PSALM 131 - LIKE A WEANED CHILD

 INTRODUCTION: Read Psalm 131: Samuel 6 & 16.

This is a Psalm of David, "a man after God own heart". He lived in "harmony with the Lord", both as a young shepherd boy and as God's chosen king,yet, as a human he still had his failures. Still,. the greatest quality God saw in David was "his humility"- He saw his "servant heart."

"He also chose David and took him from His own sheepfold......Having found my servant David, I annointed him with oil." Psalm 78:70, 89:20 (NASB)

"God develops our inner qualities. He is never in a hurry to develop our character - we work on it througout our whole lifetime. He's never in a hurry! That is how we become like David, men and women after God's own heart." Charles Swindoll

Commentators have mentioned 3 times in David's life when this sign may have been written:

1. David was in a cave, hunted by Saul. This was one of the lowest times in David's life - losing his best friend, his wife and his job; everything, except the love and presence of his Father God.

2. David was repeatedly accused of ambition as the king of Israel. Yet, he was being prepared by the Lord for some humble service. At this early stage in his life, he was a young man of integrity, waiting to lead his people. 

3. In response to his wife Michal who had accused him of undignified behaviour after he had danced in a procession  - brining the Ark of  the Covenant back into Jerusalem. David knew that the ark was the central place of worship for him and his people. So here was David's dancing and laughing as the Ark was retured to its rightful place of worship. 

"Whatever the ocassion, the short Psalm is a beautiful denial of pride, arrogance and selfish ambition." David Guzik.

"It  is one of the shortest Psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn. It speaks of a young child, but it contains the experiences of a young man." Charles Spurgeon

DAVID'S HUMILITY - Verse 1

"Lord, my ear is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty. Neither do I concern myself with great matters, nor with things too proud for me." Psalm 131:1 (NKJV)

David learnt to resist pride, and he knew that "God gave grace to the humble." David knew that God rejected arrogance and he was a man who wanted to live like his Father God. He didn't want to "look down on others" or "think himself better" than others. 

Though David had accomplished great things in his time as king, he also had times when pride overwhelmed him. At these times in his life he now wanted to "renounce selfish ambition". He wanted to have more "godly aspirations". He waited patiently to be "lifted up" by His Father. David understood that following God's will, rather than his own pride and ambitions, would lead to contentment in his soul and spirit. 

"God resists the proud but GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE......HUMBLE YOURSELF IN THE SIGHT OF THE LORD, and HE WILL LIFT YOU UP" . Jamed 4:6b & 10 (NKJV)

"Therefore, HUMBLE YOURSELVES under the mighty hand of God, and HE WILL LIFT YOU UP IN DUE TIME, cast your cares upon Him, for HE CARES ABOUT YOU." 1 Peter 5:6&7 (NKJV)

DAVID'S CONTENTMENT -  Read Verse 2

"But I had calmed and  quieted myself. Like a weaned child with His mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me." Psalm 131:2  (NIV/NKJV

David wanted to find "calm and serenity", following the ways of the Lord. He enjoyed serving the Lord, finding rest and stillness in a quiet soul and spirit. 

"I wait quietly before God, for MY VICTORY COMES FROM HIM.... Let all that I am wait quietley before God, for HOPE IS IN HIM. " Psalm 62:1&5 (NLT)

"A child not yet weaned embraces his mother with a desire for good and immediate satisfaction. A WEANED CHILD embraces his mother with a desire for LOVE, CLOSENESS and COMPANIONSHIP. Such was David's humble desire to DRAW NEAR TO GOD." David Guzik 

God is normally represented as OUR FATHER, but in these versess and another in Isaiah , He has the compassion of A MOTHER. . 

"Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has born? Though she may forget, I WILL NOT FORGET YOU!" Isaiah 49:15  (NIV)

"Weaning" is one of the first trials we experience as a toddler, and it is disturbing for "little hearts"; but we can overcome it, for"it is  nececcary for our development." The process of weaning is natural, but the child may regard it "as a battle". David's contentment with God did not always come naturally either as he struggled with difficult behaviours. When we are overwhelmed with circumstances in our life, we too need to rely in the "weaning process", as we develop in our faith and relationship with God, as David did.

"Blessed are those afflictions which subdue our affections, which wean us from self - sufficiency, which educate us in our Christian growth, and which teach us to love God, not merely when He comforts us, but even when He tries us." Charles Spurgeon.

DAVID'S ENCOURAGEMENT - Verse 3

"O Israel, hope in the Lord,  from this time and forevermore." Psalm 131:3

David was the only person who could  truly encourage his people in te of his kingship. Why? Because of His testimony and experiennces in following the Lord. He wanted them to enjoy these too. Like Jesus, David wanted the Israelites to follow the will of God as he had. 

