wanted to worship God, he wanted to occupy His throne and take over His Kingdom. He has absolutely no power - only what God permitted.
Yes, we have trials, rebellion and opposition; just like the "thunder" and "breakers" of the sea, but our Sovereign Lord is MIGHTY and he sits on His throne. He will only allow what we, His Children, can endure. He is "JEHOVAH - SHALOM" - "THE LORD IS PEACE"
"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)
"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But, take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33 (NIV)
God rarely tells us the reasons why He allows suffering, but He does ask us to trust Him even when we don't have the answers. Now and then GOD'S MIGHT brings healing and restoration, and turns a situation around. At other times, our MIGHTY GOD might choose to sustain us through the trial. We will never lose hope as long as we trust in God's character - HIS MIGHTY STRENGTH.
Are you facing a challenge today? Ask God to walk with you through your difficulties and to reveal Himself through it.
"The unlimited sovereignty and irresistible power of the great Jehovah are very encouraging to the people of God when they meet all the noise and rush of the world." Matthew Henry
4. Truth & Holiness
"Your royal laws cannot be changed. Your reign, O Lord, IS HOLY FOREVER." Psalm 93:5
God's Word and Promises are TRUE. They are as "sure as the rocks that are immovable in the sea". They are unbreakable because of His FAITHFULNESS AND HOLINESS.
"Hallowed be Thy Name" means that GOD IS HOLY , a "cut above -superior and extroadinary". The Holy One dwells on a different level from the rest of us, but we can still seek His presence.
"When you set your sights on God you focus on the One who is a cut above any stormy life may bring." Max Lucado
CONCLUSION
"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10a
Be still, be quiet, be open and willing. Then you will know that the Lord is Sovereign. Are you troubled and restless? Then rejoice in the Lord's glory, omnipotence, omniscience, faithfulness and holiness.
"You will keep in perfect peace those minds are steadfast, because they trust in You."
Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
YOUR ANXIETY DECREASES AS YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR SOVEREIGN FATHER INCREASES
The Holy Bible, "New International Version", 2011, Biblica
The Holy Bible, "New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers
Go Fish, Kids Music, "My God is So Big", 2012, You Tube
Hayford, Jack, "Majesty", 1980, New Spring , You Tube.
Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion
Henry, Matthew, "Psam 93 - The New Matthew Henry Commentary" , 2021, Blue Letter Bible. com
Lucado, Max, "The Great House of God - The Home of the Heart.", 1997, Thomas Nelsom
Spurgeon, Charles, "The Treasury Of David - Commentary on Psalms", 1885, 2021, Christianity..com
This Psalm was probably written by David, intended for God's people. It was to be sung on the Sabbath Day in the synagogue. Why? Not so much because it was a day of rest, but because it was A DAY OF WORSHIP, when God's people could celebrate with music and song, HIS VIRTUES - HIS LOVE, FAITHFULNESS, RIGHTEOUSNESS, OMNIPOTENCE AND OMNISCIENCE.
It goes on to celebrate GOD'S GOODNESS to His people who had followed God's will and lived according to His Word - righteous living even unto their old age.
"Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be given to you"
Matthew 6:33
"The Jews have a long time used this Psalm in their synagogue, to worship on the Sabbath, because on this day above all others, their thoughts were to be on earthly things, but on God Himself."
Charles Spurgeon
WORSHIPPING GOD -Read Psalm 92: 1-8; Matthew 5:1-12
The first verses of this Psalm shows how we can worship and honour God, with many aspects and expressions.
1. In the Morning and Evening
We must praise God in the morning and in the evening, not just on the Sabbath day, but every day of the week; not just in Church services, but in private and on family gatherings.
"It is good to praise the Lord ad make music to your name, O Most High. Proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night." Psalm 92:1&2
We can show thanksgiving and praise by singing and using musical instruments, in David's case, usually the harp and lyre.
2. Living Like the Lord
We need to praise God by sharing His attributes to the world. King David discerned in this Psalm good and evil, by declaring God's character and virtues as our criteria for living.
In Matthew 5, Jesus begins his famous Sermon on the Mount with what we call "The Beautitues". These are a list of virtues that God's children were encouraged to live by. These too were similar to those of our Lord - HUMILITY, MEEKNESS, RIGHTEOUSNESS, MERCY, PURITY AND PEACE.
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled."
Matthew 5:6 (NIV)
3. Follow God's Will and Plans
God has given us the joy of His works and we can have triumph over our enemies, if we follow the ways of the Lord and not focusing on ourselves. Our triumph is found not on what WE DO FOR GOD, but what HE DOES FOR US.
"Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you faslsely for My sake.
INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 91, Matthew 4:1-11, Ephesians 6:10-18
In this Psalm we hear the confident voice of God, encouraging and reassuring us as we face TEMPTATION AND TESTING. Christians often feel that nothing can touch us when we are under God's protection, but even Jesus faced TEMPTATION from the devil himself.
"Because He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is ale to help those who are being tempted." Hebrews 2:18 (NIV)
In Matthew 4:5&6 we see how the devil used these words from Psalm 91:11&12 to tempt Jesus. Yet Jesus was not going to let Himself be put to the test, even though He trusted in His Father's promises.
"Then the devil took Him to the Holy City and had Him stand on the highest point of the Temple. "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw Yourself down. For it is written: "He will command His angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." Jesus answered, "It is also written, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test".
Matthew 4:5-7 (NIV)
There is little doubt about the tone of this Psalm - it is about warfare and conflict, but our enemy is of a spiritual nature. There is of course a promise of angelic assistance and Divine deliverance, and it talks about the battle in a spiritual realm. Our enemy comes at us with "supernatural strength" and we need a "supernatural helper".
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take you stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of the dark world and the against the spiritual forces of evil in the Heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand" Ephesians 6:10-13 (NIV)
"Psalm 91 is written to dwellers - those who draw daily, habitual strength from the Lord as they sustain an intimacy of fellowship and nearness with Him." Charles Swindoll
GOD'S PROTECTIVE CARE THROUGH TEMPTATION - Read Psalm 91:1-10
1. GOD - OUR SHELTER & SHADOW
We must never forget that Christians are not removed from temptations, but Jesus promised to protect us.
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the evil one"
John 17:15 (NIV)
Mark and I have never lived and worked in a "worldly environment" - private schools, Defence Forces, Public Transport - and now as we travel around Australia with the Circus. God deliberately did not remove us from the "world", but He did give us the opportunity to be "seed planters". We made sure we DWELL in the"SHELTER OF THE MOST HIGH"and ABIDE in the"SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY".
"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty."
Psalm 91:1 (NLT)
The word "dwell" means "to remain", "to abide", "to have fellowship with" and "to draw strengthfrom", in this case, the Lord Jesus Christ and His Father. We need to be constantly aware of His presence. "God Most High" is the "Almighty", "All Sufficient One", "El Shaddai", and for this Psalmist He is the "destroyer of our enemies."
2. GOD IS OUR REFUGE
The Lord is also said to be our REFUGE where we can find our SAFETY and REST. If we continue to walk with Him we can count on Him for deliverance when things get tough. This is why is essential that we call on Him today in TRUST.
"This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him." Psalm 91:2 (NLT)
"Trust in the Lord with all you heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5&6
Imagine you are a bird "engulfed in a fowler's trap". Hannah W Smith talks about the "snags of the fowler's trap" (Psalm 91:3), or for the Christian, they may be "hindrances to flying". They, like us, have been "baited" by something that is "deceptively attractive". The bird may may be imprisoned in a cage or have a damaged wing, making it impossible to fly. For a Christian, our soul may be "entrapped in a snare of doubt".
"Like the birds we wonder why we cannot mount up. We must use both wings or we cannot fly at all.
Temptations lead to doubt, lack of surrender, indulgent in sin, fear and anxieties."
Hannah W Smith
We, like the birds, can be rescued, "separated from the trap" and covered under the "wings" of it's mother (Father).
"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, shall walk and not faint." ISAIAH 40:31 (NIV)
"Surely He will save you from the fowlers snare......He will cover you with His feathers. He will shelter You with His wings." Psalm 91:3a & 4a
3. GOD'S FAITFUL PROTECTION
"God's faithful promises are your armour and protection." Psalm 91:4b
Finally, when we are in the centre of a battle, we need to trust in GOD'S SHIELD OF FAITHFULNESS. Like a soldier has a protective barrier from their enemies arrows, we too can be protected from the devil's attacks.
Verses 5&6 are seen as spiritual battles rather than merely pestilence and natural disasters. Our enemy the devil will stop at nothing to make us afraid. Intimidation is one of his "sharpest tools". Yet the Psalmist assures us that we don't have to fear, for we can TRUST IN GOD'S FAITHFULNESS.
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around around his waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with our feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the SHIELD OF FAITH with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." Ephesians 6:14-16 (NIV)
"In the heat of battle, when the enemy attacks become too much to bear, the faithfulness of God is ther for their protection - HIDE BEHIND HIM." Charles R. Swindoll
ANGELS ASSISTANCE WHEN WE ARE TEMPTED - Read Psalm 91:11&12, Matthew 4:5-7
"For He will order His angels to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone. You will trample upon lions and cobras; you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet.' Psalm 91:11-13 (NLT)
Lions and snakes (cobras) are both symbols of the devil's power. The Lord has also promised to protect us from his tactical attacks. It makes sense that He will send supernatural beings - ANGELS - to protect us wherever we go and hold us up with His hands.
