Are we the kind of people that give a church a bad name, judgmental gossips, or are we filled with compassion and kindness towards those who love the Lord and fear him? Let’s look at Psalm 103.
A Psalm of David. (WEB)
Do we bless, congratulate, or kneel down to praise the Lord?
Bless Yahweh, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless Yahweh, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle. (Ps 103:1-5 LSB)
Whereas humanity frequently fails the oppressed, how does God judge these things?
The Lord performs righteous deeds And judgments for all who are oppressed. (Ps 103:6 NASB)
Are we judgmental gossips in our churches, or like God, compassionate and gracious, not rushing to accuse His very imperfect people?
He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel: The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. (Ps 103:7-12 NIV)
Rather than judgmentalism, do we show pity on those who fear God, remembering that we are all just dust?
As a father pities his children, So the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. (Ps 103:13-14 NKJV)
Do we appreciate how short our lives are here on earth? Does the love of the Lord remain forever with those who fear him?
Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. The wind blows, and we are gone—as though we had never been here. But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments! (Ps 103:15-18 NLT)
Do we praise God for His wonderful kingdom, for His word?
Yahweh has established his throne in the heavens. His kingdom rules over all. Praise Yahweh, you angels of his, who are mighty in strength, who fulfill his word, obeying the voice of his word. Praise Yahweh, all you armies of his, you servants of his, who do his pleasure. Praise Yahweh, all you works of his, in all places of his dominion. Praise Yahweh, my soul! (Ps 103:19-22 WEB)
Is salvation a result of our good works, or are good works something we were created to walk in?
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Eph 2:8-10 ESV)
Are we the kind of people that give a church a bad name, judgmental gossips, or are we filled with compassion and kindness towards those who love the Lord and fear him? You decide!
Afflicted (Psalm 102)
As the afflictions of this temporary life burden us, are we encouraged by God’s plans for our eternity? Let’s begin in Psalm 102.
A Prayer of the afflicted, when he is overwhelmed and pours out his complaint before Yahweh. (WEB)
Have we ever made an urgent prayer to God needing a quick answer?
Hear my prayer, Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly. (Ps 102:1-2 NIV)
Are our lives like a puff of smoke? Have we ever felt so all alone like a solitary bird?
For my days are consumed like smoke, And my bones are burned like a hearth. My heart is stricken and withered like grass, So that I forget to eat my bread. Because of the sound of my groaning My bones cling to my skin. I am like a pelican of the wilderness; I am like an owl of the desert. I lie awake, And am like a sparrow alone on the housetop. (Ps 101:3-7 NKJV)
Do enemies lie, try to scam us, mock our faith, taunt us daily? Have we ever felt like God has abandoned us?
My enemies taunt me day after day. They mock and curse me. I eat ashes for food. My tears run down into my drink because of your anger and wrath. For you have picked me up and thrown me out. My life passes as swiftly as the evening shadows. I am withering away like grass. (Ps 102:8-11 NLT)
How long will the Lord last? Does He take pity, have mercy upon Jerusalem, Zion?
But you, Yahweh, will remain forever; your renown endures to all generations. You will arise and have mercy on Zion, for it is time to have pity on her. Yes, the set time has come. For your servants take pleasure in her stones, and have pity on her dust. (Ps 102:12-14 WEB)
Will the nations eventually honor God’s name as God cares for the poor and needy?
The nations will honor the Lord’s name; all the earth’s rulers will honor your glory because the Lord will rebuild Zion; he will be seen there in his glory. God will turn to the prayer of the impoverished; he won’t despise their prayers. (Ps 102:15-17 CEB)
Does God have a plan to rescue those imprisoned and doomed to die in systems that tread on the poor and needy?
Future generations must also praise the Lord, so write this for them: “From his holy temple, the Lord looked down at the earth. He listened to the groans of prisoners, and he rescued everyone who was doomed to die.” (Ps 102:18-20 CEV)
Will all nations eventually gather to worship the Lord rather than idols, or human political systems, or other things of this world?
that they may declare in Zion the name of the Lord, and in Jerusalem his praise, when peoples gather together, and kingdoms, to worship the Lord. (Ps 102:21-22 ESV)
Even if God allows our lives to end early rather than at full years, do we trust his plans for all generations?
He has broken my strength in midcourse; He has shortened my days. I say: “My God, do not take me in the middle of my life! Your years continue through all generations. (Ps 102:23-24 HCSB)
Who designed and created the heavens and the earth and will outlive them all? Without God’s help, will we?
You established the earth long ago; the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; and they all will become worn out, like a garment. You will change them like clothing, and they will pass away. But you remain the same; your years never end. May the descendants of your servants live securely, and may their children be established in your presence.” (Ps 102:25-28 ISV)
Did the writer of Hebrews quote this Psalm in his letter? Will there be a new heavens and new earth?
And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. (Heb 1:10-12 KJV)
As the afflictions of this temporary life burden us, are we encouraged by God’s plans for our eternity? You decide!
A Prayer of the afflicted, when he is overwhelmed and pours out his complaint before Yahweh. (WEB)
Have we ever made an urgent prayer to God needing a quick answer?
Hear my prayer, Lord; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly. (Ps 102:1-2 NIV)
Are our lives like a puff of smoke? Have we ever felt so all alone like a solitary bird?
For my days are consumed like smoke, And my bones are burned like a hearth. My heart is stricken and withered like grass, So that I forget to eat my bread. Because of the sound of my groaning My bones cling to my skin. I am like a pelican of the wilderness; I am like an owl of the desert. I lie awake, And am like a sparrow alone on the housetop. (Ps 101:3-7 NKJV)
Do enemies lie, try to scam us, mock our faith, taunt us daily? Have we ever felt like God has abandoned us?
My enemies taunt me day after day. They mock and curse me. I eat ashes for food. My tears run down into my drink because of your anger and wrath. For you have picked me up and thrown me out. My life passes as swiftly as the evening shadows. I am withering away like grass. (Ps 102:8-11 NLT)
How long will the Lord last? Does He take pity, have mercy upon Jerusalem, Zion?
But you, Yahweh, will remain forever; your renown endures to all generations. You will arise and have mercy on Zion, for it is time to have pity on her. Yes, the set time has come. For your servants take pleasure in her stones, and have pity on her dust. (Ps 102:12-14 WEB)
Will the nations eventually honor God’s name as God cares for the poor and needy?
The nations will honor the Lord’s name; all the earth’s rulers will honor your glory because the Lord will rebuild Zion; he will be seen there in his glory. God will turn to the prayer of the impoverished; he won’t despise their prayers. (Ps 102:15-17 CEB)
Does God have a plan to rescue those imprisoned and doomed to die in systems that tread on the poor and needy?
Future generations must also praise the Lord, so write this for them: “From his holy temple, the Lord looked down at the earth. He listened to the groans of prisoners, and he rescued everyone who was doomed to die.” (Ps 102:18-20 CEV)
Will all nations eventually gather to worship the Lord rather than idols, or human political systems, or other things of this world?
that they may declare in Zion the name of the Lord, and in Jerusalem his praise, when peoples gather together, and kingdoms, to worship the Lord. (Ps 102:21-22 ESV)
Even if God allows our lives to end early rather than at full years, do we trust his plans for all generations?
He has broken my strength in midcourse; He has shortened my days. I say: “My God, do not take me in the middle of my life! Your years continue through all generations. (Ps 102:23-24 HCSB)
Who designed and created the heavens and the earth and will outlive them all? Without God’s help, will we?
You established the earth long ago; the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you will remain; and they all will become worn out, like a garment. You will change them like clothing, and they will pass away. But you remain the same; your years never end. May the descendants of your servants live securely, and may their children be established in your presence.” (Ps 102:25-28 ISV)
Did the writer of Hebrews quote this Psalm in his letter? Will there be a new heavens and new earth?
And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: They shall perish; but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. (Heb 1:10-12 KJV)
As the afflictions of this temporary life burden us, are we encouraged by God’s plans for our eternity? You decide!
Honesty & Justice (Psalm 101)
How important is it to surround ourselves with faithful, honest people? Let’s look at Psalm 101.
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Do we sing and celebrate God’s justice? Are we honest and fair?
I will sing to you, Lord! I will celebrate your kindness and your justice. Please help me learn to do the right thing, and I will be honest and fair in my own kingdom. (Ps 101:1-2 CEV)
How dedicated are we in seeking Godly values in life?
I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall be far from me; I will know nothing of evil. (Ps 101:3-4 ESV)
Do we tolerate slander, gossip, haughtiness and arrogance or do we honor the humble?
I will destroy anyone who secretly slanders his neighbor; I cannot tolerate anyone with haughty eyes or an arrogant heart. (Ps 101:5 HCSB)
Do we surround ourselves with those who are faithful and honest?
My eyes are looking at the faithful of the land, so they may live with me; The one who lives a life of integrity will serve me. (Ps 101:6 ISV)
Do we make sure that deceitful liars do not have a place in our government or business?
He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight. (Ps 101:7 KJV)
Is it important to have a process of continuously weeding out evil workers from our government or business?
Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land, To cut off from the city of Yahweh all the workers of iniquity. (Ps 101:8 LSB)
Should the overseers of the church also be above reproach?
It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, not overindulging in wine, not a bully, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into condemnation incurred by the devil. And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil. (1 Tim 3:1-7 NASB)
How important is it to surround ourselves with faithful, honest people? You decide!
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Do we sing and celebrate God’s justice? Are we honest and fair?
I will sing to you, Lord! I will celebrate your kindness and your justice. Please help me learn to do the right thing, and I will be honest and fair in my own kingdom. (Ps 101:1-2 CEV)
How dedicated are we in seeking Godly values in life?
I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me. A perverse heart shall be far from me; I will know nothing of evil. (Ps 101:3-4 ESV)
Do we tolerate slander, gossip, haughtiness and arrogance or do we honor the humble?
I will destroy anyone who secretly slanders his neighbor; I cannot tolerate anyone with haughty eyes or an arrogant heart. (Ps 101:5 HCSB)
Do we surround ourselves with those who are faithful and honest?
My eyes are looking at the faithful of the land, so they may live with me; The one who lives a life of integrity will serve me. (Ps 101:6 ISV)
Do we make sure that deceitful liars do not have a place in our government or business?
He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight. (Ps 101:7 KJV)
Is it important to have a process of continuously weeding out evil workers from our government or business?
Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land, To cut off from the city of Yahweh all the workers of iniquity. (Ps 101:8 LSB)
Should the overseers of the church also be above reproach?
It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, not overindulging in wine, not a bully, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money. He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity (but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into condemnation incurred by the devil. And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil. (1 Tim 3:1-7 NASB)
How important is it to surround ourselves with faithful, honest people? You decide!
A Joyful Shout (Psalm 100)
Are we to become one joyful new nation in Christ Jesus? Let’s begin in Psalm 100.
A Psalm of thanksgiving. (WEB)
Once more are we reminded that it’s acceptable to shout to the Lord? Would we ever think to sing as we enter our churches each week, even if just in our minds?
Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. (Ps 100:1-3 NKJV)
As we enter our churches each week, have we ever thought of giving thanks to God?
Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation. (Ps 100:4-5 NLT)
Will people from all nations eventually cry with a loud voice in the assembly?
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no man could count, out of every nation and of all tribes, peoples, and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands. They cried with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation be to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” (Rev 7:9-10 WEB)
Have these diverse people become one holy nation in Christ Jesus?
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people who are God’s own possession. You have become this people so that you may speak of the wonderful acts of the one who called you out of darkness into his amazing light. (1 Pet 2:9 CEB)
Are we to become one joyful new nation in Christ Jesus? You decide!
A Psalm of thanksgiving. (WEB)
Once more are we reminded that it’s acceptable to shout to the Lord? Would we ever think to sing as we enter our churches each week, even if just in our minds?
Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. (Ps 100:1-3 NKJV)
As we enter our churches each week, have we ever thought of giving thanks to God?
Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation. (Ps 100:4-5 NLT)
Will people from all nations eventually cry with a loud voice in the assembly?
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no man could count, out of every nation and of all tribes, peoples, and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands. They cried with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation be to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” (Rev 7:9-10 WEB)
Have these diverse people become one holy nation in Christ Jesus?
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people who are God’s own possession. You have become this people so that you may speak of the wonderful acts of the one who called you out of darkness into his amazing light. (1 Pet 2:9 CEB)
Are we to become one joyful new nation in Christ Jesus? You decide!
Exalt Yahweh (Psalm 99)
Does God need our flattery, or is praise to God simply a statement of reality that aligns us to Him and benefits us more than God? Let’s look at Psalm 99.
No matter what happens here on earth, who reigns and is exalted above all?
The Lord reigns! Let the peoples tremble. He is enthroned above the cherubim. Let the earth quake. Yahweh is great in Zion; He is exalted above all the peoples. Let them praise Your great and awe-inspiring name. He is holy. (Ps 99:1-3 HCSB)
Does God love fairness? Does prophecy point to God’s eventual justice in His time?
A mighty king who loves justice, you have established fairness. You have exercised justice and righteousness over Jacob. Exalt the Lord our God; worship and bow down at his footstool; He is holy! (Ps 99:4-5 ISV)
Though God punished the patriarchs of old for their sins, did He also forgive them?
Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the Lord, and he answered them. He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar: they kept his testimonies, and the ordinance that he gave them. Thou answeredst them, O Lord our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions. (Ps 99:6-8 KJV)
Who is like our God, “Yahweh” in Hebrew, or “the Lord” in many English translations?
Exalt Yahweh our God And worship at His holy mountain, For holy is Yahweh our God. (Ps 99:9 LSB)
Do the angels in heaven also testify to God’s holiness?
And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come.” (Rev 4:8 NASB)
What are the implications of God’s holiness for us?
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Pet 1:15-16 NIV)
Does God need our flattery, or is praise to God simply a statement of reality that aligns us to Him and benefits us more than God? You decide!
No matter what happens here on earth, who reigns and is exalted above all?
The Lord reigns! Let the peoples tremble. He is enthroned above the cherubim. Let the earth quake. Yahweh is great in Zion; He is exalted above all the peoples. Let them praise Your great and awe-inspiring name. He is holy. (Ps 99:1-3 HCSB)
Does God love fairness? Does prophecy point to God’s eventual justice in His time?
A mighty king who loves justice, you have established fairness. You have exercised justice and righteousness over Jacob. Exalt the Lord our God; worship and bow down at his footstool; He is holy! (Ps 99:4-5 ISV)
Though God punished the patriarchs of old for their sins, did He also forgive them?
Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they called upon the Lord, and he answered them. He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar: they kept his testimonies, and the ordinance that he gave them. Thou answeredst them, O Lord our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance of their inventions. (Ps 99:6-8 KJV)
Who is like our God, “Yahweh” in Hebrew, or “the Lord” in many English translations?
Exalt Yahweh our God And worship at His holy mountain, For holy is Yahweh our God. (Ps 99:9 LSB)
Do the angels in heaven also testify to God’s holiness?
And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come.” (Rev 4:8 NASB)
What are the implications of God’s holiness for us?
But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Pet 1:15-16 NIV)
Does God need our flattery, or is praise to God simply a statement of reality that aligns us to Him and benefits us more than God? You decide!
Shout & Sing (Psalm 98)
Do we and all creation sing and shout for joy to the Lord? Let’s look at Psalm 98.
A Psalm. (WEB)
Are we encouraged to sing a new song, or stick with only the old ones?
Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations. He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel; All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. (Ps 98:1-3 NKJV)
Does God encourage us to shout praises and sing for joy? Is that just for Pentecostals?
Shout to the Lord, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy! Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram’s horn. Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King! (Ps 98:4-6 NLT)
Does everything figuratively roar, clap, and sing for joy as God’s creation?
Let the sea roar with its fullness; the world, and those who dwell therein. Let the rivers clap their hands. Let the mountains sing for joy together. Let them sing before Yahweh, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity. (Ps 98:7-9 WEB)
After eating the bread and wine, what did Jesus and the disciples do?
After singing songs of praise, they went out to the Mount of Olives. (Mark 14:26 CEB)
Imprisoned for their faith, what did Paul and Silas do?
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God, while the other prisoners listened.(Acts 16:25 CEV)
Should we just sing Psalms or are other genres of music also encouraged?
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. (Col 3:16 ESV)
Do we and all creation sing and shout for joy to the Lord? You decide!
A Psalm. (WEB)
Are we encouraged to sing a new song, or stick with only the old ones?
Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations. He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel; All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. (Ps 98:1-3 NKJV)
Does God encourage us to shout praises and sing for joy? Is that just for Pentecostals?
Shout to the Lord, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy! Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song, with trumpets and the sound of the ram’s horn. Make a joyful symphony before the Lord, the King! (Ps 98:4-6 NLT)
Does everything figuratively roar, clap, and sing for joy as God’s creation?
Let the sea roar with its fullness; the world, and those who dwell therein. Let the rivers clap their hands. Let the mountains sing for joy together. Let them sing before Yahweh, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity. (Ps 98:7-9 WEB)
After eating the bread and wine, what did Jesus and the disciples do?
After singing songs of praise, they went out to the Mount of Olives. (Mark 14:26 CEB)
Imprisoned for their faith, what did Paul and Silas do?
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises to God, while the other prisoners listened.(Acts 16:25 CEV)
Should we just sing Psalms or are other genres of music also encouraged?
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. (Col 3:16 ESV)
Do we and all creation sing and shout for joy to the Lord? You decide!
The Lord Reigns (Psalm 97)
Is the existence of God self-evident in the design of nature, its complex functionality, the obvious foresight and order? Let’s review Psalm 97.
Does God reign or is the earth a total accident, no planning, no DNA coded, no ecosystem, no design? When Jesus returns and God rules the earth will people feel oppressed or rejoice with gladness?
The Lord reigns! Let the earth rejoice; let the many coasts and islands be glad. (Ps 97:1 HCSB)
Does a simple storm remind us that a cloud covered Mount Sinai, that a cloud filled the tabernacle, that the mountains would melt simply at God’s presence?
Thick clouds are all around him; righteousness and justice are his throne’s foundation. Fire goes out from his presence to consume his enemies on every side. His lightning bolts light the world; the earth sees and shakes. Mountains melt like wax in the Lord’s presence—In the presence of the Lord of all the earth. (Ps 97:2-5 ISV)
Does the mere existence of the heavens declare God’s righteousness? Do we see it?
The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory. (Ps 97:6 KJV)
Are idols anything to be proud of? Do statues carry any power like God?
Let all those be ashamed who serve graven images, Who boast of idols; Worship Him, all you gods! Zion heard this and was glad, And the daughters of Judah have rejoiced Because of Your judgments, O Yahweh. For You are Yahweh Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods. (Ps 97:7-9 LSB)
Do we truly hate evil, not evil doers? Do we trust God to save us from the wicked?
Hate evil, you who love the Lord, Who watches over the souls of His godly ones; He saves them from the hand of the wicked. Light is sown like seed for the righteous, And gladness for the upright in heart. Be joyful in the Lord, you righteous ones, And praise the mention of His holy name. (Ps 97:10-12 NASB)
Has God revealed Himself through the things that He created?
For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (Rom 1:20 NIV)
Is the existence of God self-evident in the design of nature, its complex functionality, the obvious foresight and order? You decide!
Does God reign or is the earth a total accident, no planning, no DNA coded, no ecosystem, no design? When Jesus returns and God rules the earth will people feel oppressed or rejoice with gladness?
The Lord reigns! Let the earth rejoice; let the many coasts and islands be glad. (Ps 97:1 HCSB)
Does a simple storm remind us that a cloud covered Mount Sinai, that a cloud filled the tabernacle, that the mountains would melt simply at God’s presence?
Thick clouds are all around him; righteousness and justice are his throne’s foundation. Fire goes out from his presence to consume his enemies on every side. His lightning bolts light the world; the earth sees and shakes. Mountains melt like wax in the Lord’s presence—In the presence of the Lord of all the earth. (Ps 97:2-5 ISV)
Does the mere existence of the heavens declare God’s righteousness? Do we see it?
The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory. (Ps 97:6 KJV)
Are idols anything to be proud of? Do statues carry any power like God?
Let all those be ashamed who serve graven images, Who boast of idols; Worship Him, all you gods! Zion heard this and was glad, And the daughters of Judah have rejoiced Because of Your judgments, O Yahweh. For You are Yahweh Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods. (Ps 97:7-9 LSB)
Do we truly hate evil, not evil doers? Do we trust God to save us from the wicked?
Hate evil, you who love the Lord, Who watches over the souls of His godly ones; He saves them from the hand of the wicked. Light is sown like seed for the righteous, And gladness for the upright in heart. Be joyful in the Lord, you righteous ones, And praise the mention of His holy name. (Ps 97:10-12 NASB)
Has God revealed Himself through the things that He created?
For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. (Rom 1:20 NIV)
Is the existence of God self-evident in the design of nature, its complex functionality, the obvious foresight and order? You decide!
A New Song (Psalm 96)
Is singing a new song appropriate for a generational change in the Gospel message? Let’s begin in Psalm 96.
Do we get uncomfortable at church with new songs? Does God encourage a new song?
Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples. (Ps 96:1-3 NKJV)
What is the difference between God and the idols of the nations?
Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods. The gods of other nations are mere idols, but the Lord made the heavens! Honor and majesty surround him; strength and beauty fill his sanctuary. (Ps 96:4-6 NLT)
What attributes should we give God thanks for?
Ascribe to Yahweh, you families of nations, ascribe to Yahweh glory and strength. Ascribe to Yahweh the glory due to his name. Bring an offering, and come into his courts. Worship Yahweh in holy array. Tremble before him, all the earth. (Ps 96:7-9 WEB)
How does God judging all people fairly relate to the Gospel message to all nations?
Tell the nations, “The Lord rules! Yes, he set the world firmly in place; it won’t be shaken. He will judge all people fairly.” (Ps 96:10 CEB)
Is God’s coming judgment with fairness and truth something to celebrate?
Tell the heavens and the earth to be glad and celebrate! Command the ocean to roar with all its creatures and the fields to rejoice with all their crops. Then every tree in the forest will sing joyful songs to the Lord. He is coming to judge all people on earth with fairness and truth. (Ps 96:11-13 CEV)
Is this part of the reason for the great commission given to the apostles?
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (Mat 28:19-20 ESV)
Is singing a new song appropriate for a generational change in the Gospel message? You decide!
Do we get uncomfortable at church with new songs? Does God encourage a new song?
Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples. (Ps 96:1-3 NKJV)
What is the difference between God and the idols of the nations?
Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods. The gods of other nations are mere idols, but the Lord made the heavens! Honor and majesty surround him; strength and beauty fill his sanctuary. (Ps 96:4-6 NLT)
What attributes should we give God thanks for?
Ascribe to Yahweh, you families of nations, ascribe to Yahweh glory and strength. Ascribe to Yahweh the glory due to his name. Bring an offering, and come into his courts. Worship Yahweh in holy array. Tremble before him, all the earth. (Ps 96:7-9 WEB)
How does God judging all people fairly relate to the Gospel message to all nations?
Tell the nations, “The Lord rules! Yes, he set the world firmly in place; it won’t be shaken. He will judge all people fairly.” (Ps 96:10 CEB)
Is God’s coming judgment with fairness and truth something to celebrate?
Tell the heavens and the earth to be glad and celebrate! Command the ocean to roar with all its creatures and the fields to rejoice with all their crops. Then every tree in the forest will sing joyful songs to the Lord. He is coming to judge all people on earth with fairness and truth. (Ps 96:11-13 CEV)
Is this part of the reason for the great commission given to the apostles?
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (Mat 28:19-20 ESV)
Is singing a new song appropriate for a generational change in the Gospel message? You decide!
Shout Triumphantly (Psalm 95)
Do we question God like Israel in the wilderness? Let’s look at Psalm 95.
Is it appropriate to shout and sing in church or are we more conservative than that?
Come, let us shout joyfully to the Lord, shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation! Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song. (Ps 95:1-2 HCSB)
Do we describe God as “awesome” or prefer the word “great” that most other translations seem to use? Do we recognize that He holds everything that exists?
For the Lord is an awesome God; a great king above all divine beings. He holds in his hand the lowest parts of the earth and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea that he made belongs to him, along with the dry land that his hands formed. (Ps 95:3-5 ISV)
Do we recognize our position in the heavenly scheme of things?
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. (Ps 95:6-7a KJV)
Though a generation of Israel had seen God’s work setting them free from slavery, did they still harden their hearts in disbelief? Do we?
Today, if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah, As in the day of Massah in the wilderness, “When your fathers tried Me, They tested Me, though they had seen My work.” (Ps 95:7b-9 LSB)
Is that why that generation had to wander in the wilderness for forty years and were not granted entrance to the land of promise?
“For forty years I was disgusted with that generation, And said they are a people who err in their heart, And they do not know My ways. Therefore I swore in My anger, They certainly shall not enter My rest.” (Ps 95:10-11 NASB)
If under Joshua they did not find rest in either the Sabbath or the land of rest, what is then a Sabbath rest remaining for the people of God? Is it our eternal rest?
For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. (Heb 4:8-11 NIV)
Do we question God like Israel in the wilderness? You decide!
Is it appropriate to shout and sing in church or are we more conservative than that?
Come, let us shout joyfully to the Lord, shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation! Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song. (Ps 95:1-2 HCSB)
Do we describe God as “awesome” or prefer the word “great” that most other translations seem to use? Do we recognize that He holds everything that exists?
For the Lord is an awesome God; a great king above all divine beings. He holds in his hand the lowest parts of the earth and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea that he made belongs to him, along with the dry land that his hands formed. (Ps 95:3-5 ISV)
Do we recognize our position in the heavenly scheme of things?
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. (Ps 95:6-7a KJV)
Though a generation of Israel had seen God’s work setting them free from slavery, did they still harden their hearts in disbelief? Do we?
Today, if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah, As in the day of Massah in the wilderness, “When your fathers tried Me, They tested Me, though they had seen My work.” (Ps 95:7b-9 LSB)
Is that why that generation had to wander in the wilderness for forty years and were not granted entrance to the land of promise?
“For forty years I was disgusted with that generation, And said they are a people who err in their heart, And they do not know My ways. Therefore I swore in My anger, They certainly shall not enter My rest.” (Ps 95:10-11 NASB)
If under Joshua they did not find rest in either the Sabbath or the land of rest, what is then a Sabbath rest remaining for the people of God? Is it our eternal rest?
For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. (Heb 4:8-11 NIV)
Do we question God like Israel in the wilderness? You decide!
God Who Avenges (Psalm 94)
Are there basically two paths in life, following the wicked or the upright in heart? Where do those two choices lead? Let’s look at Psalm 94.
Does God, as judge of the earth, avenge us against the proud and wicked?
The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve. How long, Lord, will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant? (Ps 94:1-3 NIV)
Do the words and actions of the proud and wicked reveal who they really are?
They utter speech, and speak insolent things; All the workers of iniquity boast in themselves. They break in pieces Your people, O Lord, And afflict Your heritage. They slay the widow and the stranger, And murder the fatherless. Yet they say, “The Lord does not see, Nor does the God of Jacob understand.” (Ps 94:4-7 NKJV)
Again do we find the use of ad hominem, a personal attack, calling people fools, which is appropriate if the persons being addressed are the problem?
Think again, you fools! When will you finally catch on? Is he deaf—the one who made your ears? Is he blind—the one who formed your eyes? He punishes the nations—won’t he also punish you? He knows everything—doesn’t he also know what you are doing? The Lord knows people’s thoughts; he knows they are worthless! (Ps 94:8-11 NLT)
We know that the wicked are faulty but aren’t we all? Don’t we all need God’s discipline? Is the difference that some learn, while others reject it?
Blessed is the man whom you discipline, Yah, and teach out of your law, that you may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked. For Yahweh won’t reject his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance. For judgment will return to righteousness. All the upright in heart shall follow it. (Ps 94:12-15 WEB)
Do we trust that there is someone in heaven who will stand up for us against wicked evildoers?
Who will stand up for me against the wicked? Who will help me against evildoers? If the Lord hadn’t helped me, I would live instantly in total silence. Whenever I feel my foot slipping, your faithful love steadies me, Lord. When my anxieties multiply, your comforting calms me down. (Ps 94:16-19 CEB)
Is God opposed to dishonest lawmakers who legislate against the lives of innocent victims?
But you are opposed to dishonest lawmakers who gang up to murder innocent victims. You, Lord God, are my fortress, that mighty rock where I am safe. You will pay back my enemies, and you will wipe them out for the evil they did. (Ps 94:20-23 CEV)
While persecution is not something any of us chooses, can we rejoice that God uses it to enormously bless those who suffer?
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Mat 5:10-12 ESV)
Are there basically two paths in life, following the wicked or the upright in heart? Where do those two choices lead? You decide!
Does God, as judge of the earth, avenge us against the proud and wicked?
The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve. How long, Lord, will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant? (Ps 94:1-3 NIV)
Do the words and actions of the proud and wicked reveal who they really are?
They utter speech, and speak insolent things; All the workers of iniquity boast in themselves. They break in pieces Your people, O Lord, And afflict Your heritage. They slay the widow and the stranger, And murder the fatherless. Yet they say, “The Lord does not see, Nor does the God of Jacob understand.” (Ps 94:4-7 NKJV)
Again do we find the use of ad hominem, a personal attack, calling people fools, which is appropriate if the persons being addressed are the problem?
Think again, you fools! When will you finally catch on? Is he deaf—the one who made your ears? Is he blind—the one who formed your eyes? He punishes the nations—won’t he also punish you? He knows everything—doesn’t he also know what you are doing? The Lord knows people’s thoughts; he knows they are worthless! (Ps 94:8-11 NLT)
We know that the wicked are faulty but aren’t we all? Don’t we all need God’s discipline? Is the difference that some learn, while others reject it?
Blessed is the man whom you discipline, Yah, and teach out of your law, that you may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked. For Yahweh won’t reject his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance. For judgment will return to righteousness. All the upright in heart shall follow it. (Ps 94:12-15 WEB)
Do we trust that there is someone in heaven who will stand up for us against wicked evildoers?
Who will stand up for me against the wicked? Who will help me against evildoers? If the Lord hadn’t helped me, I would live instantly in total silence. Whenever I feel my foot slipping, your faithful love steadies me, Lord. When my anxieties multiply, your comforting calms me down. (Ps 94:16-19 CEB)
Is God opposed to dishonest lawmakers who legislate against the lives of innocent victims?