"My food is to do the will of Hin whon sent me." John 4:34 (NKJV)

"Let his faithful people hope and trust, not in themselves, their wisdom and their power, but in Jehovah alone,whyo will not fail to exalt them." George Horne - cited by David Guzik. 

The decision to put your hope and trust in the God is never ending - FOREVER -m jusst like David and the Israelites.

CONCLUSION 

The promises that David wants us to grasp are:

* Our Father is everything we need. He is our OMNIPREST, FAITHFUL God whom wilill never leave our side. 

*JESUS IS OUR SAVIOUR who died on the cross for us, and rose so we could have eternal life. Jesus is the one we base our hope and trust in. We will enjoy inner peace in Him.

*God wants us to "rest our soul" in Him as the "centre of our intellect and emotions". And in our SPIRIT  we can "discern our soul". 

So our FATHER, SON and HOLY SPIRIT are in all we need to find compassion, as a child clings to his mother, Even as we are weaned, we still need them FOREVER AND EVER. 

"Let Israel Hope in the Lord - Psalm 131", 2019, Esther Mui (Composer & Performer)

"The Holy Bible - New American Standard Bible", 2020, The Lockman Foundation.

"The Holy Bibe - New International Version", 2011, Biblia, Inc. 

"The Hope Bible - New King James Version." 1982, Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation." Tyndale House Publishers

GUZIK, David, "Psalm 121, David's Humble, Learned, Contentment in the Lord.", 2020, ewm@enduring word.com

LE BOITILIER, Pastor Paul, "Psalm 131 - I Have Quieted My Soul." www.ccontario.com

SPURGEON, Charles, "The Treasury of David - Commentary in Psalms." 1885/2021, Christianity.com

"The Bible Says What: Psalm 131 - What God Wants fom Us", 2021. You Tube.

SWINDOLL, Charles.R, "David: A Man of Passion and Destiny", Thomas Nelson

PSALM 130 - GOD'S GREAT MERCY AND FORGIVENESS

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 130, 6 & 32

We are now nearing the end of our “Song of Ascents” series. Psalm 130 begins with a personal testimony of God’s rescue from the depths of guilt and despair. The author then ascends “step by step” to a place where he could have faith and confidence in the living God.

Psalm 130 is also one of the seven “penitential psalms” (a psalm of repentance), as it speaks of the confession of sins, and the healing power of forgiveness. The Psalmist is praying, hoping and waiting for God’s help.It comes with a reminder that the Lord always listens to us when we “cry for help” and He “answers our prayers”.

“When I kept things to myself, I felt weak deep inside me. I moaned all day long. Then I confessed my sins to you and didn’t hide my guilt. I said, “I will confess my sins to the Lord,” and you forgave my guilt.Selah” Psalms 32:3, 5 (NCV)

“The Lord has heard my cry for help; the Lord will answer my prayer.”
Psalms 6:9 (NCV)

“Out of the depths I have cried to You, O LORD; Lord, hear my voice!Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.”
Psalm 130:1&2 (NKJV)

Martin Luther and Charles Wesley, were both touched by this Psalm, when they heard it sung. They were both stressed by trials and suffering they were enduring, mainly brought on by guilt. They praised the Lord for bringing them through these and “saving their souls”.

We too can read (or sing) this Psalm, when we are feeling in the depths of guilt, believing that the Lord will not only save us from our sins, but will deliver us our and anxiety and tribulation.

“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalms 32:7 NIV

“He implores Israel to trust as He does, for the Lord will save His people from the mess their sins have brought them.” Pat & David Alexander.

CRYING OUT WITH A GUILTY SPIRIT -                            Read Psalm 130:1-2; Jonah 2

We all experience the depth of depression, anxiety and grief; but the author of this Psalm experienced the lowest of lowest, that of a GUILTY SPIRIT.

Consider the scene the psalmist has given us. The Hebrew word for “depths” normally refers to the salty, blue deep of the ocean. For the people in ancient Israel, it was a place of “utter despair”.

Jonah is an example of one who prayed from beneath the sea. He did so from inside “a huge fish” (whale). The mercy and kindness of God gave him a new life, as he was spat out by the whale, and he continued to serve the Lord.

“He said, “I cried out to the Lord in my great trouble, and he answered me. I called to you from the land of the dead, and Lord, you heard me! You threw me into the ocean depths, and I sank down to the heart of the sea. The mighty waters engulfed me; I was buried beneath your wild and stormy waves.” Jonah 2:2-3 (NLT)

“As my life was slipping away, I remembered the Lord. And my earnest prayer went out to you in your holy Temple……Then the Lord ordered the fish to spit Jonah out onto the beach.” Jonah 2:7,8 & 10 (NLT)

In Psalm 130, “the depths” are a lot dryer than what Jonah experienced. Still, the imagery of being lost at sea, with all the hopelessness of going under, is a vivid picture of the psalmist’s emotional state.