Jesus knew this power when He was tempted by the devil, but He was not going to let Himself be tested.
"Jesus answered him, "It is also written, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test".
Matthew 4:7 (NIV)
David also reminds us throughout the Psalms that the Lord and His angels continue to lift us up when we fall. They watch each of our steps, and hold us up by their hands. I know many people, including
my Mum who believe that Angels gave always been there by her side when she is unwell. I believe angels are not just by our side, 'to guard, watch over and take care of us' when we are physically weak, but when we are mentally, emotionally and spiritually attacked.
"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23&24 (NLT)
SECURITY IN GOD'S PROMISES THROUGH TEMPTATION - Read Psalm 91:14-16, Ephesians 6:10-17
In the last verses in this Psalm, God gives us a real promises:
"I will deliver him. I will set him secularly on high." Verse 14
"He will answer your prayer and will be with you in trouble, rescuing and honouring you." V15
"God will satisfy your every need, particularly that of salvation." Verse 16
These are promises that we can claim! If you use these as a "practical guide", by faith you can find you "live beyond the grind of the enemy attack.". We can be sure that "we have assurance" - that God is our Protector. Why? Because of the Promises in His Word - "the sword of the spirit".
God also expects us to STAND FIRM ON HIS WORD - His promises are our strength, He tells us that we are in a spiritual battle and are all "good soldiers of Jesus Christ" (2 Timothy 2:3). We need our armour , especially our Sword- God's Promises in the Word of God.
"Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Jesus Christ." 2 Timothy 2:3
"For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double edged sword, it penetrates even to the dividing soul and spirit, joint and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12
"Take the helmet of salvation, , and the sword of the spirit, which is the Word of God."
Psalm 91 is a divine truth, a key to victory for those who take refuge in Him. Like Jesus, who faced temptation, we need to remember that we shall:
"Worship the Lord and serve Him only." Matthew 4:10
According to Dr Bill Purvis, "Worship is a highly an effective tool in bringing about breakthrough", and victory in temptation. It can "redirect our focus" on our Victor. It can "make the enemy scatter" andit can be "our testimony to the world."
"Praise the Lord. He can work through those who Praise Him. Praise the Lord, for the chains that seem to bind you drop powerless behind you, when you Praise Him." Dr Bill Purvis
Christians seem to think that temptation will cease once they are saved. Temptation is not a sin. It is, however, as the hymnwriter, Horatio Palmer, tells us, the sin is when we "Yield to the Temptation" - when we let jealousy, envy, pride, and doubt overpower us.
Horatio Palmer reminds us that when we commit ourselves completely to the Lord and when we put ourselves into His hands, then we can have victory over temptation. This is when we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS.
"The temptations in your life are no different from others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you can endure. " 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NLT)
"Consider it pure joy, brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its works so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4 (NLT)
"Many of us know to live the Christian life in theory, but when the subtle subtle temptation comes we find it easier to submit to the tempter. Horatio Palmer knew what to do:
"Ask the Saviour to help you, comfort, strengthen and keep You;
He is willing to aide you, He will carry you through."
William J. Peterson, Horatio R.Palmer
The Holy Bible, "New International Version", 2011, Biblica
The Holy Bible, "New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers
Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion Hudson
Karamis, Linda; Smith, Hannah, "Teach Uplifted/A Christian's Secret to a Happy Life",
2018, Teach 4 the Heart
Peterson, William J, "Hymns - Inspiring Stories about 600 Hymns and Praise Songs", 2006, Tyndale House Publishers
Purvis, Dr Bill, "Worship is my Weapon" , 2021, You Version
Simmons, Dr Brian, "The Psalms -Poems on Fire, The Passion Translation.", 2015, Broadstreet
Swindoll, Charles. R, "Getting Through Tough Stuff" 2004, Thomas Nelson
Swindoll, Charles R, "Living the Psalms - Encouragement for the Daily Grind", 2012, Worthy Publishers
Palmer, Horatio R, "Yield Not to Temptation", (1834-1907)
"Moses was peculiarly a man of God, chosen by God, inspired by God, honoured by God, faithful to God and all His house." Charles Spurgeon
Although many scholars refused to accept that this Psalm was written by Moses himself, it sombre tone - the talk of death, the Israelite's sins, God's anger and the writer's strong desire for mercy - are strong evidence that connect it to Moses, and his time in the wilderness.
James Boice seems to think that it is connected to incidents recorded in Numbers 20:
* The deaths of Moses's brother and sister - Aaron and Miriam.
* The sins of Moses and his people, that kept them from entering the Promised Land.
