Psalm 6 David prays:
For God to hold back His anger, ( not to hold back the rebuke or the chastening. )
For God to be gracious... David is "pining away", "greatly dismayed", and in need of rescue.
For God to save him because of His lovingkindness.
David is humble enough to recognize that he needs God's rebuke and chastening. That sin had a grip on him and he needed deliverance. He appealed to God's love and mercy, for God's salvation and grace. This is the first step in finding the healing we desperately need.
"But Thou O Lord, - how long?" The darkness closes us in sometimes. We can't stop our crying.
We are sick of it - like David, we say, "I am weary of my sighing".
We must lift up our eyes, like David, "For the Lord has heard the voice of my weeping; The Lord has heard my supplication; The Lord receives my prayer." This is TRUTH. Even when we can't see anything happening - we can KNOW that God hears and God sees... and most of all God cares!
"For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night but a shout of joy comes in the morning."
The enemy will be ashamed and dismayed. He will turn back. Victory belongs to our God.
Take refuge in Him alone. He sits on His throne and judges with righteousness. His "compassions fail not"! Believe it!
Father, sometimes it seems that You are not listening, but that is not the truth. Sometimes You are waiting on us to call to You in truth! You do hear the cries of those who know Your Name. You are "near to all who call upon" You, to all who call upon You in truth. " The Lord is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds." ( Psalm 145:17) We can trust in You with all our hearts and know that You will lead us in Your direction. It is difficult sometimes, we are weak and weary.... but O Lord, You are majestic! You are powerful and glorious. You are noble and gallant and excellent in all Your ways. Take us as we are, deliver us from all evil, and lead us in truth as we wait upon You.
In the wonderful Name of Jesus we come,
Amen
Friday, May 30, 2014
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Psalm 7 David pleads with God to help him stand against the enemy. Verses 1-2 are a simple prayer of deliverance from the pursuer of his soul. "Lest he tear my soul like a lion, dragging me away, while there is none to deliver." Peter echoes this in his letter ( I Peter 5:8) " Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary the devil prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."
David recognizes that this adversary is often times within us... " O Lord my God, if I have done this, if there is injustice in my hands, if I have rewarded evil to my friend, or have plundered him who without cause is my adversary, let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it; and let him trample my life down to the ground, and lay my glory in the dust."
David recognizes that this adversary is often times within us... " O Lord my God, if I have done this, if there is injustice in my hands, if I have rewarded evil to my friend, or have plundered him who without cause is my adversary, let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it; and let him trample my life down to the ground, and lay my glory in the dust."
Yes, David had many enemies on the outside, but his concern here emphasizes the enemy that is within his own soul. He seeks vindication from God. He seeks righteousness and justice in his own life as well as in the world around him. In true humility he makes this plea to the Lord . Hear his prayer, a great prayer that we also need to lift up to the Judge of heaven and earth:
" O let the evil of the wicked come to an end, but establish the righteous;" ( verse 9)
Father in Heaven, Righteous Judge who tries the hearts and minds, who saves the upright in heart, this is our prayer. Let wickedness come to and end and establish righteousness in us... in me.
Let wickedness come to an end in Your church and in Your creation. Establish righteousness in our community and in our country. The lion who seeks to devour us is vicious and persistent. By Your power may we resist him, standing firm in the our faith. Father, we cast all our anxiety upon You because You care for us. We know that You are the God of grace and You have called us to Your eternal glory in Jesus Christ and that You will "perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish" us. (I Peter 5:10" And like David, we take refuge in You. We give thanks to You. We sing praises to "the name of the Lord Most High." We put our trust in Your lovingkindness and rejoice in Your salvation.
Amen
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Psalm 8 "O Lord, our Lord, How majestic is Thy name in all the earth." Lord - Master, Ruler, King, Sovereign God - Your Name is powerful and glorious, mighty and worthy. May we speak it with hushed and humbled hearts... may we always honor Your Name and never profane it. You have "displayed Thy splendor above the heavens". Your creation in the sky above and on the earth below is meant to reveal Your glory.
The beauty of the moon and stars. The power of the wind and waves. The vastness of the oceans and the wonder of the mountain ranges, show us Your majesty. You have a love of beauty and have created a world full of magnificent works to display it for all to see.
"What is man that Thou dost take thought of him? And the son of man that Thou dost care for him?"
You made us in Your own image. You have given us a position of stewardship over all Your works here on earth. You have provided life and worth and glory for ... us.
How amazing! How divine!
Father in Heaven, how can it be? That You have chosen to reveal Yourself to us? That You have planned and willed for us to know You, the majestic One, the King of Heaven and earth.
How glorious You are in all the earth. How majestic is Your Name.
Lead us in Your paths of righteousness, for Your Name's sake. Deliver us from evil. Open our eyes to see You in the beauty of Your creation and in the wonder of Your Word.
Thank You for qualifying us to share in this wonder-filled inheritance of the saints in Your Kingdom.
Thank You for removing us from the dominion of darkness and transferring us into the Kingdom of Your Son, Who died to redeem us.
Bless Your Name! Praise and honor and glory to Your holy Name.
Amen .
The beauty of the moon and stars. The power of the wind and waves. The vastness of the oceans and the wonder of the mountain ranges, show us Your majesty. You have a love of beauty and have created a world full of magnificent works to display it for all to see.
"What is man that Thou dost take thought of him? And the son of man that Thou dost care for him?"
You made us in Your own image. You have given us a position of stewardship over all Your works here on earth. You have provided life and worth and glory for ... us.
How amazing! How divine!
Father in Heaven, how can it be? That You have chosen to reveal Yourself to us? That You have planned and willed for us to know You, the majestic One, the King of Heaven and earth.
How glorious You are in all the earth. How majestic is Your Name.
Lead us in Your paths of righteousness, for Your Name's sake. Deliver us from evil. Open our eyes to see You in the beauty of Your creation and in the wonder of Your Word.
Thank You for qualifying us to share in this wonder-filled inheritance of the saints in Your Kingdom.
Thank You for removing us from the dominion of darkness and transferring us into the Kingdom of Your Son, Who died to redeem us.
Bless Your Name! Praise and honor and glory to Your holy Name.
Amen .
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Psalm 9 Let Your Kingdom come, Lord! This psalm reminds me and encourages me to pray this specific request.... For when God's Kingdom comes we are able to sing with David, "I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart; I will tell of His wonders. I will be glad and exult in Thee."
( v1-2)
When the Lord reigns, the enemy turns back, stumbles and perishes.
The Lord maintains just causes.
The Lord judges righteously.
He rebukes nations.
He destroys wickedness.
The enemy is ruined and even the memory of him perishes.
"But the Lord abides forever;
He established His throne for judgement,
And He will judge the world in righteousness;
He will execute judgement for the peoples with equity."
This is the King of Heaven and this is what He does.
He is a refuge for the oppressed.
He is a stronghold, a place of safety in times of trouble.
"And those who know Thy name will put their trust in Thee. For Thou, O Lord, has not forsaken those who seek Thee." (v10)
Our King is to be praised and exalted. Sing to Him! Talk of His deeds!
He has not forgotten us!
He is gracious.
"The Lord has made Himself known; He has executed judgement. In the work of His own hands the wicked is snared."
This is what the Kingdom is all about... the wicked removed and the needy remembered. The afflicted given hope and the haughty put in fear and reminded that they are "but men".. not God.
Father, let Your kingdom come in my life. Remove every rebellious and wicked place in my heart.. Remove anything that conflicts with Your perfect righteousness. Fill me with Your Spirit.
And lead me in Your ways. Let Your kingdom come in our family and in our nation.. in our world.
We need You King of Heaven.
Amen
( v1-2)
When the Lord reigns, the enemy turns back, stumbles and perishes.
The Lord maintains just causes.
The Lord judges righteously.
He rebukes nations.
He destroys wickedness.
The enemy is ruined and even the memory of him perishes.
"But the Lord abides forever;
He established His throne for judgement,
And He will judge the world in righteousness;
He will execute judgement for the peoples with equity."
This is the King of Heaven and this is what He does.
He is a refuge for the oppressed.
He is a stronghold, a place of safety in times of trouble.
"And those who know Thy name will put their trust in Thee. For Thou, O Lord, has not forsaken those who seek Thee." (v10)
Our King is to be praised and exalted. Sing to Him! Talk of His deeds!
He has not forgotten us!
He is gracious.
"The Lord has made Himself known; He has executed judgement. In the work of His own hands the wicked is snared."
This is what the Kingdom is all about... the wicked removed and the needy remembered. The afflicted given hope and the haughty put in fear and reminded that they are "but men".. not God.