FORGIVENESS FROM OUR GRACIOUS GOD -             Read Psalm 130:3&4, 86; Romans 14:8&9

“Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. When I am in distress, I call to you, because you answer me.”Psalms 86:6-7 (NIV)

“But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, and I will fulfill all my vows. For my salvation comes from the Lord alone.””
Jonah 2:9 (NLT)

Like Jonah before him the Psalmist is looking to God for mercy.

“If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you” (Psalm 130: 3–4 (NIV)

“To stand “ is a judicial phrase, and in this Psalm it shows us how we can be absolved from our sins and justified by God’s grace. This is opposed to “falling”.

“To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they WILL STAND for the Lord is able to make them stand.”  Romans 14:4 NIV

It may take many years of developing a relationship with your Father God, but you will experience the peace and joy that comes with FORGIVENESS. You may not receive forgiveness from the world - family or friends - but you will enjoy forgiveness from a GRACIOUS GOD.

“But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.”      Psalms 130:4 NIV

“When Luther was in great trouble of soul, he was comforted by one who said to him, ‘Dost thou not believe thy Creed?’ ‘Yes,’ replied Luther, ‘I believe the Creed.’ ‘Well, then,’ rejoined the other, ‘one article in it is, “I believe in the forgiveness of sins.’” Luther’s heart was lightened at once by the remembrance of the words in this psalm, ‘there is forgiveness.’ “ Martin Luther cited by Charles Spurgeon.

We know that our forgiveness is sure because of what Jesus did for us in the cross. We know our salvation is eternal, for Jesus promised us this.

“For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living.”
Romans 14:8-9 (NKJV)

“It may be that you have sinned many times and grievously; but ‘THERE IS FORGIVNESS.” Though a child of God, you have gone far astray from him; but ‘THERE IS FORGIVENESS’You have backslidden sadly and horribly; but ‘THERE IS FORGIVENESS” , The devil comes and howls at you, and tells you that your doom is sealed, and your damnation is sure; but “THERE IS FORGIVENESS.” Charles Spurgeon

PUTTING OUR HOPE IN GOD AND HIS WORD -              Read Psalm 130:5&6



Having made his cries to the Lord, and confessed his sin, the Psalmist is now admitting his faith in God and His Word. He does this by waiting on the Lord. Unlike Jonah, the psalmist’s experiences in the depths seems to last more than three days.

“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and IN HIS WORD I PUT MY HOPE.” (v. 5).

Using the name “Adonai (Lord)” repeatedly and then the words, “more than watchmen wait in the morning”, the Psalmist is showing how much faith and trust he has in “God’s promises”.
Each day I wait in the Lord for answers to my prayers. I ready and study God’s Word, waiting for God to answer my needs, “revealed in His Word”.

“The poet used a vivid image to express his patient anticipation in waiting on God. We see a watchman in the darkness of the early morning, scanning the horizon for the first sign of the dawn. The watchman doesn’t doubt that morning will come, but only wonders when, and watches for it diligently. “ David Guzik

“The genius of the Psalm resides in their ability to convey images of the messages of hope in God - images from everyday life, in this case, the waiting watchmen. He conveys the message to all kinds of people in many different times and places, and expresses what he most hopes for from God.” Daniel.J Harrington - 

                                                                            cited by David & Pat Alexander.

CONCLUSION -REDEEMING ISRAEL -
Read Psalm 130:7&8; Isaiah 55:6&7

“O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is unfailing love. His redemption overflows. He himself will redeem Israel from every kind of sin.”Psalms 130:7-8 NLT

These verses now change from being “PERSONAL to PUBLIC”, as the Psalmist now encourages the people of Israel to share his FAITH IN GOD.

“The psalmist put his faith and hope in the Lord Himself, not in the mercy or redemption God would bring. He looked to the Giver before the gift. When God’s people humbly look to Him, there is MERCY and ABUNDANT REDEMPTION for both the individual and the community." David Guzik

We too may have a lot of sins that still play on our heart and mind - filling our soul with GUILT. But no matter how many sins we have committed, God’s MERCY AND GRACE are greater, and he will "redeem (forgive) you".

This is the “confident conclusion to this psalm”, demonstrating trust and hope in our Father God - who will indeed bring redemption to “ the individual and the nation” overwhelmed in the depths of their sin.

“Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.”Isaiah 55:6-7 NLT

Our redemption also comes from Jesus Christ, God’s Son, who again we are reminded died for our sins and rose again so we could not only have forgiveness of our sins, but everlasting cleansing. When Jesus was asked for a sign, he spoke of Jonah too.

