Are we glad to assemble with fellow imperfect saints to praise the name of the Lord? Let’s begin in Psalm 122.
A Song of Ascents. By David. (WEB)
Though we don’t go to the temple in ancient Jerusalem, are we glad to go somewhere the Bible is preached? Oh sure, the people there are very faulty, just like you and me, but don’t some of them sincerely want to follow Jesus? Do you? Are you glad?
I was glad when they said to me, “Let’s go to the house of the Lord.” Our feet are standing Within your gates, Jerusalem (Ps 122:1-2 NASB)
Though modern Jerusalem is very different from what is described here, can we imagine heavenly Jerusalem in this picture?
Jerusalem is built like a city that is closely compacted together. That is where the tribes go up—the tribes of the Lord—to praise the name of the Lord according to the statute given to Israel. There stand the thrones for judgment, the thrones of the house of David. (Ps 122:3-5 NIV)
Do we pray for modern Jerusalem, that its inhabitants may eventually find peace? Do we pray for peace in all the assemblies of the saints?
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, Prosperity within your palaces.” For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, “Peace be within you.” Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek your good. (Ps 122:6-9 NKJV)
Does the church focus on a troubled city in modern Israel or is the assembly of the saints somehow related to heavenly Jerusalem?
No, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to countless thousands of angels in a joyful gathering. You have come to the assembly of God’s firstborn children, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God himself, who is the judge over all things. You have come to the spirits of the righteous ones in heaven who have now been made perfect. (Heb 12:22-23 NLT)
Does Christ’s message to the church in Philadelphia reveal a little about New Jerusalem?
I am coming quickly! Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will go out from there no more. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God, and my own new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. (Rev 3:11-13 WEB)
Are we glad to assemble with fellow imperfect saints to praise the name of the Lord? You decide!
I Lift Up My Eyes (Ps 121)
Though we may suffer in this life, and some are murdered for their faith, is there a promise of preserving our souls for eternal life? Let’s begin in Psalm 121.
A Song of Ascents. (WEB)
Is it a mandate that prayer always be made with our eyes lowered or even closed? May we lift up our eyes as we pray?
I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (Ps 121:1-2 ESV)
Is God always ready to come to our aid, to protect us? Is this a promise fulfilled in eternity or this life only? What about those who have broken a leg?
He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. Indeed, the Protector of Israel does not slumber or sleep. (Ps 121:3-4 HCSB)
Does God guard us, even providing something as mundane as shade? What are some other ways that God has refreshed us on life’s journey?
The Lord is your guardian; the Lord is your shade at your right side. The sun will not ravage you by day, nor the moon by night. (Ps 121:5-6 ISV)
Will the Lord protect us from harm, preserving our lives? What about martyrs who are murdered in some countries today?
The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Ps 121:7-8 KJV)
Though Christians are persecuted across Asia and Africa today, and some face death, which may seem to contradict this Psalm, is there an eternal perspective that fulfills these promises?
My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give them eternal life, and they will never perish forever, and no one will seize them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can seize them from the Father’s hand. (John 10:27-29 LSB)
Though we may suffer in this life, and some are murdered for their faith, is there a promise of preserving our souls for eternal life? You decide!
A Song of Ascents. (WEB)
Is it a mandate that prayer always be made with our eyes lowered or even closed? May we lift up our eyes as we pray?
I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (Ps 121:1-2 ESV)
Is God always ready to come to our aid, to protect us? Is this a promise fulfilled in eternity or this life only? What about those who have broken a leg?
He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. Indeed, the Protector of Israel does not slumber or sleep. (Ps 121:3-4 HCSB)
Does God guard us, even providing something as mundane as shade? What are some other ways that God has refreshed us on life’s journey?
The Lord is your guardian; the Lord is your shade at your right side. The sun will not ravage you by day, nor the moon by night. (Ps 121:5-6 ISV)
Will the Lord protect us from harm, preserving our lives? What about martyrs who are murdered in some countries today?
The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Ps 121:7-8 KJV)
Though Christians are persecuted across Asia and Africa today, and some face death, which may seem to contradict this Psalm, is there an eternal perspective that fulfills these promises?
My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give them eternal life, and they will never perish forever, and no one will seize them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can seize them from the Father’s hand. (John 10:27-29 LSB)
Though we may suffer in this life, and some are murdered for their faith, is there a promise of preserving our souls for eternal life? You decide!
He Heard (Ps 120)
Do we sing on the way to the church assembly, as the Jews did on the way to the temple, or as the priests did as they ascended the temple steps? Let’s look at Psalm 120.
A Song of Ascents. (WEB)
Is this the first of fifteen Psalms called songs of ascents (120–134)? Are lying lips and a deceitful tongue ubiquitous in our world?
In my distress I cried to the Lord, And He heard me. Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips And from a deceitful tongue. (Ps 120:1-2 NKJV)
Are there divine consequences for living a life of lies?
O deceptive tongue, what will God do to you? How will he increase your punishment? You will be pierced with sharp arrows and burned with glowing coals. (Ps 120:3-4 NLT)
Is our country known for false advertising, deceptive business practices, violence and constant fighting between politicians?
Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace. I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war. (Ps 120:5-7 WEB)
How should we live as Christians in a hostile and dangerous world?
Dear friends, since you are immigrants [foreigners, aliens] and strangers in the world, I urge that you avoid worldly desires that wage war against your lives. Live honorably among the unbelievers. Today, they defame you, as if you were doing evil. But in the day when God visits to judge they will glorify him, because they have observed your honorable deeds. (1 Peter 2:11-12 CEB)
Do we look forward to that glorious eternal city, where the lies and deception of our age will no longer exist?
The glorious treasures of nations will be brought into the city. But nothing unworthy will be allowed to enter. No one who is dirty-minded or who tells lies will be there. Only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life will be in the city. (Rev 21:26-27 CEV)
Do we sing on the way to the church assembly, as the Jews did on the way to the temple, or as the priests did as they ascended the temple steps? You decide!
A Song of Ascents. (WEB)
Is this the first of fifteen Psalms called songs of ascents (120–134)? Are lying lips and a deceitful tongue ubiquitous in our world?
In my distress I cried to the Lord, And He heard me. Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips And from a deceitful tongue. (Ps 120:1-2 NKJV)
Are there divine consequences for living a life of lies?
O deceptive tongue, what will God do to you? How will he increase your punishment? You will be pierced with sharp arrows and burned with glowing coals. (Ps 120:3-4 NLT)
Is our country known for false advertising, deceptive business practices, violence and constant fighting between politicians?
Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace. I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war. (Ps 120:5-7 WEB)
How should we live as Christians in a hostile and dangerous world?
Dear friends, since you are immigrants [foreigners, aliens] and strangers in the world, I urge that you avoid worldly desires that wage war against your lives. Live honorably among the unbelievers. Today, they defame you, as if you were doing evil. But in the day when God visits to judge they will glorify him, because they have observed your honorable deeds. (1 Peter 2:11-12 CEB)
Do we look forward to that glorious eternal city, where the lies and deception of our age will no longer exist?
The glorious treasures of nations will be brought into the city. But nothing unworthy will be allowed to enter. No one who is dirty-minded or who tells lies will be there. Only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life will be in the city. (Rev 21:26-27 CEV)
Do we sing on the way to the church assembly, as the Jews did on the way to the temple, or as the priests did as they ascended the temple steps? You decide!
Understanding & Deliverance (Ps 119 Pt 4)
Do we need to understand the Bible and God to deliver us from a sinful world? Do we trust that the promises in God’s word are settled for all eternity? Let’s continue in Psalm 119.
י Yod - Understanding
Do we need understanding to read God’s word each day?
Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding so that I can learn Your commands. Those who fear You will see me and rejoice, for I put my hope in Your word. I know, Lord, that Your judgments are just and that You have afflicted me fairly. May Your faithful love comfort me as You promised Your servant. May Your compassion come to me so that I may live, for Your instruction is my delight. Let the arrogant be put to shame for slandering me with lies; I will meditate on Your precepts. Let those who fear You, those who know Your decrees, turn to me. May my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes so that I will not be put to shame. (Ps 119:73-80 HCSB)
כ Kaf - Deliverance
Do we have hope that God’s word will offer us deliverance from problems?
I long for your deliverance; I have looked to your word, placing my hope in it. My eyes grow weary with respect to what you have promised—I keep asking, “When will you comfort me?” Though I have become like a water skin dried by smoke, I have not forgotten your statutes. How many days must your servant endure this? When will you judge those who persecute me? The arrogant have dug pitfalls for me, disobeying your instruction. All of your commands are reliable. I am persecuted without cause—help me! Though the arrogant nearly destroyed me on earth, I did not abandon your precepts. Revive me according to your gracious love; and I will keep the decrees that you have proclaimed. (Ps 119:81-88 ISV)
ל Lamed - Settled Word
Though we are under a different covenant with God, is His word still filled with delightful lessons for us?
For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. I am thine, save me: for I have sought thy precepts. The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies. I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad. (Ps 119:89-96 KJV)
Are the two great divisions of the Old Testament, the law and the prophets, still valid in a spiritual sense?
Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. (Mat 5:17-19 LSB)
Do we need to understand the Bible and God to deliver us from a sinful world? Do we trust that the promises in God’s word are settled for all eternity? You decide!
י Yod - Understanding
Do we need understanding to read God’s word each day?
Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding so that I can learn Your commands. Those who fear You will see me and rejoice, for I put my hope in Your word. I know, Lord, that Your judgments are just and that You have afflicted me fairly. May Your faithful love comfort me as You promised Your servant. May Your compassion come to me so that I may live, for Your instruction is my delight. Let the arrogant be put to shame for slandering me with lies; I will meditate on Your precepts. Let those who fear You, those who know Your decrees, turn to me. May my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes so that I will not be put to shame. (Ps 119:73-80 HCSB)
כ Kaf - Deliverance
Do we have hope that God’s word will offer us deliverance from problems?
I long for your deliverance; I have looked to your word, placing my hope in it. My eyes grow weary with respect to what you have promised—I keep asking, “When will you comfort me?” Though I have become like a water skin dried by smoke, I have not forgotten your statutes. How many days must your servant endure this? When will you judge those who persecute me? The arrogant have dug pitfalls for me, disobeying your instruction. All of your commands are reliable. I am persecuted without cause—help me! Though the arrogant nearly destroyed me on earth, I did not abandon your precepts. Revive me according to your gracious love; and I will keep the decrees that you have proclaimed. (Ps 119:81-88 ISV)
ל Lamed - Settled Word
Though we are under a different covenant with God, is His word still filled with delightful lessons for us?
For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction. I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me. I am thine, save me: for I have sought thy precepts. The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies. I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad. (Ps 119:89-96 KJV)
Are the two great divisions of the Old Testament, the law and the prophets, still valid in a spiritual sense?
Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. (Mat 5:17-19 LSB)
Do we need to understand the Bible and God to deliver us from a sinful world? Do we trust that the promises in God’s word are settled for all eternity? You decide!
My Heart Your Word (Ps 119 Pt 7)
Do we cry out to God with our whole hearts? Do we love His word and hope in His salvation? Let’s finish Psalm 119.
ק Qof - All My Heart
Do we cry out to God for salvation with all our hearts?
I have cried out with all of my heart. Answer me, Lord! I will observe your statutes. I have called out to you, “Save me, so I may keep your decrees.” I get up before dawn and cry for help; I place my hope in your word. I look forward to the night watches, when I may meditate on what you have said. Hear my voice according to your gracious love. Lord, revive me in keeping with your justice. Those who pursue wickedness draw near; they remain far from your instruction. You are near, Lord, and all of your commands are true. I discovered long ago about your decrees that you have confirmed them forever. (Ps 119:145-152 ISV)
ר Resh - Your Word
Do we cry out to God to deliver us according to His lovingkindness?
Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law. Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word. Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes. Great are thy tender mercies, O Lord: quicken me according to thy judgments. Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies. I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word. Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O Lord, according to thy lovingkindness. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. (Ps 119:153-160 KJV)
ש Shin - Hope
Do we hate lying, love God’s ways and hope for His salvation?