Father, let Your kingdom come in my life. Remove every rebellious and wicked place in my heart.. Remove anything that conflicts with Your perfect righteousness. Fill me with Your Spirit.
And lead me in Your ways. Let Your kingdom come in our family and in our nation.. in our world.
We need You King of Heaven.
Amen
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Psalm 10 Here is a sound description of the "wicked".
They are full of pride.
They harass and pursue their prey.
They boast of their lusts.
They are greedy.
They curse God.
They are haughty.
They refuse to acknowledge that there is a God.
They prosper. ( Unfortunately that is the bottom line.)
They believe they are above judgement.
They curse and lie and oppress.
They speak only mischief and wickedness.
They secretly kill the innocent.
They watch in wait for the unfortunate.
They are like a lion, a wild beast. They hide in wait to catch their prey. They crouch down and attack.
They convince themselves that God won't see what they are doing.
They spurn God, telling themselves that God won't require them to pay for their sins.
We see them on the news. Television shows depict them intricately. We know they walk our streets and we lock our doors because they are everywhere. But do we pray?
"Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up Thy hand." The psalmist prays.
Don't forget us!
Break the arm of the wicked.
Purge out the wickedness.
You are King forever, Lord!
Nations perish before You!
Hear us as we come humbly before You.
Strengthen our hearts.
Vindicate the orphan and the oppressed.
Stop the terror.
Here is a prayer right from God's inspired Word that we need to pray right now:
Lord God, King forever, break the arms of the terrorists in Nigeria! Vindicate those young girls being held captive.
Stop the terror! Lift up Your Hand, Almighty God! You are in Your holy temple. You are seated on the Throne of heaven. Rain down fire upon those who are doing this wickedness. Come Lord Jesus!
Come!
Father in heaven. We face a different kind of wickedness here in our country. Moral depravity is overtaking us. They lie to themselves, believing that You are not real or that You are real but You don't care about their sins. They don't see the judgement to come. They have deceived themselves and are deceiving others. Break the arms of the wicked, Lord. Purge out this wickedness. Hear our cries, Lord of Heaven. Let Your Name be proclaimed as Holy once again. Let Your Kingdom come. Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Strengthen our hearts.
O Horn of our Salvation, victory is Yours. Come and reign over us.
Father, their is pride in our hearts. We boast in our heart's desires too. We are greedy. We sin. Purge the wickedness from our hearts too, Lord. Deliver us from all evil, especially the evil in our own hearts. Thank You for saving us. For redeeming us and blotting out our transgressions with the blood of Jesus Christ our Lord. King of Heaven, fill us with the knowledge of Your will and compel us to walk in Your ways. We can't do this on our own. But we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. So we come in His Name, humbly making this plea.
Amen.
They are full of pride.
They harass and pursue their prey.
They boast of their lusts.
They are greedy.
They curse God.
They are haughty.
They refuse to acknowledge that there is a God.
They prosper. ( Unfortunately that is the bottom line.)
They believe they are above judgement.
They curse and lie and oppress.
They speak only mischief and wickedness.
They secretly kill the innocent.
They watch in wait for the unfortunate.
They are like a lion, a wild beast. They hide in wait to catch their prey. They crouch down and attack.
They convince themselves that God won't see what they are doing.
They spurn God, telling themselves that God won't require them to pay for their sins.
We see them on the news. Television shows depict them intricately. We know they walk our streets and we lock our doors because they are everywhere. But do we pray?
"Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up Thy hand." The psalmist prays.
Don't forget us!
Break the arm of the wicked.
Purge out the wickedness.
You are King forever, Lord!
Nations perish before You!
Hear us as we come humbly before You.
Strengthen our hearts.
Vindicate the orphan and the oppressed.
Stop the terror.
Here is a prayer right from God's inspired Word that we need to pray right now:
Lord God, King forever, break the arms of the terrorists in Nigeria! Vindicate those young girls being held captive.
Stop the terror! Lift up Your Hand, Almighty God! You are in Your holy temple. You are seated on the Throne of heaven. Rain down fire upon those who are doing this wickedness. Come Lord Jesus!
Come!
Father in heaven. We face a different kind of wickedness here in our country. Moral depravity is overtaking us. They lie to themselves, believing that You are not real or that You are real but You don't care about their sins. They don't see the judgement to come. They have deceived themselves and are deceiving others. Break the arms of the wicked, Lord. Purge out this wickedness. Hear our cries, Lord of Heaven. Let Your Name be proclaimed as Holy once again. Let Your Kingdom come. Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Strengthen our hearts.
O Horn of our Salvation, victory is Yours. Come and reign over us.
Father, their is pride in our hearts. We boast in our heart's desires too. We are greedy. We sin. Purge the wickedness from our hearts too, Lord. Deliver us from all evil, especially the evil in our own hearts. Thank You for saving us. For redeeming us and blotting out our transgressions with the blood of Jesus Christ our Lord. King of Heaven, fill us with the knowledge of Your will and compel us to walk in Your ways. We can't do this on our own. But we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. So we come in His Name, humbly making this plea.
Amen.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Psalm 11-12
The songs of David help us to remember that God is forever Sovereign. No matter how bad things seem in this world.. God is in control. David faced the same realities that we do... the wicked, those who refuse to bow before God, are fierce and dangerous and awful, they:
Take up their bows and arrows and aim right at the heart of the believers. ( 11:2-3)
Try to destroy the foundations on which we stand. (v3)
Speak falsehood to each other, flatter each other, boast of their own power. ( 12:2-4)
Strut around like they are in charge and exalt what is actually vile in God's sight. (v8)
Like David we need to look to the Lord.
We can take refuge in Him. He is a place of protection and security. ( 11:1)
We can rejoice that "The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord's throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men. " (v4)
He will judge the wicked and He will rain down fire and brimstone on them. ( v6)
He will allow only those who are upright to behold His Face. ( v7)
He will set us in a safe place. (v5)
He will speak perfectly pure Words that are forever preserved. (v6-7) All His promises are TRUE!
It seems like every nation in this world has begun to take up their bows and arrows against the Christians. It is not logical. It is not reasonable. It makes no sense politically. Christians keep the law. Christians do good works. Christians are honest, kind, just, fair. They make the best kind of citizens. ( True Christians.. not those who use the name but don't know Jesus). Yet, they are the target of persecution and intolerance. Even here in America. Those with wickedness in their hearts cannot stand those who live in the Light of God's Truth. They work hard do destroy the church. They try to discredit the Bible. They try to accuse the Christians of doing wrong. They have flooded the culture with their lies.
But God sees.
He is on the Throne of Heaven.
He will judge the unrighteous. They will face His cup of wrath.
But, He also tests the righteous. We must cling to Him. We must find refuge in Him and stand against the schemes of the evil one.
We must put on the full armor of God so that we might be "strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might." ( Ephesians 6:10)
" For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." v12
The belt of Truth will keep us from falling for the lies of the enemy.
The breastplate of righteousness will keep us from allowing sin to have a place in our hearts.
The shoes of peace keep us standing firm, ready to share the good news of Jesus.
The shield of faith extinguishes the flaming bombs that Satan throws at us.
The helmet of salvation protects our minds from doubting the power of God to save us.
The sword of the Spirit, God's Word, cuts through the darkness and exposes the Light.
Prayer - constant communication with our Captain - is essential!
Be alert - pray!
Persevere - pray!
Petition for all the Christians - pray!
Pray for boldness. Pray for strength. Pray for victory in Jesus!
Mighty King of Heaven, You are our gracious Father, and we honor Your Holy Name. We bow before You and surrender the throne of our hearts to You. You alone are King.
We turn to You and put all of our hope in You, our refuge and strength.
We cling to You and ask that You will cover us with Your wings.
That You will equip us with Your armor and make us to stand firm in Christ Jesus the Lord.
We are weak but You are strong! Will You strengthen us "with all power according to Your glorious might" that we may endure, that we may be patient. Fill us again with Your Holy Spirit. Fill us with the knowledge of Your will. We joyfully give You thanks for bringing us into Your kingdom. Lead us today, we pray.
We ask this in the Name of Jesus,
Amen.
The songs of David help us to remember that God is forever Sovereign. No matter how bad things seem in this world.. God is in control. David faced the same realities that we do... the wicked, those who refuse to bow before God, are fierce and dangerous and awful, they:
Take up their bows and arrows and aim right at the heart of the believers. ( 11:2-3)
Try to destroy the foundations on which we stand. (v3)
Speak falsehood to each other, flatter each other, boast of their own power. ( 12:2-4)
Strut around like they are in charge and exalt what is actually vile in God's sight. (v8)
Like David we need to look to the Lord.