“For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth”                                                                                                      Matthew 12:29&30 (NIV)

“The people knew after three days inside the fish, the Lord delivered Jonah from the depths. He walked away, alive and well. Jesus, too, would be delivered, not merely from his tomb but from death itself. That doesn’t mean we’ll never again feel the depths of despair in this world. Still, it does mean that, like the psalmist before us, we can have confidence that our story will not end there. In the depths, remember this: hope lives because Jesus lives.” John Greco

“For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him. We are sure of this because Christ was raised from the dead, and he will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. When he died, he died once to break the power of sin. But now that he lives, he lives for the glory of God. So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.” Romans 6:7-11 NLT

 “There is a Redeemer” 1977, Keith Green (Performer), Melody Green (Compose) Capitol Christian Music Group, Capitol CMG Publishing, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

“I Will Wait for You”  (Psalm 130), 2018, Keith & Kirsten Getty (Performers), Keith Getty, Keith Getty ,Stuart Townend , Jordan Kauflin , Matthew Sherman Merker (Composers), Getty Music (You Tube)

“I Set my Hope”, 2023, Keith and Kristen Getty, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa (Composers and Performers), Getty Music (You Tube)

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

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

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

Alexander, Pat & David, 2009, "The Lion Handbook of the Bible -            4th Edition, Lion Hudson Publishers

Greco, John, 2022, "The Songs of Ascent - A Devotional Adventure in the Book of Psalms", Broadstreet Publishers

Guzik, David, 2020, "Psalm 130 - Out of the Depths", www.enduringword.com

Spurgeon, Charles, 1885/2021, "The Treasury of David - Commentary of Psalms", Chrisianity.com

PSALM 129 - LIVING WITH PERCUTION.

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 129, 2 Corinthians 5:11-21

This is the 10th Psalm in what we know to be the "Psalms of Ascension". It is a PRAYER OF SURVIVAL for the Jewish people. They also PRAISE THE LORD for what He has done for them IN THE PAST, and what they knew He would do for the IN THE FUTURE. We too can praise the Lord for these same things.

Israel - the Jewish people have been through a lot of affliction, both during Biblical Times and in our modern history. The Church - "God's New Covenant people" - have also stood firm through persecution and SURVIVED. Like the Jews, we have also brought trouble on ourselves, but we have been "graciously delivered."

"One might say that the chief accomplishment of the Jewish people, was SURVIVAL. The Jes are the longest enduring ethnic people on this planet. They have been slandered, hated and pursued, but they have SURVIVED IN TACT." James Boice - cited by David Guzik. 

Many Christians are still persecuted for their faith today, but GOD IS SOVEREIGN, and HE WILL OVERCOME. God promises to preserve HIS COVENANT - both old and new - with both the Jews and Christians. 

"The enemies of the Jewish people have not ultimately prevailed against them. Israel's foes are strong and clever but they are not GREATER THAN GOD." David Guzik

"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)

"The Lord all powerful says: "In that day I will BREAK THE YOKE from their necks and SNAP THEIR CHAINS. Foreigners will no longer enslave them. Instead, THEY WILL SERVE THE LORD THEIR GOD." Jeremiah 30:8&9  (NIV/NLT)

GOD'S GOODNESS TO THE AFFLICTED -                         Read Psalm 129:1-4; Hebrews 11:35&36; 1 Peter 4:12&16

ISRAEL'S TESTIMONY

"They have greatly oppressed me from my youth. Let Israel say, "They have greatly oppressed me from youth."  Let Israel say, "They have greatly oppressed me from youth.", but they have not gained victory over me." Psalm 129:1&2 (NIV)

These Verses at the beginning of this Psalm are the AUTHOUR'S TESTIMONY, and he encouraged the Israelites to share THEIR TESTIMONY too. They had experienced affliction and persecution from a young age - "my youth" - but their enemies had never fully succeeded. Many countries over the years have tried to wipe out the Jews, but they have had little success. 

"I've been wounded over and over again, but the Lord has intervened every time, delivering me from my enemies." Paul LeBoiutillier

"They looked back with thankfulness for their former deliverances, God had wrought for them and their fathers, in the many distresses they had experienced over time." Matthew Henry

HOW DOES JESUS DEFINE PERSECUTION?

Jesus defines persecution as:

* Verbal abuse.

* Mocking

* Prevailed evil.

* Being reviled and lied about.

We, too, like the Jews have survived this persecution by TRUSTING IN THE LORD. For God's promises were fulfilled in the "New Covenant", through Jesus Christ, through his deathg and resurrection. We too, are resurrected people!

"He died for everyone, so that they would receive HIS NEW LIFE, no longer living for themselves. Instead, they live for Christ, who died and was RAISED FOR THEM....... For God made Christ, who had no sin, to be sin for us, so that we night become the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD."

                                                                          2 Corinthians 5:15&21 (NLT/NIV)

"If you are insulted because you bear the name of Jesus, you will be blessed, for His glorious spirit rests on you." 1 Peter 4:14 (NLT)

"Others were tortured, refusing to turn from God, in order to be SET FREE. They placed their HOPE in a better life. Some were jeered at and their backs were cut whips. Others were chained in prison. Sonme died by stoning, some were shaved in half and others were killed with the sword." 