Princes persecute me without cause, But my heart is in dread of Your words. I rejoice at Your word, As one who finds much spoil. I hate and abhor lying, But I love Your law. Seven times a day I praise You, Because of Your righteous judgments. Those who love Your law have much peace, And nothing causes them to stumble. I hope for Your salvation, O Yahweh, And I do Your commandments. My soul keeps Your testimonies, And I love them exceedingly. I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies, For all my ways are before You. (Ps 119:161-168 LSB)
ת Tav - Hear My Cry
Do we cry out to God in a corrupt world where many have been tempted to stray?
May my cry come before you, Lord; give me understanding according to your word. May my supplication come before you; deliver me according to your promise. May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. May my tongue sing of your word, for all your commands are righteous. May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts. I long for your salvation, Lord, and your law gives me delight. Let me live that I may praise you, and may your laws sustain me. I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. (Ps 119:169-176 NIV)
Are we in a spiritual battle where the hope of salvation is part of our armor?
But since we are of the day, let’s be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. (1 Thess 5:8 NASB)
Do we cry out to God with our whole hearts? Do we love His word and hope in His salvation? You decide!
ק Qof - All My Heart
Do we cry out to God for salvation with all our hearts?
I have cried out with all of my heart. Answer me, Lord! I will observe your statutes. I have called out to you, “Save me, so I may keep your decrees.” I get up before dawn and cry for help; I place my hope in your word. I look forward to the night watches, when I may meditate on what you have said. Hear my voice according to your gracious love. Lord, revive me in keeping with your justice. Those who pursue wickedness draw near; they remain far from your instruction. You are near, Lord, and all of your commands are true. I discovered long ago about your decrees that you have confirmed them forever. (Ps 119:145-152 ISV)
ר Resh - Your Word
Do we cry out to God to deliver us according to His lovingkindness?
Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law. Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word. Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes. Great are thy tender mercies, O Lord: quicken me according to thy judgments. Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies. I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word. Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O Lord, according to thy lovingkindness. Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever. (Ps 119:153-160 KJV)
ש Shin - Hope
Do we hate lying, love God’s ways and hope for His salvation?
Princes persecute me without cause, But my heart is in dread of Your words. I rejoice at Your word, As one who finds much spoil. I hate and abhor lying, But I love Your law. Seven times a day I praise You, Because of Your righteous judgments. Those who love Your law have much peace, And nothing causes them to stumble. I hope for Your salvation, O Yahweh, And I do Your commandments. My soul keeps Your testimonies, And I love them exceedingly. I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies, For all my ways are before You. (Ps 119:161-168 LSB)
ת Tav - Hear My Cry
Do we cry out to God in a corrupt world where many have been tempted to stray?
May my cry come before you, Lord; give me understanding according to your word. May my supplication come before you; deliver me according to your promise. May my lips overflow with praise, for you teach me your decrees. May my tongue sing of your word, for all your commands are righteous. May your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen your precepts. I long for your salvation, Lord, and your law gives me delight. Let me live that I may praise you, and may your laws sustain me. I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek your servant, for I have not forgotten your commands. (Ps 119:169-176 NIV)
Are we in a spiritual battle where the hope of salvation is part of our armor?
But since we are of the day, let’s be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. (1 Thess 5:8 NASB)
Do we cry out to God with our whole hearts? Do we love His word and hope in His salvation? You decide!
The Straight Path (Ps 119 Pt 6)
Do we love to walk the straight path of God’s teachings? Do we love what’s right? Let’s continue in Psalm 119.
ע Ayin - Walking Straight
Do we love and desire to walk in the straight path that God teaches us about?
I’ve done what is just and right. Don’t just hand me over to my oppressors. Guarantee good things for your servant. Please don’t let the arrogant oppress me. My eyes are worn out looking for your saving help—looking for your word that will set things right. Act toward your servant according to your faithful love. Teach me your statutes! I’m your servant! Help me understand so I can know your laws. It is time for the Lord to do something! Your Instruction has been broken. But I love your commandments more than gold, even more than pure gold. That’s why I walk straight by every single one of your precepts. That’s why I hate every false path. (Ps 119:121-128 CEB)
ף Pe - God’s Teachings
Do we desire that God teaches us more and more of His ways, wanting to know everything He teaches?
Your teachings are wonderful, and I respect them all. Understanding your word brings light to the minds of ordinary people. I honestly want to know everything you teach. Think about me and be kind, just as you are to everyone who loves your name. Keep your promise and don't let me stumble or let sin control my life. Protect me from abuse, so I can obey your laws. Smile on me, your servant, and teach me your laws. When anyone disobeys you, my eyes overflow with tears. (Ps 119:129-136 CEV)
ץ Tsadi - Right Rules
Do we love what is right and pursue it with zeal and delight?
Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules. You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness and in all faithfulness. My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words. Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is righteous forever, and your law is true. Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight. Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live. (Ps 119:137-144 ESV)
When asked by a Pharisee, which command in the law is the greatest, how did Jesus answer?
He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.” (Mat 22:37-40 HCSB)
Do we love to walk the straight path of God’s teachings? Do we love what’s right? You decide!
ע Ayin - Walking Straight
Do we love and desire to walk in the straight path that God teaches us about?
I’ve done what is just and right. Don’t just hand me over to my oppressors. Guarantee good things for your servant. Please don’t let the arrogant oppress me. My eyes are worn out looking for your saving help—looking for your word that will set things right. Act toward your servant according to your faithful love. Teach me your statutes! I’m your servant! Help me understand so I can know your laws. It is time for the Lord to do something! Your Instruction has been broken. But I love your commandments more than gold, even more than pure gold. That’s why I walk straight by every single one of your precepts. That’s why I hate every false path. (Ps 119:121-128 CEB)
ף Pe - God’s Teachings
Do we desire that God teaches us more and more of His ways, wanting to know everything He teaches?
Your teachings are wonderful, and I respect them all. Understanding your word brings light to the minds of ordinary people. I honestly want to know everything you teach. Think about me and be kind, just as you are to everyone who loves your name. Keep your promise and don't let me stumble or let sin control my life. Protect me from abuse, so I can obey your laws. Smile on me, your servant, and teach me your laws. When anyone disobeys you, my eyes overflow with tears. (Ps 119:129-136 CEV)
ץ Tsadi - Right Rules
Do we love what is right and pursue it with zeal and delight?
Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules. You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness and in all faithfulness. My zeal consumes me, because my foes forget your words. Your promise is well tried, and your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is righteous forever, and your law is true. Trouble and anguish have found me out, but your commandments are my delight. Your testimonies are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live. (Ps 119:137-144 ESV)
When asked by a Pharisee, which command in the law is the greatest, how did Jesus answer?
He said to him, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.” (Mat 22:37-40 HCSB)
Do we love to walk the straight path of God’s teachings? Do we love what’s right? You decide!
Meditate on the Light (Psalm 119 Part 5)
As we meditate on God’s word, do we let it light our path, giving us direction in life? Do we let that light shine in our lives? Let’s continue in Psalm 119.
ם Mem - Meditation
Do we understand the great difference between meditation that empties the mind and meditation that fills our mind with God’s word? What do we meditate on?
How I love Your Law! It is my meditation all the day. Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, For they are ever mine. I have more insight than all my teachers, For Your testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than those who are old, Because I have complied with Your precepts. I have restrained my feet from every evil way, So that I may keep Your word. I have not turned aside from Your judgments, For You Yourself have taught me. How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth! From Your precepts I get understanding; Therefore I hate every false way. (Ps 119:97-104 NASB)
׆ Nun - A Lamp
After meditation on God’s word, do we allow it to light the way forward in our lives?
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws. I have suffered much; preserve my life, Lord, according to your word. Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth, and teach me your laws. Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law. The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from your precepts. Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end. (Ps 119:105-112 NIV)
ס Samek - Single Minded
Rather than being double-minded, do we choose the direction God’s lamp lights up?
I hate the double-minded, But I love Your law. You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word. Depart from me, you evildoers, For I will keep the commandments of my God! Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope. Hold me up, and I shall be safe, And I shall observe Your statutes continually. You reject all those who stray from Your statutes, For their deceit is falsehood. You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross; Therefore I love Your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of You, And I am afraid of Your judgments. (Ps 119:113-120 NKJV)
Who is the ultimate light of the world that we should all follow?
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” (John 8:12 NLT)
If we follow that light, what do we become and how should we let that light in us shine?
You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can’t be hidden. Neither do you light a lamp and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. (Mat 5:14-15 WEB)
As we meditate on God’s word, do we let it light our path, giving us direction in life? Do we let that light shine in our lives? You decide!
ם Mem - Meditation
Do we understand the great difference between meditation that empties the mind and meditation that fills our mind with God’s word? What do we meditate on?
How I love Your Law! It is my meditation all the day. Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, For they are ever mine. I have more insight than all my teachers, For Your testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than those who are old, Because I have complied with Your precepts. I have restrained my feet from every evil way, So that I may keep Your word. I have not turned aside from Your judgments, For You Yourself have taught me. How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth! From Your precepts I get understanding; Therefore I hate every false way. (Ps 119:97-104 NASB)
׆ Nun - A Lamp
After meditation on God’s word, do we allow it to light the way forward in our lives?
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws. I have suffered much; preserve my life, Lord, according to your word. Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth, and teach me your laws. Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law. The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from your precepts. Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end. (Ps 119:105-112 NIV)
ס Samek - Single Minded
Rather than being double-minded, do we choose the direction God’s lamp lights up?
I hate the double-minded, But I love Your law. You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word. Depart from me, you evildoers, For I will keep the commandments of my God! Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope. Hold me up, and I shall be safe, And I shall observe Your statutes continually. You reject all those who stray from Your statutes, For their deceit is falsehood. You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross; Therefore I love Your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of You, And I am afraid of Your judgments. (Ps 119:113-120 NKJV)
Who is the ultimate light of the world that we should all follow?
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” (John 8:12 NLT)
If we follow that light, what do we become and how should we let that light in us shine?
You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can’t be hidden. Neither do you light a lamp and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. (Mat 5:14-15 WEB)
As we meditate on God’s word, do we let it light our path, giving us direction in life? Do we let that light shine in our lives? You decide!
Remember & Do (Ps 119 Pt 3)
Do we remember valuable lessons from God’s word and put them into practice? Are we grateful for God’s kindness? Let’s continue in Psalm 119.
ז Zayin - Remember His Word
Do we pray that God helps us remember His word? Does God’s word revive us?
Remember your word to your servant, because you gave me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, for your word has revived me. The arrogant mock me excessively, but I don’t swerve from your law. I remember your ordinances of old, Yahweh, and have comforted myself. Indignation has taken hold on me, because of the wicked who forsake your law. Your statutes have been my songs in the house where I live. I have remembered your name, Yahweh, in the night, and I obey your law. This is my way, that I keep your precepts. (Ps 119:49-56 WEB)
ח Het - Do His Word
Do we promise to do what God has said? Do we wholeheartedly seek His favor?
The Lord is my possession. I promise to do what you have said. I’ve sought your favor with all my heart; have mercy on me according to your word. I’ve considered my ways and turned my feet back to your laws. I hurry to keep your commandments—I never put it off! Though the wicked have surrounded me with their ropes, I haven’t forgotten your Instruction. I get up in the middle of the night to give thanks to you because of your righteous rules. I’m a friend to everyone who honors you and to all who keep your precepts. Lord, the world is full of your faithful love! Teach me your statutes! (Ps 119:57-64 CEB)
ט Tet - God’s Kindness
Do we give God our thanks and trust for all the good things He has done for us?
I am your servant, Lord, and you have kept your promise to treat me with kindness. Give me wisdom and good sense. I trust your commands. Once you corrected me for not obeying you, but now I do obey. You are kindhearted, and you do good things, so teach me your laws. My reputation is being ruined by conceited liars, but with all my heart I follow your teachings. Those liars have no sense, but I find happiness in your Law. When you corrected me, it did me good because it taught me to study your laws. I would rather obey you than to have a thousand pieces of silver and gold. (Ps 119:65-72 CEV)
If the old covenant is no longer our covenant, what valuable lessons can we learn from it?
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Tim 3:16-17 ESV)
Do we remember valuable lessons from God’s word and put them into practice? Are we grateful for God’s kindness? You decide!