"The people of Israel, the whole congregation, came into the wilderness of Zin in the first month, and the people stayed in Kadesh. Miriam died and was buried there." Numbers 20:1 (ESV)
"Then Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock, and said to them, "Hear now you rebels: shall we bring water for you out of this rock?" And Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock with his staff twice, and water came out abundantly, and the congregation drunk, and their livestock.
And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron: "Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them." Numbers 20:10-12 (ESV)
"And they journeyed to Kadesh, and the people of Israel, the whole congregation,came to Mount Hor......Let Aaron be gathered to his people of Israel because you rebelled against my command at the waters of Meribah. Take Aaron and Eleazar his son and bring them to Mount Hor......Moses did as the Lord commanded. And they went up to Mount Hor in the sight of the congregation. And Moses stripped Aaron of his garment and put them on Eleazar his son. And Aaron died there on top of the mountain. Then Moses and Eleazar came down from the mountain." Numbers 20:22- 24, 27&28 (ESV)
We all know Moses was a humble and godly man, an Israelite baby from a god fearing mother. Yet, he was brought up as an Egyptian prince and later had to flee into the desert after murdering an Israelite slave. He spent a number of times in God's presence - at the Burning Bush and at Mt Sinai - for example. He became a great leader of God's people, leading them to freedom and teaching them the Laws of the Lord.
Yet even this great leader saw the condition of the Israelites in the wilderness and tried to solve problems on his own. In his fallen state, Moses prays for supplication, he seeks God's mercy and compassion for His people, who compared with the eternity of God, he could see lives that were only short and frail.
He knew God was responsible for taking care His people, and although he knew they had disobeyed God's will, which had led to their dying in the wilderness and being "disqualified" from the Promised Land, he wanted them to share in the joy of God's adventure while they were still alive.
Two of my favourite authors and preachers have recently challenged me about the importance of being the "salt of the earth" and the "light to the world". This is important for all Christians, but most importantly, if like Moses and Aaron, you are a leader of people. We are the kind of people who "create a thirst for God" and for "things eternal". We are to light up the world with "shine rays of God's grace and love".
Like Moses and Aaron, it is so easy to fall, but we have to be so careful that we still our "light" and be a witness for the Lord. Exhort others to develop a deep passion for the Word of God, and a deep devotion for Christ. Most importanty, our leaders need to hold God's standard of "holiness and purity" high, "developing a healthy fear of the Lord for all."
"No one is immune. Anyone can fall. Therefore we need to head every warning the Scripture provides. We are all in peril of being disqualified...... But God not only knows your struggle, he promises you a way to escape it. To get beyond it." Charles R Swindoll
"The first thing we are to consider is our danger. We are all in danger of falling - not only some of of us, but all of us; not only the weak, but also the strong; not only the young, but the middle aged and the old,we are all in danger of falling into sin and bringing dishonour to our profession, sorrow to our souls, and disgrace upon the name of Christ, whom we profess to love and serve." Charles H Spurgeon
We too have the potential for a happy, abundant Christian life. We, unlike the Israelites, can be delivered from sin and temptation, for God knows our struggles and promises us a way of escape. We have a "GRACIOUS, COMPASSIONATE, MERCIFUL GOD!"
If we MAKE JESUS THE LORD OF OUR LIVES. We cannot deliver ourselves like the Israelites tried to do, but Scripture clearly promises us that the "CROSS DELIVERS US". We can have ETERNAL LIFE living with our EVERLASTING LORD.
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesu our Lord." Romans 6:23 (ESV)
OUR ETERNAL GOD & OUR ETERNAL LIFE - Read Psalm 90:1-12
Moses indeed wrote this Psalm for the Israelite tribes in the wilderness, who, because of their disobedience to God would not be entering the Promised Land, but it has some realities for us today too.
They were surrounded by mountains and although they seemed to be in "chaos", they still dwelt in God's omnipresence and everlasting nature.
"Lord, you have been our dwelling place through all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or even You brought forth, or even formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting, you are God." Psalm 90:1-2 (ESV)
Yet, Moses then compares God's eternal nature with man's "frailty". God created him out of the dust and would return him to dust. Compared to our eternal God, we humans are "transient as a blade of grass". Grass is "sown, grown, mown and gone" - and humans have a similar life span.
Yet, although we have only a short life span, God wants us to use our time wisely, to make use of each day serving one another. The children of Israel, had lived their lives in the wilderness, fed and guided by God, yet they continued to sin and disobey Him. No wonder God was angry with them. God wants us to be friendly, to share the gospel, to be positive mentors, to invest our time in people and projects that are important and will last.