                                                                 Hebrews 11:35-37 (NIV)

"We must actively remind ourselves of what God has done for our spiritual ancestors and for us. We must continually enter into the story of REDEMPTION  as we have been personally living it from the beginning." John Greco

GOD GROWS A CROP IN THE SOIL OF OUR PAIN.

"My back is covered with cuts, as a farmer has plowed long furrows. But the LORD IS GOOD. He has cut me free from the ROPES OF THE UNGODLY." Psalm 129:3&4 (NLT)

The devil wants to "grow despair" in the "furrows of the afflicted". God wants to GROW JOY AND GLADNESS - a "bunker crop from those same furrows." The afflictors did not prevail because GOD INTERVENED, by "cutting the ropes of the oxen". God "grows a crop in the soil of our pain." The devil - our enemy - DOES NOT WIN, if we "rejoice in our afflictions". If we return with bitterness and hatred, THE DEVIL WINS; but if our "crop is full and abundant", we can come through the trial and WE WIN.

"We must live as though the furrows on the backs of the ancient Israelites coming out of Egypt, are our own." John Greco

In our own efforts, we are a mess, but the "grace of God is more than adequate" to pull us through.The Holy Spirit is our COMFORTER and Jesus Christ is our SAVIOUR.

"The effect of our sins are not bound by time. Thankfully, neither is the GRACE OF GOD.  The Psalmist finds FAITH IN HIS OWN SITUATION, by remembering what the Lord did for His people so many years before: "He has cut me free from the chords of the wicked." You and I can find the same strength when we see ourselves belonging to the long and winding true story of REDEMPTION. What He did for them, He does for us." John Greco

A PRAYER FOR OUR ENEMIES - Read Psalm 129:5-8,     Psalm 5

THE GRASS WITHERING WITH THE SUN.  

"May all who hate Zion (Jerusalem) be turned back in shame. May they be like grass on the rooftops, turning yellow and withering, before it can grow." Psalm 129:5&6 (NIV/NLT)

The second half of this Psalm is a BELIEVER'S PRAYER for the "destruction of Israel's enemies". They would be turned back in shame and their plans would not succeed. Grass that grows on the roofs of the houses in the Middle East, quickly withers with the warm sun. Like Israel's enemies, they are "short-lived."

"Grass and other seeds dropped on or were blown onto flat  clay roofs of houses,and the roots would  begin to grow; but quickly they burned up in the heat of the sun." Pat & David Alexander

AN IMPRECATORY PSALM

Like a number of different Psalms of David, this is an "imprecatory psalm" - provoking judgement, calamaties and destruction on the enemies of God's people. But you are not to call this judgement down for "reasons of spite and anger" - because people may be annoying you. 

David was a "charitable" person - he showed this in his character when he didn't kill Saul - one of his greatest enemies - when he had the chance. But as a soldier and king, in battle, David was a "fearsome warrior."  He wanted God to destroy His enemies and those of his people. 

"Pronounce them guilty, O God! Let them fall by their own counsels. Cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have rebelled against you." Psalm 5:19 (NKJV)

"Lord, may all your enemies perish. But all those who love you rise like the sun with its power." 

                                                                                              Judges 5:31 (NIV)

Paul was another servant of the Lord that believed that there were times when God needed to bring down His judgement on a sinful world. Both David and Paul were inspired men of  God. They knew their were also times to show mercy, and this was also part of Jesus' teaching.  

"Consider, therefore, the kindness and sterness of God: sterness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in His kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off."                                                                                                                    Romans 11:22 (NIV)

"Don't speak evil against each other, brothers and sisters. Anyone who judges a brother and sister is speaking against the law...... God alone is the only LAWGIVER AND JUDGE. He alone has the power to SAVE AND DESTROY. Who are you to JUDGE YOUR NEIGHBOUR."                                                                                                           James 5:11&12 (NLT/NIV)

CONCLUSION: Loving Our Enemies - Read Psalm 129:8, Psalm 5; Matthew 5:43-48

"You have heard that it was said, "Love your neighbour and hate your enemy". But I tell you, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES and pray flor those who persecute you, that you may be the children of your Father in Heaven" Matthew 5: 43-45 (NIV)

"May those who pass by not say to them: "The blessing of the Lord be on you; we bless you in the name of the Lord." Psalm 129:8 (NIV)

As Jesus told us in the Gospels, we still need to "LOVE OUR ENEMIES". As we received GRACE FROM GOD we need to show HIS FORGIVENESS. It may be that we, as God's followers, will still receive HIS BLESSING, but we also need to show it to those we find it difficul to love and forgive.  We need to be witnesses of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, living His way, so "our enemies" might decide to do the same - for our Lord's GRACE AND SALVATION ARE FOR EVERYONE. 