ז Zayin - Remember His Word
Do we pray that God helps us remember His word? Does God’s word revive us?
Remember your word to your servant, because you gave me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, for your word has revived me. The arrogant mock me excessively, but I don’t swerve from your law. I remember your ordinances of old, Yahweh, and have comforted myself. Indignation has taken hold on me, because of the wicked who forsake your law. Your statutes have been my songs in the house where I live. I have remembered your name, Yahweh, in the night, and I obey your law. This is my way, that I keep your precepts. (Ps 119:49-56 WEB)
ח Het - Do His Word
Do we promise to do what God has said? Do we wholeheartedly seek His favor?
The Lord is my possession. I promise to do what you have said. I’ve sought your favor with all my heart; have mercy on me according to your word. I’ve considered my ways and turned my feet back to your laws. I hurry to keep your commandments—I never put it off! Though the wicked have surrounded me with their ropes, I haven’t forgotten your Instruction. I get up in the middle of the night to give thanks to you because of your righteous rules. I’m a friend to everyone who honors you and to all who keep your precepts. Lord, the world is full of your faithful love! Teach me your statutes! (Ps 119:57-64 CEB)
ט Tet - God’s Kindness
Do we give God our thanks and trust for all the good things He has done for us?
I am your servant, Lord, and you have kept your promise to treat me with kindness. Give me wisdom and good sense. I trust your commands. Once you corrected me for not obeying you, but now I do obey. You are kindhearted, and you do good things, so teach me your laws. My reputation is being ruined by conceited liars, but with all my heart I follow your teachings. Those liars have no sense, but I find happiness in your Law. When you corrected me, it did me good because it taught me to study your laws. I would rather obey you than to have a thousand pieces of silver and gold. (Ps 119:65-72 CEV)
If the old covenant is no longer our covenant, what valuable lessons can we learn from it?
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Tim 3:16-17 ESV)
Do we remember valuable lessons from God’s word and put them into practice? Are we grateful for God’s kindness? You decide!
Revival & Repentance (Ps 119 Pt 2)
Is there a need for revival and repentance in our lives? Why would we need God’s mercy? Let’s continue in Psalm 119.
ד Dalet - Revive Me
Do we personally need a revival of our spiritual life?
My soul clings to the dust; Revive me according to Your word. I have told of my ways, and You have answered me; Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts, And I will meditate on Your wonders. My soul weeps because of grief; Strengthen me according to Your word. Remove the false way from me, And graciously grant me Your Law. I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Your judgments before me. I cling to Your testimonies; Lord, do not put me to shame! I shall run the way of Your commandments, For You will enlarge my heart. (Ps 119:25-32 NASB)
ה He - Turn my Heart
How easily are we distracted by worthless things and need to ask God to turn our hearts?
Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared. Take away the disgrace I dread, for your laws are good. How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life. (Ps 119:33-40 NIV)
ו Vav - Your Mercies
Can we perfectly obey God, or do we need God’s mercy?
Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord—Your salvation according to Your word. So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, For I have hoped in Your ordinances. So shall I keep Your law continually, Forever and ever. And I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts. I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, And will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in Your commandments, Which I love. My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes. (Ps 119:41-48 NKJV)
If we can delight ourselves in God’s commandments, but the letter of the law is no longer required under the new covenant, what was one of its main purposes?
For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. (Rom 3:20 NLT)
Is there a need for revival and repentance in our lives? Why would we need God’s mercy? You decide!
ד Dalet - Revive Me
Do we personally need a revival of our spiritual life?
My soul clings to the dust; Revive me according to Your word. I have told of my ways, and You have answered me; Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts, And I will meditate on Your wonders. My soul weeps because of grief; Strengthen me according to Your word. Remove the false way from me, And graciously grant me Your Law. I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Your judgments before me. I cling to Your testimonies; Lord, do not put me to shame! I shall run the way of Your commandments, For You will enlarge my heart. (Ps 119:25-32 NASB)
ה He - Turn my Heart
How easily are we distracted by worthless things and need to ask God to turn our hearts?
Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared. Take away the disgrace I dread, for your laws are good. How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life. (Ps 119:33-40 NIV)
ו Vav - Your Mercies
Can we perfectly obey God, or do we need God’s mercy?
Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord—Your salvation according to Your word. So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, For I have hoped in Your ordinances. So shall I keep Your law continually, Forever and ever. And I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts. I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, And will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in Your commandments, Which I love. My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes. (Ps 119:41-48 NKJV)
If we can delight ourselves in God’s commandments, but the letter of the law is no longer required under the new covenant, what was one of its main purposes?
For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. (Rom 3:20 NLT)
Is there a need for revival and repentance in our lives? Why would we need God’s mercy? You decide!
Happy & Pure (Ps 119 Part 1)
Is pure living the happy way to live? Can God open our eyes to wondrous things in His word? Let’s begin in Psalm 119.
א Alef - The Happy Way
What is the way to happiness? What principles from the old covenant apply to the new covenant?
How happy are those whose way is blameless, who live according to the Lord’s instruction! Happy are those who keep His decrees and seek Him with all their heart. They do nothing wrong; they follow His ways. You have commanded that Your precepts be diligently kept. If only my ways were committed to keeping Your statutes! Then I would not be ashamed when I think about all Your commands. I will praise You with a sincere heart when I learn Your righteous judgments. I will keep Your statutes; never abandon me. (Ps 119:1-8 HCSB)
ב Bet - The Pure Way
What can we teach the young so that they can live a pure life?
How can a young man keep his behavior pure? By guarding it in accordance with your word. I have sought you with all of my heart; do not let me drift away from your commands. I have stored what you have said in my heart, so I won’t sin against you. Blessed are you, Lord! Teach me your statutes. I have spoken with my lips about all your decrees that you have announced. I find joy in the path of your decrees, as if I owned all kinds of riches. I will meditate on your precepts, and I will respect your ways. I am delighted with your statutes; I will not forget your word. (Ps 119:9-16 ISV)
ג Gimmel - Open My Eyes
In a world of deception, how can we have our eyes opened to the great truths of life?
Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors. (Ps 119:17-24 KJV)
Is God’s word the truth or does it just contain errors and ancient fables?
Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. (John 17:17 LSB)
Is pure living the happy way to live? Can God open our eyes to wondrous things in His word? You decide!
א Alef - The Happy Way
What is the way to happiness? What principles from the old covenant apply to the new covenant?
How happy are those whose way is blameless, who live according to the Lord’s instruction! Happy are those who keep His decrees and seek Him with all their heart. They do nothing wrong; they follow His ways. You have commanded that Your precepts be diligently kept. If only my ways were committed to keeping Your statutes! Then I would not be ashamed when I think about all Your commands. I will praise You with a sincere heart when I learn Your righteous judgments. I will keep Your statutes; never abandon me. (Ps 119:1-8 HCSB)
ב Bet - The Pure Way
What can we teach the young so that they can live a pure life?
How can a young man keep his behavior pure? By guarding it in accordance with your word. I have sought you with all of my heart; do not let me drift away from your commands. I have stored what you have said in my heart, so I won’t sin against you. Blessed are you, Lord! Teach me your statutes. I have spoken with my lips about all your decrees that you have announced. I find joy in the path of your decrees, as if I owned all kinds of riches. I will meditate on your precepts, and I will respect your ways. I am delighted with your statutes; I will not forget your word. (Ps 119:9-16 ISV)
ג Gimmel - Open My Eyes
In a world of deception, how can we have our eyes opened to the great truths of life?
Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors. (Ps 119:17-24 KJV)
Is God’s word the truth or does it just contain errors and ancient fables?
Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth. (John 17:17 LSB)
Is pure living the happy way to live? Can God open our eyes to wondrous things in His word? You decide!
His Love Endures Forever (Ps 118)
Do we reject the teachings of our Lord in favor of man-made traditions, or is the cornerstone set firmly in the foundation of our faith? Let’s begin in Psalm 118.
How long does God’s love endure? Are we thankful for it?
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let Israel say: “His love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say: “His love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say: “His love endures forever.” (Ps 118:1-4 NIV)
Do we call on God in distress or do we trust in national leaders more than God?
I called on the Lord in distress; The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? The Lord is for me among those who help me; Therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in princes. (Ps 118:5-9 NKJV)
Though we are faced with insurmountable threats, can God give us victory?
Though hostile nations surrounded me, I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. Yes, they surrounded and attacked me, but I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. They swarmed around me like bees; they blazed against me like a crackling fire. But I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. My enemies did their best to kill me, but the Lord rescued me. The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. (Ps 118:10-14 NLT)
Though God may punish us for our own good, will a righteous person still trust that we will live to declare God’s works?
The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous. “The right hand of Yahweh does valiantly. The right hand of Yahweh is exalted! The right hand of Yahweh does valiantly!” I will not die, but live, and declare Yah’s works. Yah has punished me severely, but he has not given me over to death. (Ps 118:15-18 WEB)
Is there a prophecy in these words? Who is the stone that would be rejected?
Open the gates of righteousness for me so I can come in and give thanks to the Lord! This is the Lord’s gate; those who are righteous enter through it. I thank you because you answered me, because you were my saving help. The stone rejected by the builders is now the main foundation stone! This has happened because of the Lord; it is astounding in our sight! This is the day the Lord acted; we will rejoice and celebrate in it! Lord, please save us! Lord, please let us succeed! (Ps 118:19-25 CEB )
Do we allow God to choose who comes in His name or do we recognize only human authority?
God bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord! We praise you from here in the house of the Lord. The Lord is our God, and he has given us light! Start the celebration! March with palm branches all the way to the altar. The Lord is my God! I will praise him and tell him how thankful I am. Tell the Lord how thankful you are, because he is kind and always merciful. (Ps 118:26-29 CEV)
Do our human institutions still reject the cornerstone in favor of traditions built by men? Do we blaspheme God by daring to call our man-made rules “sacred tradition?”
Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? (Mat 21:42 ESV)
Do we reject the teachings of our Lord in favor of man-made traditions, or is the cornerstone set firmly in the foundation of our faith? You decide!
How long does God’s love endure? Are we thankful for it?
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let Israel say: “His love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say: “His love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say: “His love endures forever.” (Ps 118:1-4 NIV)
Do we call on God in distress or do we trust in national leaders more than God?
I called on the Lord in distress; The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? The Lord is for me among those who help me; Therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me. It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord Than to put confidence in princes. (Ps 118:5-9 NKJV)
Though we are faced with insurmountable threats, can God give us victory?
Though hostile nations surrounded me, I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. Yes, they surrounded and attacked me, but I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. They swarmed around me like bees; they blazed against me like a crackling fire. But I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord. My enemies did their best to kill me, but the Lord rescued me. The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. (Ps 118:10-14 NLT)
Though God may punish us for our own good, will a righteous person still trust that we will live to declare God’s works?
The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous. “The right hand of Yahweh does valiantly. The right hand of Yahweh is exalted! The right hand of Yahweh does valiantly!” I will not die, but live, and declare Yah’s works. Yah has punished me severely, but he has not given me over to death. (Ps 118:15-18 WEB)
Is there a prophecy in these words? Who is the stone that would be rejected?
Open the gates of righteousness for me so I can come in and give thanks to the Lord! This is the Lord’s gate; those who are righteous enter through it. I thank you because you answered me, because you were my saving help. The stone rejected by the builders is now the main foundation stone! This has happened because of the Lord; it is astounding in our sight! This is the day the Lord acted; we will rejoice and celebrate in it! Lord, please save us! Lord, please let us succeed! (Ps 118:19-25 CEB )
Do we allow God to choose who comes in His name or do we recognize only human authority?
God bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord! We praise you from here in the house of the Lord. The Lord is our God, and he has given us light! Start the celebration! March with palm branches all the way to the altar. The Lord is my God! I will praise him and tell him how thankful I am. Tell the Lord how thankful you are, because he is kind and always merciful. (Ps 118:26-29 CEV)
Do our human institutions still reject the cornerstone in favor of traditions built by men? Do we blaspheme God by daring to call our man-made rules “sacred tradition?”
Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: “‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? (Mat 21:42 ESV)
Do we reject the teachings of our Lord in favor of man-made traditions, or is the cornerstone set firmly in the foundation of our faith? You decide!