We can take refuge in Him. He is a place of protection and security. ( 11:1)
We can rejoice that "The Lord is in His holy temple; the Lord's throne is in heaven; His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men. " (v4)
He will judge the wicked and He will rain down fire and brimstone on them. ( v6)
He will allow only those who are upright to behold His Face. ( v7)
He will set us in a safe place. (v5)
He will speak perfectly pure Words that are forever preserved. (v6-7) All His promises are TRUE!
It seems like every nation in this world has begun to take up their bows and arrows against the Christians. It is not logical. It is not reasonable. It makes no sense politically. Christians keep the law. Christians do good works. Christians are honest, kind, just, fair. They make the best kind of citizens. ( True Christians.. not those who use the name but don't know Jesus). Yet, they are the target of persecution and intolerance. Even here in America. Those with wickedness in their hearts cannot stand those who live in the Light of God's Truth. They work hard do destroy the church. They try to discredit the Bible. They try to accuse the Christians of doing wrong. They have flooded the culture with their lies.
But God sees.
He is on the Throne of Heaven.
He will judge the unrighteous. They will face His cup of wrath.
But, He also tests the righteous. We must cling to Him. We must find refuge in Him and stand against the schemes of the evil one.
We must put on the full armor of God so that we might be "strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might." ( Ephesians 6:10)
" For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." v12
The belt of Truth will keep us from falling for the lies of the enemy.
The breastplate of righteousness will keep us from allowing sin to have a place in our hearts.
The shoes of peace keep us standing firm, ready to share the good news of Jesus.
The shield of faith extinguishes the flaming bombs that Satan throws at us.
The helmet of salvation protects our minds from doubting the power of God to save us.
The sword of the Spirit, God's Word, cuts through the darkness and exposes the Light.
Prayer - constant communication with our Captain - is essential!
Be alert - pray!
Persevere - pray!
Petition for all the Christians - pray!
Pray for boldness. Pray for strength. Pray for victory in Jesus!
Mighty King of Heaven, You are our gracious Father, and we honor Your Holy Name. We bow before You and surrender the throne of our hearts to You. You alone are King.
We turn to You and put all of our hope in You, our refuge and strength.
We cling to You and ask that You will cover us with Your wings.
That You will equip us with Your armor and make us to stand firm in Christ Jesus the Lord.
We are weak but You are strong! Will You strengthen us "with all power according to Your glorious might" that we may endure, that we may be patient. Fill us again with Your Holy Spirit. Fill us with the knowledge of Your will. We joyfully give You thanks for bringing us into Your kingdom. Lead us today, we pray.
We ask this in the Name of Jesus,
Amen.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Psalm 13 Does the Lord forget us? NO! Never! But sometimes it feels like that, doesn't it? David thought so too. It seems that the Lord is hiding, that the enemy is winning, that hope is gone....
But when those times come, let's pray the prayer that David prayed:
"Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; Enlighten my eyes...." ( v3) Open my eyes, Lord.. I need to know You are here! That You care!
David received the assurance that he needed. He says, " I have trusted in Thy lovingkindness.
My heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me. "
Teach us to trust in Your love and mercy, Lord! To rejoice because we know that the enemy will be defeated and that You will bring about bountiful blessings to us.
Your lovingkindness is better than LIFE! ( Psalm 63:3).
Your lovingkindness is GOOD! ( Psalm 69:16)
You are great in lovingkindness! ( Psalm 145:8)
Jeremiah 9:23-24 " Thus says the Lord, 'Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,' declares the Lord."
Our God wants us to know the things He delights in the most - His lovingkindness. His justice. His righteousness. David learned to trust God in these things. We need to learn this also.
Father, sometimes doubts assail us. The enemy wants us to forget that You are kind. That You are good. That You are just and righteous. The enemy wants us to think You are in hiding or that You don't hear our prayers. But those thoughts are lies! Deliver us from this evil, Lord! Lead us into the Truth. Open our eyes to see You...just like You did for David. We can trust You for Your lovingkindness is unlimited and unending! You see us in our struggles and in our doubts and You bring us back to faith! You are always good and always just and always righteous! We exalt and praise You. We will bless Your Name forever and ever! Amen.
But when those times come, let's pray the prayer that David prayed:
"Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; Enlighten my eyes...." ( v3) Open my eyes, Lord.. I need to know You are here! That You care!
David received the assurance that he needed. He says, " I have trusted in Thy lovingkindness.
My heart shall rejoice in Thy salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me. "
Teach us to trust in Your love and mercy, Lord! To rejoice because we know that the enemy will be defeated and that You will bring about bountiful blessings to us.
Your lovingkindness is better than LIFE! ( Psalm 63:3).
Your lovingkindness is GOOD! ( Psalm 69:16)
You are great in lovingkindness! ( Psalm 145:8)
Jeremiah 9:23-24 " Thus says the Lord, 'Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,' declares the Lord."
Our God wants us to know the things He delights in the most - His lovingkindness. His justice. His righteousness. David learned to trust God in these things. We need to learn this also.
Father, sometimes doubts assail us. The enemy wants us to forget that You are kind. That You are good. That You are just and righteous. The enemy wants us to think You are in hiding or that You don't hear our prayers. But those thoughts are lies! Deliver us from this evil, Lord! Lead us into the Truth. Open our eyes to see You...just like You did for David. We can trust You for Your lovingkindness is unlimited and unending! You see us in our struggles and in our doubts and You bring us back to faith! You are always good and always just and always righteous! We exalt and praise You. We will bless Your Name forever and ever! Amen.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Psalm 14 is in stark contrast to Psalm 15. This one describes the "fool" while the next describes the one who has become a citizen of the Kingdom of God. We all start out in this kingdom of fools...under the dominion of darkness.
We are corrupt.
We commit abominable deeds.
We do no good.
We have no understanding.
We don't seek God.
We have turned aside from His ways.
We are workers of wickedness. Whether we know it or not.
Until the day when the King of Glory shines His light into our hearts!
Until we recognize our own poverty of spirit, our own corruption.
Until we call upon the Lord.
Until we find refuge in Him.
"Oh that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion! When the Lord restores His captive people,
Jacob will rejoice, Israel will be glad." ( verse 7)
Yet when He did come, the True Light, " which coming into the world enlightens every man.... He was in the world and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him." ( John 1:9-10) They didn't receive Him. They chose to remain in their darkness. They remained fools.
Things have not changed much in this spiritual battle waged through the ages. Darkness is still veiling many hearts and minds. Our own nation is allowing the words of fools to keep the lost under the dominion of darkness. "The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God'".
If there is no God, then corruption is explained away as personal choice.
If there is no God, then abominable deeds are not judged to be evil.
If there is no God, then why choose good? Why worry about understanding?
Why turn from wickedness?
Without God there is nothing but darkness.
Praise You God of Light and Truth and Hope! For You are the Lord, the King of Glory! You have sent Your Son, the "salvation of Israel" out of Zion. He not only restores Israel, but He brings His Light to all the world. To all who call upon His Name! "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His Name." ( John 1:12)
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." ( John 1:14)
You have not given up on us yet, Lord. You are building Your church, Your Kingdom. Many are hearing the Name of Jesus and receiving Him, believing in His Name. The captives are being set free from the dominion of darkness! Thank You Lord! May we make the most of every opportunity to tell others the good news! There is a God! And He has come to save us!!!
Amen and Hallelujah!!!
We are corrupt.
We commit abominable deeds.
We do no good.
We have no understanding.
We don't seek God.
We have turned aside from His ways.
We are workers of wickedness. Whether we know it or not.
Until the day when the King of Glory shines His light into our hearts!
Until we recognize our own poverty of spirit, our own corruption.
Until we call upon the Lord.
Until we find refuge in Him.
"Oh that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion! When the Lord restores His captive people,
Jacob will rejoice, Israel will be glad." ( verse 7)
Yet when He did come, the True Light, " which coming into the world enlightens every man.... He was in the world and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him." ( John 1:9-10) They didn't receive Him. They chose to remain in their darkness. They remained fools.
Things have not changed much in this spiritual battle waged through the ages. Darkness is still veiling many hearts and minds. Our own nation is allowing the words of fools to keep the lost under the dominion of darkness. "The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God'".
If there is no God, then corruption is explained away as personal choice.
If there is no God, then abominable deeds are not judged to be evil.
If there is no God, then why choose good? Why worry about understanding?
Why turn from wickedness?
Without God there is nothing but darkness.