But you are opposed to dishonest lawmakers who gang up to murder innocent victims. You, Lord God, are my fortress, that mighty rock where I am safe. You will pay back my enemies, and you will wipe them out for the evil they did. (Ps 94:20-23 CEV)
While persecution is not something any of us chooses, can we rejoice that God uses it to enormously bless those who suffer?
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Mat 5:10-12 ESV)
Are there basically two paths in life, following the wicked or the upright in heart? Where do those two choices lead? You decide!
The Lord Reigns (Psalm 93)
Does God reign from eternity past? Do we trust His testimonies as faithful? Let’s look at Psalm 93.
Does God need to win any battles to take His place in the universe, or does He just reign? Will there always be an earth, even though it will some day be made new for eternity?
The Lord reigns; he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed; he has put on strength as his belt. Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved. (Ps 93:1 ESV)
Does God sit on a throne established from eternity past?
Your throne has been established from the beginning; You are from eternity. (Ps 93:2 HCSB)
Can a flood be mighty and loud, crushing things in its path?
The rivers have flooded, Lord; the rivers have spoken aloud, the rivers have lifted up their crushing waves. (Ps 93:3 ISV)
Is God mightier than even the greatest storm waves in the ocean?
The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. (Ps 93:4 KJV)
Do hundreds of fulfilled prophecies, historic accuracy proven by archaeology, a consistent message though over 40 authors over 1,500 years, with far more abundant manuscript evidence than any other literature in history, show the Bible is a faithful and holy book?
Your testimonies are very faithful; Holiness befits Your house, O Yahweh, forevermore. (Ps 93:5 LSB)
Did Jesus prove that He, as God with us, has such power over the sea?
And behold, a violent storm developed on the sea, so that the boat was being covered by the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing!” He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Mat 8:24-27 NASB)
Does God reign from eternity past? Do we trust His testimonies as faithful? You decide!
Does God need to win any battles to take His place in the universe, or does He just reign? Will there always be an earth, even though it will some day be made new for eternity?
The Lord reigns; he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed; he has put on strength as his belt. Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved. (Ps 93:1 ESV)
Does God sit on a throne established from eternity past?
Your throne has been established from the beginning; You are from eternity. (Ps 93:2 HCSB)
Can a flood be mighty and loud, crushing things in its path?
The rivers have flooded, Lord; the rivers have spoken aloud, the rivers have lifted up their crushing waves. (Ps 93:3 ISV)
Is God mightier than even the greatest storm waves in the ocean?
The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. (Ps 93:4 KJV)
Do hundreds of fulfilled prophecies, historic accuracy proven by archaeology, a consistent message though over 40 authors over 1,500 years, with far more abundant manuscript evidence than any other literature in history, show the Bible is a faithful and holy book?
Your testimonies are very faithful; Holiness befits Your house, O Yahweh, forevermore. (Ps 93:5 LSB)
Did Jesus prove that He, as God with us, has such power over the sea?
And behold, a violent storm developed on the sea, so that the boat was being covered by the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing!” He said to them, “Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, “What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?” (Mat 8:24-27 NASB)
Does God reign from eternity past? Do we trust His testimonies as faithful? You decide!
Give Thanks (Psalm 92)
Rather than give thanks to the God that ubiquitous evidence proves exists, do atheists prefer to pursue simplistic and foolish excuses? Let’s look at Psalm 92.
A Psalm. A song for the Sabbath day. (WEB)
Do we give thanks, sing praises, declare God’s lovingkindness and faithfulness in our churches?
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night, On an instrument of ten strings, On the lute, And on the harp, With harmonious sound. For You, Lord, have made me glad through Your work; I will triumph in the works of Your hands. (Ps 92:1-4 NKJV)
Do we acknowledge God’s existence because of the ubiquitous design in nature? In logic an ad hominem criticism is valid if the person is the problem.
O Lord, what great works you do! And how deep are your thoughts. Only a simpleton would not know, and only a fool would not understand this: Though the wicked sprout like weeds and evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. (Ps 92:5-7 NLT)
Will the enemies of God ultimately be scattered and perish?
But you, Yahweh, are on high forever more. For behold, your enemies, Yahweh, for behold, your enemies shall perish. All the evildoers will be scattered. But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox. I am anointed with fresh oil. My eye has also seen my enemies. My ears have heard of the wicked enemies who rise up against me. (Ps 92:8-11 WEB)
Will the righteous ultimately be replanted in God’s house and bear fruit? What will they proclaim?
The righteous will spring up like a palm tree. They will grow strong like a cedar of Lebanon. Those who have been replanted in the Lord’s house will spring up in the courtyards of our God. They will bear fruit even when old and gray; they will remain lush and fresh in order to proclaim: “The Lord is righteous. He’s my rock. There’s nothing unrighteous in him.” (Ps 92:12-15 CEB)
Did Paul also use ad hominem correctly, because atheists are the problem?
From heaven God shows how angry he is with all the wicked and evil things that sinful people do to crush the truth. They know everything that can be known about God, because God has shown it all to them. God's eternal power and character cannot be seen. But from the beginning of creation, God has shown what these are like by all he has made. That's why those people don't have any excuse. They know about God, but they don't honor him or even thank him. Their thoughts are useless, and their stupid minds are in the dark. They claim to be wise, but they are fools. (Rom 1:18-22 CEV)
Do we religious leaders heed Jesus’ warning to the Pharisees or pretend that it does not also apply to us even in the slightest?
they do not practice what they preach … exalt themselves … blind fools … full of greed and self-indulgence … full of hypocrisy and wickedness … You snakes! You brood of vipers! (Mat 23:3, 12, 17, 25, 28, 33)
Rather than give thanks to the God that ubiquitous evidence proves exists, do atheists prefer to pursue simplistic and foolish excuses? You decide!
A Psalm. A song for the Sabbath day. (WEB)
Do we give thanks, sing praises, declare God’s lovingkindness and faithfulness in our churches?
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night, On an instrument of ten strings, On the lute, And on the harp, With harmonious sound. For You, Lord, have made me glad through Your work; I will triumph in the works of Your hands. (Ps 92:1-4 NKJV)
Do we acknowledge God’s existence because of the ubiquitous design in nature? In logic an ad hominem criticism is valid if the person is the problem.
O Lord, what great works you do! And how deep are your thoughts. Only a simpleton would not know, and only a fool would not understand this: Though the wicked sprout like weeds and evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. (Ps 92:5-7 NLT)
Will the enemies of God ultimately be scattered and perish?
But you, Yahweh, are on high forever more. For behold, your enemies, Yahweh, for behold, your enemies shall perish. All the evildoers will be scattered. But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox. I am anointed with fresh oil. My eye has also seen my enemies. My ears have heard of the wicked enemies who rise up against me. (Ps 92:8-11 WEB)
Will the righteous ultimately be replanted in God’s house and bear fruit? What will they proclaim?
The righteous will spring up like a palm tree. They will grow strong like a cedar of Lebanon. Those who have been replanted in the Lord’s house will spring up in the courtyards of our God. They will bear fruit even when old and gray; they will remain lush and fresh in order to proclaim: “The Lord is righteous. He’s my rock. There’s nothing unrighteous in him.” (Ps 92:12-15 CEB)
Did Paul also use ad hominem correctly, because atheists are the problem?
From heaven God shows how angry he is with all the wicked and evil things that sinful people do to crush the truth. They know everything that can be known about God, because God has shown it all to them. God's eternal power and character cannot be seen. But from the beginning of creation, God has shown what these are like by all he has made. That's why those people don't have any excuse. They know about God, but they don't honor him or even thank him. Their thoughts are useless, and their stupid minds are in the dark. They claim to be wise, but they are fools. (Rom 1:18-22 CEV)
Do we religious leaders heed Jesus’ warning to the Pharisees or pretend that it does not also apply to us even in the slightest?
they do not practice what they preach … exalt themselves … blind fools … full of greed and self-indulgence … full of hypocrisy and wickedness … You snakes! You brood of vipers! (Mat 23:3, 12, 17, 25, 28, 33)
Rather than give thanks to the God that ubiquitous evidence proves exists, do atheists prefer to pursue simplistic and foolish excuses? You decide!
God's Protection (Psalm 91)
If we choose to love God and live under His protection will He rescue us from troubles? Let’s look at Psalm 91.
Where is our place of safety, our military, a wilderness refuge, our bank account or God?
Live under the protection of God Most High and stay in the shadow of God All-Powerful. Then you will say to the Lord, “You are my fortress, my place of safety; you are my God, and I trust you.” (Ps 91:1-2 CEV)
As a fowler traps birds, does the world try to trap us?
For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. (Ps 91:3-4 ESV)
If we make God our refuge, will we no longer fear things like terrors, wars, and diseases?
You will not fear the terror of the night, the arrow that flies by day, the plague that stalks in darkness, or the pestilence that ravages at noon. (Ps 91:5-6 HCSB)
If we make God our refuge, do we need to be afraid even in the midst of great calamity?
If a thousand fall at your side or ten thousand at your right hand, it will not overcome you. Only observe it with your eyes, and you will see how the wicked are paid back. (Ps 91:7-8 ISV)
What happens to us when we make God our refuge, our place of habitation?
Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. (Ps 91:9-10 KJV)
How will God guard us? How are the angels involved?
For He will command His angels concerning you, To guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, Lest you strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the fierce lion and cobra, The young lion and the serpent you will trample down. (Ps 91:11-13 LSB)
Will God answer the prayers of those who have loved Him? What does God say?
“Because he has loved Me, I will save him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. I will satisfy him with a long life, And show him My salvation.” (Ps 91:14-16 NASB)
Did the devil quote this Psalm as he tried to tempt Jesus?
“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.’ ” (Mat 4:6 NIV)
If we choose to love God and live under His protection will He rescue us from troubles? You decide!
Where is our place of safety, our military, a wilderness refuge, our bank account or God?
Live under the protection of God Most High and stay in the shadow of God All-Powerful. Then you will say to the Lord, “You are my fortress, my place of safety; you are my God, and I trust you.” (Ps 91:1-2 CEV)
As a fowler traps birds, does the world try to trap us?
For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. (Ps 91:3-4 ESV)
If we make God our refuge, will we no longer fear things like terrors, wars, and diseases?
You will not fear the terror of the night, the arrow that flies by day, the plague that stalks in darkness, or the pestilence that ravages at noon. (Ps 91:5-6 HCSB)
If we make God our refuge, do we need to be afraid even in the midst of great calamity?
If a thousand fall at your side or ten thousand at your right hand, it will not overcome you. Only observe it with your eyes, and you will see how the wicked are paid back. (Ps 91:7-8 ISV)
What happens to us when we make God our refuge, our place of habitation?
Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. (Ps 91:9-10 KJV)
How will God guard us? How are the angels involved?
For He will command His angels concerning you, To guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, Lest you strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the fierce lion and cobra, The young lion and the serpent you will trample down. (Ps 91:11-13 LSB)
Will God answer the prayers of those who have loved Him? What does God say?
“Because he has loved Me, I will save him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. I will satisfy him with a long life, And show him My salvation.” (Ps 91:14-16 NASB)
Did the devil quote this Psalm as he tried to tempt Jesus?
“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.’ ” (Mat 4:6 NIV)
If we choose to love God and live under His protection will He rescue us from troubles? You decide!
Our Dwelling Place (Psalm 90)
Where do we live, in a proud land, one that arrogant nations look down their noses at, or do we live humbly in the Lord? Let’s look at Psalm 90.
A Prayer by Moses, the man of God. (WEB)
In a spiritual sense, do we live in this world or with God?
Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born Or You gave birth to the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. (Ps 90:1-2 NASB)
What is this mortal life? How quickly do we pass away from this life?
You turn people back to dust, saying, “Return to dust, you mortals.” A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death—they are like the new grass of the morning: In the morning it springs up new, but by evening it is dry and withered. (Ps 90:3-6 NIV)
What is one of the most important tasks in a short life of 70 to 80 years?
For we have been consumed by Your anger, And by Your wrath we are terrified. You have set our iniquities before You, Our secret sins in the light of Your countenance. For all our days have passed away in Your wrath; We finish our years like a sigh. The days of our lives are seventy years; And if by reason of strength they are eighty years, Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away. Who knows the power of Your anger? For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath. So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Ps 90:7-12 NKJV)
Do we need God’s wisdom to fully experience the truly great things in life? Is God’s love, seeing Him work in our lives important to us?
O Lord, come back to us! How long will you delay? Take pity on your servants! Satisfy us each morning with your unfailing love, so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives. Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good. Let us, your servants, see you work again; let our children see your glory. And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful! (Ps 90:13-17 NLT)
Have we really considered how long our frail human lives are?
Yet you don’t know what your life will be like tomorrow. For what is your life? For you are a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. (Jas 4:14 WEB)
How does our lifespan compare with how God views time?
Don’t let it escape your notice, dear friends, that with the Lord a single day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a single day. (2 Pet 3:8 CEB)
Where do we live, in a proud land, one that arrogant nations look down their noses at, or do we live humbly in the Lord? You decide!
A Prayer by Moses, the man of God. (WEB)
In a spiritual sense, do we live in this world or with God?
Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born Or You gave birth to the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. (Ps 90:1-2 NASB)
What is this mortal life? How quickly do we pass away from this life?
You turn people back to dust, saying, “Return to dust, you mortals.” A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death—they are like the new grass of the morning: In the morning it springs up new, but by evening it is dry and withered. (Ps 90:3-6 NIV)
What is one of the most important tasks in a short life of 70 to 80 years?
For we have been consumed by Your anger, And by Your wrath we are terrified. You have set our iniquities before You, Our secret sins in the light of Your countenance. For all our days have passed away in Your wrath; We finish our years like a sigh. The days of our lives are seventy years; And if by reason of strength they are eighty years, Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away. Who knows the power of Your anger? For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath. So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Ps 90:7-12 NKJV)
Do we need God’s wisdom to fully experience the truly great things in life? Is God’s love, seeing Him work in our lives important to us?
O Lord, come back to us! How long will you delay? Take pity on your servants! Satisfy us each morning with your unfailing love, so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives. Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good. Let us, your servants, see you work again; let our children see your glory. And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful! (Ps 90:13-17 NLT)
Have we really considered how long our frail human lives are?
Yet you don’t know what your life will be like tomorrow. For what is your life? For you are a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. (Jas 4:14 WEB)
How does our lifespan compare with how God views time?
Don’t let it escape your notice, dear friends, that with the Lord a single day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a single day. (2 Pet 3:8 CEB)
Where do we live, in a proud land, one that arrogant nations look down their noses at, or do we live humbly in the Lord? You decide!
I Will Sing (Psalm 89)
In the midst of divine punishment for our sins, do we still praise God for His mercy? Let’s look at Psalm 89.
A contemplation by Ethan, the Ezrahite. (WEB)
Do we sing self-centered songs or songs about God?
I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself. You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant, ‘I will establish your line forever and make your throne firm through all generations.’” [Selah] (Ps 89:1-4 NIV)
Do the saints in heaven and on earth praise God? Does God scatter our enemies?
And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O Lord; Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints. For who in the heavens can be compared to the Lord? Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the Lord? God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, And to be held in reverence by all those around Him. O Lord God of hosts, Who is mighty like You, O Lord? Your faithfulness also surrounds You. You rule the raging of the sea; When its waves rise, You still them. You have broken Rahab [Egypt] in pieces, as one who is slain; You have scattered Your enemies with Your mighty arm. (Ps 89:5-10 NKJV)
How omnipotent is God? Who designed and created everything that is? Who provides us the ultimate protection?