"Teach us how short our lives really are that we may be wise." Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
God doesn't want us to spend our lives worried about when we will die and why we have a short life span. Is it because we have sinned? Is it because He was angry with us? Yes, God was angry and disappointed with the Israelites, and at time he is angry and disapointed with us when we fail Him; but like their sons and daughter who entered the Promised Land, we too have been redeemed by the grace of Jesus Christ.
"I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand on the earth."
Job 19:25 (NIV)
Today, because of God's eternal nature, and the promise we have of eternal life through Jesus's resurrection, we don't have to fear death like the Israelites did. Charles Swindoll reminds us: "If you know Christ, there is no need to fear the grave." Jesus is there waiting for you and has prepared a place for you. Thankjs to Jesus, you can have an "unexplained, unending joy" forever in Heaven.
"My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you . I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also will be with me." John 14:2&3 (NIV)
"Death has been swallowed up in victory.....Where, O death is your victory?..... Thanks be to God! He give us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Corinthians 15:54b-57 (NIV)
"What fear strikes a man when the time is near and he's not prepared." Max Lucado
MOSES' APPEAL FOR GOD'S MERCY - Read Psalm 90:13-17
"But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ, by grace you have been saved - and raised up with Him and seated us with Him in the Heavenly Places in Christ Jesus so that in the coming ages He might show the immeasurable riches of His grace in kindness towards us inJesus Chrust. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift from God."
Ephesians 2:4-8 (ESV)
Moses remembering the pain over the sins of his people, appeals to God's mercy, begging Him for the return of joy and gladness. Just like God sent manna down from Heaven for his people every day, Moses "beseeches the Lord to send His satisfying favour".
Their life may be brief but Moses prayed that it would be joyous and glad. Yes, they would die in the wilderness and they would have themselves to blame, but their leader Moses did not want them to feel "despondent", but wanted them to seek God's blessing - "His presence and favour".
"Great joys enable us to bear great joy and may be regarded as heralded with extroadinary grace." Charles Spurgeon
We have trials and afflictions but we also can also have the mercy and grace of the Lord, if we reach out to Him. Even in our trials and afflictions, which may seem like "chastening", we can look for the joys and delight and "unstaggering faith".
At times the Israelites found comfort in their trials. Their sons and daughters were growing up around them and they would see the "Promised Land". We know that without the Lord on our side, unless we abide in Him, we won't be rich in His grace and mercy, his joy in salvation through faith, we wont enter the Promised "Heavenly" Land.
"Now thanks be to God who leads us in triumph in Christ and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place." 2 Corinthians 2:14 (ESV)
"May the favour of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands on us - yes establish the work of our hands." Psalm 90:17
CONCLUSION
The potential of a happy, abundant Christian life is available to all of us if we make JESUS THE LORD OF OUR LIVES. A quaker clergyman once said:
"There is noth so contrary to God as sin and God will not tolerate sin ruling man, his masterpiece."
If we want to do God's will and enter His Heavenly "Promised Land" we have to trust our lives into the "divine eternal Potter" and HE WILL CREATE SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL.
International Children's Bible, "Magnify, Psalms and Proverbs, Big Book of Games", 2008, Thomas Nelson
The Holy Bible, "English Standard Version", 2016. Crossway.
The Holy Bible, "New International Version", 2011, Biblica
The Devotional Bible, "New Century Version - Experiencing the Heart of Jesus" -2003, Max Lucado. Thomas Nelson.
Alexander, Pat & Davud, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion.
Boice, James M, "Psalms Volume 2, An Expositional Commentary", 1994, Baker Books
Guzik, David, "Psalm 90 - The Prayer of Moses in the Wilderness - The Enduring Word Bible Commentary", 2020, ewm.enduringword.com
Kardimis, Linda; Smith, Hannah W, "Teach Uplifted/A Christian's Secret of a Happy Life", 2018, Teach 4 the Heart
Lucado, Max, "A Gente Thunder", 1991, Thomas Nelson
Spurgeon, Charles H, "The Treasury of David, Commentary of David", 1885, Crossway.
Swindoll, Charles R, "Getting Through the Tough Stuff", 2004, Thomas Nelson
This COVENANT PSALM , a musical maskil, written by Ethan the Ezrahite, celebrates David's glorious reign and the COVENANT PROMISE given to him by the Lord. Was David's reign successful only because of this promise? It certainly helped - for David trusted in the sustainable LOVE and FAITHFULNESS OF HIS FATHER GOD.
When this Psalm was first written, it would have been performed with music and dancing, and some movement like the raising of hands in worship. Maskils were also written for instruction and meditation in the tabernacle and temple, and would have been performed as a form of teaching.
"The Psalmists were composing for the human voice to be heard at a Public Event." Steve Turner.