Praise You God of Light and Truth and Hope! For You are the Lord, the King of Glory! You have sent Your Son, the "salvation of Israel" out of Zion. He not only restores Israel, but He brings His Light to all the world. To all who call upon His Name! "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His Name." ( John 1:12)
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." ( John 1:14)
You have not given up on us yet, Lord. You are building Your church, Your Kingdom. Many are hearing the Name of Jesus and receiving Him, believing in His Name. The captives are being set free from the dominion of darkness! Thank You Lord! May we make the most of every opportunity to tell others the good news! There is a God! And He has come to save us!!!
Amen and Hallelujah!!!
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Psalm 15 - " Description of a Citizen of Zion" is the title given to this psalm of David.
" O Lord, who may abide in Thy tent? Who may dwell on Thy holy hill?" Who can live in the Presence of the Holy One?
Think of Moses on Mount Sinai - ( Exodus 19) The mountain is covered with smoke as the Lord descended in fire. The whole mountain trembled. The sound was like trumpets, growing louder and louder. Moses was sent to warn the people to not even touch the foot of the mountain. The people heard thunder and saw lightning flashes. It was so frightening that they thought they would die and begged Moses to intercede between them and the Lord.
Think of Isaiah's vision ( chapter 6) - He saw the Lord sitting on a throne. He saw seraphim around the throne calling out "Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts..." He saw the foundations tremble and the temple filled with smoke. He cried out, "Woe is me, for I am ruined."
To be in the presence of Almighty God.. is not something that we can do casually or without preparation. The unrighteous will not see God, we are told in the Word.
We come only because we have been "sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." ( Hebrews 10:10). Because of His offering we are forgiven and ".. therefore, brethren, we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus." ( v19)
Because of Jesus, we can abide in the Lord's tent and dwell on His holy hill.
Because of Jesus we can walk with integrity and work righteousness.
Because of Jesus we can speak truth in our hearts.
He removes slander from our tongues, reproach from our hearts and evil towards others from out actions.
He makes us see the reprobate clearly, so that we will not be deceived.
He enables us to give honor to His holy ones.
He gives us courage to commit to honesty, even if it hurts us.
He shows us how to be just and merciful.
He leads us away from the temptation to make money from harming others.
He makes us immovable and steadfast in our faith.
Because of Jesus we have a "new and living way" to enter the Holy place. So, "let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering for He who promised is faithful. and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together... but encouraging on another..." ( Heb. 10:22-25)
Father in heaven, You sit on the Throne. Holy, holy, holy are You! O the privilege of entering Your presence through Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. O how marvelous that His offering has made a way for us to be made clean and pure. We draw near to You, Father, because we have put our faith in Him. We have hope because of Jesus Christ the Son. Thank You. We know that we cannot come on our own merits, but only through the blessed Son. We come in His Name, by His power, to offer our praise and thanksgiving. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit that we might continue to walk in Your ways. Fill us with the knowledge of Your will that we might walk in a manner worthy of You. With integrity and righteousness, truth and kindness. May we turn from the vile and honor the holy ones.
May we do justice and love mercy. May we walk this day with You, humbly trusting in You for all our needs.
Amen.
" O Lord, who may abide in Thy tent? Who may dwell on Thy holy hill?" Who can live in the Presence of the Holy One?
Think of Moses on Mount Sinai - ( Exodus 19) The mountain is covered with smoke as the Lord descended in fire. The whole mountain trembled. The sound was like trumpets, growing louder and louder. Moses was sent to warn the people to not even touch the foot of the mountain. The people heard thunder and saw lightning flashes. It was so frightening that they thought they would die and begged Moses to intercede between them and the Lord.
Think of Isaiah's vision ( chapter 6) - He saw the Lord sitting on a throne. He saw seraphim around the throne calling out "Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts..." He saw the foundations tremble and the temple filled with smoke. He cried out, "Woe is me, for I am ruined."
To be in the presence of Almighty God.. is not something that we can do casually or without preparation. The unrighteous will not see God, we are told in the Word.
We come only because we have been "sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." ( Hebrews 10:10). Because of His offering we are forgiven and ".. therefore, brethren, we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus." ( v19)
Because of Jesus, we can abide in the Lord's tent and dwell on His holy hill.
Because of Jesus we can walk with integrity and work righteousness.
Because of Jesus we can speak truth in our hearts.
He removes slander from our tongues, reproach from our hearts and evil towards others from out actions.
He makes us see the reprobate clearly, so that we will not be deceived.
He enables us to give honor to His holy ones.
He gives us courage to commit to honesty, even if it hurts us.
He shows us how to be just and merciful.
He leads us away from the temptation to make money from harming others.
He makes us immovable and steadfast in our faith.
Because of Jesus we have a "new and living way" to enter the Holy place. So, "let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering for He who promised is faithful. and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together... but encouraging on another..." ( Heb. 10:22-25)
Father in heaven, You sit on the Throne. Holy, holy, holy are You! O the privilege of entering Your presence through Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. O how marvelous that His offering has made a way for us to be made clean and pure. We draw near to You, Father, because we have put our faith in Him. We have hope because of Jesus Christ the Son. Thank You. We know that we cannot come on our own merits, but only through the blessed Son. We come in His Name, by His power, to offer our praise and thanksgiving. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit that we might continue to walk in Your ways. Fill us with the knowledge of Your will that we might walk in a manner worthy of You. With integrity and righteousness, truth and kindness. May we turn from the vile and honor the holy ones.
May we do justice and love mercy. May we walk this day with You, humbly trusting in You for all our needs.
Amen.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Psalm 16 Life in God is:
good
delightful
secure
beautiful
glad
full of joy
promising
Does that mean there are no troubles? Of course not! David had plenty of enemies and plenty of problems. But, David consistently placed his life in the Lord's hands.
v1 "I take refuge in Thee". What does that mean, really? Refuge - (chacah)- to flee for protection; to confide in, have hope, make refuge, put trust. David proclaims this over and over in the psalms he wrote. He practiced this in his every day life. God was his refuge.
As I reflect on this simple statement... I have to examine my own life. I have sought the Lord for protection often in my lifetime, I know... and in a very broad way I put my trust in Him and have hope in Him and confide in Him... but I have been learning anew this important practice, this act of faith. To turn to God in every part of my life and to TRUST Him. Every day.
I am challenged by this thought. This degree of intimacy that God is inviting me into.
This total surrender and solitude with the Lord, with my Lord.
v2 David does just this, " I said to the Lord, 'Thou art my Lord, I have no good besides Thee.'"
David commits to delighting in those who live for the Lord and to not associate with the idolators.
He wants no part of an earthly inheritance or kingdom, but is satisfied with the Lord Himself as his inheritance.
He chooses to bless the Lord. ( Hallowed be Your Name)
He chooses to set the Lord before all else. (Your Kingdom come)
He chooses to walk in the path that the Lord reveals to him. (You will be done)
Father in heaven, lead me in Your path, into a deeper walk with You. Be my refuge, not just in times of trouble, but every day, in every circumstance. You are my Lord and I want nothing else.
All life is in You, Lord. All that is good, all that brings joy and hope and eternal life.
I come to You, Lord. I take refuge in You.
Amen.
good
delightful
secure
beautiful
glad
full of joy
promising
Does that mean there are no troubles? Of course not! David had plenty of enemies and plenty of problems. But, David consistently placed his life in the Lord's hands.
v1 "I take refuge in Thee". What does that mean, really? Refuge - (chacah)- to flee for protection; to confide in, have hope, make refuge, put trust. David proclaims this over and over in the psalms he wrote. He practiced this in his every day life. God was his refuge.
As I reflect on this simple statement... I have to examine my own life. I have sought the Lord for protection often in my lifetime, I know... and in a very broad way I put my trust in Him and have hope in Him and confide in Him... but I have been learning anew this important practice, this act of faith. To turn to God in every part of my life and to TRUST Him. Every day.
I am challenged by this thought. This degree of intimacy that God is inviting me into.
This total surrender and solitude with the Lord, with my Lord.
v2 David does just this, " I said to the Lord, 'Thou art my Lord, I have no good besides Thee.'"
David commits to delighting in those who live for the Lord and to not associate with the idolators.
He wants no part of an earthly inheritance or kingdom, but is satisfied with the Lord Himself as his inheritance.
He chooses to bless the Lord. ( Hallowed be Your Name)
He chooses to set the Lord before all else. (Your Kingdom come)
He chooses to walk in the path that the Lord reveals to him. (You will be done)
Father in heaven, lead me in Your path, into a deeper walk with You. Be my refuge, not just in times of trouble, but every day, in every circumstance. You are my Lord and I want nothing else.