Hallelujah (Ps 117)
What can we learn from the shortest chapter in the Bible? Let’s look at Psalm 117.
Does it begin and end with praise to God? Is it a universal call to all nations? Does it confirm God’s faithfulness for all eternity?
Praise the Lord, all you nations! Exalt him, all you peoples! For great is his gracious love toward us, and the Lord’s faithfulness is eternal. Hallelujah! (Ps 117:1-2 ISV)
Did the author of Romans also quote this Psalm regarding the gentiles or non-Jewish nations?
And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. (Romans 15:11 KJV)
Does this universal praise find fulfillment in the prophecies of Revelation?
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” (Rev 7:9-10 LSB)
Will this be the result of the church fulfilling Christ’s great commission given to the apostles? Were they to teach later church traditions or what Jesus commanded?
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (Mat 28:19-20 NASB)
What can we learn from the shortest chapter in the Bible? You decide!
Does it begin and end with praise to God? Is it a universal call to all nations? Does it confirm God’s faithfulness for all eternity?
Praise the Lord, all you nations! Exalt him, all you peoples! For great is his gracious love toward us, and the Lord’s faithfulness is eternal. Hallelujah! (Ps 117:1-2 ISV)
Did the author of Romans also quote this Psalm regarding the gentiles or non-Jewish nations?
And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. (Romans 15:11 KJV)
Does this universal praise find fulfillment in the prophecies of Revelation?
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” (Rev 7:9-10 LSB)
Will this be the result of the church fulfilling Christ’s great commission given to the apostles? Were they to teach later church traditions or what Jesus commanded?
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. (Mat 28:19-20 NASB)
What can we learn from the shortest chapter in the Bible? You decide!
Love the Lord (Ps 116)
Is prayer a conversation with someone that we have learned to love? Let’s look at Psalm 116.
Can a loving relationship with God exist throughout our lives?
I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. (Ps 116:1-2 NKJV)
Do we pray to God when we are in desperate circumstances?
Death wrapped its ropes around me; the terrors of the grave overtook me. I saw only trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Please, Lord, save me!” (Ps 116:3-4 NLT)
Is God merciful, preserving those who humbly rest in Him?
Yahweh is gracious and righteous. Yes, our God is merciful. Yahweh preserves the simple. I was brought low, and he saved me. Return to your rest, my soul, for Yahweh has dealt bountifully with you. (Ps 116:5-7 WEB)
Can God save us from even dire circumstances that sometimes come?
You, God, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, and my foot from stumbling, so I’ll walk before the Lord in the land of the living. I have remained faithful, even when I said, “I am suffering so badly!” even when I said, out of fear, “Everyone is a liar!” (Ps 116:8-11 CEB)
Do we rejoice in the cup of salvation in the presence of God’s people?
What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. (Ps 116:12-15 ESV)
Do we look around for those who are setting godly examples?
I worship you, Lord, just as my mother did, and you have rescued me from the chains of death. I will offer you a sacrifice to show how grateful I am, and I will pray. I will keep my promise to you when your people gather at your temple in Jerusalem. Shout praises to the Lord! (Ps 116:16-19 CEV)
What is our attitude towards prayer? Do we experience the peace of God?
Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7 HCSB)
Is prayer a conversation with someone that we have learned to love? You decide!
Can a loving relationship with God exist throughout our lives?
I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. (Ps 116:1-2 NKJV)
Do we pray to God when we are in desperate circumstances?
Death wrapped its ropes around me; the terrors of the grave overtook me. I saw only trouble and sorrow. Then I called on the name of the Lord: “Please, Lord, save me!” (Ps 116:3-4 NLT)
Is God merciful, preserving those who humbly rest in Him?
Yahweh is gracious and righteous. Yes, our God is merciful. Yahweh preserves the simple. I was brought low, and he saved me. Return to your rest, my soul, for Yahweh has dealt bountifully with you. (Ps 116:5-7 WEB)
Can God save us from even dire circumstances that sometimes come?
You, God, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, and my foot from stumbling, so I’ll walk before the Lord in the land of the living. I have remained faithful, even when I said, “I am suffering so badly!” even when I said, out of fear, “Everyone is a liar!” (Ps 116:8-11 CEB)
Do we rejoice in the cup of salvation in the presence of God’s people?
What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. (Ps 116:12-15 ESV)
Do we look around for those who are setting godly examples?
I worship you, Lord, just as my mother did, and you have rescued me from the chains of death. I will offer you a sacrifice to show how grateful I am, and I will pray. I will keep my promise to you when your people gather at your temple in Jerusalem. Shout praises to the Lord! (Ps 116:16-19 CEV)
What is our attitude towards prayer? Do we experience the peace of God?
Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil 4:6-7 HCSB)
Is prayer a conversation with someone that we have learned to love? You decide!
Trust in the Lord (Ps 115)
Can any of the things that we idolize in this world guarantee us life forever? Let’s look at Psalm 115.
Do we flatter ourselves, praise our nations, hail our accomplishments, and forget to give glory to God?
Not to us, Yahweh, not to us, but to Your name give glory because of Your faithful love, because of Your truth. Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Our God is in heaven and does whatever He pleases. (Ps 115:1-3 HCSB)
Do we worship the things made with human hands, materialism and technology that cannot give us eternal life?
Their idols are silver and gold, crafted by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak; they have eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear; they have noses, but cannot smell. They have hands, but cannot touch; feet, but cannot walk; they cannot even groan with their throats. Those who craft them will become like them, as will all those who trust in them. (Ps 115:4-8 ISV)
Do we trust fallible human leaders, science, and medicine more than our only real hope of eternal life, the Lord?
O Israel, trust thou in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. (Ps 115:9-11 KJV)
From whom do permanent, eternal blessings come, humanity or Yahweh, the Lord?
Yahweh remembered us; He will bless! He will bless the house of Israel. He will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless those who fear Yahweh, The small together with the great. May Yahweh give you increase, You and your children. May you be blessed of Yahweh, Who made heaven and earth. (Ps 115:12-15 LSB)
If the dead cannot praise the Lord, who will bless the Lord forever?
The heavens are the heavens of the Lord, But the earth He has given to the sons of mankind. The dead do not praise the Lord, Nor do any who go down into silence; But as for us, we will bless the Lord From this time and forever. Praise the Lord! (Ps 115:16-18 NASB)
Is anything that we could design anywhere close to the majesty of God?
Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. (Acts 17:29 NIV)
Can any of the things that we idolize in this world guarantee us life forever? You decide!
Do we flatter ourselves, praise our nations, hail our accomplishments, and forget to give glory to God?
Not to us, Yahweh, not to us, but to Your name give glory because of Your faithful love, because of Your truth. Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Our God is in heaven and does whatever He pleases. (Ps 115:1-3 HCSB)
Do we worship the things made with human hands, materialism and technology that cannot give us eternal life?
Their idols are silver and gold, crafted by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak; they have eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear; they have noses, but cannot smell. They have hands, but cannot touch; feet, but cannot walk; they cannot even groan with their throats. Those who craft them will become like them, as will all those who trust in them. (Ps 115:4-8 ISV)
Do we trust fallible human leaders, science, and medicine more than our only real hope of eternal life, the Lord?
O Israel, trust thou in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield. (Ps 115:9-11 KJV)
From whom do permanent, eternal blessings come, humanity or Yahweh, the Lord?
Yahweh remembered us; He will bless! He will bless the house of Israel. He will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless those who fear Yahweh, The small together with the great. May Yahweh give you increase, You and your children. May you be blessed of Yahweh, Who made heaven and earth. (Ps 115:12-15 LSB)
If the dead cannot praise the Lord, who will bless the Lord forever?
The heavens are the heavens of the Lord, But the earth He has given to the sons of mankind. The dead do not praise the Lord, Nor do any who go down into silence; But as for us, we will bless the Lord From this time and forever. Praise the Lord! (Ps 115:16-18 NASB)
Is anything that we could design anywhere close to the majesty of God?
Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. (Acts 17:29 NIV)
Can any of the things that we idolize in this world guarantee us life forever? You decide!
Exodus Praise (Ps 114)
Does the Exodus picture our exit from sin made possible by Jesus’ Exodus from this life on the cross and subsequent resurrection? Let’s look at Psalm 114.
In which tribe of Israel did God choose to place His sanctuary, His holy place?
When Israel went out of Egypt, The house of Jacob from a people of strange language, Judah became His sanctuary, And Israel His dominion. (Ps 114:1-2 NKJV)
Did the parting of the sea and river waters, and the earthquakes reveal God’s power?
The Red Sea saw them coming and hurried out of their way! The water of the Jordan River turned away. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs! What’s wrong, Red Sea, that made you hurry out of their way? What happened, Jordan River, that you turned away? Why, mountains, did you skip like rams? Why, hills, like lambs? (Ps 114:3-6 NLT)
What other miracles did God perform during the Exodus?
Tremble, you earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of waters. (Ps 114:7-8 WEB)
As the Exodus pictures our deliverance from slavery to sin, does water coming from the rock picture our Rock, Jesus?
On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and shouted, “All who are thirsty should come to me! All who believe in me should drink! As the scriptures said concerning me, Rivers of living water will flow out from within him.” Jesus said this concerning the Spirit. Those who believed in him would soon receive the Spirit, but they hadn’t experienced the Spirit yet since Jesus hadn’t yet been glorified. (John 7:37-39 CEB)
During His transfiguration chat with Moses and Elijah, did the Exodus also picture Jesus’ departure from this life on the cross?
They appeared in heavenly glory and talked about all that Jesus' death [Greek: Exodus] in Jerusalem would mean. (Luke 9:31 CEV)
What does the death and subsequent resurrection of Jesus mean for us?
For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. (Rom 5:10 ESV)
Does the Exodus picture our exit from sin made possible by Jesus’ Exodus from this life on the cross and subsequent resurrection? You decide!
In which tribe of Israel did God choose to place His sanctuary, His holy place?
When Israel went out of Egypt, The house of Jacob from a people of strange language, Judah became His sanctuary, And Israel His dominion. (Ps 114:1-2 NKJV)
Did the parting of the sea and river waters, and the earthquakes reveal God’s power?
The Red Sea saw them coming and hurried out of their way! The water of the Jordan River turned away. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs! What’s wrong, Red Sea, that made you hurry out of their way? What happened, Jordan River, that you turned away? Why, mountains, did you skip like rams? Why, hills, like lambs? (Ps 114:3-6 NLT)
What other miracles did God perform during the Exodus?
Tremble, you earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a spring of waters. (Ps 114:7-8 WEB)
As the Exodus pictures our deliverance from slavery to sin, does water coming from the rock picture our Rock, Jesus?
On the last and most important day of the festival, Jesus stood up and shouted, “All who are thirsty should come to me! All who believe in me should drink! As the scriptures said concerning me, Rivers of living water will flow out from within him.” Jesus said this concerning the Spirit. Those who believed in him would soon receive the Spirit, but they hadn’t experienced the Spirit yet since Jesus hadn’t yet been glorified. (John 7:37-39 CEB)
During His transfiguration chat with Moses and Elijah, did the Exodus also picture Jesus’ departure from this life on the cross?
They appeared in heavenly glory and talked about all that Jesus' death [Greek: Exodus] in Jerusalem would mean. (Luke 9:31 CEV)
What does the death and subsequent resurrection of Jesus mean for us?
For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. (Rom 5:10 ESV)
Does the Exodus picture our exit from sin made possible by Jesus’ Exodus from this life on the cross and subsequent resurrection? You decide!
Importance of Praise (Ps 113)
Do we mostly praise the world, its politics, its celebrities, its ways or God? Let’s look at Psalm 113.
What does it mean to praise God’s name? Does it refer to everything that He is and represents?
Hallelujah! Give praise, you servants of the Lord. Praise the name of the Lord! (Ps 113:1 ISV)
Does the mention of praising God’s name three times, possibly hint at including the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?
Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. (Ps 113:2-4 KJV)
Who in this world will care for the poor and needy like God does?