Like our world today, it was probably written in a time of conflict and unknown, possibly the time of Rehoboam's reign, and Ethan may have been an old man. Troubles were coming thick and heavy upon David's kingdom and in the Land of Judah. Ethan and the Israelites were fearful and anxious, but they discovered, through trusting God, that they could have VICTORY THROUGH DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES, they could overcome conflict and that GOD WAS THE OVERALL OMNIPOTENT LORD.
Ethan begins by affirming his faith in God and His covenant with David and his family. He praises and magnifies the Lord for His love, faithfulness, mercy and justice towards his people. This leads to a song of joy for the people "who have such a God to be their glory and defence." (Charles Spurgeon)
We then read in full length the terms of GOD'S COVENANT FOR DAVID, which is followed by a mournful complaint and petition to a God whom Ethan trusted. He closes the Psalm with a hearty praise filled benediction and a double "Amen"!
"Ethan, the Psalmist was a visionary, who could "hear the waters and see the heavens rejoicing". Yet this Psalm was not always "jolly". He is brutal and honest, "frank about the days it seems God has switched off the phone." (Steve Turner)
GOD'S LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS -Read Psalm 89:1-4; 2 Samuel 7:1-29
What makes a parent's love so great? Picture a mother singing and caressing her child. It doesn't matter how long they cry and what they do when they grow up, children will always have the love of his/her parents.
Some writers compare a parent's love to that of God's, but the fact is, "no parent is as crazy about their children as God is"; and no one loves them like God does. GOD'S LOVE IS THE PUREST AND DEEPEST LOVE THERE IS.
"Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? Even if this is possible, I would not forget you! See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands. Always in my mind is a picture of Jerusalem's walls in ruins." Isaiah 59:15&16 (NLT)
God promises to be LOYAL AND FAITHFUL - the centre of his covenant with David. David had mucked up and made some stupid mistakes, but God was merciful - HE FORGAVE HIM.
God did the same for us. He sent His only Son to die on the cross, so that we could have FORGIVENESS. We may not be kings, we are just his simple children; but we, like David, have been redeemed from our stupid mistakes (our sins). And God never gives up on us. We too can praise Him for His never ending love and faithfulness.
"Whatever we may experience in our lives, we should still PRAISE GOD for HIS MERCIES, LOVE and FAITHFULNESS. These will most certainly never change, whether we perceive them or not."
Charles Spurgeon
"I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations." Psalm 89:1 (NIV)
"In times of trouble we trust in God's faithfulness - it is oiur anchor and it holds fast - it is our stay."
Psalm 57:1 (NLT)
Sometimes when hard times come we are apt to forget or doubt God's promises, but then we may hear testimonies from His people who have experienced trials even greater than ours, and have come through them; and our faith is encouraged.
David was the Lord's elect and through God's covenant He would recieve a "never ending fulfillment through Jesus Christ, the great King of the Jews". This COVENANT OF GRACE was for all God's children and for Ethan, the Psalmist, it was the "solid ground" of his faith.
"For when you die and are buried with your ancestors, I will raise up one of your ancestors, your own offspring, and I will make His Kingdom strong. He is the one who will build a house - a Temple - for my name. And I will secure His throne forever. I will be his father, and I will be His son. If he sins, I will correct and discipline him with the rod, like any father would do. But My favour will not be taken from him as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from your sight. Your house and your kingdom will continue before me for all time, and your throne will be secure forever."
2 Samuel 7:12-16 (NLT)
Truly in Jesus we too have the fulfillment of hope. David's dynasty would never decay, for we now know that Jesus has come to reign over God's people forever. He is loving, faithful and omnipotent, He sits on His Father's throne and supplies all our needs.
"In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God.......The One who is the True Light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He came into the very world He created, but the world didn't recognize Him. He came to His own people, and even they rejected Him. But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God.....So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father's One and Only Son." John 1:1,2,9-12,14 (NLT)
PRAISE AND MAGNIFYING THE LORD - Read Psalm 89:5-14
"Looking down at what God had done with His COVENANT OF GRACE, the Heavens were filled with adoring wonder." Charles Spurgeon
When Jesus, the "Son of David" was born "the heavens broke forth with music", and the saints came together to worship Him in the worship, to "magnify the faithfulness of God."
"That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid", he said, "I bring you Good News that will bring great joy to all people". The Saviour - yes, the Messiah, the Lord - has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize Him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snuggly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger." Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast of others - the armies of Heaven - praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the Highest Heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." Luke 2:8-14 (NLT)
"At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord's Messiah. That day the Lord led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in His arms and praised God, saying, "Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as You have promised, which You have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory of all the people Israel."
Luke 2:25-29, 31&32 (NLT)
Who in Heaven can be compared with our Lord. Jesus, both as God and man, was far beyond the angels. Today, He too is to be devoutly worshipped. What a challenge for us! Ethan dwelt on God's greatness, His faithfulness, mercy, love, righteousness and justice. To Him, God our Father, was GOD ALONE!