The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours; everything in the world is yours—you created it all. You created north and south. Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon praise your name. Powerful is your arm! Strong is your hand! Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants. Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, Lord. They rejoice all day long in your wonderful reputation. They exult in your righteousness. You are their glorious strength. It pleases you to make us strong. Yes, our protection comes from the Lord, and he, the Holy One of Israel, has given us our king. (Ps 89:11-18 NLT)
Did God take a young man and anoint him as king over Israel?
Then you spoke in vision to your saints, and said, “I have given strength to the warrior. I have exalted a young man from the people. I have found David, my servant. I have anointed him with my holy oil, with whom my hand shall be established. My arm will also strengthen him. (Ps 89:19-21 WEB)
What did God ultimately do to David’s enemies, and what will He also do to ours?
No enemy will oppress him; no wicked person will make him suffer. I will crush all his foes in front of him. I will strike down all those who hate him. My faithfulness and my loyal love will be with him. He will be strengthened by my name. I will set his hand on the sea. I will set his strong hand on the rivers. He will cry out to me: “You are my father, my God, the rock of my salvation.” (Ps 89:22-26 CEB)
What legacy would David’s descendants carry with them? Is this hinting at his descendant Jesus Christ?
I have chosen David as my first-born son, and he will be the ruler of all kings on earth. My love for him will last, and my agreement with him will never be broken. One of David's descendants will always be king, and his family will rule until the sky disappears. Suppose some of his children should reject my Law and refuse my instructions. Or suppose they should disobey all of my teachings. Then I will correct and punish them because of their sins. But I will always love David and faithfully keep all of my promises to him. (Ps 89:27-33 CEV)
Which offspring of David and whose throne will endure forever?
I will not violate my covenant or alter the word that went forth from my lips. Once for all I have sworn by my holiness; I will not lie to David. His offspring shall endure forever, his throne as long as the sun before me. Like the moon it shall be established forever, a faithful witness in the skies. Selah (Ps 89:34-37 ESV)
Did God’s covenant of promise given to David, include punishment for sins which violated that same covenant? In the midst of such punishment, can we think that God has gone against His own promises?
But You have spurned and rejected him; You have become enraged with Your anointed. You have repudiated the covenant with Your servant; You have completely dishonored his crown. You have broken down all his walls; You have reduced his fortified cities to ruins. All who pass by plunder him; he has become an object of ridicule to his neighbors. You have lifted high the right hand of his foes; You have made all his enemies rejoice. You have also turned back his sharp sword and have not let him stand in battle. You have made his splendor cease and have overturned his throne. You have shortened the days of his youth; You have covered him with shame. Selah (Ps 89:38-45 HCSB)
Do we panic when God punishes us, or relax and repent of any guilt, trusting His grace?
How long, Lord, will you hide yourself? Forever? Will your anger continuously burn like fire? Remember how short my lifetime is! How powerless have you created all human beings! What valiant man can live and not see death? Who can deliver himself from the power of Sheol. Interlude (Ps 89:46-48 ISV)
When we are punished for our sins, are we still thankful to God, recalling that God’s covenants are always conditional?
Lord, where are thy former lovingkindnesses, which thou swarest unto David in thy truth? Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy servants; how I do bear in my bosom the reproach of all the mighty people; Wherewith thine enemies have reproached, O Lord; wherewith they have reproached the footsteps of thine anointed. Blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen. (Ps 89:49-52 KJV)
Even as we suffer for our sins, do we praise God for His mercy?
For I say that Christ has become a servant to the circumcision on behalf of the truth of God to confirm the promises given to the fathers, and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy; as it is written, “Therefore I will give praise to You among the Gentiles, And I will sing to Your name.” (Rom 15:8-9 LSB)
In the midst of divine punishment for our sins, do we still praise God for His mercy? You decide!
A contemplation by Ethan, the Ezrahite. (WEB)
Do we sing self-centered songs or songs about God?
I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself. You said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant, ‘I will establish your line forever and make your throne firm through all generations.’” [Selah] (Ps 89:1-4 NIV)
Do the saints in heaven and on earth praise God? Does God scatter our enemies?
And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O Lord; Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints. For who in the heavens can be compared to the Lord? Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the Lord? God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, And to be held in reverence by all those around Him. O Lord God of hosts, Who is mighty like You, O Lord? Your faithfulness also surrounds You. You rule the raging of the sea; When its waves rise, You still them. You have broken Rahab [Egypt] in pieces, as one who is slain; You have scattered Your enemies with Your mighty arm. (Ps 89:5-10 NKJV)
How omnipotent is God? Who designed and created everything that is? Who provides us the ultimate protection?
The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours; everything in the world is yours—you created it all. You created north and south. Mount Tabor and Mount Hermon praise your name. Powerful is your arm! Strong is your hand! Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants. Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, Lord. They rejoice all day long in your wonderful reputation. They exult in your righteousness. You are their glorious strength. It pleases you to make us strong. Yes, our protection comes from the Lord, and he, the Holy One of Israel, has given us our king. (Ps 89:11-18 NLT)
Did God take a young man and anoint him as king over Israel?
Then you spoke in vision to your saints, and said, “I have given strength to the warrior. I have exalted a young man from the people. I have found David, my servant. I have anointed him with my holy oil, with whom my hand shall be established. My arm will also strengthen him. (Ps 89:19-21 WEB)
What did God ultimately do to David’s enemies, and what will He also do to ours?
No enemy will oppress him; no wicked person will make him suffer. I will crush all his foes in front of him. I will strike down all those who hate him. My faithfulness and my loyal love will be with him. He will be strengthened by my name. I will set his hand on the sea. I will set his strong hand on the rivers. He will cry out to me: “You are my father, my God, the rock of my salvation.” (Ps 89:22-26 CEB)
What legacy would David’s descendants carry with them? Is this hinting at his descendant Jesus Christ?
I have chosen David as my first-born son, and he will be the ruler of all kings on earth. My love for him will last, and my agreement with him will never be broken. One of David's descendants will always be king, and his family will rule until the sky disappears. Suppose some of his children should reject my Law and refuse my instructions. Or suppose they should disobey all of my teachings. Then I will correct and punish them because of their sins. But I will always love David and faithfully keep all of my promises to him. (Ps 89:27-33 CEV)
Which offspring of David and whose throne will endure forever?
I will not violate my covenant or alter the word that went forth from my lips. Once for all I have sworn by my holiness; I will not lie to David. His offspring shall endure forever, his throne as long as the sun before me. Like the moon it shall be established forever, a faithful witness in the skies. Selah (Ps 89:34-37 ESV)
Did God’s covenant of promise given to David, include punishment for sins which violated that same covenant? In the midst of such punishment, can we think that God has gone against His own promises?
But You have spurned and rejected him; You have become enraged with Your anointed. You have repudiated the covenant with Your servant; You have completely dishonored his crown. You have broken down all his walls; You have reduced his fortified cities to ruins. All who pass by plunder him; he has become an object of ridicule to his neighbors. You have lifted high the right hand of his foes; You have made all his enemies rejoice. You have also turned back his sharp sword and have not let him stand in battle. You have made his splendor cease and have overturned his throne. You have shortened the days of his youth; You have covered him with shame. Selah (Ps 89:38-45 HCSB)
Do we panic when God punishes us, or relax and repent of any guilt, trusting His grace?
How long, Lord, will you hide yourself? Forever? Will your anger continuously burn like fire? Remember how short my lifetime is! How powerless have you created all human beings! What valiant man can live and not see death? Who can deliver himself from the power of Sheol. Interlude (Ps 89:46-48 ISV)
When we are punished for our sins, are we still thankful to God, recalling that God’s covenants are always conditional?
Lord, where are thy former lovingkindnesses, which thou swarest unto David in thy truth? Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy servants; how I do bear in my bosom the reproach of all the mighty people; Wherewith thine enemies have reproached, O Lord; wherewith they have reproached the footsteps of thine anointed. Blessed be the Lord for evermore. Amen, and Amen. (Ps 89:49-52 KJV)
Even as we suffer for our sins, do we praise God for His mercy?
For I say that Christ has become a servant to the circumcision on behalf of the truth of God to confirm the promises given to the fathers, and for the Gentiles to glorify God for His mercy; as it is written, “Therefore I will give praise to You among the Gentiles, And I will sing to Your name.” (Rom 15:8-9 LSB)
In the midst of divine punishment for our sins, do we still praise God for His mercy? You decide!
You Keep Me Safe (Psalm 88)
Is despair the end or is there hope in God beyond our darkest moments? Let’s look at Psalm 88.
A Song. A Psalm by the sons of Korah. For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Suffering of Affliction.” A contemplation by Heman, the Ezrahite. (WEB)
Where is ultimate safety in this dangerous world to be found?
You keep me safe, Lord God. So when I pray at night, please listen carefully to each of my concerns. (Ps 88:1-2 CEB)
Have we ever been so discouraged that we felt like God has forgotten us?
I am deeply troubled and close to death; I am as good as dead and completely helpless. I am no better off than those in the grave, those you have forgotten and no longer help. (Ps 88:3-5 CEV)
Have we ever felt like God was so angry with us that we were already in our grave, that waves of sorrow are drowning us?
You have put me in the depths of the pit, in the regions dark and deep. Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. Selah (Ps 88:6-7 ESV)
Have we ever been ostracized by friends, gossiped about and all alone?
You have distanced my friends from me; You have made me repulsive to them. I am shut in and cannot go out. My eyes are worn out from crying. Lord, I cry out to You all day long; I spread out my hands to You. Do You work wonders for the dead? Do departed spirits rise up to praise You? Selah (Ps 88:8-10 HCSB)
Do we sometimes feel like we are heading to an early grave?
Can your gracious love be declared in the grave or your faithfulness in Abaddon [destruction]? Can your awesome deeds be known in darkness or your righteousness in the land of oblivion? (Ps 88:11-12 ISV)
Do we ever feel like God has cast off our lives, and hidden His face from us?
But unto thee have I cried, O Lord; and in the morning shall my prayer prevent thee. Lord, why castest thou off my soul? why hidest thou thy face from me? I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted. (Ps 88:13-15 KJV)
Do we ever feel like God is angry with us and removed people from our lives?
Your burning anger has passed over me; Your horrors have destroyed me. They have surrounded me like water all day long; They have encompassed me altogether. You have removed lover and friend far from me; My acquaintances are in darkness.(Ps 88:16-18 LSB)
How did the apostle Paul deal with despair in his life?
For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, of our affliction which occurred in Asia, that we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead (2 Cor 1:8-9 NASB)
Is despair the end or is there hope in God beyond our darkest moments? You decide!
A Song. A Psalm by the sons of Korah. For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Suffering of Affliction.” A contemplation by Heman, the Ezrahite. (WEB)
Where is ultimate safety in this dangerous world to be found?
You keep me safe, Lord God. So when I pray at night, please listen carefully to each of my concerns. (Ps 88:1-2 CEB)
Have we ever been so discouraged that we felt like God has forgotten us?
I am deeply troubled and close to death; I am as good as dead and completely helpless. I am no better off than those in the grave, those you have forgotten and no longer help. (Ps 88:3-5 CEV)
Have we ever felt like God was so angry with us that we were already in our grave, that waves of sorrow are drowning us?
You have put me in the depths of the pit, in the regions dark and deep. Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. Selah (Ps 88:6-7 ESV)
Have we ever been ostracized by friends, gossiped about and all alone?
You have distanced my friends from me; You have made me repulsive to them. I am shut in and cannot go out. My eyes are worn out from crying. Lord, I cry out to You all day long; I spread out my hands to You. Do You work wonders for the dead? Do departed spirits rise up to praise You? Selah (Ps 88:8-10 HCSB)
Do we sometimes feel like we are heading to an early grave?
Can your gracious love be declared in the grave or your faithfulness in Abaddon [destruction]? Can your awesome deeds be known in darkness or your righteousness in the land of oblivion? (Ps 88:11-12 ISV)
Do we ever feel like God has cast off our lives, and hidden His face from us?
But unto thee have I cried, O Lord; and in the morning shall my prayer prevent thee. Lord, why castest thou off my soul? why hidest thou thy face from me? I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted. (Ps 88:13-15 KJV)
Do we ever feel like God is angry with us and removed people from our lives?
Your burning anger has passed over me; Your horrors have destroyed me. They have surrounded me like water all day long; They have encompassed me altogether. You have removed lover and friend far from me; My acquaintances are in darkness.(Ps 88:16-18 LSB)
How did the apostle Paul deal with despair in his life?
For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, of our affliction which occurred in Asia, that we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead (2 Cor 1:8-9 NASB)
Is despair the end or is there hope in God beyond our darkest moments? You decide!
The Holy Mountain (Psalm 87)
Does Zion picture a humble God, our eternal hope, our rebirth, our true citizenship, the springs of our heavenly blessings? Let’s begin in Psalm 87.
A Psalm by the sons of Korah; a Song. (WEB)
Why did God choose Zion, a humble hill, to love more than the highest mountains? Are we born from Zion above, our heavenly city?
He has founded his city on the holy mountain. The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the other dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, city of God: [Selah] (Ps 87:1-3 NIV)
Will sinners and former enemies one day be reborn in heavenly Zion?
I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those who know Me; Behold, O Philistia and Tyre, with Ethiopia: ‘This one was born there.’ (Ps 87:4 NKJV)
Is there an eternal citizenship far more valuable than any worldly citizenship we may have?
Regarding Jerusalem it will be said, “Everyone enjoys the rights of citizenship there.” And the Most High will personally bless this city. When the Lord registers the nations, he will say, “They have all become citizens of Jerusalem.” Interlude (Ps 87:5-6 NLT)
Are the springs of all our blessings in heavenly Jerusalem?
Those who sing as well as those who dance say, “All my springs are in you.” (Ps 87:7 WEB)
How did the writer of Hebrews use Zion as a symbol of our hope?
But you have drawn near to Mount Zion, the city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem, to countless angels in a festival gathering, to the assembly of God’s firstborn children who are registered in heaven, to God the judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous who have been made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks better than Abel’s blood. (Heb 12:22-24 CEB)
Does Zion picture a humble God, our eternal hope, our rebirth, our true citizenship, the springs of our heavenly blessings? You decide!
A Psalm by the sons of Korah; a Song. (WEB)
Why did God choose Zion, a humble hill, to love more than the highest mountains? Are we born from Zion above, our heavenly city?
He has founded his city on the holy mountain. The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the other dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, city of God: [Selah] (Ps 87:1-3 NIV)
Will sinners and former enemies one day be reborn in heavenly Zion?
I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those who know Me; Behold, O Philistia and Tyre, with Ethiopia: ‘This one was born there.’ (Ps 87:4 NKJV)
Is there an eternal citizenship far more valuable than any worldly citizenship we may have?
Regarding Jerusalem it will be said, “Everyone enjoys the rights of citizenship there.” And the Most High will personally bless this city. When the Lord registers the nations, he will say, “They have all become citizens of Jerusalem.” Interlude (Ps 87:5-6 NLT)
Are the springs of all our blessings in heavenly Jerusalem?
Those who sing as well as those who dance say, “All my springs are in you.” (Ps 87:7 WEB)
How did the writer of Hebrews use Zion as a symbol of our hope?