All life is in You, Lord. All that is good, all that brings joy and hope and eternal life.
I come to You, Lord. I take refuge in You.
Amen.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Psalm 17 David writes prayer after prayer after prayer. He pursues this deeper conversation with the Lord God. He continually cries out to God and restates his commitment to obey and follow the Word of God. This is why he is called a "man after God's own heart". This prayer, like many that he has written, calls out for God's protection against the enemy.
David states his honest and sincere need, but he qualifies his requests based on his commitment to the Lord.
"Hear a just cause, O Lord, give heed to my cry;" David is careful to ask for what is just.( God will not answer unjust prayers will He?)
"Give ear to my prayer, which is not from deceitful lips." James 42b-3 says " You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures." David was careful to pray with sincere and truthful motives.
"Let my judgement come forth from Thy presence." David submitted to the Lord's decisions.
"Let Thine eyes look with equity." David trusted in the Lord's fairness.
You have tried my heart.
You have tested me.
I have purposed to only speak truth.
I have kept away from the path of violence.
I am walking in Your ways. David examined himself and was doing everything he knew to do in obedience to God.
I call upon You for You will answer! David was assured that God would hear and answer his prayers.
"Wondrously show Thy lovingkindness, O Savior of those who take refuge at Thy right hand.... Keep me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Thy wings."
Because the Lord is our refuge... and because we call upon Him with sincere and honest hearts, we can be assured that He hears us. He does not answer because we have a just cause or because we have passed a test... He answers because of His wondrous love and kindness. Because He has chosen to make us the apple of His eye... because He delights in us.. we commit ourselves to walk in His ways and bring every need to Him with faith in His power to save.
Father in heaven, bless Your Name forever and ever! May men and women and children all over this earth give praise and honor to Your Holy Name. Thank You for hearing our prayers and answering our requests. Thank You for being so loving and kind. For choosing to delight in us and to save us from the enemy. We take refuge in You, O Lord, for You alone can help us. We praise You with all our hearts. Amen.
David states his honest and sincere need, but he qualifies his requests based on his commitment to the Lord.
"Hear a just cause, O Lord, give heed to my cry;" David is careful to ask for what is just.( God will not answer unjust prayers will He?)
"Give ear to my prayer, which is not from deceitful lips." James 42b-3 says " You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures." David was careful to pray with sincere and truthful motives.
"Let my judgement come forth from Thy presence." David submitted to the Lord's decisions.
"Let Thine eyes look with equity." David trusted in the Lord's fairness.
You have tried my heart.
You have tested me.
I have purposed to only speak truth.
I have kept away from the path of violence.
I am walking in Your ways. David examined himself and was doing everything he knew to do in obedience to God.
I call upon You for You will answer! David was assured that God would hear and answer his prayers.
"Wondrously show Thy lovingkindness, O Savior of those who take refuge at Thy right hand.... Keep me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Thy wings."
Because the Lord is our refuge... and because we call upon Him with sincere and honest hearts, we can be assured that He hears us. He does not answer because we have a just cause or because we have passed a test... He answers because of His wondrous love and kindness. Because He has chosen to make us the apple of His eye... because He delights in us.. we commit ourselves to walk in His ways and bring every need to Him with faith in His power to save.
Father in heaven, bless Your Name forever and ever! May men and women and children all over this earth give praise and honor to Your Holy Name. Thank You for hearing our prayers and answering our requests. Thank You for being so loving and kind. For choosing to delight in us and to save us from the enemy. We take refuge in You, O Lord, for You alone can help us. We praise You with all our hearts. Amen.
Monday, May 12, 2014
Psalm 18 This song of praise to God for His deliverance is also a great guide to prayer.
Lord, be my strength. Be my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer.
Let me find refuge in You. Be my shield, my stronghold and the horn of my salvation.
I call upon You, Lord, for You are worthy to be praised! You alone can save me from the enemy.
When I am in trouble, when I am terrified, when I am in distress... I call upon You. I cry to You for help and You hear my voice. You hear me.....
You shake the earth.
You make the mountains tremble.
You make the heavens bow down.
You fly to my side.
Your voice thunders.
Lightning flashes, arrows sent by Your Hand.
You lay bare the foundations of the world just to find me.
You rescue me. You deliver me. You delight in me...
May I always keep Your ways.
May I never depart from You.
May I be blameless before You.
May I always be kind, so that You will show Yourself kind to me.
May I always be blameless, so that You will show Yourself blameless to me.
May I always be pure, so that You will show me Your purity.
Keep me from the crooked path.
Lord, give me Your light, to illumine my darkness. That I may walk in Your way.
Gird me with Your strength that I may walk with You, blameless.
Grant me the shield of Your salvation.
Gently make me great, training me in battle against the enemy.
Enlarge my steps.
Deliver me.
Show lovingkindness to me.
I give thanks to You Lord, among the nations.
I sing praises to Your great Name.
Father, as we meditate on Your Words, on the Truth of who You are and what You desire for us, will You make this personal... for all who read this ?
Amen.
Lord, be my strength. Be my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer.
Let me find refuge in You. Be my shield, my stronghold and the horn of my salvation.
I call upon You, Lord, for You are worthy to be praised! You alone can save me from the enemy.
When I am in trouble, when I am terrified, when I am in distress... I call upon You. I cry to You for help and You hear my voice. You hear me.....
You shake the earth.
You make the mountains tremble.
You make the heavens bow down.
You fly to my side.
Your voice thunders.
Lightning flashes, arrows sent by Your Hand.
You lay bare the foundations of the world just to find me.
You rescue me. You deliver me. You delight in me...
May I always keep Your ways.
May I never depart from You.
May I be blameless before You.
May I always be kind, so that You will show Yourself kind to me.
May I always be blameless, so that You will show Yourself blameless to me.
May I always be pure, so that You will show me Your purity.
Keep me from the crooked path.
Lord, give me Your light, to illumine my darkness. That I may walk in Your way.
Gird me with Your strength that I may walk with You, blameless.
Grant me the shield of Your salvation.
Gently make me great, training me in battle against the enemy.
Enlarge my steps.
Deliver me.
Show lovingkindness to me.
I give thanks to You Lord, among the nations.
I sing praises to Your great Name.
Father, as we meditate on Your Words, on the Truth of who You are and what You desire for us, will You make this personal... for all who read this ?
Amen.
Friday, May 9, 2014
Psalm 19 " The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His Hands." Just look up! In the daytime we can witness the rising and the setting of the sun. God has placed it in the exact spot needed for His purposes. David tells us that it "rejoices as a strong man to run his course." The sun is God's creation and serves Him joyfully. There is a lesson there.
"And there is nothing hidden from its heat." Another truth that we can be thankful for and that we can learn from... These truths reveal God's glory. " Day to day pours forth speech; and night to night reveals knowledge." Right there in front of us, above us, around us... look! God is showing you His great glory!!!
The apostle Paul reflected on this as he wrote to the Roman church, warning about the unrighteous men who suppress the truth "... because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world his invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood throughout what has been made, so that they are without excuse." Those who deny God, the Creator, will face His wrath for suppressing "truth in unrighteousness."
They do not honor God as God.
They do not give thanks to Him.
They exchange His incorruptible glory for a corruptible image.
They exchange the Truth of God for a lie.
Look up! David and Paul tell us... God is revealing Himself every day... The heavens "are telling ".. of His glory. In the here and now.. we are able to hear His "speech" and gain "knowledge".
All that the Lord has revealed, everything that He has spoken - is good!
His law is perfect. It restores the soul.
His testimony is sure. They make the simple wise.
His precepts are right. They make our hearts rejoice.
His commandments are pure. They enlighten our eyes.
Fear of the Lord is clean. It endures forever.
His judgements are true. They are always righteous.
Do you need restoration? Do you need wisdom? Do you want to rejoice? Do you need enlightenment? Do you want something that endures? Do you want Truth and Justice?
The answer is in God's revelation - in His Word.
All of His Words are "more desirable than gold" and "sweeter also than honey". For they warn us of destruction when we sin.. and they reward us greatly when we obey.
David's meditation on God's Word leads him to pray -
"Who can discern his errors?" Can you? Don't we often miss it? Our pride and self-centeredness get in the way... We need the Lord's help!
"Acquit me of hidden faults. Also keep me from presumptuous sins; Let them not rule over me; then I shall be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression."
We ask the Lord to search our hearts. To uncover the things that we have hidden even from our selves. To deliver us and forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer."