"It's that same all consuming story that allows us to receive salvation. Jesus died once for people throughout history, rescuing those who died in faith before He came and saving people down through the centuries who look back to the cross." John Greco

"Scripture is about SALVATION. We receive FORGIVENESS when we become Christians and are DELIVERED FROM SIN." Douglas Wilson

There are still many people who hate God and His people. "There is still PERSECUTION", of Jews, Christian and God's Church. So what ought we to pray? God's WORDS OF JUDGEMENT or His WORDS OF GRACE. There is a place for judgement, but we must remember, that GOD'S LOVE AND MERCY ARE GREATER. 

"Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies - make your way straight before me....... But lets all who take refuge in Him BE GLAD, and let them ever SING FOR JOY. Spread your PROTECTION over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in Him." 

                                                      Psalm 5:8&11 (NIV)

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HENRY, Matthew; HENRY, Michael,  "Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible", 1828/2003, Thomas Nelson

GUZIK, David, "Psalm 129 - Afflicted Yet Confident in God's Deliverancde", 2020, www.enduringword.com

LEBOUTILLIER, Paul, "Psalm 129 - The Lord Cuts the Chords of My Enemies." 2020, Calgary Chapel, Ontarion (You Tube). 

WILSON, Douglas, "Psalm 129 - From the Soils of Pain", 2021, www.Christchurch.com (You Tube)

PSALM 127 & 128 - THE GIFT OF PARENTHOOD

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalms 127 & 128, Proverbs 22:6

High on God's list of blessings are a HAPPY HOME - HONOURABLE PARENTS AND HAPPY CHILDREN. These Psalms were written by Solomon,  a king with great wisdom. Throughout Proverbs he gives us many sayings about the GIFT OF PARENTHOOD. In these Psalms 127 &128 , he continues with those words of wisdom, as we seek the Lord in "BUILDING OUR HOMES".

"Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older they will never leave it." 

                                                                                   Proverbs 22:6 (NLT)

This Verse reminds us of the  " calling and responsibility" God has given us, AS  PARENTS. It is our responsibility to build the "foundation of faith" in our children. God doesn't expect us to do this "on our own" - He loves us and our children, "more than we ever could".

"It is never too late to start investing in the FAIITH OF YOUR CHILDREN. It is also never too early TO GET STARTED." Todd Dobberstein (You Version) 

"If you allow GOD to be the HEAD OF YOUR HOME, he will bless your family life." 

                                                                                                   Max Lucado

The problem we have often have in our marriages and as parents, is that we try to make our OWN PLANS. We forget that "GOD IS IN CHARGE." We believe that if we tried hard enough "our plans will be established". In this Psalm we are reminded that if we are to become a happy family, "GOD NEEDS TO MAKE OUR PLANS". APART FROM HIM, WE CAN DO NOTHING!  

                      BUILDING OUR HOUSE AND FAMILY -                                          Read Psalm 127:1-2,  119:9-12   

1. THE LORD HIMSELF IS TO BE THE CENTRE OF OUR HOME

"Unless the LORD BUILDS THIS HOUSE, they labour in vain who build it." Psalm 127:1a (NASB)

Did you know that God is an ARCHITECT AND A BUILDER? He plans and builds our house and expects us to work with Him. "God's involvement is absolutely essential", for we as parents need to have a relationship with God and to share this with our children. 

a) PRAY WITH AND FOR OUR CHILDREN, EVERYDAY!

To build a foundation of faith for our children, CONSISTENT PRAYER IS ESSENTIAL. The best way to show love and care for your family is to PRAY FOR THEM. 

"There is nothing our kids need more than the presence of Christ in their lives. Therefore, the most important thing we can do as parents is to bathe our children in PRAYER. When you feel like you are running on empty, that's one of the best times to COME TO GOD IN PRAYER." 

                                                                               Casey Case (You Version)

"Our oldest son will celebrate his 20th birthday soon. I asked him recently what it meant to him to know that we had prayed for him over the years. He said it helped him see the importance of HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. It showed him HOW MUCH WE CARED FOR HIS NEEDS, both physical and spiritual. Our prayers PROTECTED HIM from some of things he wasn't spiritually mature  to handle alone. " Rob & Joanna Teigan. 

"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that they may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16 (NIV)

b) READ GOD'S WORD WITH THEM

What I remember most about my father, in my early years, was how he read to us each night from the Bible and our "Children's Deotional Book". He brought me up to LOVE GOD'S WORD, and I endeavoured to share this love with my husband and son too. One of the most important things I have wanted to do for my son, his wife and our three grandaughters is to leave them a LEGACY - MY LOVE FOR THE WORD OF GOD and MY PERSEVERANCE IN PRAYER.