But you have drawn near to Mount Zion, the city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem, to countless angels in a festival gathering, to the assembly of God’s firstborn children who are registered in heaven, to God the judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous who have been made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks better than Abel’s blood. (Heb 12:22-24 CEB)
Does Zion picture a humble God, our eternal hope, our rebirth, our true citizenship, the springs of our heavenly blessings? You decide!
Protect Me (Psalm 86)
In a dangerous and selfish world where do we find ultimate protection? Let’s begin in Psalm 86.
A Prayer by David. (WEB)
Do we recognize how poor and helpless we are in reality? Do we recognize that God is our only real protection?
Please listen, Lord, and answer my prayer! I am poor and helpless. Protect me and save me because you are my God. I am your faithful servant, and I trust you. Be kind to me! I pray to you all day. Make my heart glad! I serve you, and my prayer is sincere. (Ps 86:1-4 CEV)
Will an evil world protect us, or do we trust the One who is truly good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love?
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me. (Ps 86:5-7 ESV)
In a world of stupid wars, senseless oppression of the poor, and corruption at the highest levels, is there anyone like God?
Lord, there is no one like You among the gods, and there are no works like Yours. All the nations You have made will come and bow down before You, Lord, and will honor Your name. For You are great and perform wonders; You alone are God. (Ps 86:8-10 HCSB)
Have we spent years being indoctrinated by people highly educated in the ways of the world, but none of it has solved our troubles? What if we spent time learning the truth of God’s ways instead?
Teach me your ways, Lord, that I may walk in your truth; let me wholeheartedly revere your name. (Ps 86:11 ISV)
Do we praise politicians, theologians, celebrities, the wealthy, the powerful or God?
I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. (Ps 86:12-13 KJV)
Do we live in a world where ruthless people try to scam us, steal from us, cheat us or hurt us in other ways, and do we need divine protection from their schemes?
O God, arrogant men have risen up against me, And a band of ruthless men have sought my life, And they have not set You before them. But You, O Lord, are a God compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth. Turn to me, and be gracious to me; Oh grant Your strength to Your slave, And save the son of Your maidservant. Show me a sign for good, That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, Because You, O Yahweh, have helped me and comforted me. (Ps 86:14-17 LSB)
In a dangerous world, should we be anxious, or pray, learn to trust God, and let His peace guard our hearts and minds?
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7 NASB)
In a dangerous and selfish world where do we find ultimate protection? You decide!
A Prayer by David. (WEB)
Do we recognize how poor and helpless we are in reality? Do we recognize that God is our only real protection?
Please listen, Lord, and answer my prayer! I am poor and helpless. Protect me and save me because you are my God. I am your faithful servant, and I trust you. Be kind to me! I pray to you all day. Make my heart glad! I serve you, and my prayer is sincere. (Ps 86:1-4 CEV)
Will an evil world protect us, or do we trust the One who is truly good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love?
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me. (Ps 86:5-7 ESV)
In a world of stupid wars, senseless oppression of the poor, and corruption at the highest levels, is there anyone like God?
Lord, there is no one like You among the gods, and there are no works like Yours. All the nations You have made will come and bow down before You, Lord, and will honor Your name. For You are great and perform wonders; You alone are God. (Ps 86:8-10 HCSB)
Have we spent years being indoctrinated by people highly educated in the ways of the world, but none of it has solved our troubles? What if we spent time learning the truth of God’s ways instead?
Teach me your ways, Lord, that I may walk in your truth; let me wholeheartedly revere your name. (Ps 86:11 ISV)
Do we praise politicians, theologians, celebrities, the wealthy, the powerful or God?
I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. (Ps 86:12-13 KJV)
Do we live in a world where ruthless people try to scam us, steal from us, cheat us or hurt us in other ways, and do we need divine protection from their schemes?
O God, arrogant men have risen up against me, And a band of ruthless men have sought my life, And they have not set You before them. But You, O Lord, are a God compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth. Turn to me, and be gracious to me; Oh grant Your strength to Your slave, And save the son of Your maidservant. Show me a sign for good, That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, Because You, O Yahweh, have helped me and comforted me. (Ps 86:14-17 LSB)
In a dangerous world, should we be anxious, or pray, learn to trust God, and let His peace guard our hearts and minds?
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7 NASB)
In a dangerous and selfish world where do we find ultimate protection? You decide!
Restore Us (Psalm 85)
As God favored Israel and forgave them, can He restore us? What are His conditions? Let’s look at Psalm 85.
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by the sons of Korah. (WEB)
Did God show favor to His land and forgive His people?
You, Lord, showed favor to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins. You set aside all your wrath and turned from your fierce anger. (Ps 85:1-3 NIV)
Do we pray for God to restore us in His mercy and grant us both salvation from earthly troubles and eternal salvation?
Restore us, O God of our salvation, And cause Your anger toward us to cease. Will You be angry with us forever? Will You prolong Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your mercy, Lord, And grant us Your salvation. (Ps 85:4-7 NKJV)
Are faithfulness and fear of God two conditions for God’s salvation?
I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, so our land will be filled with his glory. (Ps 85:8-9 NLT)
Are mercy, truth, righteousness, and peace characteristics of God?
Mercy and truth meet together. Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth springs out of the earth. Righteousness has looked down from heaven. Yes, Yahweh will give that which is good. Our land will yield its increase. Righteousness goes before him, and prepares the way for his steps. (Ps 85:10-13 WEB)
Though all kinds of men have wanted to lead us, have we returned to the true shepherd of our souls?
Though you were like straying sheep, you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your lives. (1 Peter 2:25 CEB)
As God favored Israel and forgave them, can He restore us? What are His conditions? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by the sons of Korah. (WEB)
Did God show favor to His land and forgive His people?
You, Lord, showed favor to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins. You set aside all your wrath and turned from your fierce anger. (Ps 85:1-3 NIV)
Do we pray for God to restore us in His mercy and grant us both salvation from earthly troubles and eternal salvation?
Restore us, O God of our salvation, And cause Your anger toward us to cease. Will You be angry with us forever? Will You prolong Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your mercy, Lord, And grant us Your salvation. (Ps 85:4-7 NKJV)
Are faithfulness and fear of God two conditions for God’s salvation?
I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, so our land will be filled with his glory. (Ps 85:8-9 NLT)
Are mercy, truth, righteousness, and peace characteristics of God?
Mercy and truth meet together. Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth springs out of the earth. Righteousness has looked down from heaven. Yes, Yahweh will give that which is good. Our land will yield its increase. Righteousness goes before him, and prepares the way for his steps. (Ps 85:10-13 WEB)
Though all kinds of men have wanted to lead us, have we returned to the true shepherd of our souls?
Though you were like straying sheep, you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your lives. (1 Peter 2:25 CEB)
As God favored Israel and forgave them, can He restore us? What are His conditions? You decide!
Your Dwelling Place (Psalm 84)
Where is God’s presence today? Do we desire to be there where He dwells? Let’s look at Psalm 84.
For the Chief Musician. On an instrument of Gath. A Psalm by the sons of Korah. (WEB)
Though God is omnipresent, was His presence once focused on the Temple? Does He dwell in us today? If so, do we love being among those in whom God dwells?
How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God. (Ps 84:1-2 ESV)
Do we love fellowshipping with God’s people, where He dwells today, or are we loners? Is our home among fellow Christians?
Even a sparrow finds a home, and a swallow, a nest for herself where she places her young—near Your altars, Lord of Hosts, my King and my God. How happy are those who reside in Your house, who praise You continually. Selah (Ps 84:3-4 HCSB)
Will those whose heart is on God’s path be given water in a spiritual desert, like the Baca Valley?
How happy are those whose strength is in you, whose heart is on your path. They will pass through the Baca Valley where he will prepare a spring for them; even the early rain will cover it with blessings. They will walk from strength to strength; each will appear before God in Zion. (Ps 84:5-7 ISV)
In our pilgrimage how important is prayer throughout the day?
O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah. (Ps 84:8 KJV)
How do we view the assembly of the saints? Do we see beyond the faulty humanity in our assemblies and trust in God?
See our shield, O God, And look upon the face of Your anointed. For better is a day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would choose to stand at the threshold of the house of my God Than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For Yahweh God is a sun and shield; Yahweh gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk blamelessly. O Yahweh of hosts, How blessed is the man who trusts in You! (Ps 84:9-12 LSB)
Where is God’s temple today? Do we have a zeal to be there among those in whom God’s Spirit dwells?
Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? (1 Cor 3:16 NASB)
Where is God’s presence today? Do we desire to be there where He dwells? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. On an instrument of Gath. A Psalm by the sons of Korah. (WEB)
Though God is omnipresent, was His presence once focused on the Temple? Does He dwell in us today? If so, do we love being among those in whom God dwells?
How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God. (Ps 84:1-2 ESV)
Do we love fellowshipping with God’s people, where He dwells today, or are we loners? Is our home among fellow Christians?
Even a sparrow finds a home, and a swallow, a nest for herself where she places her young—near Your altars, Lord of Hosts, my King and my God. How happy are those who reside in Your house, who praise You continually. Selah (Ps 84:3-4 HCSB)
Will those whose heart is on God’s path be given water in a spiritual desert, like the Baca Valley?
How happy are those whose strength is in you, whose heart is on your path. They will pass through the Baca Valley where he will prepare a spring for them; even the early rain will cover it with blessings. They will walk from strength to strength; each will appear before God in Zion. (Ps 84:5-7 ISV)
In our pilgrimage how important is prayer throughout the day?
O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah. (Ps 84:8 KJV)
How do we view the assembly of the saints? Do we see beyond the faulty humanity in our assemblies and trust in God?
See our shield, O God, And look upon the face of Your anointed. For better is a day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would choose to stand at the threshold of the house of my God Than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For Yahweh God is a sun and shield; Yahweh gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk blamelessly. O Yahweh of hosts, How blessed is the man who trusts in You! (Ps 84:9-12 LSB)
Where is God’s temple today? Do we have a zeal to be there among those in whom God’s Spirit dwells?
Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? (1 Cor 3:16 NASB)
Where is God’s presence today? Do we desire to be there where He dwells? You decide!
Do Not Keep Silent (Psalm 83)
If we are to love our enemies, does God? Is His motive for punishment so that they might seek God’s name? Let’s look at Psalm 83.
A song. A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Does it sometimes seem like God is silent or still, when enemies attack?
Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, And do not be still, O God! For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; And those who hate You have lifted up their head. They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, And consulted together against Your sheltered ones. They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, That the name of Israel may be remembered no more.” (Ps 83:1-4 NKJV)
Who are our Edomites and Ishmaelites who are allied against us? Are they really against God?
Yes, this was their unanimous decision. They signed a treaty as allies against you—these Edomites and Ishmaelites; Moabites and Hagrites; Gebalites, Ammonites, and Amalekites; and people from Philistia and Tyre. Assyria has joined them, too, and is allied with the descendants of Lot. Interlude [Selah] (Ps 83:5-8 NLT)
As God has protected His people in the past, will He again, if we are faithful?
Do to them as you did to Midian, as to Sisera, as to Jabin, at the river Kishon; who perished at Endor, who became as dung for the earth. Make their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb, yes, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna, who said, “Let’s take possession of God’s pasture lands.” (Ps 83:9-12 WEB)
Do we recognize and look forward to God’s justice on His enemies? Is the purpose of divine punishment shame, motivation to seek God’s name?
My God, make them like tumbleweeds, like chaff blown by wind. Just like a fire consumes a forest, just like flames set mountains ablaze, pursue them with your storm, terrify them with your hurricane. Cover their faces with shame, Lord, so that they might seek your name. Let them be shamed and terrified forever. Let them die in disgrace. Let them know that you—your name is the Lord!—you alone are Most High over all the earth. (Ps 83:13-18 CEB)
Is God’s motive of repentance behind His punishment also mentioned by Peter?
The Lord isn't slow about keeping his promises, as some people think he is. In fact, God is patient, because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost. (2 Pet 3:9 CEV)
If we are to love our enemies, does God? Is His motive for punishment so that they might seek God’s name? You decide!
A song. A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Does it sometimes seem like God is silent or still, when enemies attack?
Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, And do not be still, O God! For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; And those who hate You have lifted up their head. They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, And consulted together against Your sheltered ones. They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, That the name of Israel may be remembered no more.” (Ps 83:1-4 NKJV)
Who are our Edomites and Ishmaelites who are allied against us? Are they really against God?
Yes, this was their unanimous decision. They signed a treaty as allies against you—these Edomites and Ishmaelites; Moabites and Hagrites; Gebalites, Ammonites, and Amalekites; and people from Philistia and Tyre. Assyria has joined them, too, and is allied with the descendants of Lot. Interlude [Selah] (Ps 83:5-8 NLT)
As God has protected His people in the past, will He again, if we are faithful?
Do to them as you did to Midian, as to Sisera, as to Jabin, at the river Kishon; who perished at Endor, who became as dung for the earth. Make their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb, yes, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna, who said, “Let’s take possession of God’s pasture lands.” (Ps 83:9-12 WEB)
Do we recognize and look forward to God’s justice on His enemies? Is the purpose of divine punishment shame, motivation to seek God’s name?
My God, make them like tumbleweeds, like chaff blown by wind. Just like a fire consumes a forest, just like flames set mountains ablaze, pursue them with your storm, terrify them with your hurricane. Cover their faces with shame, Lord, so that they might seek your name. Let them be shamed and terrified forever. Let them die in disgrace. Let them know that you—your name is the Lord!—you alone are Most High over all the earth. (Ps 83:13-18 CEB)
Is God’s motive of repentance behind His punishment also mentioned by Peter?
The Lord isn't slow about keeping his promises, as some people think he is. In fact, God is patient, because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost. (2 Pet 3:9 CEV)
If we are to love our enemies, does God? Is His motive for punishment so that they might seek God’s name? You decide!
God Takes His Stand (Psalm 82)
Will God give justice to the poor and needy and teach the self-righteous wicked some humility? Let’s look at Psalm 82.
A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Have we ever asked God why He allows the wicked to prosper so long, seemingly delaying judgment on them?
God takes his stand in the divine assembly; among the divine beings he renders judgment: “How long will you judge partially by showing favor on the wicked?” Interlude (Ps 82:1-2 ISV)
Why do some Christians hard-heartedly mock the poor and needy, blaming them for their plight, rather than blame the wicked, the greedy, the oppressors? How does God say we should treat the poor and needy?
Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked. They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course. (Ps 82:3-5 KJV)
Have we ever experienced believers who get arrogant and self-righteous about their standing with God? Would God let us fall to humble us?
I said, “You are gods, And all of you are sons of the Most High. Nevertheless you will die like men And you will fall like any one of the princes.” (Ps 82:6-7 LSB)
Is there a time way beyond any temporary punishment God delivers to teach us important lessons, a time when the whole earth will be ruled by God?
Arise, God, judge the earth! For You possess all the nations. (Ps 82:8 NASB)
Is pure religion just rituals, attendance, tongues, abstinence, tithes, veils, rosaries, and icons or is there something far more important?
Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (Jas 1:26-27 NIV)
Will God give justice to the poor and needy and teach the self-righteous wicked some humility? You decide!
A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Have we ever asked God why He allows the wicked to prosper so long, seemingly delaying judgment on them?
God takes his stand in the divine assembly; among the divine beings he renders judgment: “How long will you judge partially by showing favor on the wicked?” Interlude (Ps 82:1-2 ISV)
Why do some Christians hard-heartedly mock the poor and needy, blaming them for their plight, rather than blame the wicked, the greedy, the oppressors? How does God say we should treat the poor and needy?
Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked. They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course. (Ps 82:3-5 KJV)
Have we ever experienced believers who get arrogant and self-righteous about their standing with God? Would God let us fall to humble us?
I said, “You are gods, And all of you are sons of the Most High. Nevertheless you will die like men And you will fall like any one of the princes.” (Ps 82:6-7 LSB)
Is there a time way beyond any temporary punishment God delivers to teach us important lessons, a time when the whole earth will be ruled by God?
Arise, God, judge the earth! For You possess all the nations. (Ps 82:8 NASB)
Is pure religion just rituals, attendance, tongues, abstinence, tithes, veils, rosaries, and icons or is there something far more important?
Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (Jas 1:26-27 NIV)
Will God give justice to the poor and needy and teach the self-righteous wicked some humility? You decide!
Sing Praises (Psalm 81)
Are praises just for certain churches or are we all encouraged to sing praises? Do we praise the idols of the world or God? Let’s look at Psalm 81.
For the Chief Musician. On an instrument of Gath. By Asaph. (WEB)
Are tambourines, wind and various stringed instruments appropriate?
Sing praises to God, our strength. Sing to the God of Jacob. Sing! Beat the tambourine. Play the sweet lyre and the harp. Blow the ram’s horn at new moon, and again at full moon to call a festival! For this is required by the decrees of Israel; it is a regulation of the God of Jacob. He made it a law for Israel when he attacked Egypt to set us free. (Ps 81:1-5a NLT)
As Israel was freed from Egyptian slavery, are we freed from slavery to sin?
I heard a language [voice] that I didn’t know. “I removed his shoulder from the burden. His hands were freed from the basket. You called in trouble, and I delivered you. I answered you in the secret place of thunder. I tested you at the waters of Meribah.” Selah. (Ps 81:5b-7 WEB)
What idols from the world do we still worship, money, things, status, inappropriate television, a political party, our country, our culture, or our theological distinctives?
Listen, my people, I’m warning you! If only you would listen to me, Israel. There must be no foreign god among you. You must not bow down to any strange deity. I am the Lord your God, who brought you up from Egypt’s land. Open your mouth wide—I will fill it up! (Ps 81:8-10 CEB)
Are we just like ancient Israel, unteachable and stubborn? In old age are we still the know-it-alls of our youth, or more humble than ever?
But, my people, Israel, you refused to listen, and you would have nothing to do with me! So I let you be stubborn and keep on following your own advice. (Ps 81:11-12 CEV)
What does God promise to those who would listen to Him and walk in His ways?
Oh, that my people would listen to me, that Israel would walk in my ways! I would soon subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes. Those who hate the Lord would cringe toward him, and their fate would last forever. But he would feed you with the finest of the wheat, and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you. (Ps 81:13-16 ESV)
Should we get comfortable around the idols of this world, let money, things, or status rule over us? Should we continue watching inappropriate television, trust a political party, worship a flag, prioritize our culture, take pride in our theological distinctives, or should we flee, shun, run from such idols?
Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry. (1 Cor 10:14 HCSB)
Are praises just for certain churches or are we all encouraged to sing praises? Do we praise the idols of the world or God? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. On an instrument of Gath. By Asaph. (WEB)
Are tambourines, wind and various stringed instruments appropriate?
Sing praises to God, our strength. Sing to the God of Jacob. Sing! Beat the tambourine. Play the sweet lyre and the harp. Blow the ram’s horn at new moon, and again at full moon to call a festival! For this is required by the decrees of Israel; it is a regulation of the God of Jacob. He made it a law for Israel when he attacked Egypt to set us free. (Ps 81:1-5a NLT)
As Israel was freed from Egyptian slavery, are we freed from slavery to sin?
I heard a language [voice] that I didn’t know. “I removed his shoulder from the burden. His hands were freed from the basket. You called in trouble, and I delivered you. I answered you in the secret place of thunder. I tested you at the waters of Meribah.” Selah. (Ps 81:5b-7 WEB)
What idols from the world do we still worship, money, things, status, inappropriate television, a political party, our country, our culture, or our theological distinctives?
Listen, my people, I’m warning you! If only you would listen to me, Israel. There must be no foreign god among you. You must not bow down to any strange deity. I am the Lord your God, who brought you up from Egypt’s land. Open your mouth wide—I will fill it up! (Ps 81:8-10 CEB)
Are we just like ancient Israel, unteachable and stubborn? In old age are we still the know-it-alls of our youth, or more humble than ever?
But, my people, Israel, you refused to listen, and you would have nothing to do with me! So I let you be stubborn and keep on following your own advice. (Ps 81:11-12 CEV)
What does God promise to those who would listen to Him and walk in His ways?
Oh, that my people would listen to me, that Israel would walk in my ways! I would soon subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes. Those who hate the Lord would cringe toward him, and their fate would last forever. But he would feed you with the finest of the wheat, and with honey from the rock I would satisfy you. (Ps 81:13-16 ESV)
Should we get comfortable around the idols of this world, let money, things, or status rule over us? Should we continue watching inappropriate television, trust a political party, worship a flag, prioritize our culture, take pride in our theological distinctives, or should we flee, shun, run from such idols?
Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry. (1 Cor 10:14 HCSB)
Are praises just for certain churches or are we all encouraged to sing praises? Do we praise the idols of the world or God? You decide!
Restore Us (Psalm 80)
Are restoration and revival something that we should be personally pursuing, praying that the whole church will also experience? Let’s begin in Psalm 80.
For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Lilies of the Covenant.” A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Have we ever been in need of God’s rescue, salvation from physical danger?
Shepherd of Israel, listen! The one who leads Joseph like a flock, the one enthroned on the cherubim, display your glory. Reveal your power before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, then come to our rescue. God, restore us, show your favor and deliver us. (Ps 80:1-3 ISV)
When we are experiencing hard times, do we remember our sins and God’s anger?
O Lord God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry against the prayer of thy people? Thou feedest them with the bread of tears; and givest them tears to drink in great measure. Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves. Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved. (Ps 80:4-7 KJV)
Using a metaphor does Asaph ask why God planted Israel and then let others devour it?
You removed a vine from Egypt; You drove out the nations and then You planted it. You cleared the ground before it, And it took deep root and filled the land. The mountains were covered with its shadow, And the cedars of God with its boughs. It sent out its branches to the sea And its shoots to the River. Why have You broken down its hedges, So that all who pass that way pick its fruit? A boar from the forest devours it And whatever moves in the field feeds on it. (Ps 80:8-13 LSB)
Is a prayer for revival of Israel just as relevant for the church today? Do we need to return to the foundation of our faith, the teachings of Jesus, the prophets and the apostles found in holy scripture?
God of armies, do turn back; Look down from heaven and see, and take care of this vine, The shoot which Your right hand has planted, And of the son whom You have strengthened for Yourself. It is burned with fire, it is cut down; They perish from the rebuke of Your face. Let Your hand be upon the man of Your right hand, Upon the son of man whom You made strong for Yourself. Then we will not turn back from You; Revive us, and we will call upon Your name. (Ps 80:14-18 NASB)
Is there a chorus repeated three times in this Psalm?
Restore us, Lord God Almighty; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved. (Ps 80:19 NIV)
Is complete restoration still something that we must patiently wait for in God’s time? Until then, what should we be supporting?
Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8 NKJV)
Are restoration and revival something that we should be personally pursuing, praying that the whole church will also experience? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “The Lilies of the Covenant.” A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Have we ever been in need of God’s rescue, salvation from physical danger?
Shepherd of Israel, listen! The one who leads Joseph like a flock, the one enthroned on the cherubim, display your glory. Reveal your power before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh, then come to our rescue. God, restore us, show your favor and deliver us. (Ps 80:1-3 ISV)
When we are experiencing hard times, do we remember our sins and God’s anger?
O Lord God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry against the prayer of thy people? Thou feedest them with the bread of tears; and givest them tears to drink in great measure. Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves. Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved. (Ps 80:4-7 KJV)
Using a metaphor does Asaph ask why God planted Israel and then let others devour it?
You removed a vine from Egypt; You drove out the nations and then You planted it. You cleared the ground before it, And it took deep root and filled the land. The mountains were covered with its shadow, And the cedars of God with its boughs. It sent out its branches to the sea And its shoots to the River. Why have You broken down its hedges, So that all who pass that way pick its fruit? A boar from the forest devours it And whatever moves in the field feeds on it. (Ps 80:8-13 LSB)
Is a prayer for revival of Israel just as relevant for the church today? Do we need to return to the foundation of our faith, the teachings of Jesus, the prophets and the apostles found in holy scripture?
God of armies, do turn back; Look down from heaven and see, and take care of this vine, The shoot which Your right hand has planted, And of the son whom You have strengthened for Yourself. It is burned with fire, it is cut down; They perish from the rebuke of Your face. Let Your hand be upon the man of Your right hand, Upon the son of man whom You made strong for Yourself. Then we will not turn back from You; Revive us, and we will call upon Your name. (Ps 80:14-18 NASB)
Is there a chorus repeated three times in this Psalm?
Restore us, Lord God Almighty; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved. (Ps 80:19 NIV)
Is complete restoration still something that we must patiently wait for in God’s time? Until then, what should we be supporting?
Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8 NKJV)
Are restoration and revival something that we should be personally pursuing, praying that the whole church will also experience? You decide!
The Nations have Come (Psalm 79)
Should we expect persecution all over the world? How should we deal with it? Let’s begin in Psalm 79.
A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Did the nations come to worship God or murder the saints?
O God, the nations have come into Your inheritance; Your holy temple they have defiled; They have laid Jerusalem in heaps. The dead bodies of Your servants They have given as food for the birds of the heavens, The flesh of Your saints to the beasts of the earth. Their blood they have shed like water all around Jerusalem, And there was no one to bury them. We have become a reproach to our neighbors, A scorn and derision to those who are around us. (Ps 79:1-4 NKJV)
Do we pray for martyrs in countries where God’s faithful are still murdered? How could anyone have the faith to be killed for their beliefs?
O Lord, how long will you be angry with us? Forever? How long will your jealousy burn like fire? Pour out your wrath on the nations that refuse to acknowledge you—on kingdoms that do not call upon your name. For they have devoured your people Israel, making the land a desolate wilderness. Do not hold us guilty for the sins of our ancestors! Let your compassion quickly meet our needs, for we are on the brink of despair. (Ps 79:5-8 NLT)
When hard times come do we turn to God first, asking Him to forgive and preserve us?
Help us, God of our salvation, for the glory of your name. Deliver us, and forgive our sins, for your name’s sake. Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Let it be known among the nations, before our eyes, that vengeance for your servants’ blood is being poured out. Let the sighing of the prisoner come before you. According to the greatness of your power, preserve those who are sentenced to death. (Ps 79:9-11 WEB)
Do thoughts of vengeance ever enter our hearts? Do we leave vengeance to God?
Pay back our neighbors seven times over, right where it hurts, for the insults they used on you, Lord. We are, after all, your people and the sheep of your very own pasture. We will give you thanks forever; we will proclaim your praises from one generation to the next. (Ps 79:12-13 CEB)
Did Jesus contradict desiring vengeance or simply add how God expects us to treat our enemies?
You know you have been taught, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” But I tell you not to try to get even with a person who has done something to you. When someone slaps your right cheek, turn and let that person slap your other cheek. If someone sues you for your shirt, give up your coat as well. If a soldier forces you to carry his pack one kilometer, carry it two kilometers. When people ask you for something, give it to them. When they want to borrow money, lend it to them. (Mat 5:38-42 CEV)
Are these lyrics of Asaph’s Psalm in line with Paul’s words about leaving vengeance to God?
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Rom 12:17-19 ESV)
Is a similar request for God’s vengeance found among Christian martyrs?
When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the people slaughtered because of God’s word and the testimony they had. They cried out with a loud voice: “Lord, the One who is holy and true, how long until You judge and avenge our blood from those who live on the earth?” So a white robe was given to each of them, and they were told to rest a little while longer until the number would be completed of their fellow slaves and their brothers, who were going to be killed just as they had been. (Rev 6:9-11 HCSB)
Should we expect persecution all over the world? How should we deal with it? You decide!
Hear My Teaching (Psalm 78)
Why is it important for us to learn from the history of Israel as a nation? Do we all face various temptations? Let’s examine Psalm 78.
A contemplation by Asaph. (WEB)
What happens if we hide the teachings of God from the next generations?
My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old—things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their ancestors—a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him. (Ps 78:1-8 NIV)
Was forgetting God’s works a big problem among the northern tribes of Israel, led by Ephraim? Do we still fall into a similar trap?
The children of Ephraim, being armed and carrying bows, Turned back in the day of battle. They did not keep the covenant of God; They refused to walk in His law, And forgot His works And His wonders that He had shown them. (Ps 78:9-11 NKJV)
What specific miracles of God did the tribes led by Ephraim forget?
the miracles he did for their ancestors on the plain of Zoan in the land of Egypt. For he divided the sea and led them through, making the water stand up like walls! In the daytime he led them by a cloud, and all night by a pillar of fire. He split open the rocks in the wilderness to give them water, as from a gushing spring. He made streams pour from the rock, making the waters flow down like a river! (Ps 78:12-16 NLT)
Even after witnessing those miracles did the people rebel against God? Did they speak against God, disbelieve and distrust Him? Do we?
Yet they still went on to sin against him, to rebel against the Most High in the desert. They tempted God in their heart by asking food according to their desire. Yes, they spoke against God. They said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness? Behold, he struck the rock, so that waters gushed out, and streams overflowed. Can he give bread also? Will he provide meat for his people?” Therefore Yahweh heard, and was angry. A fire was kindled against Jacob, anger also went up against Israel, because they didn’t believe in God, and didn’t trust in his salvation. (Ps 78:17-22 WEB)
Despite their grumbling, did God provide bread from heaven, and quail to satisfy their cravings?
God gave orders to the skies above, opened heaven’s doors, and rained manna on them so they could eat. He gave them the very grain of heaven! Each person ate the bread of the powerful ones; God sent provisions to satisfy them. God set the east wind moving across the skies and drove the south wind by his strength. He rained meat on them as if it were dust in the air; he rained as many birds as the sand on the seashore! God brought the birds down in the center of their camp, all around their dwellings. So they ate and were completely satisfied; God gave them exactly what they had craved. But they didn’t stop craving—even with the food still in their mouths! So God’s anger came up against them: he killed the most hearty of them; he cut down Israel’s youth in their prime. (Ps 78:23-31 CEB)
Even though God punished some of them, did the rest keep on sinning? Did some repent temporarily, then lie and turn back to break their promises? Do we?
But the rest kept on sinning and would not trust God's miracles. So he cut their lives short and made them terrified. After he killed some of them, the others turned to him with all their hearts. They remembered God Most High, the mighty rock that kept them safe. But they tried to flatter God, and they told him lies; they were unfaithful and broke their promises. (Ps 78:32-37 CEV)
Did Israel test God again and again, yet was He compassionate remembering that they were but flesh? Do we?
Yet he, being compassionate, atoned for their iniquity and did not destroy them; he restrained his anger often and did not stir up all his wrath. He remembered that they were but flesh, a wind that passes and comes not again. How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved him in the desert! They tested God again and again and provoked the Holy One of Israel. They did not remember his power or the day when he redeemed them from the foe, when he performed his signs in Egypt and his marvels in the fields of Zoan. (Ps 78:38-43 ESV)
What punishments did God give to Egypt to favor Israel?