How reverent should our worship be? The more we dwell in the presence of God and His Son Jesus, the more we need to adore Him. God's children need to earnestly pray:
"Our Father, who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Your Name;
Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in Heaven."
Matthew 6:9&19 (NIV)
OMNIPOTENT GOD
God's strength is shown in how He overthrew Egypt and Israel's other enemies. He scattered them with His strong arm, The skill and strength of men was expressed in their arms and hands, particularly their right hand. God used this metaphor to describe God's might in creation.
"Your arm is endowed with POWER; your hand is STRONG, your right hand EXALTED." Psalm 89:13
The name RAHAB means PROUD ONE, and in Canaanite mythology, Rahab, the sea monster, was killed at creation. In the Middle East there are many legends of gods who were fought during creation. Ethan probably used these stories to draw attention to the TRUE, OMNIPOTENT GOD.
"By His power He churned up the sea; by His wisdom He cut Rahab to pieces. By His breath the skies became fair; his hand pierced the gliding serpent." Job 26:12&13 (NIV)
GOD - THE CREATOR
God is not only the CREATOR OF ALL HEAVENS AND EARTH, and all that is on them, but He is the SUSTAINER, BUILDER AND UPHOLDER of them all. God is the sole creator of the Universe; everything in the Universe owes its existance to God's sovereign will.
"The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it."
Psalm 89:11
Satan is represented by a serpent or a dragon, and the sea as a dangerous place. RAHAB - the sea serpent was another manifestation of him. God killed the serpent and brought order to the world through creation.
"In the beginning GOD CREATED the Heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit was hovering over the waters. And God said, "Let there be light", and there was light." Genesis 1:1-3 (NIV)
"For IN HIM all things were CREATED, things in Heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers, or rulers or authorities; all things have been CREATED through Him and for Him" Colossians 1:16 (NIV)
Turn all points of the compass - North, South, East and West - and God will be there. The "regions of the snow" and "the gardens in the sun"; "the land of the dawning" and the "home of the setting sun." Charles Spurgeon
OUR RIGHTEOUS AND JUST GOD
We have a God who is RIGHTEOUS AND JUST. If this were not so we would still be living in a life of sin and guilt. Jesus, God's Son reigns because of His righteousness and justice.
"RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before You." Psalm 89:14
GOD'S FAITHFULNESS, MERCY AND LOVE
Ethan was often repetitive with his examples of God's FAITHFULNESS, MERCY AND LOVE. But it is "great refreshment" to "gracious hearts" , so we cannot dwell on them too much. Thoughts of His COVENANT GRACE should never leave us. The "more we draw close to Him, the more we see His glories", and the more we will humbly worship.
"As a mother humbly calms her baby, so the Lord calms the fury of the sea, the anger of men and women, the tempest of adversity and the rage of hell. We delight in His great love, and in this we have our ultimate salvation." Charles Spurgeon
Before we come to God with our complaints and arguments, like Ethan does later in this Psalm, we need to acknowledge that He is indeed a "GOOD GOD". If we keep hold of these truths, we "can have peace in our days of trouble."
Ethan, like many other Psalm writers are inspired to worship when they consider God's GREATNESS, HIS CREATION, RIGHTEOUSNESS, JUSTICE, FAITHFULNESS, MERCY AND LOVE. We too should have this same inspiration as we marvel at the extravagance and care of our God.
"When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?"
Psalm 8:3&4 (NIV)
GOD'S GLORY AND DEFENSE - Read Psalm 89:15-18
God gave David and Ethan many blessings, for they were both "men after His own heart." Those of us who have experienced God's LOVE, MERCY, JUSTICE AND STRENGTH are indeed blessed too.
WE ENJOY GOD'S FAVOUR AND FELLOWSHIP
The Lord is "all sufficient" and we will continue in communion with Him.
"The covenant promises are precious and those who understand their meaningand recognize their own personal interest in them are highly favoured." Charles Spurgeon
THEY REJOICE ALL DAY LONG
When we have a personal relationship with the Lord, we know "His person, His name, His character". It is in this relationship that we can find our "source of joy."
"Blessed are those who walk in the light of your PRESENCE. They rejoice in Your Name all day long; they celebrate Your righteousness." Psalm 89:15&16 (NIV)
THEY FIND STRENGTH IN GOD
No man who finds strength in God can give glory to himself. All honour belongs to God Himself. God is "holiness", and it is in the "Holy One" that we find ths strongest foundation for our faith.
A creature full of strength and courage lifts up his "horn". The horn in Eastern culture was an ornament that was worn by people who were confident and in good spirits. We don't need to wear such "vanities", for our strength is found in the love and encouragement of Christ Himself.