Father, this is my prayer also today. Acquit me of all sin. Keep me from sinning. Deliver me from pride and self-centeredness. May I be blameless before You, by the redemption You have provided in Christ Jesus, the Lord. Let Your Word fill my heart and come forth from my mouth, bearing good fruit, for the glory of Your Name. Amen
"And there is nothing hidden from its heat." Another truth that we can be thankful for and that we can learn from... These truths reveal God's glory. " Day to day pours forth speech; and night to night reveals knowledge." Right there in front of us, above us, around us... look! God is showing you His great glory!!!
The apostle Paul reflected on this as he wrote to the Roman church, warning about the unrighteous men who suppress the truth "... because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world his invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood throughout what has been made, so that they are without excuse." Those who deny God, the Creator, will face His wrath for suppressing "truth in unrighteousness."
They do not honor God as God.
They do not give thanks to Him.
They exchange His incorruptible glory for a corruptible image.
They exchange the Truth of God for a lie.
Look up! David and Paul tell us... God is revealing Himself every day... The heavens "are telling ".. of His glory. In the here and now.. we are able to hear His "speech" and gain "knowledge".
All that the Lord has revealed, everything that He has spoken - is good!
His law is perfect. It restores the soul.
His testimony is sure. They make the simple wise.
His precepts are right. They make our hearts rejoice.
His commandments are pure. They enlighten our eyes.
Fear of the Lord is clean. It endures forever.
His judgements are true. They are always righteous.
Do you need restoration? Do you need wisdom? Do you want to rejoice? Do you need enlightenment? Do you want something that endures? Do you want Truth and Justice?
The answer is in God's revelation - in His Word.
All of His Words are "more desirable than gold" and "sweeter also than honey". For they warn us of destruction when we sin.. and they reward us greatly when we obey.
David's meditation on God's Word leads him to pray -
"Who can discern his errors?" Can you? Don't we often miss it? Our pride and self-centeredness get in the way... We need the Lord's help!
"Acquit me of hidden faults. Also keep me from presumptuous sins; Let them not rule over me; then I shall be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression."
We ask the Lord to search our hearts. To uncover the things that we have hidden even from our selves. To deliver us and forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer."
Father, this is my prayer also today. Acquit me of all sin. Keep me from sinning. Deliver me from pride and self-centeredness. May I be blameless before You, by the redemption You have provided in Christ Jesus, the Lord. Let Your Word fill my heart and come forth from my mouth, bearing good fruit, for the glory of Your Name. Amen
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Psalm 20 The Lord - Yahweh, Jehovah - His Holy Name is to be exalted!
David prays for the nation, for the people, asking:
"May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble. May the Name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high! May He send you help from the sanctuary, and support you from Zion."v1-2
We have need of this prayer in our own nation, in our own families, in our own lives. So, let us pray it!
Father, please answer our cries to You, we are needy people. Come and lift us out of the miry clay, the mud that is sucking us under. Help us, support us, deliver us we pray! There are evil men in this world, doing evil works, men who hate the Truth, men who follow Satan's ways... destroying, killing, stealing... nullify their plots, frustrate their plans, according to the mighty power of Your Hand. I pray for the people of Nigeria... the young girls taken into captivity by those who are evil. Bring deliverance Father, by Your Name set them free! I pray for our nation, Lord. Deliver us from the lies and deception of those who seek to justify their own sins. I pray for Your church. Sanctify her Lord. Root out the false teachers from among us. I pray for our families. Bring peace and hope and love into our families, Lord. Restore marriages. Bless the children. Hear our cries to You!
"May He grant you your heart's desire and fulfill your counsel. We will sing for joy over your victory, and in the Name of our God we will set up our banners. May the Lord fulfill all your petitions." v4-5
What a gracious prayer! What a mighty prayer! May we learn to pray with such grace and with such boldness!
Father, will You grant my loved one's heart's desire, will you allow her to fulfill her purpose before You. Will You grant her victory in Christ Jesus, her Lord . Will You answer all of her petitions!
Father, will You grant these petitions for Your Church. Fulfill her purposes. Grant her victory. Give Your church her heart's desires, by Your Great Name.
"Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven, with the saving strength of His right hand. " v6
Father, You are our salvation. You reign from heaven. You are able and willing to save us! Thank You.
"Some boast in chariots, and some in horses; But we will boast in the name of the Lord, our God."
Father in Heaven, You alone are God. Your Name we praise. You are Lord. Yahweh. "I AM".
Ever living. Ever powerful. Ever Loving. Self-existent and revealing Yourself to us. Yes, we boast in Your Name. We sing out our praises to You! Our God reigns! Our God is mighty to save. Our God lives and loves! Our God is good! The Lord is Sovereign over all of heaven and all of earth. There is nothing that He cannot do!
Amen!!
David prays for the nation, for the people, asking:
"May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble. May the Name of the God of Jacob set you securely on high! May He send you help from the sanctuary, and support you from Zion."v1-2
We have need of this prayer in our own nation, in our own families, in our own lives. So, let us pray it!
Father, please answer our cries to You, we are needy people. Come and lift us out of the miry clay, the mud that is sucking us under. Help us, support us, deliver us we pray! There are evil men in this world, doing evil works, men who hate the Truth, men who follow Satan's ways... destroying, killing, stealing... nullify their plots, frustrate their plans, according to the mighty power of Your Hand. I pray for the people of Nigeria... the young girls taken into captivity by those who are evil. Bring deliverance Father, by Your Name set them free! I pray for our nation, Lord. Deliver us from the lies and deception of those who seek to justify their own sins. I pray for Your church. Sanctify her Lord. Root out the false teachers from among us. I pray for our families. Bring peace and hope and love into our families, Lord. Restore marriages. Bless the children. Hear our cries to You!
"May He grant you your heart's desire and fulfill your counsel. We will sing for joy over your victory, and in the Name of our God we will set up our banners. May the Lord fulfill all your petitions." v4-5
What a gracious prayer! What a mighty prayer! May we learn to pray with such grace and with such boldness!
Father, will You grant my loved one's heart's desire, will you allow her to fulfill her purpose before You. Will You grant her victory in Christ Jesus, her Lord . Will You answer all of her petitions!
Father, will You grant these petitions for Your Church. Fulfill her purposes. Grant her victory. Give Your church her heart's desires, by Your Great Name.
"Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven, with the saving strength of His right hand. " v6
Father, You are our salvation. You reign from heaven. You are able and willing to save us! Thank You.
"Some boast in chariots, and some in horses; But we will boast in the name of the Lord, our God."
Father in Heaven, You alone are God. Your Name we praise. You are Lord. Yahweh. "I AM".
Ever living. Ever powerful. Ever Loving. Self-existent and revealing Yourself to us. Yes, we boast in Your Name. We sing out our praises to You! Our God reigns! Our God is mighty to save. Our God lives and loves! Our God is good! The Lord is Sovereign over all of heaven and all of earth. There is nothing that He cannot do!
Amen!!
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Psalm 21 There is gladness in Your strength, Lord! We rejoice in Your salvation!
You have blessed us with our heart's desires and answered our requests.
You have given us good gifts from above.
You have granted us life.
We have seen the glory of the Lord, the splendor and majesty of Jesus, our King.
It is Jesus who makes us joyful.
It is Your lovingkindness that makes us steadfast.
You are quite aware of the enemy. He cannot hide from You.
You have already issued judgement against the evil one. Against all who do evil.
You will swallow them up with Your wrath. You will devour them with fire.
Those Who intend evil, who devise plots, will not succeed.
You will " make them turn their back; Thou wilt aim with Thy bowstrings at their faces."
"Be Thou exalted, O Lord, in Thy Strength; We will sing and praise Thy power." v13
You have blessed us with our heart's desires and answered our requests.
You have given us good gifts from above.
You have granted us life.
We have seen the glory of the Lord, the splendor and majesty of Jesus, our King.
It is Jesus who makes us joyful.
It is Your lovingkindness that makes us steadfast.
You are quite aware of the enemy. He cannot hide from You.
You have already issued judgement against the evil one. Against all who do evil.
You will swallow them up with Your wrath. You will devour them with fire.
Those Who intend evil, who devise plots, will not succeed.
You will " make them turn their back; Thou wilt aim with Thy bowstrings at their faces."
"Be Thou exalted, O Lord, in Thy Strength; We will sing and praise Thy power." v13
"Who is on the Lord's side?
Who will serve the King?
Who will be His helpers,
Other lives to bring?
Who will leave the world's side?
Who will face the foe?
Who is on the Lord's side?
Who for Him will go?
By Thy call of mercy, by Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord's side;
Savior we are Thine.
Fierce may be the conflict,
Strong may be the foe,
But the King's own army
None can overthrow.