He turned their rivers into blood, and they could not drink from their streams. He sent among them swarms of flies, which fed on them, and frogs, which devastated them. He gave their crops to the caterpillar and the fruit of their labor to the locust. He killed their vines with hail and their sycamore fig trees with a flood. He handed over their livestock to hail and their cattle to lightning bolts. He sent His burning anger against them: fury, indignation, and calamity—a band of deadly messengers. He cleared a path for His anger. He did not spare them from death but delivered their lives to the plague. (Ps 78:44-50 HCSB)
How did God punish Israel’s enemies and give them an undeserved inheritance?
He struck every firstborn in Egypt, the first fruits of their manhood in the tents of Ham. Yet he led out his people like sheep, guiding them like a flock in the desert. He led them to safety so they would not fear. As for their enemies, the sea covered them. He brought the people to the border of his holy mountain, which he acquired by his might. He drove out nations before them and allotted their tribal inheritance, settling the tribes of Israel in their tents. (Ps 78:51-55 ISV)
Despite God’s providence, was Israel disobedient, turning to worshipping idols on high places?
Yet they tempted and provoked the most high God, and kept not his testimonies: But turned back, and dealt unfaithfully like their fathers: they were turned aside like a deceitful bow. For they provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their graven images. (Ps 78:56-58 KJV)
When God was angry with Israel for their disloyalty, how did He punish them?
God heard and was filled with wrath And greatly rejected Israel; So that He abandoned the dwelling place at Shiloh, The tent which He caused to dwell among men, And gave up His strength to captivity And His beauty into the hand of the adversary. He also gave over His people to the sword, And was filled with wrath at His inheritance. Fire devoured His choice men, And His virgins had no wedding songs. His priests fell by the sword, And His widows could not weep. (Ps 78:59-64 LSB)
Where did God then choose to put the tabernacle and later temple, and who did He choose to be their king?
Then the Lord awoke as if from sleep, Like a warrior overcome by wine. He drove His adversaries backward; He put on them an everlasting disgrace. He also rejected the tent of Joseph, And did not choose the tribe of Ephraim, But chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion, which He loved. And He built His sanctuary like the heights, Like the earth which He has established forever. He also chose His servant David And took him from the sheepfolds; From the care of the ewes with nursing lambs He brought him To shepherd Jacob His people, And Israel His inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, And guided them with his skillful hands. (Ps 78:65-72 NASB)
Are we warned that we are also capable of sinning just like ancient Israel?
These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. (1 Cor 10:11 NIV)
Why is it important for us to learn from the history of Israel as a nation? Do we all face various temptations? You decide!
A contemplation by Asaph. (WEB)
What happens if we hide the teachings of God from the next generations?
My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old—things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their ancestors—a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him. (Ps 78:1-8 NIV)
Was forgetting God’s works a big problem among the northern tribes of Israel, led by Ephraim? Do we still fall into a similar trap?
The children of Ephraim, being armed and carrying bows, Turned back in the day of battle. They did not keep the covenant of God; They refused to walk in His law, And forgot His works And His wonders that He had shown them. (Ps 78:9-11 NKJV)
What specific miracles of God did the tribes led by Ephraim forget?
the miracles he did for their ancestors on the plain of Zoan in the land of Egypt. For he divided the sea and led them through, making the water stand up like walls! In the daytime he led them by a cloud, and all night by a pillar of fire. He split open the rocks in the wilderness to give them water, as from a gushing spring. He made streams pour from the rock, making the waters flow down like a river! (Ps 78:12-16 NLT)
Even after witnessing those miracles did the people rebel against God? Did they speak against God, disbelieve and distrust Him? Do we?
Yet they still went on to sin against him, to rebel against the Most High in the desert. They tempted God in their heart by asking food according to their desire. Yes, they spoke against God. They said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness? Behold, he struck the rock, so that waters gushed out, and streams overflowed. Can he give bread also? Will he provide meat for his people?” Therefore Yahweh heard, and was angry. A fire was kindled against Jacob, anger also went up against Israel, because they didn’t believe in God, and didn’t trust in his salvation. (Ps 78:17-22 WEB)
Despite their grumbling, did God provide bread from heaven, and quail to satisfy their cravings?
God gave orders to the skies above, opened heaven’s doors, and rained manna on them so they could eat. He gave them the very grain of heaven! Each person ate the bread of the powerful ones; God sent provisions to satisfy them. God set the east wind moving across the skies and drove the south wind by his strength. He rained meat on them as if it were dust in the air; he rained as many birds as the sand on the seashore! God brought the birds down in the center of their camp, all around their dwellings. So they ate and were completely satisfied; God gave them exactly what they had craved. But they didn’t stop craving—even with the food still in their mouths! So God’s anger came up against them: he killed the most hearty of them; he cut down Israel’s youth in their prime. (Ps 78:23-31 CEB)
Even though God punished some of them, did the rest keep on sinning? Did some repent temporarily, then lie and turn back to break their promises? Do we?
But the rest kept on sinning and would not trust God's miracles. So he cut their lives short and made them terrified. After he killed some of them, the others turned to him with all their hearts. They remembered God Most High, the mighty rock that kept them safe. But they tried to flatter God, and they told him lies; they were unfaithful and broke their promises. (Ps 78:32-37 CEV)
Did Israel test God again and again, yet was He compassionate remembering that they were but flesh? Do we?
Yet he, being compassionate, atoned for their iniquity and did not destroy them; he restrained his anger often and did not stir up all his wrath. He remembered that they were but flesh, a wind that passes and comes not again. How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved him in the desert! They tested God again and again and provoked the Holy One of Israel. They did not remember his power or the day when he redeemed them from the foe, when he performed his signs in Egypt and his marvels in the fields of Zoan. (Ps 78:38-43 ESV)
What punishments did God give to Egypt to favor Israel?
He turned their rivers into blood, and they could not drink from their streams. He sent among them swarms of flies, which fed on them, and frogs, which devastated them. He gave their crops to the caterpillar and the fruit of their labor to the locust. He killed their vines with hail and their sycamore fig trees with a flood. He handed over their livestock to hail and their cattle to lightning bolts. He sent His burning anger against them: fury, indignation, and calamity—a band of deadly messengers. He cleared a path for His anger. He did not spare them from death but delivered their lives to the plague. (Ps 78:44-50 HCSB)
How did God punish Israel’s enemies and give them an undeserved inheritance?
He struck every firstborn in Egypt, the first fruits of their manhood in the tents of Ham. Yet he led out his people like sheep, guiding them like a flock in the desert. He led them to safety so they would not fear. As for their enemies, the sea covered them. He brought the people to the border of his holy mountain, which he acquired by his might. He drove out nations before them and allotted their tribal inheritance, settling the tribes of Israel in their tents. (Ps 78:51-55 ISV)
Despite God’s providence, was Israel disobedient, turning to worshipping idols on high places?
Yet they tempted and provoked the most high God, and kept not his testimonies: But turned back, and dealt unfaithfully like their fathers: they were turned aside like a deceitful bow. For they provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their graven images. (Ps 78:56-58 KJV)
When God was angry with Israel for their disloyalty, how did He punish them?
God heard and was filled with wrath And greatly rejected Israel; So that He abandoned the dwelling place at Shiloh, The tent which He caused to dwell among men, And gave up His strength to captivity And His beauty into the hand of the adversary. He also gave over His people to the sword, And was filled with wrath at His inheritance. Fire devoured His choice men, And His virgins had no wedding songs. His priests fell by the sword, And His widows could not weep. (Ps 78:59-64 LSB)
Where did God then choose to put the tabernacle and later temple, and who did He choose to be their king?
Then the Lord awoke as if from sleep, Like a warrior overcome by wine. He drove His adversaries backward; He put on them an everlasting disgrace. He also rejected the tent of Joseph, And did not choose the tribe of Ephraim, But chose the tribe of Judah, Mount Zion, which He loved. And He built His sanctuary like the heights, Like the earth which He has established forever. He also chose His servant David And took him from the sheepfolds; From the care of the ewes with nursing lambs He brought him To shepherd Jacob His people, And Israel His inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, And guided them with his skillful hands. (Ps 78:65-72 NASB)
Are we warned that we are also capable of sinning just like ancient Israel?
These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. (1 Cor 10:11 NIV)
Why is it important for us to learn from the history of Israel as a nation? Do we all face various temptations? You decide!
I Pray to You (Psalm 77)
When we are in trouble, do we look back on God’s history with Israel and learn to trust His care? Let’s look at Psalm 77.
For the Chief Musician. To Jeduthun. A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
What kind of prayers do we make to God when our days are filled with trouble?
I pray to you, Lord God, and I beg you to listen. In days filled with trouble, I search for you. And at night I tirelessly lift my hands in prayer, refusing comfort. When I think of you, I feel restless and weak. (Ps 77:1-3 CEV)
Have we ever been in so much trouble that we could not speak? Have we ever asked if God has cut us out of His eternal plan?
You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I consider the days of old, the years long ago. I said, “Let me remember my song in the night; let me meditate in my heart.” Then my spirit made a diligent search: “Will the Lord spurn forever, and never again be favorable? Has his steadfast love forever ceased? Are his promises at an end for all time? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?” Selah (Ps 77:4-9 ESV)
Do we begin to doubt God’s basic unchangeable character when we go through troubles?
So I say, “I am grieved that the right hand of the Most High has changed.” I will remember the Lord’s works; yes, I will remember Your ancient wonders. I will reflect on all You have done and meditate on Your actions. (Ps 77:10-12 HCSB)
Do we look back on history and conclude that God’s way is holy, that He delivered His people?
God, your way is holy. What god is like our great God? God, you are the one performing awesome deeds. You reveal your might among the nations. You delivered your people—the descendants of Jacob and Joseph—with your power. Interlude (Ps 77:13-15 ISV)
Did the waters of the Exodus part, and the thunder and lightning make earth tremble?
The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled. The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a sound: thine arrows also went abroad. The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook. (Ps 77:16-18 KJV)
Was God’s way with Israel in the Exodus, to use Moses and Aaron to lead His people like a sheep flock?
Your way was in the sea And Your paths in the mighty waters, But Your footprints were not known. You led Your people like a flock By the hand of Moses and Aaron. (Ps 77:19-20 LSB)
As Israel escaped slavery in Egypt does our baptism picture our escape from slavery to a world of sin?
For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our fathers were all under the cloud and they all passed through the sea; and they all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea (1 Cor 10:1-2 NASB)
When we are in trouble, do we look back on God’s history with Israel and learn to trust His care? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. To Jeduthun. A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
What kind of prayers do we make to God when our days are filled with trouble?
I pray to you, Lord God, and I beg you to listen. In days filled with trouble, I search for you. And at night I tirelessly lift my hands in prayer, refusing comfort. When I think of you, I feel restless and weak. (Ps 77:1-3 CEV)
Have we ever been in so much trouble that we could not speak? Have we ever asked if God has cut us out of His eternal plan?
You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I consider the days of old, the years long ago. I said, “Let me remember my song in the night; let me meditate in my heart.” Then my spirit made a diligent search: “Will the Lord spurn forever, and never again be favorable? Has his steadfast love forever ceased? Are his promises at an end for all time? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?” Selah (Ps 77:4-9 ESV)
Do we begin to doubt God’s basic unchangeable character when we go through troubles?
So I say, “I am grieved that the right hand of the Most High has changed.” I will remember the Lord’s works; yes, I will remember Your ancient wonders. I will reflect on all You have done and meditate on Your actions. (Ps 77:10-12 HCSB)
Do we look back on history and conclude that God’s way is holy, that He delivered His people?
God, your way is holy. What god is like our great God? God, you are the one performing awesome deeds. You reveal your might among the nations. You delivered your people—the descendants of Jacob and Joseph—with your power. Interlude (Ps 77:13-15 ISV)
Did the waters of the Exodus part, and the thunder and lightning make earth tremble?
The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled. The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a sound: thine arrows also went abroad. The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook. (Ps 77:16-18 KJV)
Was God’s way with Israel in the Exodus, to use Moses and Aaron to lead His people like a sheep flock?
Your way was in the sea And Your paths in the mighty waters, But Your footprints were not known. You led Your people like a flock By the hand of Moses and Aaron. (Ps 77:19-20 LSB)
As Israel escaped slavery in Egypt does our baptism picture our escape from slavery to a world of sin?
For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, that our fathers were all under the cloud and they all passed through the sea; and they all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea (1 Cor 10:1-2 NASB)
When we are in trouble, do we look back on God’s history with Israel and learn to trust His care? You decide!
God is Known (Psalm 76)
Do we know about God but not actually know Him personally? Does His hand in our world reveal His nearness? Let’s look at Psalm 76.
For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A Psalm by Asaph. A song. (WEB)
Does our community know God? Do we personally know Him? Do we understand and see His nearness?
God is known in Judah; His name is great in Israel. His tabernacle is in Salem; His dwelling place also is in Zion. There He broke the flaming arrows, The shield, the sword, and the weapons of war. Selah (Ps 76:1-3 NASB)
Is there anything that God’s majesty doesn’t outshine? Is there any army that God cannot defeat?
You are radiant with light, more majestic than mountains rich with game. The valiant lie plundered, they sleep their last sleep; not one of the warriors can lift his hands. At your rebuke, God of Jacob, both horse and chariot lie still. (Ps 76:4-6 NIV)
When God gets angry and arises to judgment will a primary motive be to deliver the oppressed of the earth?
You, Yourself, are to be feared; And who may stand in Your presence When once You are angry? You caused judgment to be heard from heaven; The earth feared and was still, When God arose to judgment, To deliver all the oppressed of the earth. Selah (Ps 76:7-9 NKJV)
Does human anger against God only backfire as praise to God in the end?
Human defiance only enhances your glory, for you use it as a weapon. (Ps 76:10 NLT)
Is God impressed by earthly royalty or by those who keep their promises?
Make vows to Yahweh your God, and fulfill them! Let all of his neighbors bring presents to him who is to be feared. He will cut off the spirit of princes. He is feared by the kings of the earth. (Ps 76:11-12 WEB)
Should we be very careful not to make foolish promises we cannot possibly keep?
Again you have heard that it was said to those who lived long ago: Don’t make a false solemn pledge, but you should follow through on what you have pledged to the Lord. But I say to you that you must not pledge at all. You must not pledge by heaven, because it’s God’s throne. You must not pledge by the earth, because it’s God’s footstool. You must not pledge by Jerusalem, because it’s the city of the great king. And you must not pledge by your head, because you can’t turn one hair white or black. Let your yes mean yes, and your no mean no. Anything more than this comes from the evil one. (Mat 5:33-37 CEB)
Do we know about God but not actually know Him personally? Does His hand in our world reveal His nearness? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. On stringed instruments. A Psalm by Asaph. A song. (WEB)
Does our community know God? Do we personally know Him? Do we understand and see His nearness?
God is known in Judah; His name is great in Israel. His tabernacle is in Salem; His dwelling place also is in Zion. There He broke the flaming arrows, The shield, the sword, and the weapons of war. Selah (Ps 76:1-3 NASB)
Is there anything that God’s majesty doesn’t outshine? Is there any army that God cannot defeat?