"The best way to make sure our children recognize God's voice is to teach them His Word. If you want to see them transformed by the power of God's Word, then they need to see it working in you - truly affecting the course of your life and your daily decisions........ At the same time, help your kids experience the Bible for themselves by learning to read and studying it, and listening to the Holy Spirit's leading, ON THEIR OWN. " Michael Martin (You Version)

"How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word." Psalm 119:9 (NLT)

c) DON'T PARENT ALONE

You need people in your life to help point your children in the right direction. Attend Church as a family. Serve in the Church as a family. Join a Small Group filled with people you can lean on through the difficult seasons of parenthood. It is important for you and your children to build FAITH BASED RELATIONSHIPS. 

2. THE LORD HIMSELF IS TO BE THE CENTRE OF OUR LIFE AND WORK. 

"It is no use if you GET UP EARLY and STAY UP LATE, working for a living. THE LORD GIVES SLEEP TO THOSE HE LOVES." Psalm 127:2

Please remember that the Lord is first in our lives. He will reward us even in our sleep. Godly lives need to include "REST AND RELAXATION". "Long hours and painful labour "in our life can never replace "our allegiance to God". Making money is not as important as the "PRESENCE OF GOD" in our lives.

"There remains therefore, A REST FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD. For he who has entered HIS REST, HE HIMSELF AS ALSO CEASED FROM HIS WORK, as God did from His.”

                                                                                            Hebrews 4:9&10 (NKJV)

“KEEP YOUR LIVES FREE FROM THE LOVE OF MONEY, and BE SATISFIED WITH WHAT YOU HAVE God had said: “I will never leave you; I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5 (CEV)

"Believing in the Lord and marrying a believer is important if you want to establish your home with full STRENGTH AND STABILITY. Obedience to His commands and the principles iun Scripture, must become the DEFINING VALUES if we hope to build a STRONG FAMILY AND WORKLIFE."  Charles Swindoll

CHILDREN ARE THE FOUNDATION OF OUR HOME -  Read Psalm 127:3-5; Proverbs 4, 6:20&21, 23:22-26

King Solomon's wisdom continues with his "celebration of the strong home", with the focus on "our children." 

"Children are a gift from the Lord; they a reward from Him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one's youth." Psalm 127:3&4 (NASB)

Notice these three "titles" Solomon tells us about our children:

1. THEY ARE A GIFT. 

Children belong to the Lord and He graciously "shares them with His parents." Wise parents will acknowledge that their child is a "personal gift from God".

"The father of a good child is very happy; parents of wise children are glad because of them. Make your father and mother happy; give you The father of a good child is very happy; parents of wise children are glad because of them. Make your father and mother happy; give your r mother a reason to be glad."  Proverbs 23:4&5

PARENTING IS TOUGH - there is no doubt about that. But in those tough moments, God is always with us. Remember that the gift of parenting is a "noble and and worthy calling," a priviledge God has given us. "Embrace this fact that God has given you this honour."

2. THEY ARE A REWARD

A reward is something that is something God blesses us with. We receive a child in appreciation for our love for God and the "fruit of the womb" is a "token of God's love", for us as parents. 

"Ask Him to RENEW YOUR JOY and THANK HIM for your children. If we learn to lean on God in the tough days of parenting, we can't help but be THANKFUL FOR OUR KIDS." 

                                                                        Casey Case (You Version)

"Always be joyful! Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)

3. THEY ARE ARROWS

"Children who are born to you are like arrows in the hand of a warrior. Happy is a man who has a bag full of arrows. They will not be defeated when they fight their enemies at the city gate."                                                                                                                     Psalm 126:4&5 (NLT)

"A warrior doesn't stop to make his arrows. He uses them by directing them to a target. A parent is responsible too for the DIRECTION OF THEIR CHILDREN. A child, like an arrow, is incapable of directing themselves, particurly at a young age. It is the basic responsibility for the parentd to direct their children." Charles Swindoll

What happens when a child isn't given direction? They don't reach the TARGET OF GODLY LIVING, following the ways of Jesus Christ. Parents often feel bad when they discipline their children. It's definetely not fun to do, but children need "parenting authority". The more you LOVE YOUR CHILD the more they will ACCEPT THE DISCIPLINE. And, when you APPLY THE DISCIPLINE it needs TO BE IN LOVE. Too much love without discipline, can make your child 'SPOILT", but too much DISCIPLINE WITHOUT LOVE may "DAMAGE THEM EMOTIONALLY AND DRIVE THEM AWAY."

"Folly is bound in the heart His child, but th ROD OF DISCIPLINE will drive it far away." 

                                                                                                             Proverbs 22:15 (NLT)

"The Lord disciplines those He loves, as the father the son he delights in." Proverbs 3:12 (NLT)

"It was June 2010 and my wife and eye were about to have our first baby. We were about to have dinner with my dad, and I decided to ask him for some parenting advice, some wisdom he had gained after many decades of parenting.  He thought for a minute and then me an analogue I will never forget: "Parenting is like a scale - on one side YOU HAVE LOVE and on the other DISCIPLINE. Applying either one two often, without the other, is harmful for your child."                                                                                                                  Brad Belyeu (You Version)

I found it really hard to discipline my child, until I read this verse and realized that DISCIPLINE is what makes you a LOVING AND CARING PARENT. 