Who is like Yahweh our God, The One who sits on high, The One who brings Himself low to see The things in heaven and on the earth? Who raises the poor from the dust And lifts high the needy from the ash heap, To make them sit with nobles, With the nobles of His people. He makes the barren woman of the house sit As a glad mother of children. Praise Yah! (Ps 113:5-9 LSB)
Do the humble and child-like of heart often understand far more than intelligent, highly educated people?
At that very time He rejoiced greatly in the Holy Spirit, and said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for doing so was well pleasing in Your sight. (Luke 10:21 NASB)
Is praise a part of healthy, positive thinking that can bring us out of depression?
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Phil 4:8 NIV)
Do we mostly praise the world, its politics, its celebrities, its ways or God? You decide!
What does it mean to praise God’s name? Does it refer to everything that He is and represents?
Hallelujah! Give praise, you servants of the Lord. Praise the name of the Lord! (Ps 113:1 ISV)
Does the mention of praising God’s name three times, possibly hint at including the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?
Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens. (Ps 113:2-4 KJV)
Who in this world will care for the poor and needy like God does?
Who is like Yahweh our God, The One who sits on high, The One who brings Himself low to see The things in heaven and on the earth? Who raises the poor from the dust And lifts high the needy from the ash heap, To make them sit with nobles, With the nobles of His people. He makes the barren woman of the house sit As a glad mother of children. Praise Yah! (Ps 113:5-9 LSB)
Do the humble and child-like of heart often understand far more than intelligent, highly educated people?
At that very time He rejoiced greatly in the Holy Spirit, and said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for doing so was well pleasing in Your sight. (Luke 10:21 NASB)
Is praise a part of healthy, positive thinking that can bring us out of depression?
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Phil 4:8 NIV)
Do we mostly praise the world, its politics, its celebrities, its ways or God? You decide!
Givers & Takers (Ps 112)
How does generosity make our lives happy and selfishness make our lives miserable? Let’s look at Psalm 112.
Do we delight in obedience to God? Does the Spirit of the old testament commandments still apply to us?
Praise Yah [Halleluyah, Praise the Lord]! Blessed is the man who fears Yahweh, who delights greatly in his commandments. His offspring will be mighty in the land. The generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house. His righteousness endures forever. Light dawns in the darkness for the upright, gracious, merciful, and righteous. (Ps 112:1-4 WEB)
Are there two kinds of people in the world, givers and takers? What does generosity have to do with obedience to God? How does God bless righteous givers?
Those who lend generously are good people—as are those who conduct their affairs with justice. Yes, these sorts of people will never be shaken; the righteous will be remembered forever! They won’t be frightened at bad news. Their hearts are steady, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are firm; they aren’t afraid. In the end, they will witness their enemies’ defeat. They give freely to those in need. Their righteousness stands forever. Their strength increases gloriously. (Ps 112:5-9 CEB)
What is the result of the exact opposite, living a stingy, selfish life?
When evil people see this, they angrily bite their tongues and disappear. They will never get what they really want. (Ps 112:10 CEV)
What did Jesus say was the result of living a generous rather than selfish life?
In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 10:35 ESV)
Is there an automatic blessing from God that comes from giving?
Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over—will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38 HCSB)
How does generosity make our lives happy and selfishness make our lives miserable? You decide!
Do we delight in obedience to God? Does the Spirit of the old testament commandments still apply to us?
Praise Yah [Halleluyah, Praise the Lord]! Blessed is the man who fears Yahweh, who delights greatly in his commandments. His offspring will be mighty in the land. The generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in his house. His righteousness endures forever. Light dawns in the darkness for the upright, gracious, merciful, and righteous. (Ps 112:1-4 WEB)
Are there two kinds of people in the world, givers and takers? What does generosity have to do with obedience to God? How does God bless righteous givers?
Those who lend generously are good people—as are those who conduct their affairs with justice. Yes, these sorts of people will never be shaken; the righteous will be remembered forever! They won’t be frightened at bad news. Their hearts are steady, trusting in the Lord. Their hearts are firm; they aren’t afraid. In the end, they will witness their enemies’ defeat. They give freely to those in need. Their righteousness stands forever. Their strength increases gloriously. (Ps 112:5-9 CEB)
What is the result of the exact opposite, living a stingy, selfish life?
When evil people see this, they angrily bite their tongues and disappear. They will never get what they really want. (Ps 112:10 CEV)
What did Jesus say was the result of living a generous rather than selfish life?
In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 10:35 ESV)
Is there an automatic blessing from God that comes from giving?
Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over—will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38 HCSB)
How does generosity make our lives happy and selfishness make our lives miserable? You decide!
His Covenant (Ps 111)
If the old covenant was meant to be upheld forever and ever, what happened? Who broke the terms of the covenant? Let’s begin in Psalm 111.
Do we praise God with our whole hearts in our church assemblies?
Praise the Lord [Yah]! I will give thanks to the Lord [Yahweh] with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. (Ps 111:1 ESV)
Do we study the Lord’s works and delight in them, acknowledging how splendid they are?
The Lord’s works are great, studied by all who delight in them. All that He does is splendid and majestic; His righteousness endures forever. (Ps 111:2-3 HCSB)
Do we remember God’s wonderful works, His grace and compassion?
He is remembered for his awesome deeds; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. He prepares food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant. (Ps 111:4-5 ISV)
Has God given Israel a land that once belonged to child-sacrificing heathen? Was His judgment true justice?
He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen. The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure. (Ps 111:6-7 KJV)
Is the principle behind all God’s 613 commandments still valid?
They are upheld forever and ever; They are done in truth and uprightness. (Ps 111:8 LSB)
Was the old covenant made at Sinai intended to be eternal? Did it specify just ten or all 613 commandments of the old testament?
He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; Holy and awesome is His name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; All those who follow His commandments have a good understanding; His praise endures forever. (Ps 111:9-10 NASB)
Why was a new covenant necessary? Who broke the old covenant?
It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. (Jer 31:32 NIV)
How central is the new covenant to our Christian experience?
Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you. (Luke 22:20 NKJV)
Who was at fault in breaking the terms of the old covenant?
But when God found fault with the people, he said: “The day is coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. (Heb 8:8 NLT)
If the old covenant was meant to be upheld forever and ever, what happened? Who broke the terms of the covenant? You decide!
Do we praise God with our whole hearts in our church assemblies?
Praise the Lord [Yah]! I will give thanks to the Lord [Yahweh] with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. (Ps 111:1 ESV)
Do we study the Lord’s works and delight in them, acknowledging how splendid they are?
The Lord’s works are great, studied by all who delight in them. All that He does is splendid and majestic; His righteousness endures forever. (Ps 111:2-3 HCSB)
Do we remember God’s wonderful works, His grace and compassion?
He is remembered for his awesome deeds; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. He prepares food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant. (Ps 111:4-5 ISV)
Has God given Israel a land that once belonged to child-sacrificing heathen? Was His judgment true justice?
He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen. The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure. (Ps 111:6-7 KJV)
Is the principle behind all God’s 613 commandments still valid?
They are upheld forever and ever; They are done in truth and uprightness. (Ps 111:8 LSB)
Was the old covenant made at Sinai intended to be eternal? Did it specify just ten or all 613 commandments of the old testament?
He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever; Holy and awesome is His name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; All those who follow His commandments have a good understanding; His praise endures forever. (Ps 111:9-10 NASB)
Why was a new covenant necessary? Who broke the old covenant?
It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. (Jer 31:32 NIV)
How central is the new covenant to our Christian experience?
Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you. (Luke 22:20 NKJV)
Who was at fault in breaking the terms of the old covenant?
But when God found fault with the people, he said: “The day is coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. (Heb 8:8 NLT)
If the old covenant was meant to be upheld forever and ever, what happened? Who broke the terms of the covenant? You decide!
Yahweh said to Adonai (Ps 110)
Why is this Psalm quoted or alluded to over two dozen times in the New Testament? What special meaning about the Messiah is here? Let’s look at Psalm 110.
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
If Yahweh spoke to my Lord, who is He? Who sits at God the Father’s right hand and will rule over His enemies?
The Lord [Yahweh] said to my Lord [Adonai], “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” The Lord shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion. Rule in the midst of Your enemies! (Ps 110:1-2 NKJV Mat 22:44)
Who is a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek?
When you go to war, your people will serve you willingly. You are arrayed in holy garments, and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew. The Lord has taken an oath and will not break his vow: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” (Ps 110:3-4 NLT)
Who will crush kings on that day and judge nations and the ruler of the earth?
The Lord is at your right hand. He will crush kings in the day of his wrath. He will judge among the nations. He will heap up dead bodies. He will crush the ruler of the whole earth. He will drink of the brook on the way; therefore he will lift up his head. (Ps 110:5-7 WEB)
How did Jesus explain that this Psalm was about the Christ, the Messiah?
Now as the Pharisees were gathering, Jesus asked them, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” “David’s son,” they replied. He said, “Then how is it that David, inspired by the Holy Spirit, called him Lord when he said, The Lord said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right side until I turn your enemies into your footstool’? If David calls him Lord, how can he be David’s son?” Nobody was able to answer him. And from that day forward nobody dared to ask him anything. (Mat 22:41-46 CEB)
Why is this Psalm quoted or alluded to over two dozen times in the New Testament? What special meaning about the Messiah is here? You decide!
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
If Yahweh spoke to my Lord, who is He? Who sits at God the Father’s right hand and will rule over His enemies?
The Lord [Yahweh] said to my Lord [Adonai], “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” The Lord shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion. Rule in the midst of Your enemies! (Ps 110:1-2 NKJV Mat 22:44)
Who is a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek?
When you go to war, your people will serve you willingly. You are arrayed in holy garments, and your strength will be renewed each day like the morning dew. The Lord has taken an oath and will not break his vow: “You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” (Ps 110:3-4 NLT)
Who will crush kings on that day and judge nations and the ruler of the earth?
The Lord is at your right hand. He will crush kings in the day of his wrath. He will judge among the nations. He will heap up dead bodies. He will crush the ruler of the whole earth. He will drink of the brook on the way; therefore he will lift up his head. (Ps 110:5-7 WEB)
How did Jesus explain that this Psalm was about the Christ, the Messiah?
Now as the Pharisees were gathering, Jesus asked them, “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” “David’s son,” they replied. He said, “Then how is it that David, inspired by the Holy Spirit, called him Lord when he said, The Lord said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right side until I turn your enemies into your footstool’? If David calls him Lord, how can he be David’s son?” Nobody was able to answer him. And from that day forward nobody dared to ask him anything. (Mat 22:41-46 CEB)
Why is this Psalm quoted or alluded to over two dozen times in the New Testament? What special meaning about the Messiah is here? You decide!
Rescue (Ps 109)
Will God punish the enemies of His people and rescue the faithful? Let’s begin in Psalm 109.
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Do people ever gossip about us, tell lies, words of hate and attack us without cause?
Be not silent, O God of my praise! For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me, speaking against me with lying tongues. They encircle me with words of hate, and attack me without cause. In return for my love they accuse me, but I give myself to prayer. So they reward me evil for good, and hatred for my love. (Ps 109:1-5 ESV)
Do we ever wish that God would punish our enemies? Is that God’s justice to a lifestyle of hatred, unless people repent?
Set a wicked person over him; let an accuser stand at his right hand. When he is judged, let him be found guilty, and let his prayer be counted as sin. Let his days be few; let another take over his position. Let his children be fatherless and his wife a widow. Let his children wander as beggars, searching for food far from their demolished homes. Let a creditor seize all he has; let strangers plunder what he has worked for. Let no one show him kindness, and let no one be gracious to his fatherless children. Let the line of his descendants be cut off; let their name be blotted out in the next generation. Let his ancestors’ guilt be remembered before the Lord, and do not let his mother’s sin be blotted out. Let their sins always remain before the Lord, and let Him erase all memory of them from the earth. (Ps 109:6-15 HCSB)
Do wicked people act in love? What do they think about the poor and needy? Is a telltale sign their use of bad language?
For he didn’t think to extend gracious love; he harassed to death the poor, the needy, and the broken hearted. He loved to curse—may his curses return upon him! He took no delight in blessing others—so may blessings be far from him. He wore curses like a garment—may they enter his inner being like water and his bones like oil. May those curses wrap around him like a garment, or like a belt that one always wears. May this be the way the Lord repays my accuser, those who speak evil against me. (Ps 109:16-20 ISV)
Will God deliver the poor and needy, the wounded of heart?
