Psalm 112 The man "who fears the Lord" and " delights in His commandments" is called "blessed" or happy. To fear or revere the Lord , "is the beginning of wisdom" and " A good understanding have all those who do His commandments." ( Ps. 111:10) To delight means to incline to, bend, or be pleased with, to desire. So... to be "happy" we must have a righteous, reverent, fear of Jehovah, the Most High God.. and a heartfelt desire to do what He has commanded.
The psalmist then lists the many blessings that God desires to bestow on those who meet these two qualifications:
He will bless your children and grandchildren.
He will bless you financially.
He will give you light in the darkest of times.
He will make you like Himself in graciousness, compassion, and righteousness.
He will make you "well" - do good to you and for you.
He will be on your side in legal judgements.
He will keep you from being "shaken".
He will remember you forever.
You will not be afraid of bad news.
Your heart will be steadfast and trust the Lord.
You will overcome the enemy.
You will be generous to those in need.
You will have righteousness .
You will be lifted up in honor.
The Bible dictionary has this to say about fear;
"Religious fear is the human response to the presence of God."
When God Himself appears to us and we experience the reality of His holiness we will be overwhelmed with awe and fear and fall on our faces before Him. "The God of Israel is an awe-producing God because of His majesty, His power, His works, His transcendence, and His holiness."
We will learn the "fear of God" as we experience His Presence - as we see His works, His power, His salvation, His majesty.
The fear of God is transformed from terror into "respect and reverence in which trust" is prominent, by the covenant relationship we have with Him. In the Old Testament this was the covenant of the Law, but for us it is the New Covenant through Jesus Christ.
Fear of the Lord will result in worship and obedience.
Fear of the Lord is required by the Lord... Deuteronomy 10:12-13 "... what does the Lord your God require from you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, and love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and to keep the Lord's commandments and His statutes... "
We learn the fear of the Lord by reading His Word and doing it every day. ( Deut. 17:19)
If we have the right "fear of the Lord" we will "delight in His commandments." We will want to order our lives according to His word and trust Him in all things. We will joyfully serve Him and give Him our whole hearts. We will love Him with our whole beings.
And when we do this... we will be blessed. Truly happy.
Praise the Lord!
Father in heaven, teach me the fear of the Lord. May I experience the reality of Your holy Presence. May I gain understanding of Your Word and do all that You have commanded, by the power of Your Spirit in me. To the glory of Your Name and through the One in whose name I pray, Christ my Redeemer ,my King, and my Lord. Amen.
Friday, December 30, 2016
Thursday, December 29, 2016
I am still ruminating over Psalm 110 this morning.
Jesus, the Highest King, owns all of creation and rules it completely according to the will of the Father. It is His Kingdom and His rules apply.
Jesus is the Highest Priest, and has the highest spiritual authority granted by the Father. He alone is the way to God, the intercessor, the sacrifice, and the redeemer.
Jesus is the Highest power judicially. He is higher than any Supreme Court and His judgements are righteous and final.
Jesus, the Highest King, owns all of creation and rules it completely according to the will of the Father. It is His Kingdom and His rules apply.
Jesus is the Highest Priest, and has the highest spiritual authority granted by the Father. He alone is the way to God, the intercessor, the sacrifice, and the redeemer.
Jesus is the Highest power judicially. He is higher than any Supreme Court and His judgements are righteous and final.
Paul wrote this in Ephesians 1:18-23 " I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with he working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ when He raised Him from the dead, and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also the one to come. And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fulness of Him who fills all in all."
Paul also wrote in I Corinthians 15:24-28 that at the end, He will deliver " up the kingdom to God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. .. and when all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, that God may be all in all."
All that David wrote in Psalm 110 was accomplished in Jesus Christ as He lived, died, and rose from the grave. The Father has established the rule of His only begotten Son... " for a child will be born to us, a son will be given us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will accomplish this." ( Isaiah 9:6-7)
Great are Your works, O Lord! How splendid and majestic is your work, Your gracious, compassionate, righteous work.. for You have "sent redemption to Your people" You have made known Your power. You have made known Your commandments and Your covenant. You have given to us a great Savior, the Anointed One who is King, Priest, and Judge forever. All praise to God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Psalm 110 is a Messianic psalm, all about Jesus. It is easy to miss some of the meaning with the way we translate it from the Hebrew. But it is so powerful when we take a closer look.
" The LORD ( Jehovah - the I AM- the self-existent One ) says to my Lord ( Adoni - master);
Sit at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies a footstool for Thy feet."
The Father declared that His Son will be King.
The Father will stretch out the Son's scepter - will extend His rule and His rod of authority.
The Son will have dominion over all His enemies.
His people will serve Him willingly in all holiness.
The Father has declared the Son to be the High Priest forever.
He is at the right hand of the Father. He has immediate access to the Most High God and He intercedes for us there.
The Father has declared that the Son is the Judge of all men.
He will snuff out all other kings and rulers .
He will determine the verdict against every nation.
He will destroy the evil doers.
He will shatter those who are evil leaders.
The Son will be victorious in all He does.
The Father will lift up the Son's head. He will be above all.
Our world is filled will those who are enemies to the King of kings. We are horrified at their wickedness and terror. We cannot comprehend the senseless killing, the needless violence, the intense hatred that fills so many hearts. Bitterness, anger, and selfishness cause hearts to be hardened and filled with darkness. Their only hope is Jesus, for He is King, High Priest, and Judge.
He is more powerful than any earthly ruler.
He is holier than any religious order.
He is more righteous than any judge or jury.
In Jesus we find the Law of Love, which supersedes any law that men can enact.
In Jesus we find the only True way to find God.