"Those who spare the rod of discipline, hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them." Proverbs 13:24 (NLT)

"My son, keep your father's command and do not forsake your mother's teaching."

                                                                                      Proverbs 6:29 (NIV)

"My children, listen when your father corrects you. Pay attention and learn good judgement."

                                                                                                              Proverbs 4:1 (NLT)

                            LEADERSHIP IN THE HOME -                                                   Psalm 128:1-3; Proverbs 18:22, 22:6

Solomon continues into this Psalm, with more WORDS OF WISDOM. Again, similar to what we read in his Proverbs. Having considered how important children are in our lives, we now see how important the PARENT'S LEADERSHIP ROLE is. We notice how important it is to our JOY AND HAPPINESS. 

"Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. When you shall eat from the fruit of your hands; YOU WILL BE HAPPY and it will be WELL WITH YOU." Psalm 128:1&2 (NASB)

"Parents who train their children accoordin to BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES have the hope of ULTIMATE HAPPINESS." Charles Swindoll

Parents enjoy all they do with their children, particularly when they share Scripture with them in the home. Around the table we see the wife "as a fruitful vine", and the children are not branches but "independent unique olive plants". The vine and the olive are symbols of "peace and plenty" - the fullness of God's blessings. 

"The wife will be the FRUITFUL VINE within your house; your children will be like "olive shoots" around the table. Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the Lord." Psalm 128:3-4

"When a man finds a wife, he finds something good. It shows that the Lord is pleased with him."

                                                                                               Proverbs 18:22 (NIV)

As parents we need to see our children as these "fruit" and bring them up in the ways of the Lord. We need to encourage them in their own personal talents and gifts, not forcing them to be images of their parents. Sometimes fathers want to force their "sporting abilities" on their sons or mothers like to urge an "artistic talent" in their daiughters. But these may not necessarily be "their interests".

Apart from a childs talent or ability we also need to "train our children" in the ways of the Lord. Find ways to encourage their DREAMS, but also direct them towards a FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS. Help them to read and study the Scriptures, so they can live out "these primciples" in their lives. 

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."                                                                                                                   Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

                      INVEST IN YOUR CHILD'S FUTURE -                                              Read Psalm 128; Proverbs 17:6, 24.

"By WISDOM a house is built and through UNDERSTANDING it is established. Through KNOWLEDGE it rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." Psalm 24:3&4 (NIV)

Solomon helps us see the fruit of our labour in the home, including the joy we can have in the future with our grandchildren. We have:

1. PERSONAL PLEASURE

If you are determined to have Christ at the centre of your home and "parenthood grind", you will have God's Word as the "authority in rearing your children". You will have your "work cut out for you", and at times you may have negative, rather than positive consequences if you "relinquish" your parenting responsibilities.

"Behold, for this man shall be blessed who fears the Lord." Psalm 128:4 (NASB)

2. CIVIC BENEFITS

"May the Lord continually bless you from Zion. May you see Jerusalem prosper as lonmg as you live."  Psalm 128:5 (NLT)

Zion will be blessed and Jerusalem will be strong and prosperous. If you contribute to the home life of your chidren, you will receive benefits from your city and country governments. 

3. OUR GRANDCHILDREN

"Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children."                                                                                                             Proverbs 17:6 (NLT)

"May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace." (NLT)

Because the Lord is the centre of your home you are able to look forward to blessings in your old age, not only with your children, but with your grandchildren. The most encouraging words from this verse is that we are helping out nation be PEACEFUL, not just today but in the future. 

CONCLUSION - Read Psalm  127&128

A family may find themselves in difficult situations. The pressure may be mounting, particularly in the children's teenage years. Charles Swindoll tells us that the most difficult times he has had when councilling as a Pastor, have been with teenagers and their parents. The parents were either "too liberal or permissive" or in some cases, "too rigid". They needed to follow the Lord's guiding and model the ways of true parenthood.

"Is God the head of your house? Do you pray with and for your family daily? Do you read the Scriptures with them every night? God says, we will be blessed and happy if we seek God's wisdom during these teenage years. If the Lord is central in your home - His grip on your family will begin."

                                                                                        Charles Swindoll/Max Lucado

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

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

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

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

Belyeu, Brad (Engineer), Case, Casey (Support Leader),  Doberstein, Todd (Project Manager),  "7 Things the Bible Says about Parenting." 2013, New Version

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

Swindoll, Charles, "Strengthening your Grip", 1982, Word Publishers

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

Teigan, Rob & Joanna, "Powerful Prayers for Your Son," 2013, New Version