But do thou for me, O God the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me. For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me. I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust. My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh faileth of fatness. I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads. (Ps 109:21-25 KJV)
Do we want God to save us in such a public way that He gets the glory for it?
Help me, O Yahweh my God; Save me according to Your lovingkindness. And let them know that this is Your hand; You, O Yahweh, have done it. Let them curse, but You bless; They arise and will be put to shame, But Your slave shall be glad. Let my accusers be clothed with dishonor, And let them wrap themselves with their own shame as with a robe. (Ps 109:26-29 LSB)
Do we publicly praise God when He saves us from those who would condemn us to death?
With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the Lord; And I will praise Him in the midst of many. For He stands at the right hand of the needy, To save him from those who judge [condemn] his soul. (Ps 109:30-31 NASB)
Does salvation include a rescue from those who hate us?
salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us—to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear (Luke 1:71-74 NIV)
Will God punish the enemies of His people and rescue the faithful? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Do people ever gossip about us, tell lies, words of hate and attack us without cause?
Be not silent, O God of my praise! For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me, speaking against me with lying tongues. They encircle me with words of hate, and attack me without cause. In return for my love they accuse me, but I give myself to prayer. So they reward me evil for good, and hatred for my love. (Ps 109:1-5 ESV)
Do we ever wish that God would punish our enemies? Is that God’s justice to a lifestyle of hatred, unless people repent?
Set a wicked person over him; let an accuser stand at his right hand. When he is judged, let him be found guilty, and let his prayer be counted as sin. Let his days be few; let another take over his position. Let his children be fatherless and his wife a widow. Let his children wander as beggars, searching for food far from their demolished homes. Let a creditor seize all he has; let strangers plunder what he has worked for. Let no one show him kindness, and let no one be gracious to his fatherless children. Let the line of his descendants be cut off; let their name be blotted out in the next generation. Let his ancestors’ guilt be remembered before the Lord, and do not let his mother’s sin be blotted out. Let their sins always remain before the Lord, and let Him erase all memory of them from the earth. (Ps 109:6-15 HCSB)
Do wicked people act in love? What do they think about the poor and needy? Is a telltale sign their use of bad language?
For he didn’t think to extend gracious love; he harassed to death the poor, the needy, and the broken hearted. He loved to curse—may his curses return upon him! He took no delight in blessing others—so may blessings be far from him. He wore curses like a garment—may they enter his inner being like water and his bones like oil. May those curses wrap around him like a garment, or like a belt that one always wears. May this be the way the Lord repays my accuser, those who speak evil against me. (Ps 109:16-20 ISV)
Will God deliver the poor and needy, the wounded of heart?
But do thou for me, O God the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me. For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me. I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the locust. My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh faileth of fatness. I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads. (Ps 109:21-25 KJV)
Do we want God to save us in such a public way that He gets the glory for it?
Help me, O Yahweh my God; Save me according to Your lovingkindness. And let them know that this is Your hand; You, O Yahweh, have done it. Let them curse, but You bless; They arise and will be put to shame, But Your slave shall be glad. Let my accusers be clothed with dishonor, And let them wrap themselves with their own shame as with a robe. (Ps 109:26-29 LSB)
Do we publicly praise God when He saves us from those who would condemn us to death?
With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the Lord; And I will praise Him in the midst of many. For He stands at the right hand of the needy, To save him from those who judge [condemn] his soul. (Ps 109:30-31 NASB)
Does salvation include a rescue from those who hate us?
salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us—to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear (Luke 1:71-74 NIV)
Will God punish the enemies of His people and rescue the faithful? You decide!
Battle Ready (Psalm 108)
If we are about to face a great battle, should singing praises to God be our first step? Let’s look at Psalm 108.
A Song. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Are we steadfast in singing praises to God among the nations?
O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory. Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples, And I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your mercy is great above the heavens, And Your truth reaches to the clouds. (Ps 108:1-4 NKJV)
Is God exalted above the highest heavens? Will He rescue His beloved people?
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth. Now rescue your beloved people. Answer and save us by your power. (Ps 108:5-6 NLT)
What does God say about Israel and the surrounding nations?
God has spoken from his sanctuary: “In triumph, I will divide Shechem, and measure out the valley of Succoth. Gilead is mine. Manasseh is mine. Ephraim also is my helmet. Judah is my scepter. Moab is my wash pot. I will toss my sandal on Edom. I will shout over Philistia.” (Ps 108:7-9 WEB)
Who alone is our true help in battle, guaranteeing victory?
I wish someone would bring me to a fortified city! I wish someone would lead me to Edom!” But you have rejected us, God, haven’t you? You, God, no longer accompany our armies. Give us help against the enemy—human help is worthless. With God we will triumph: God is the one who will trample our adversaries. (Ps 108:10-13 CEB)
Is thankfulness an important way to begin any prayer asking for God to protect us in battle?
Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel. (Phil 4:6-7 CEV)
If we are about to face a great battle, should singing praises to God be our first step? You decide!
A Song. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Are we steadfast in singing praises to God among the nations?
O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory. Awake, lute and harp! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples, And I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your mercy is great above the heavens, And Your truth reaches to the clouds. (Ps 108:1-4 NKJV)
Is God exalted above the highest heavens? Will He rescue His beloved people?
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth. Now rescue your beloved people. Answer and save us by your power. (Ps 108:5-6 NLT)
What does God say about Israel and the surrounding nations?
God has spoken from his sanctuary: “In triumph, I will divide Shechem, and measure out the valley of Succoth. Gilead is mine. Manasseh is mine. Ephraim also is my helmet. Judah is my scepter. Moab is my wash pot. I will toss my sandal on Edom. I will shout over Philistia.” (Ps 108:7-9 WEB)
Who alone is our true help in battle, guaranteeing victory?
I wish someone would bring me to a fortified city! I wish someone would lead me to Edom!” But you have rejected us, God, haven’t you? You, God, no longer accompany our armies. Give us help against the enemy—human help is worthless. With God we will triumph: God is the one who will trample our adversaries. (Ps 108:10-13 CEB)
Is thankfulness an important way to begin any prayer asking for God to protect us in battle?
Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel. (Phil 4:6-7 CEV)
If we are about to face a great battle, should singing praises to God be our first step? You decide!
Give Thanks (Psalm 107)
How often do we give thanks to God? Let’s begin in Psalm 107.
From what adversary has He ultimately redeemed us, an act returning a lost inheritance, such as Boaz did for Ruth through marriage?
Give thanks to Yahweh [the Lord], for he is good, for his loving kindness endures forever. Let the redeemed by Yahweh say so, whom he has redeemed from the hand of the adversary, and gathered out of the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south. (Ps 107:1-3 WEB)
Are we wandering in a spiritual desert wasteland looking for a home?
Some of the redeemed had wandered into the desert, into the wasteland. They couldn’t find their way to a city or town. They were hungry and thirsty; their lives were slipping away. So they cried out to the Lord in their distress, and God delivered them from their desperate circumstances. God led them straight to human habitation. Let them thank the Lord for his faithful love and his wondrous works for all people, because God satisfied the one who was parched with thirst, and he filled up the hungry with good things! (Ps 107:4-9 CEB)
Do we suffer in this world because of our own past sins? Can God rescue us?
Some of you were prisoners suffering in deepest darkness and bound by chains, because you had rebelled against God Most High and refused his advice. You were worn out from working like slaves, and no one came to help. You were in serious trouble, but you prayed to the Lord, and he rescued you. He brought you out of the deepest darkness and broke your chains. (Ps 107:10-14 CEV)
Do we thank the Lord for setting us free from the bondage to sin?
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! For he shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron. (Ps 107:15-16 ESV)
Do our own sins cause much of our suffering? Who alone can rescue us?
Fools suffered affliction because of their rebellious ways and their sins. They loathed all food and came near the gates of death. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble; He saved them from their distress. He sent His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His faithful love and His wonderful works for all humanity. Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and announce His works with shouts of joy. (Ps 107:17-22 HCSB)
Do those who go to sea witness the great power of God in the oceans and realize that prayer to God is their only resource?
Those who go down to the sea in ships, who work in the great waters, witnessed the works of the Lord—his awesome deeds in the ocean’s depth. He spoke and stirred up a windstorm that made its waves surge. The people ascended skyward and descended to the depths, their courage melting away in their peril. They reeled and staggered like a drunkard, as all their wisdom became useless. Yet when they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, the Lord brought them out of their distress. He calmed the storm and its waves quieted down. So they rejoiced that the waves became quiet, and he led them to their desired haven. (Ps 107:23-30 ISV)
How soon does it take us to praise the Lord, exalting Him over everything else?
Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. (Ps 107:31-32 KJV)
Who turns deserts, which were once a curse for sin, into fruitful land, a blessing?
He makes rivers into a wilderness And springs of water into a thirsty ground; A fruitful land into a salt waste, Because of the evil of those who inhabited it. He makes a wilderness into a pool of water And a dry land into springs of water; And there He causes the hungry to inhabit, So that they may establish an inhabited city, And sow fields and plant vineyards, And produce a fruitful harvest. Also He blesses them and they multiply greatly, And He does not let their cattle decrease. (Ps 107:33-38 LSB)
When God’s people are oppressed, does He have plans to rescue the poor from the contemptuous and greedy?
When they become few and lowly Because of oppression, misery, and sorrow, He pours contempt upon noblemen And makes them wander in a pathless wasteland. But He sets the needy securely on high, away from affliction, And makes his families like a flock. The upright see it and are glad; But all injustice shuts its mouth. Who is wise? He is to pay attention to these things, And consider the mercy of the Lord. (Ps 107:39-43 NASB)
How can we be saved from the troubles of this world for all eternity?
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. (Rom 10:9-10 NIV)
How often do we give thanks to God? You decide!
From what adversary has He ultimately redeemed us, an act returning a lost inheritance, such as Boaz did for Ruth through marriage?
Give thanks to Yahweh [the Lord], for he is good, for his loving kindness endures forever. Let the redeemed by Yahweh say so, whom he has redeemed from the hand of the adversary, and gathered out of the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south. (Ps 107:1-3 WEB)
Are we wandering in a spiritual desert wasteland looking for a home?
Some of the redeemed had wandered into the desert, into the wasteland. They couldn’t find their way to a city or town. They were hungry and thirsty; their lives were slipping away. So they cried out to the Lord in their distress, and God delivered them from their desperate circumstances. God led them straight to human habitation. Let them thank the Lord for his faithful love and his wondrous works for all people, because God satisfied the one who was parched with thirst, and he filled up the hungry with good things! (Ps 107:4-9 CEB)
Do we suffer in this world because of our own past sins? Can God rescue us?
Some of you were prisoners suffering in deepest darkness and bound by chains, because you had rebelled against God Most High and refused his advice. You were worn out from working like slaves, and no one came to help. You were in serious trouble, but you prayed to the Lord, and he rescued you. He brought you out of the deepest darkness and broke your chains. (Ps 107:10-14 CEV)
Do we thank the Lord for setting us free from the bondage to sin?
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! For he shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron. (Ps 107:15-16 ESV)
Do our own sins cause much of our suffering? Who alone can rescue us?
Fools suffered affliction because of their rebellious ways and their sins. They loathed all food and came near the gates of death. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble; He saved them from their distress. He sent His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His faithful love and His wonderful works for all humanity. Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and announce His works with shouts of joy. (Ps 107:17-22 HCSB)
Do those who go to sea witness the great power of God in the oceans and realize that prayer to God is their only resource?
Those who go down to the sea in ships, who work in the great waters, witnessed the works of the Lord—his awesome deeds in the ocean’s depth. He spoke and stirred up a windstorm that made its waves surge. The people ascended skyward and descended to the depths, their courage melting away in their peril. They reeled and staggered like a drunkard, as all their wisdom became useless. Yet when they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, the Lord brought them out of their distress. He calmed the storm and its waves quieted down. So they rejoiced that the waves became quiet, and he led them to their desired haven. (Ps 107:23-30 ISV)
How soon does it take us to praise the Lord, exalting Him over everything else?
Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. (Ps 107:31-32 KJV)
Who turns deserts, which were once a curse for sin, into fruitful land, a blessing?
He makes rivers into a wilderness And springs of water into a thirsty ground; A fruitful land into a salt waste, Because of the evil of those who inhabited it. He makes a wilderness into a pool of water And a dry land into springs of water; And there He causes the hungry to inhabit, So that they may establish an inhabited city, And sow fields and plant vineyards, And produce a fruitful harvest. Also He blesses them and they multiply greatly, And He does not let their cattle decrease. (Ps 107:33-38 LSB)
When God’s people are oppressed, does He have plans to rescue the poor from the contemptuous and greedy?
When they become few and lowly Because of oppression, misery, and sorrow, He pours contempt upon noblemen And makes them wander in a pathless wasteland. But He sets the needy securely on high, away from affliction, And makes his families like a flock. The upright see it and are glad; But all injustice shuts its mouth. Who is wise? He is to pay attention to these things, And consider the mercy of the Lord. (Ps 107:39-43 NASB)
How can we be saved from the troubles of this world for all eternity?
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. (Rom 10:9-10 NIV)
How often do we give thanks to God? You decide!
God's Mercy (Psalm 106)
Though we may stumble into sin, will God mercifully forgive us upon repentance? Let’s look at Psalm 106.
Can we get past empty words and truly praise the Lord? Is He good, merciful, and mighty?
Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? Who can declare all His praise? Blessed are those who keep justice, And he who does righteousness at all times! (Ps 106:1-3 NKJV)
Are we satisfied to be alone, or do we really want to share fellowship with other believers?
Remember me, Lord, when you show favor to your people; come near and rescue me. Let me share in the prosperity of your chosen ones. Let me rejoice in the joy of your people; let me praise you with those who are your heritage. (Ps 106:4-5 NLT)
Do we freely admit that we have all sinned, or do we live in a delusion of self-righteousness?
We have sinned with our fathers. We have committed iniquity. We have done wickedly. Our fathers didn’t understand your wonders in Egypt. They didn’t remember the multitude of your loving kindnesses, but were rebellious at the sea, even at the Red Sea. Nevertheless he saved them for his name’s sake, that he might make his mighty power known. He rebuked the Red Sea also, and it was dried up; so he led them through the depths, as through a desert. He saved them from the hand of him who hated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. The waters covered their adversaries. There was not one of them left. Then they believed his words. They sang his praise. (Ps 106:6-12 WEB)
Do we quickly forget our past sins and rush into making decisions without seeking the Lord’s guidance?
But how quickly they forgot what he had done! They wouldn’t wait for his advice. They were overcome with craving in the desert; they tested God in the wastelands. God gave them what they asked for; he sent food to satisfy their appetites. (Ps 106:13-15 CEB)
Are we jealous of someone else’s position in the church enough to rebel against God or are we humble and supportive?
Everyone in camp was jealous of Moses and of Aaron, your chosen priest. Dathan and Abiram rebelled, and the earth opened up and swallowed them. Then fire broke out and destroyed all of their followers. (Ps 106:16-18 CEV)
What in our churches could be an idol that we perhaps worship more than God?
They made a calf in Horeb and worshiped a metal image. They exchanged the glory of God for the image of an ox that eats grass. They forgot God, their Savior, who had done great things in Egypt, wondrous works in the land of Ham, and awesome deeds by the Red Sea. Therefore he said he would destroy them—had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him, to turn away his wrath from destroying them. (Ps 106:19-23 ESV)
How dangerous is it to want to go our own ways and despise what God is giving us as our inheritance?
They despised the pleasant land and did not believe His promise. They grumbled in their tents and did not listen to the Lord’s voice. So He raised His hand against them with an oath that He would make them fall in the desert and would disperse their descendants among the nations, scattering them throughout the lands. (Ps 106:24-27 HCSB)
How easy is it to worship something of this world rather than God? What are some examples in today’s world?
For they adopted the worship of Baal Peor and ate sacrifices offered to the dead. They had provoked anger by their deeds, so that a plague broke out against them. But Phinehas intervened and prayed so that the plague was restrained. And it was credited to him as a righteous act, from generation to generation—to eternity. (Ps 106:28-31 ISV)
What foolish actions could possibly make God angry at us today? What words have we possibly spoken unadvisedly?
They angered him also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes: Because they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips. (Ps 106:32-33 KJV)
Instead of eradicating cultural practices like sacrificing children and shedding innocent blood, what had Israel done? Have we also allowed perverse cultural practices to continue?
They did not destroy the peoples, As Yahweh commanded them, But they mingled with the nations And learned their works, And served their idols, Which became a snare to them. They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to the demons, And they shed innocent blood, The blood of their sons and their daughters, Whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan; And the land was polluted with the blood. Thus they became unclean in their works, And played the harlot in their actions. (Ps 106:34-39 LSB)
Was God angry with Israel for their idolatry and punished them for it?
Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against His people, And He loathed His inheritance. So He handed them over to the nations, And those who hated them ruled over them. Their enemies also oppressed them, And they were subdued under their power. Many times He would rescue them; They, however, were rebellious in their plan, And they sank down into their guilt. (Ps 106:40-43 NASB)
Even in punishment was God merciful? When we repent of sins, can we expect the same mercy from God?
Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented. He caused all who held them captive to show them mercy. Save us, Lord our God, and gather us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, “Amen!” Praise the Lord. (Ps 106:44-48 NIV)
What are we to learn from this history of Israel’s battles with sin?
Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. (1 Cor 10:6-11 NKJV)
Will God be just as merciful to us if we confess our sins?
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. (1 John 1:9 NLT)
Though we may stumble into sin, will God mercifully forgive us upon repentance? You decide!
Can we get past empty words and truly praise the Lord? Is He good, merciful, and mighty?
Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? Who can declare all His praise? Blessed are those who keep justice, And he who does righteousness at all times! (Ps 106:1-3 NKJV)
Are we satisfied to be alone, or do we really want to share fellowship with other believers?
Remember me, Lord, when you show favor to your people; come near and rescue me. Let me share in the prosperity of your chosen ones. Let me rejoice in the joy of your people; let me praise you with those who are your heritage. (Ps 106:4-5 NLT)
Do we freely admit that we have all sinned, or do we live in a delusion of self-righteousness?
We have sinned with our fathers. We have committed iniquity. We have done wickedly. Our fathers didn’t understand your wonders in Egypt. They didn’t remember the multitude of your loving kindnesses, but were rebellious at the sea, even at the Red Sea. Nevertheless he saved them for his name’s sake, that he might make his mighty power known. He rebuked the Red Sea also, and it was dried up; so he led them through the depths, as through a desert. He saved them from the hand of him who hated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. The waters covered their adversaries. There was not one of them left. Then they believed his words. They sang his praise. (Ps 106:6-12 WEB)
Do we quickly forget our past sins and rush into making decisions without seeking the Lord’s guidance?
But how quickly they forgot what he had done! They wouldn’t wait for his advice. They were overcome with craving in the desert; they tested God in the wastelands. God gave them what they asked for; he sent food to satisfy their appetites. (Ps 106:13-15 CEB)
Are we jealous of someone else’s position in the church enough to rebel against God or are we humble and supportive?
Everyone in camp was jealous of Moses and of Aaron, your chosen priest. Dathan and Abiram rebelled, and the earth opened up and swallowed them. Then fire broke out and destroyed all of their followers. (Ps 106:16-18 CEV)
What in our churches could be an idol that we perhaps worship more than God?
They made a calf in Horeb and worshiped a metal image. They exchanged the glory of God for the image of an ox that eats grass. They forgot God, their Savior, who had done great things in Egypt, wondrous works in the land of Ham, and awesome deeds by the Red Sea. Therefore he said he would destroy them—had not Moses, his chosen one, stood in the breach before him, to turn away his wrath from destroying them. (Ps 106:19-23 ESV)
How dangerous is it to want to go our own ways and despise what God is giving us as our inheritance?
They despised the pleasant land and did not believe His promise. They grumbled in their tents and did not listen to the Lord’s voice. So He raised His hand against them with an oath that He would make them fall in the desert and would disperse their descendants among the nations, scattering them throughout the lands. (Ps 106:24-27 HCSB)
How easy is it to worship something of this world rather than God? What are some examples in today’s world?
For they adopted the worship of Baal Peor and ate sacrifices offered to the dead. They had provoked anger by their deeds, so that a plague broke out against them. But Phinehas intervened and prayed so that the plague was restrained. And it was credited to him as a righteous act, from generation to generation—to eternity. (Ps 106:28-31 ISV)
What foolish actions could possibly make God angry at us today? What words have we possibly spoken unadvisedly?
They angered him also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes: Because they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips. (Ps 106:32-33 KJV)
Instead of eradicating cultural practices like sacrificing children and shedding innocent blood, what had Israel done? Have we also allowed perverse cultural practices to continue?
They did not destroy the peoples, As Yahweh commanded them, But they mingled with the nations And learned their works, And served their idols, Which became a snare to them. They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to the demons, And they shed innocent blood, The blood of their sons and their daughters, Whom they sacrificed to the idols of Canaan; And the land was polluted with the blood. Thus they became unclean in their works, And played the harlot in their actions. (Ps 106:34-39 LSB)
Was God angry with Israel for their idolatry and punished them for it?
Therefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against His people, And He loathed His inheritance. So He handed them over to the nations, And those who hated them ruled over them. Their enemies also oppressed them, And they were subdued under their power. Many times He would rescue them; They, however, were rebellious in their plan, And they sank down into their guilt. (Ps 106:40-43 NASB)
Even in punishment was God merciful? When we repent of sins, can we expect the same mercy from God?
Yet he took note of their distress when he heard their cry; for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented. He caused all who held them captive to show them mercy. Save us, Lord our God, and gather us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, “Amen!” Praise the Lord. (Ps 106:44-48 NIV)
What are we to learn from this history of Israel’s battles with sin?
Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. (1 Cor 10:6-11 NKJV)
Will God be just as merciful to us if we confess our sins?
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. (1 John 1:9 NLT)
Though we may stumble into sin, will God mercifully forgive us upon repentance? You decide!
A Heavenly Land (Psalm 105)
Are we patiently faithful, waiting for a heavenly land of promise in eternity? Let’s begin in Psalm 105.
To whom do we give the greatest thanks? Do we discuss only worldly concerns or also tell of all His marvelous works?
Give thanks to Yahweh! Call on his name! Make his doings known among the peoples. Sing to him, sing praises to him! Tell of all his marvelous works. Glory in his holy name. Let the heart of those who seek Yahweh rejoice. Seek Yahweh and his strength. Seek his face forever more. Remember his marvelous works that he has done: his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth, you offspring of Abraham, his servant, you children of Jacob, his chosen ones. (Ps 105:1-6 WEB)
Who is our God, money, power, materialism or the Lord? How important is the covenant with Abraham?
The Lord—he is our God. His justice is everywhere throughout the whole world. God remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded to a thousand generations, which he made with Abraham, the solemn pledge he swore to Isaac. God set it up as binding law for Jacob, as an eternal covenant for Israel, promising, “I hereby give you the land of Canaan as your allotted inheritance.” (Ps 105:7-11 CEB)
Though we may often be small in number, as the members of Abraham’s family once were, is God with us?
At the time there were only a few of us, and we were homeless. We wandered from nation to nation, from one country to another. God did not let anyone mistreat our people. Instead he protected us by punishing rulers and telling them, “Don't touch my chosen leaders or harm my prophets!” (Ps 105:12-15 CEV)
Even in hard times like a famine, can God use our difficulties to bless us long term?
When he summoned a famine on the land and broke all supply of bread, he had sent a man ahead of them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave. His feet were hurt with fetters; his neck was put in a collar of iron; (Ps 105:16-18 ESV)
Was Joseph’s story from slave to ruler an encouragement as to how suddenly God can change our lives?
The king sent for him and released him; the ruler of peoples set him free. He made him master of his household, ruler over all his possessions—binding his officials at will and instructing his elders. (Ps 105:20-22 HCSB)
Did God have a purpose in Israel’s sojourn in Egypt, revealing Himself again in miracles?