Round His standard ranging
Victory is secure;
For His truth unchanging
Makes the triumph sure.
Joyfully enlisting
By Thy grace divine,
We are on the Lord's side;
Savior, we are Thine. "
Frances R. Havergal
To be on the Lord's side, as the old hymn reminds us, is to be on the side of victory. Like David wrote in Psalm 21, there is joy and gladness, goodness and blessing.
But, for those who choose to be the enemy of the Lord, there is only destruction and failure.
When we look at current events through the world's eyes we do not see this Truth. We must turn our eyes to Jesus... we must remember His strength and power! Our God is omnipotent!
Oh Holy Father, Your strength is perfect! Your power has no limit! We sing of and praise Your power. We ask You to "strengthen us with all power according to (Your) glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience..." That we might stand firm, full of faith, in the midst of battles.. knowing that we are on the Lord's side.. and victory is sure! May we wait on You, with patience attained by Your power, knowing that You will overcome every enemy. Thank You Father.
For it is Your Hand that has saved us! Thank You, that no enemy can succeed against You . In Your strength we rejoice! Amen.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Psalm 22 is known as a Messianic psalm, for it foretells the crucifixion of our Lord. Yet it is also a prayer of David in a time of great need. As we read it we can remember again that Jesus, God Himself came, not only to die for us, but to suffer for us.. that He might suffer with us.
"For He has not despised not abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither has He hidden His face from him. but when he cried to Him for help, He heard."
No matter what trial or affliction we are going through, (or have gone through, or will be going through)... our Lord wants us to look to Him. " The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the Lord."
We will praise Him because He answers our cries.
He shows up when we seek Him.
He cares about us more than we can imagine.
We praise Him because the "kingdom is the Lord's, and He rules over the nations." He CAN move mountains. He can solve problems. He can restore us and reconcile us and lead us and deliver us!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, don't trust your own understanding... lean on Him!
Commit your ways to Him and He will direct your path.
Believe it, claim it. and rest in this truth.
I extol You, my God, my King!
I will bless Your Name forever and ever!
Great is the Lord and worthy of all my praise.
Your greatness, O Lord, is unsearchable!
You are gracious and merciful and Your mercies are over all Your works.
And we, Your works, thank You and bless Your Name.
Amen
"For He has not despised not abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither has He hidden His face from him. but when he cried to Him for help, He heard."
No matter what trial or affliction we are going through, (or have gone through, or will be going through)... our Lord wants us to look to Him. " The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the Lord."
We will praise Him because He answers our cries.
He shows up when we seek Him.
He cares about us more than we can imagine.
We praise Him because the "kingdom is the Lord's, and He rules over the nations." He CAN move mountains. He can solve problems. He can restore us and reconcile us and lead us and deliver us!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, don't trust your own understanding... lean on Him!
Commit your ways to Him and He will direct your path.
Believe it, claim it. and rest in this truth.
I extol You, my God, my King!
I will bless Your Name forever and ever!
Great is the Lord and worthy of all my praise.
Your greatness, O Lord, is unsearchable!
You are gracious and merciful and Your mercies are over all Your works.
And we, Your works, thank You and bless Your Name.
Amen
Monday, May 5, 2014
I have been thinking about Psalm 33, in particular verse 10, "The Lord nullifies the counsel of the nations; He frustrates the plans of the peoples." Just reading the paper some mornings or hearing a news report on tv or radio... can bring alarm to our souls. Wars, crime, hatred, plots, terror, evil... all over the globe.. and throughout our nation. This verse needs to be incorporated into our prayer lives!
God never changes! He made the heavens by His Word. He speaks and it is done!
Russian armies can't defeat Him.
Terrorists can't overcome Him.
Sinful man cannot stand before Him.
False religions cannot stop Him... or His Church!
There are many in our nation that want to teach that sin is not sin. But they are not God!
There are many nations that want to spread a false god. But they are not speaking Truth!
Lord God, You are God alone! Nullify the plans and plots of nations. Bring their evil plans to NOTHING! Frustrate the schemes of wicked people.. here in our nation as well as around the world.
"The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart from generation to generation."
Father in Heaven, Let Your Will Be Done! Your plans, Your purposes.. in our nation and on all the earth.. as it is done perfectly in Heaven. Amen.
God never changes! He made the heavens by His Word. He speaks and it is done!
Russian armies can't defeat Him.
Terrorists can't overcome Him.
Sinful man cannot stand before Him.
False religions cannot stop Him... or His Church!
There are many in our nation that want to teach that sin is not sin. But they are not God!
There are many nations that want to spread a false god. But they are not speaking Truth!
Lord God, You are God alone! Nullify the plans and plots of nations. Bring their evil plans to NOTHING! Frustrate the schemes of wicked people.. here in our nation as well as around the world.
"The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart from generation to generation."
Father in Heaven, Let Your Will Be Done! Your plans, Your purposes.. in our nation and on all the earth.. as it is done perfectly in Heaven. Amen.
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Psalm 23 This psalm, the song of the shepherd, pictures the heavenly Father as the Supreme Shepherd. The Lord seems to enjoy this description of Himself, for over and over in the Scriptures we hear Him say that we are His sheep, of His pasture. Jesus called Himself the Good Shepherd and told us that His sheep will hear His voice and follow Him. This psalm is a favorite of many, through-out the generations, for it offers this image of our Almighty God close up and personal. I have read several books about this psalm written from a shepherd's perspective, and they offer wonderful insights. Highly recommend that you find one and read it. But, right now I just want to ponder the wonderful truths that we find in David's song.
"The Lord is my Shepherd". Yahweh, the self-existant, holy God, the Creator of heaven and earth, the King of kings and Lord of lords... the great I AM.. is my shepherd. God chooses to have a personal one-on-one relationship with each of His sheep. He knows us by name, He sees our hearts, He hears our cries, He knows our need. There is nowhere that we can go where He is not there. There is nothing that we can do, that He does not see. We belong to Him totally. He has appointed Himself to be the Shepherd and He will not fail to do the job perfectly!
Dwell on this thought! Lord of Heaven, help me to grasp the great truth of these words! To meditate on them, to really believe them. To rest in this Truth.
Because You are my Shepherd.... " I shall not want." I am "poor in spirit".. I am in great need, but You have appointed Yourself the task of providing for me all that I need. Oh thank You Father!
I need "green pastures" - food for the body and rest for the soul.
I need "quiet waters" - to drink deeply of Your living water, without fear, without worry.
I need my soul to be restored - brought to wholeness and health in You.
I need guidance - to the right paths, to Your ways.
I need Your protection through dark valleys and evil threats.
You have given to me all these things! Thank You! What a great God You are!
And You are not done yet! You go beyond the necessities.. You add blessings that are far beyond our comprehension:
You "prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies."
You "anoint my head with oil".
Yes, my "cup overflows"!
Amazing love! Amazing grace!
"Goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
From the beginning to the end.. You are there! Through the good times and the bad.. You are there!
This is from You... not me. I am not a sheep wandering around trying to find a shepherd. I am Your sheep because You found me and made me Your own.
I will follow You.
I will love You.
I will be Yours forever.
Amen.
"The Lord is my Shepherd". Yahweh, the self-existant, holy God, the Creator of heaven and earth, the King of kings and Lord of lords... the great I AM.. is my shepherd. God chooses to have a personal one-on-one relationship with each of His sheep. He knows us by name, He sees our hearts, He hears our cries, He knows our need. There is nowhere that we can go where He is not there. There is nothing that we can do, that He does not see. We belong to Him totally. He has appointed Himself to be the Shepherd and He will not fail to do the job perfectly!
Dwell on this thought! Lord of Heaven, help me to grasp the great truth of these words! To meditate on them, to really believe them. To rest in this Truth.
Because You are my Shepherd.... " I shall not want." I am "poor in spirit".. I am in great need, but You have appointed Yourself the task of providing for me all that I need. Oh thank You Father!
I need "green pastures" - food for the body and rest for the soul.
I need "quiet waters" - to drink deeply of Your living water, without fear, without worry.
I need my soul to be restored - brought to wholeness and health in You.
I need guidance - to the right paths, to Your ways.
I need Your protection through dark valleys and evil threats.
You have given to me all these things! Thank You! What a great God You are!
And You are not done yet! You go beyond the necessities.. You add blessings that are far beyond our comprehension:
You "prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies."
You "anoint my head with oil".
Yes, my "cup overflows"!
Amazing love! Amazing grace!
"Goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
From the beginning to the end.. You are there! Through the good times and the bad.. You are there!