"You are our glory and strength and by Your favour, You exalt our horn." Psalm 89:17
THEY FIND HIS PROTECTION
The Lord is our protector and shield. As David was the "shield" of his nation, so the God of Israel is our ruler and defence.
"But You, O Lord, art a shield around me; You are my glory, the One who lifts my head high."
Psalm 3:3 (NLT)
"The Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart trusts in Him and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy and with my song I praise Him." Psalm 28:7 (NLT)
THEY SHARE IN GOD'S COVENANT OF GRACE
God doesn't break His promises or act unjustly, particularly when it comes to making a covenant with His people. We have this same GRACE to claim because God made this covenant for us too. This grace was made perfect in Jesus Christ.
"For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance - now that He died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant." Hebrews 9:15 (NIV)
GOD'S COVENANT WITH DAVID - Read Psalm 89:19-37; 2 Samuel 7
In this part of Psalm 89, Ethan retells the COVENANT PROMISE that God had given David, regarding his family and his Kingdom. His Kingdom would be like no other, and David would be a great leader. He would have a place of security and his son Solomon would sit on the throne after him and would build the Temple David had wanted to build himself.
"Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before Me; your throne will be established forever." 2 Samuel 7:16 (NIV)
God honoured the intention of David's heart. Clearly God had a plan for him that surpassed anything that David could see. It seemed wrong to David that he should live in a palace, when the Ark, which represented God's presence, was still in a tent.
The Ark had been taken by the Philistines many years before to try and prevent their plagues, and even though it had now been returned to Jerusalem, David was afraid that his people may have forgotten why it was important for them. David brought it back so it could again stand as a symbol of GOD'S ACTIVE PRESENCE in their lives, in the centre of their city. David wanted to lead his people in worship.
But David was a great soldier and he still had enemies to defeat. They would need the "travelling tent". David also needed to learn that "sometimes the purposes of God cut across the desires of our hearts." (Iain Campbell.)
"But that night the Word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying: "Go and tell my servant David, "This is what the Lord says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? I have not dwelt in a house since the day I brought the Israelites out of Egypt to this day. I have moved from place to place with my a tent as my dwelling. Wherever I have moved, with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, "Why have you not built me a house of cedar". 2 Samuel 7:4-7 (NIV)
"David, this life is not about DOING FOR ME, it's about RECEIVING FROM ME."
Nancy Guthrie.
David was a king like no other, humble and faithful to God. Yes, he made mistakes, but that is why God was giving him this GRACE COVENANT. From God's promise to David sprang the hope of our Messiah - Jesus, who sits on the eternal throne in Heaven. The promise was fulfilled in Jesus who came from David's lineage and will reign forever.
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. From the greatness of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over His Kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Almighty will accomplish this." Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV)
"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel (which means "God with us") Matthew 1:22&23
We can be sure, just as David and Ethan were, that God is a faithful God and He keeps His promises. His purposes and plans are greater than ours!
COMPLAINT AND PETITION - Read Psalm 89:38-51
We don't know exactly when this Psalm was written, but we do know that it was probably when Ethan was old and near death. Also, it was in a time when God was angry with his people, for disobeying Him, and ceasing their worship, long after the reign of David. Ethan asked these questions:
"How long Lord? Will you hide yourself forever? How long will your wrath burn like fire? Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all humanity! Who can live and not see death or who can escape the power of the grave? Lord, where is your former great love, which in your faithfulness you swore to David?" Psalm 89:46-49
Ethan was feeling let down, but he had lived with God as his provider for many years, so even though he was a little disallusioned, he still held on to his hope. He still believed that God would be faithful and loving to the end. Ethan still made an honest plea with God and prayed for mercy.
We too can take hope in disapointment and conflict. Things may not change, but GOD IS STILL OUR PROVIDER. God still watches over us, even when we are not looking. WHEN GOD GUIDES, HE PROVIDES, and the COVENANT OF GRACE which in now fulfilled in Jesus Christ is true for us today.
A CONCLUSION OF PRAISE - Read Psalm 89:52
Ethan finished this Psalm with a declaration of confident, heart felt PRAISE. He was a man who knew and trusted God's promises and with this doxology invited the people of God to join with in praise. "Amen and Amen". He still invites us to join him today!
"He ends where he began. He sailed around the world and reached port again. Let us bless God before we pray, while we pray and when we have done praying, for He always deserves it from us."
Charles Spurgeon.
"Got Questions, Your Questions, Biblical Answers - What is the Maskil in the Book of Psalms?", (2021), Got Questions Ministries.
Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", (2009), A Lion Book
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Guthrie, Nancy, "The Wisdom Books - Seeing Jesus in the Psalms and Wisdom Books", 2009, Crossway