Then Israel came to Egypt; indeed, Jacob lived in the land of Ham. He caused his people to multiply greatly; and be more numerous than their enemies. He caused them to hate his people and to deceive his servants. He sent his servant Moses, along with Aaron, whom he had chosen. They performed his signs among them, his wonders in the land of Ham. (Ps 105:23-27 ISV)
What were some of those miracles that God performed in Egypt to free Israel?
He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word. He turned their waters into blood, and slew their fish. Their land brought forth frogs in abundance, in the chambers of their kings. He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, and lice in all their coasts. (Ps 105:28-31 KJV)
What other miracles did God perform in Egypt to force them to free Israel?
He gave them hail for rain, And flaming fire in their land. He also struck down their vines and their fig trees, And He shattered the trees of their territory. He spoke, and locusts came, And creeping locusts, without number, And they ate up all vegetation in their land, And they ate up the fruit of their ground. He also struck down all the firstborn in their land, The first of all their vigor. (Ps 105:32-36 LSB)
What great blessings did Israel experience as they exited slavery? How can this picture the blessing of repentance and salvation for us today?
Then He brought the Israelites out with silver and gold, And among His tribes there was not one who stumbled. Egypt was glad when they departed, For the dread of them had fallen upon the Egyptians. He spread out a cloud as a covering, And fire to illumine by night. They asked, and He brought quail, And satisfied them with the bread of heaven. He opened the rock and water flowed out; It ran in the dry places like a river. For He remembered His holy word With His servant Abraham; And He led out His people with joy, His chosen ones with a joyful shout. He also gave them the lands of the nations, So that they might take possession of the fruit of the peoples’ labor, And that they might keep His statutes And comply with His laws; Praise the Lord! (Ps 105:37-45 NASB)
Are we like the patriarchs who died before the land was given, waiting patiently for a promise of a better country in eternity?
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. (Heb 11:13-16 NIV)
Are we patiently faithful, waiting for a heavenly land of promise in eternity? You decide!
To whom do we give the greatest thanks? Do we discuss only worldly concerns or also tell of all His marvelous works?
Give thanks to Yahweh! Call on his name! Make his doings known among the peoples. Sing to him, sing praises to him! Tell of all his marvelous works. Glory in his holy name. Let the heart of those who seek Yahweh rejoice. Seek Yahweh and his strength. Seek his face forever more. Remember his marvelous works that he has done: his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth, you offspring of Abraham, his servant, you children of Jacob, his chosen ones. (Ps 105:1-6 WEB)
Who is our God, money, power, materialism or the Lord? How important is the covenant with Abraham?
The Lord—he is our God. His justice is everywhere throughout the whole world. God remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded to a thousand generations, which he made with Abraham, the solemn pledge he swore to Isaac. God set it up as binding law for Jacob, as an eternal covenant for Israel, promising, “I hereby give you the land of Canaan as your allotted inheritance.” (Ps 105:7-11 CEB)
Though we may often be small in number, as the members of Abraham’s family once were, is God with us?
At the time there were only a few of us, and we were homeless. We wandered from nation to nation, from one country to another. God did not let anyone mistreat our people. Instead he protected us by punishing rulers and telling them, “Don't touch my chosen leaders or harm my prophets!” (Ps 105:12-15 CEV)
Even in hard times like a famine, can God use our difficulties to bless us long term?
When he summoned a famine on the land and broke all supply of bread, he had sent a man ahead of them, Joseph, who was sold as a slave. His feet were hurt with fetters; his neck was put in a collar of iron; (Ps 105:16-18 ESV)
Was Joseph’s story from slave to ruler an encouragement as to how suddenly God can change our lives?
The king sent for him and released him; the ruler of peoples set him free. He made him master of his household, ruler over all his possessions—binding his officials at will and instructing his elders. (Ps 105:20-22 HCSB)
Did God have a purpose in Israel’s sojourn in Egypt, revealing Himself again in miracles?
Then Israel came to Egypt; indeed, Jacob lived in the land of Ham. He caused his people to multiply greatly; and be more numerous than their enemies. He caused them to hate his people and to deceive his servants. He sent his servant Moses, along with Aaron, whom he had chosen. They performed his signs among them, his wonders in the land of Ham. (Ps 105:23-27 ISV)
What were some of those miracles that God performed in Egypt to free Israel?
He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word. He turned their waters into blood, and slew their fish. Their land brought forth frogs in abundance, in the chambers of their kings. He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, and lice in all their coasts. (Ps 105:28-31 KJV)
What other miracles did God perform in Egypt to force them to free Israel?
He gave them hail for rain, And flaming fire in their land. He also struck down their vines and their fig trees, And He shattered the trees of their territory. He spoke, and locusts came, And creeping locusts, without number, And they ate up all vegetation in their land, And they ate up the fruit of their ground. He also struck down all the firstborn in their land, The first of all their vigor. (Ps 105:32-36 LSB)
What great blessings did Israel experience as they exited slavery? How can this picture the blessing of repentance and salvation for us today?
Then He brought the Israelites out with silver and gold, And among His tribes there was not one who stumbled. Egypt was glad when they departed, For the dread of them had fallen upon the Egyptians. He spread out a cloud as a covering, And fire to illumine by night. They asked, and He brought quail, And satisfied them with the bread of heaven. He opened the rock and water flowed out; It ran in the dry places like a river. For He remembered His holy word With His servant Abraham; And He led out His people with joy, His chosen ones with a joyful shout. He also gave them the lands of the nations, So that they might take possession of the fruit of the peoples’ labor, And that they might keep His statutes And comply with His laws; Praise the Lord! (Ps 105:37-45 NASB)
Are we like the patriarchs who died before the land was given, waiting patiently for a promise of a better country in eternity?
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. (Heb 11:13-16 NIV)
Are we patiently faithful, waiting for a heavenly land of promise in eternity? You decide!
Creation (Psalm 104)
Do so many incredibly precise details about the world around us point to a remarkably powerful and intelligent designer and creator of it all? Let’s look at Psalm 104.
Do we bless the Lord with our whole being? Is God’s grandeur beyond our ability to comprehend?
Let my whole being bless the Lord! Lord my God, how fantastic you are! You are clothed in glory and grandeur! You wear light like a robe; you open the skies like a curtain. You build your lofty house on the waters; you make the clouds your chariot, going around on the wings of the wind. You make the winds your messengers; you make fire and flame your ministers. (Ps 104:1-4 CEB)
Who designed and built the earth, the oceans, and the mountains?
You built foundations for the earth, and it will never be shaken. You covered the earth with the ocean that rose above the mountains. Then your voice thundered! And the water flowed down the mountains and through the valleys to the place you prepared. Now you have set boundaries, so that the water will never flood the earth again. (Ps 104:5-9 CEV)
Who designed and built the springs, beasts of the field and birds?
You make springs gush forth in the valleys; they flow between the hills; they give drink to every beast of the field; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell; they sing among the branches. From your lofty abode you water the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. (Ps 104:10-13 ESV)
Who designed and built the grass for livestock, crops for food, wine to make a man’s heart glad and bread for sustenance?
He causes grass to grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate, producing food from the earth, wine that makes man’s heart glad—making his face shine with oil—and bread that sustains man’s heart. (Ps 104:14-15 HCSB)
Who designed perfect habitations for the cedar, birds, wild goats and hyrax?
The loftiest trees are satisfied, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted, the birds build their nests there, and the heron builds its nest among the evergreen. The high mountains are for wild goats; the cliffs are a refuge for the rock badger. (Ps 104:16-18 ISV)
Who appointed the lunar month, the seasons, day and night?
He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens. Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening. (Ps 104:19-23 KJV)
How many details of God’s creation can we possibly even fathom?
How numerous are Your works, O Yahweh! In wisdom You have made them all; The earth is full of Your possessions. This is the sea, great and broad, There the creeping things are without number, Creatures both small and great. There the ships move along, And Leviathan [a sea creature], which You have formed to play in it. (Ps 104:24-26 LSB)
Has God through a perfect creation provided food for all His creatures?
They all wait for You To give them their food in due season. You give to them, they gather it up; You open Your hand, they are satisfied with good. You hide Your face, they are terrified; You take away their breath, they perish And return to their dust. You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; And You renew the face of the ground. (Ps 104:27-30 NASB)
Do we rejoice in the glory of God seen in His creation, the incredible design?
May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works—he who looks at the earth, and it trembles, who touches the mountains, and they smoke. (Ps 104:31-32 NIV)
Do we sing to the Lord? Do we sing His praises? Do we think about God often?
I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. May my meditation be sweet to Him; I will be glad in the Lord. May sinners be consumed from the earth, And the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, O my soul! Praise the Lord! (Ps 104:33-35 NKJV)
Does Hebrews quote this Psalm in reference to the holy angels?
Regarding the angels, he says, “He sends his angels like the winds, his servants like flames of fire.” (Heb 1:7 NLT)
Do so many incredibly precise details about the world around us point to a remarkably powerful and intelligent designer and creator of it all? You decide!
Do we bless the Lord with our whole being? Is God’s grandeur beyond our ability to comprehend?
Let my whole being bless the Lord! Lord my God, how fantastic you are! You are clothed in glory and grandeur! You wear light like a robe; you open the skies like a curtain. You build your lofty house on the waters; you make the clouds your chariot, going around on the wings of the wind. You make the winds your messengers; you make fire and flame your ministers. (Ps 104:1-4 CEB)
Who designed and built the earth, the oceans, and the mountains?
You built foundations for the earth, and it will never be shaken. You covered the earth with the ocean that rose above the mountains. Then your voice thundered! And the water flowed down the mountains and through the valleys to the place you prepared. Now you have set boundaries, so that the water will never flood the earth again. (Ps 104:5-9 CEV)
Who designed and built the springs, beasts of the field and birds?
You make springs gush forth in the valleys; they flow between the hills; they give drink to every beast of the field; the wild donkeys quench their thirst. Beside them the birds of the heavens dwell; they sing among the branches. From your lofty abode you water the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. (Ps 104:10-13 ESV)
Who designed and built the grass for livestock, crops for food, wine to make a man’s heart glad and bread for sustenance?
He causes grass to grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate, producing food from the earth, wine that makes man’s heart glad—making his face shine with oil—and bread that sustains man’s heart. (Ps 104:14-15 HCSB)
Who designed perfect habitations for the cedar, birds, wild goats and hyrax?
The loftiest trees are satisfied, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted, the birds build their nests there, and the heron builds its nest among the evergreen. The high mountains are for wild goats; the cliffs are a refuge for the rock badger. (Ps 104:16-18 ISV)
Who appointed the lunar month, the seasons, day and night?
He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens. Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening. (Ps 104:19-23 KJV)
How many details of God’s creation can we possibly even fathom?
How numerous are Your works, O Yahweh! In wisdom You have made them all; The earth is full of Your possessions. This is the sea, great and broad, There the creeping things are without number, Creatures both small and great. There the ships move along, And Leviathan [a sea creature], which You have formed to play in it. (Ps 104:24-26 LSB)
Has God through a perfect creation provided food for all His creatures?
They all wait for You To give them their food in due season. You give to them, they gather it up; You open Your hand, they are satisfied with good. You hide Your face, they are terrified; You take away their breath, they perish And return to their dust. You send forth Your Spirit, they are created; And You renew the face of the ground. (Ps 104:27-30 NASB)
Do we rejoice in the glory of God seen in His creation, the incredible design?
May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works—he who looks at the earth, and it trembles, who touches the mountains, and they smoke. (Ps 104:31-32 NIV)
Do we sing to the Lord? Do we sing His praises? Do we think about God often?
I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. May my meditation be sweet to Him; I will be glad in the Lord. May sinners be consumed from the earth, And the wicked be no more. Bless the Lord, O my soul! Praise the Lord! (Ps 104:33-35 NKJV)
Does Hebrews quote this Psalm in reference to the holy angels?
Regarding the angels, he says, “He sends his angels like the winds, his servants like flames of fire.” (Heb 1:7 NLT)
Do so many incredibly precise details about the world around us point to a remarkably powerful and intelligent designer and creator of it all? You decide!
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