This is from You... not me. I am not a sheep wandering around trying to find a shepherd. I am Your sheep because You found me and made me Your own.
I will follow You.
I will love You.
I will be Yours forever.
Amen.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Psalm 24 The King of glory ! The Lord, strong and mighty! The Lord of hosts! Come Lord..
The earth is Yours.
All that the earth contains is Yours.
All who dwell on the earth are Yours.
You established the earth, the seas, the rivers, the hills. All are Your creations.
Who can come into Your Presence?
Not the ungodly... not those who are full of lies and deceit...
only those with "clean hands" and "pure hearts".... only those who "seek Him, who seek Thy Face."
Only those who have humbled themselves, who have recognized that they are indeed, "poor in spirit";
those who have mourned over their sins, confessing and repenting of their iniquity; those who have been cleansed from all unrighteousness.. redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb.
Clean hands and pure hearts are not our natural state of existence, nor can we clean ourselves up! Only those who have come to Jesus, through faith, can receive this gift, this grace. Only then can we come into the Presence of the King of glory!
Thanksgiving and praise to the Lamb Who was slain, yet Who lives forever! For He has opened the Way to the Holy "hill of the Lord". Through Him we are made whole, righteous, and pure. Through Him we can come to the Father, the King of glory.
Amen!!!
The earth is Yours.
All that the earth contains is Yours.
All who dwell on the earth are Yours.
You established the earth, the seas, the rivers, the hills. All are Your creations.
Who can come into Your Presence?
Not the ungodly... not those who are full of lies and deceit...
only those with "clean hands" and "pure hearts".... only those who "seek Him, who seek Thy Face."
Only those who have humbled themselves, who have recognized that they are indeed, "poor in spirit";
those who have mourned over their sins, confessing and repenting of their iniquity; those who have been cleansed from all unrighteousness.. redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb.
Clean hands and pure hearts are not our natural state of existence, nor can we clean ourselves up! Only those who have come to Jesus, through faith, can receive this gift, this grace. Only then can we come into the Presence of the King of glory!
Thanksgiving and praise to the Lamb Who was slain, yet Who lives forever! For He has opened the Way to the Holy "hill of the Lord". Through Him we are made whole, righteous, and pure. Through Him we can come to the Father, the King of glory.
Amen!!!
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Psalm 25 This prayer of David focuses on two themes - waiting on God and shame. These two ideas are coupled together in verse 3, "Indeed, none of those who wait for Thee will be ashamed."
Waiting on God - The word used here actually means to "bind together by twisting; to collect, expect, to tarry". One of my favorite books by Andrew Murray is Waiting on God, a book that is well worth the time to read and study! Murray says that "our first and highest duty is to wait on Him to do that work as He pleases." ( the work of salvation).
David uses this word 3 times in this prayer:
v3 as quoted above - when we wait on the Lord, we will not be ashamed.
v5 "For Thee I wait all the day." - waiting on God, bound together with Him, is to be a continual action.
v21 repeats this statement, emphasizing the value, the necessity, of constant communion and association with our Lord.
It is in the waiting that we avoid being ashamed, David tells us. Twice David prays, "Do not let me be ashamed." Ashamed - disappointed, confounded, delayed. David does not want to bring shame to the Name of the Lord, nor does he want to be disappointed in the Lord. David is walking out in faith, "O my God, in Thee I trust, do not let me be ashamed; do not let my enemies exult over me."
This is the foundational Truth that he is standing on:
Those who wait on the Lord will NOT be ashamed; but "Those who deal treacherously without cause WILL be ashamed." ( emphasis mine)
David believed this with all of his heart. The rest of this psalm, this prayer, unfolds the beauty of a life lived on this Truth, a heart that waits on and for the Lord.
"Make me know Thy ways O Lord;
Teach me Thy paths.
Lead me in Thy truth and teach me
For Thou art the God of my salvation." (v4-5)
It is in the waiting that we begin to understand the will of God for our lives. His ways, His truth, His life. It is in the waiting for the nearness of His Presence, for Him alone, that we will not be ashamed. This is what prayer is meant to be. Prayer is HOW we wait on God.
David meditates on the goodness of God. This is WHO we wait for.
"Remember O Lord, Thy compassion and Thy loving kindnesses, for they have been from of old." v6. He is "good and upright". He "instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble to justice, and He teaches the humble His way. All the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth."( v8-10)
Waiting on Him is of great importance. This is WHY we wait on Him:
He pardons our great iniquity.
He instructs us in the way we should choose.
He makes our souls abide in prosperity.
He gives our children an inheritance.
He shares His intimate secrets with us.
He makes us understand His promises.
He rescues us from the net of the enemy.
He sees our troubled hearts, our afflictions, and He delivers us.
He guards our souls.
He is our refuge and redemption.
Father in Heaven, let Your Holy Name be exalted, in my life and through my life. May I never bring shame or disappointment to Your Wonderful Name. Let Your Kingdom come! You reign in righteousness and truth for You are good and upright. How we need Your kingdom to expand on this earth as it is in heaven. Let Your will be done. Instruct us in Your ways. Teach us and lead us in paths of righteousness for Your Name's sake.
Give us this day all that we have need of so that we might exalt Your Name. We wait for You.
Forgive us this day every sin, pardoning our iniquity, for we wait for You.
Lead us not into temptation , lead us in Your paths, for we wait for You.
Deliver us from the evil one, from his fiery darts and hidden nets, for we wait for You.
Thank You for the precious promise that when we wait on You we will not be ashamed.
For You alone Lord are our salvation.
amen
Waiting on God - The word used here actually means to "bind together by twisting; to collect, expect, to tarry". One of my favorite books by Andrew Murray is Waiting on God, a book that is well worth the time to read and study! Murray says that "our first and highest duty is to wait on Him to do that work as He pleases." ( the work of salvation).
David uses this word 3 times in this prayer:
v3 as quoted above - when we wait on the Lord, we will not be ashamed.
v5 "For Thee I wait all the day." - waiting on God, bound together with Him, is to be a continual action.
v21 repeats this statement, emphasizing the value, the necessity, of constant communion and association with our Lord.
It is in the waiting that we avoid being ashamed, David tells us. Twice David prays, "Do not let me be ashamed." Ashamed - disappointed, confounded, delayed. David does not want to bring shame to the Name of the Lord, nor does he want to be disappointed in the Lord. David is walking out in faith, "O my God, in Thee I trust, do not let me be ashamed; do not let my enemies exult over me."
This is the foundational Truth that he is standing on:
Those who wait on the Lord will NOT be ashamed; but "Those who deal treacherously without cause WILL be ashamed." ( emphasis mine)
David believed this with all of his heart. The rest of this psalm, this prayer, unfolds the beauty of a life lived on this Truth, a heart that waits on and for the Lord.
"Make me know Thy ways O Lord;
Teach me Thy paths.
Lead me in Thy truth and teach me
For Thou art the God of my salvation." (v4-5)
It is in the waiting that we begin to understand the will of God for our lives. His ways, His truth, His life. It is in the waiting for the nearness of His Presence, for Him alone, that we will not be ashamed. This is what prayer is meant to be. Prayer is HOW we wait on God.
David meditates on the goodness of God. This is WHO we wait for.
"Remember O Lord, Thy compassion and Thy loving kindnesses, for they have been from of old." v6. He is "good and upright". He "instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble to justice, and He teaches the humble His way. All the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth."( v8-10)
Waiting on Him is of great importance. This is WHY we wait on Him:
He pardons our great iniquity.
He instructs us in the way we should choose.
He makes our souls abide in prosperity.
He gives our children an inheritance.
He shares His intimate secrets with us.
He makes us understand His promises.
He rescues us from the net of the enemy.
He sees our troubled hearts, our afflictions, and He delivers us.
He guards our souls.
He is our refuge and redemption.
Father in Heaven, let Your Holy Name be exalted, in my life and through my life. May I never bring shame or disappointment to Your Wonderful Name. Let Your Kingdom come! You reign in righteousness and truth for You are good and upright. How we need Your kingdom to expand on this earth as it is in heaven. Let Your will be done. Instruct us in Your ways. Teach us and lead us in paths of righteousness for Your Name's sake.
Give us this day all that we have need of so that we might exalt Your Name. We wait for You.
Forgive us this day every sin, pardoning our iniquity, for we wait for You.
Lead us not into temptation , lead us in Your paths, for we wait for You.
Deliver us from the evil one, from his fiery darts and hidden nets, for we wait for You.
Thank You for the precious promise that when we wait on You we will not be ashamed.
For You alone Lord are our salvation.
amen
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