You are radiant with light, more majestic than mountains rich with game. The valiant lie plundered, they sleep their last sleep; not one of the warriors can lift his hands. At your rebuke, God of Jacob, both horse and chariot lie still. (Ps 76:4-6 NIV)
When God gets angry and arises to judgment will a primary motive be to deliver the oppressed of the earth?
You, Yourself, are to be feared; And who may stand in Your presence When once You are angry? You caused judgment to be heard from heaven; The earth feared and was still, When God arose to judgment, To deliver all the oppressed of the earth. Selah (Ps 76:7-9 NKJV)
Does human anger against God only backfire as praise to God in the end?
Human defiance only enhances your glory, for you use it as a weapon. (Ps 76:10 NLT)
Is God impressed by earthly royalty or by those who keep their promises?
Make vows to Yahweh your God, and fulfill them! Let all of his neighbors bring presents to him who is to be feared. He will cut off the spirit of princes. He is feared by the kings of the earth. (Ps 76:11-12 WEB)
Should we be very careful not to make foolish promises we cannot possibly keep?
Again you have heard that it was said to those who lived long ago: Don’t make a false solemn pledge, but you should follow through on what you have pledged to the Lord. But I say to you that you must not pledge at all. You must not pledge by heaven, because it’s God’s throne. You must not pledge by the earth, because it’s God’s footstool. You must not pledge by Jerusalem, because it’s the city of the great king. And you must not pledge by your head, because you can’t turn one hair white or black. Let your yes mean yes, and your no mean no. Anything more than this comes from the evil one. (Mat 5:33-37 CEB)
Do we know about God but not actually know Him personally? Does His hand in our world reveal His nearness? You decide!
We Give Thanks (Psalm 75)
Do we give thanks in all situations, trusting that God will eventually exalt the humble? Let’s look at Psalm 75.
For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A Psalm by Asaph. A song. (WEB)
Do we give thanks for a thousand things that God has done?
We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds. (Ps 75:1 ESV)
Does God choose a time for judgment? Does He warn the wicked not to boast arrogantly?
“When I choose a time, I will judge fairly. When the earth and all its inhabitants shake, I am the One who steadies its pillars. Selah. I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,’ and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn. Do not lift up your horn against heaven or speak arrogantly.’ ” (Ps 75:2-5 HCSB)
Who is ultimately responsible for allowing one to be exalted and another debased? Are our temporary situations not necessarily the end results of our lives?
For exaltation comes not from the east, the west, or the wilderness, since God is the judge. This one he will debase or that one he will exalt. For there is a cup in the hand of the Lord, foaming with well-mixed wine that he will pour out, leaving only the dregs, from which all the wicked of the earth will drink. (Ps 75:6-8 ISV)
What does God declare to be the two final results for the wicked and the righteous?
But I will declare for ever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted. (Ps 75:9-10 KJV)
Is there a great reversal whereby God humbles the arrogant and exalts the humble?
He has brought down rulers from their thrones, And has exalted those who were humble. (Luke 1:52 LSB)
Do we give thanks in all situations, trusting that God will eventually exalt the humble? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A Psalm by Asaph. A song. (WEB)
Do we give thanks for a thousand things that God has done?
We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near. We recount your wondrous deeds. (Ps 75:1 ESV)
Does God choose a time for judgment? Does He warn the wicked not to boast arrogantly?
“When I choose a time, I will judge fairly. When the earth and all its inhabitants shake, I am the One who steadies its pillars. Selah. I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,’ and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn. Do not lift up your horn against heaven or speak arrogantly.’ ” (Ps 75:2-5 HCSB)
Who is ultimately responsible for allowing one to be exalted and another debased? Are our temporary situations not necessarily the end results of our lives?
For exaltation comes not from the east, the west, or the wilderness, since God is the judge. This one he will debase or that one he will exalt. For there is a cup in the hand of the Lord, foaming with well-mixed wine that he will pour out, leaving only the dregs, from which all the wicked of the earth will drink. (Ps 75:6-8 ISV)
What does God declare to be the two final results for the wicked and the righteous?
But I will declare for ever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted. (Ps 75:9-10 KJV)
Is there a great reversal whereby God humbles the arrogant and exalts the humble?
He has brought down rulers from their thrones, And has exalted those who were humble. (Luke 1:52 LSB)
Do we give thanks in all situations, trusting that God will eventually exalt the humble? You decide!
Why Rejected? (Psalm 74)
In dark times can we feel like God has rejected us? Do we keep praying during those times? Let’s look at Psalm 74.
A contemplation by Asaph. (WEB)
Has God rejected us forever? Does He remember His purchased people?
O God, why have you rejected us forever? Why does your anger smolder against the sheep of your pasture? Remember the nation you purchased long ago, the people of your inheritance, whom you redeemed—Mount Zion, where you dwelt. Turn your steps toward these everlasting ruins, all this destruction the enemy has brought on the sanctuary. (Ps 74:1-3 NIV)
Do God’s enemies sometimes disrupt the meeting place? Is their motive to destroy?
Your enemies roar in the midst of Your meeting place; They set up their banners for signs. They seem like men who lift up Axes among the thick trees. And now they break down its carved work, all at once, With axes and hammers. They have set fire to Your sanctuary; They have defiled the dwelling place of Your name to the ground. They said in their hearts, “Let us destroy them altogether.” They have burned up all the meeting places of God in the land. (Ps 74:4-8 NKJV)
Have miraculous signs disappeared from our meetings? Have faithful preachers of God’s word gone?
We no longer see your miraculous signs. All the prophets are gone, and no one can tell us when it will end. How long, O God, will you allow our enemies to insult you? Will you let them dishonor your name forever? Why do you hold back your strong right hand? Unleash your powerful fist and destroy them. (Ps 74:9-11 NLT)
Who is our true King? Who alone saves the earth and provides for us?
Yet God is my King of old, working salvation throughout the earth. You divided the sea by your strength. You broke the heads of the sea monsters in the waters. You broke the heads of Leviathan in pieces. You gave him as food to people and desert creatures. You opened up spring and stream. You dried up mighty rivers. The day is yours, the night is also yours. You have prepared the light and the sun. You have set all the boundaries of the earth. You have made summer and winter. (Ps 74:12-17 WEB)
Do we ask God to remember how atheists abuse His name? Do we still trust God in the midst of both mild and severe persecution?
So remember this, Lord: how enemies have insulted you, how unbelieving fools have abused your name. Don’t deliver the life of your dove to wild animals! Don’t forget the lives of your afflicted people forever! Consider the covenant! Because the land’s dark places are full of violence. Don’t let the oppressed live in shame. No, let the poor and needy praise your name! (Ps 74:18-21 CEB)
Should we learn to keep the peace in our churches, disagree agreeably over non-essentials of our common faith, or argue and cause trouble?
People's desires make them give in to immoral ways, filthy thoughts, and shameful deeds. They worship idols, practice witchcraft, hate others, and are hard to get along with. People become jealous, angry, and selfish. They not only argue and cause trouble, but they are envious. They get drunk, carry on at wild parties, and do other evil things as well. I told you before, and I am telling you again: No one who does these things will share in the blessings of God's kingdom. (Gal 5:19-21 CEV)
In dark times can we feel like God has rejected us? Do we keep praying during those times? You decide!
A contemplation by Asaph. (WEB)
Has God rejected us forever? Does He remember His purchased people?
O God, why have you rejected us forever? Why does your anger smolder against the sheep of your pasture? Remember the nation you purchased long ago, the people of your inheritance, whom you redeemed—Mount Zion, where you dwelt. Turn your steps toward these everlasting ruins, all this destruction the enemy has brought on the sanctuary. (Ps 74:1-3 NIV)
Do God’s enemies sometimes disrupt the meeting place? Is their motive to destroy?
Your enemies roar in the midst of Your meeting place; They set up their banners for signs. They seem like men who lift up Axes among the thick trees. And now they break down its carved work, all at once, With axes and hammers. They have set fire to Your sanctuary; They have defiled the dwelling place of Your name to the ground. They said in their hearts, “Let us destroy them altogether.” They have burned up all the meeting places of God in the land. (Ps 74:4-8 NKJV)
Have miraculous signs disappeared from our meetings? Have faithful preachers of God’s word gone?
We no longer see your miraculous signs. All the prophets are gone, and no one can tell us when it will end. How long, O God, will you allow our enemies to insult you? Will you let them dishonor your name forever? Why do you hold back your strong right hand? Unleash your powerful fist and destroy them. (Ps 74:9-11 NLT)
Who is our true King? Who alone saves the earth and provides for us?
Yet God is my King of old, working salvation throughout the earth. You divided the sea by your strength. You broke the heads of the sea monsters in the waters. You broke the heads of Leviathan in pieces. You gave him as food to people and desert creatures. You opened up spring and stream. You dried up mighty rivers. The day is yours, the night is also yours. You have prepared the light and the sun. You have set all the boundaries of the earth. You have made summer and winter. (Ps 74:12-17 WEB)
Do we ask God to remember how atheists abuse His name? Do we still trust God in the midst of both mild and severe persecution?
So remember this, Lord: how enemies have insulted you, how unbelieving fools have abused your name. Don’t deliver the life of your dove to wild animals! Don’t forget the lives of your afflicted people forever! Consider the covenant! Because the land’s dark places are full of violence. Don’t let the oppressed live in shame. No, let the poor and needy praise your name! (Ps 74:18-21 CEB)
Should we learn to keep the peace in our churches, disagree agreeably over non-essentials of our common faith, or argue and cause trouble?
People's desires make them give in to immoral ways, filthy thoughts, and shameful deeds. They worship idols, practice witchcraft, hate others, and are hard to get along with. People become jealous, angry, and selfish. They not only argue and cause trouble, but they are envious. They get drunk, carry on at wild parties, and do other evil things as well. I told you before, and I am telling you again: No one who does these things will share in the blessings of God's kingdom. (Gal 5:19-21 CEV)
In dark times can we feel like God has rejected us? Do we keep praying during those times? You decide!
Pure in Heart (Psalm 73)
What are some of the characteristics of a life devoted to God and one devoted to selfishness? Let’s look at Psalm 73.
A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Do we respect pure hearts or envy the temporary wealth of the arrogant wicked?
Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet were almost gone. My steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no struggles in their death, but their strength is firm. They are free from burdens of men, neither are they plagued like other men. (Ps 73:1-5 WEB)
Are arrogance, self-delusion, cruel talk, oppression and blasphemy against heaven markers of wicked people?
That’s why they wear arrogance like a necklace, why violence covers them like clothes. Their eyes bulge out from eating so well; their hearts overflow with delusions. They scoff and talk so cruel; from their privileged positions they plan oppression. Their mouths dare to speak against heaven! Their tongues roam the earth! (Ps 73:6-9 CEB)
Is there hope for God’s people, a hope that trusts that God will bring His people back?
God will bring his people back, and they will drink the water he so freely gives. (Ps 73:10 CEV)
What motivates arrogant wicked people? Have we kept our hearts clean in vain?
And they say, “How can God know? Is there knowledge in the Most High?” Behold, these are the wicked; always at ease, they increase in riches. All in vain have I kept my heart clean and washed my hands in innocence. For all the day long I have been stricken and rebuked every morning. If I had said, “I will speak thus,” I would have betrayed the generation of your children. (Ps 73:11-15 ESV)
If we keep trying, can we eventually understand the destiny of wicked people?
When I tried to understand all this, it seemed hopeless until I entered God’s sanctuary. Then I understood their destiny. (Ps 73:16-17 HCSB)
What is the end result of an evil and arrogant lifestyle?
You have certainly set them in slippery places; you will make them fall to their ruin. How desolate they quickly become, completely destroyed by calamities. Like a dream when one awakens, Lord, you will despise their image when you arise. When I chose to be bitter I was emotionally pained. Then, I was too stupid and didn’t realize I was acting like a wild animal with you. (Ps 73:18-22 ISV)
Even in the midst of great difficulties, do we trust that God is continually with us?
Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. (Ps 73:23-24 KJV)
Have we gotten to that point in our spiritual growth that we desire nothing on earth, only God?
Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart fail, But God is the rock of my heart and my portion forever. For, behold, those who are far from You will perish; You have destroyed everyone who is unfaithful to You. But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have set Lord Yahweh as my refuge, That I may recount all Your works. (Ps 73:25-28 LSB)
What did Jesus say about materialists who make no time for God?
And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began thinking to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and I will store all my grain and my goods there. And I will say to myself, “You have many goods stored up for many years to come; relax, eat, drink, and enjoy yourself!”’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is demanded of you; and as for all that you have prepared, who will own it now?’ Such is the one who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich in relation to God.” (Luke 12:16-21 NASB)
What are some of the characteristics of a life devoted to God and one devoted to selfishness? You decide!
A Psalm by Asaph. (WEB)
Do we respect pure hearts or envy the temporary wealth of the arrogant wicked?
Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet were almost gone. My steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no struggles in their death, but their strength is firm. They are free from burdens of men, neither are they plagued like other men. (Ps 73:1-5 WEB)
Are arrogance, self-delusion, cruel talk, oppression and blasphemy against heaven markers of wicked people?
That’s why they wear arrogance like a necklace, why violence covers them like clothes. Their eyes bulge out from eating so well; their hearts overflow with delusions. They scoff and talk so cruel; from their privileged positions they plan oppression. Their mouths dare to speak against heaven! Their tongues roam the earth! (Ps 73:6-9 CEB)
Is there hope for God’s people, a hope that trusts that God will bring His people back?
God will bring his people back, and they will drink the water he so freely gives. (Ps 73:10 CEV)
What motivates arrogant wicked people? Have we kept our hearts clean in vain?
And they say, “How can God know? Is there knowledge in the Most High?” Behold, these are the wicked; always at ease, they increase in riches. All in vain have I kept my heart clean and washed my hands in innocence. For all the day long I have been stricken and rebuked every morning. If I had said, “I will speak thus,” I would have betrayed the generation of your children. (Ps 73:11-15 ESV)
If we keep trying, can we eventually understand the destiny of wicked people?
When I tried to understand all this, it seemed hopeless until I entered God’s sanctuary. Then I understood their destiny. (Ps 73:16-17 HCSB)
What is the end result of an evil and arrogant lifestyle?
You have certainly set them in slippery places; you will make them fall to their ruin. How desolate they quickly become, completely destroyed by calamities. Like a dream when one awakens, Lord, you will despise their image when you arise. When I chose to be bitter I was emotionally pained. Then, I was too stupid and didn’t realize I was acting like a wild animal with you. (Ps 73:18-22 ISV)
Even in the midst of great difficulties, do we trust that God is continually with us?
Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. (Ps 73:23-24 KJV)
Have we gotten to that point in our spiritual growth that we desire nothing on earth, only God?
Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart fail, But God is the rock of my heart and my portion forever. For, behold, those who are far from You will perish; You have destroyed everyone who is unfaithful to You. But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have set Lord Yahweh as my refuge, That I may recount all Your works. (Ps 73:25-28 LSB)
What did Jesus say about materialists who make no time for God?
And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began thinking to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and I will store all my grain and my goods there. And I will say to myself, “You have many goods stored up for many years to come; relax, eat, drink, and enjoy yourself!”’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is demanded of you; and as for all that you have prepared, who will own it now?’ Such is the one who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich in relation to God.” (Luke 12:16-21 NASB)
What are some of the characteristics of a life devoted to God and one devoted to selfishness? You decide!
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