In Jesus we find complete justice and great mercy.
Jesus is appointed by the Father to be the epitome of Political rule, of Religious leadership, and of Judicial systems.
He is the greatest King, the greatest Priest, and the greatest Judge.
Praise the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, our Master, who calls us His friends, who brings us into His family, and who makes us His own.
Father in Heaven , how mighty You are and how wise! You have made a perfect plan to redeem us and to bring us into Your Kingdom. Thank You. May Your Kingdom come, that we might see Jesus , high and lifted up, fulfilling all of Your Word, to the glory of Your Name. amen.
" The LORD ( Jehovah - the I AM- the self-existent One ) says to my Lord ( Adoni - master);
Sit at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies a footstool for Thy feet."
The Father declared that His Son will be King.
The Father will stretch out the Son's scepter - will extend His rule and His rod of authority.
The Son will have dominion over all His enemies.
His people will serve Him willingly in all holiness.
The Father has declared the Son to be the High Priest forever.
He is at the right hand of the Father. He has immediate access to the Most High God and He intercedes for us there.
The Father has declared that the Son is the Judge of all men.
He will snuff out all other kings and rulers .
He will determine the verdict against every nation.
He will destroy the evil doers.
He will shatter those who are evil leaders.
The Son will be victorious in all He does.
The Father will lift up the Son's head. He will be above all.
Our world is filled will those who are enemies to the King of kings. We are horrified at their wickedness and terror. We cannot comprehend the senseless killing, the needless violence, the intense hatred that fills so many hearts. Bitterness, anger, and selfishness cause hearts to be hardened and filled with darkness. Their only hope is Jesus, for He is King, High Priest, and Judge.
He is more powerful than any earthly ruler.
He is holier than any religious order.
He is more righteous than any judge or jury.
In Jesus we find the Law of Love, which supersedes any law that men can enact.
In Jesus we find the only True way to find God.
In Jesus we find complete justice and great mercy.
Jesus is appointed by the Father to be the epitome of Political rule, of Religious leadership, and of Judicial systems.
He is the greatest King, the greatest Priest, and the greatest Judge.
Praise the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, our Master, who calls us His friends, who brings us into His family, and who makes us His own.
Father in Heaven , how mighty You are and how wise! You have made a perfect plan to redeem us and to bring us into Your Kingdom. Thank You. May Your Kingdom come, that we might see Jesus , high and lifted up, fulfilling all of Your Word, to the glory of Your Name. amen.
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Psalm 108 This is called a song of David. " My heart is steadfast, O God." My heart is fixed, prepared, established, ready... to sing praises to the Lord! From the first hint of dawn, David lifts up praises to the Lord. He praises the lovingkindness and truth that the Lord has shown to him. He exalts the Lord's glory and majesty. He remembers the Lord's work in all of Israel and he calls upon the Lord for help.
This is another good example of prayer. Praise and thanksgiving from the heart that is fixed on God. Acknowledging the Lord's past work in our lives and looking for His continued help in the day ahead.
We declare His greatness and our neediness.
His provision and our dependence.
He is able to do all things and we are absolutely in need of His presence and strength for the day.. every day.
Psalm 109 takes a different approach altogether. Here David calls upon the Lord to deal with the evil man.. the one who "did not remember to show lovingkindness but persecuted the afflicted and needy man." ( v16) This person or persons:
Spoke evil and wicked things.
Lied.
Hated.
Fought.
Accused.
And cursed.
David's words are harsh and pointedly severe. He asks God to take vengeance on his behalf.
Give him ( the evil man) a wicked leader.
Make his right hand man to turn against him.
Make the judge find him guilty.
Don't listen to his prayers for mercy.
Cut off his life.
Replace him.
Let his children be without a father and his wife without her husband.
Let the children become beggars.
Let the creditors take all his belongings.
Let strangers steal his land.
Don't let anyone show him mercy.
Don't let anyone show his children compassion.
Cut off any future generations.
Don't forget his sin, his father's sin, or his mother's sin.
Take the curses that he put on others and put it on him.
David spews out all this anger and then.... turns from it, letting it go.
"But Thou, O God, the Lord , deal kindly with me for Thy name's sake. " ( v21)
Help me.
Save me.
Bless me.
Be my deliverer and my Advocate.
When those who are evil do there best to harm us, we need to remember these things:
1. Vengeance belongs to the Lord. We must leave it in His hands.
2. He is on the side of those who recognize their own neediness and who call on Him.
Father in heaven, we look to You for our every need. For daily bread. For forgiveness. For direction. For deliverance from the evil one. May Your Name be hallowed and praised. May Your Kingdom come. May Your will be done. Yours, O God, is the glory and power, forever and ever. Amen.
This is another good example of prayer. Praise and thanksgiving from the heart that is fixed on God. Acknowledging the Lord's past work in our lives and looking for His continued help in the day ahead.
We declare His greatness and our neediness.
His provision and our dependence.
He is able to do all things and we are absolutely in need of His presence and strength for the day.. every day.
Psalm 109 takes a different approach altogether. Here David calls upon the Lord to deal with the evil man.. the one who "did not remember to show lovingkindness but persecuted the afflicted and needy man." ( v16) This person or persons:
Spoke evil and wicked things.
Lied.
Hated.
Fought.
Accused.
And cursed.
David's words are harsh and pointedly severe. He asks God to take vengeance on his behalf.
Give him ( the evil man) a wicked leader.
Make his right hand man to turn against him.
Make the judge find him guilty.
Don't listen to his prayers for mercy.
Cut off his life.
Replace him.
Let his children be without a father and his wife without her husband.
Let the children become beggars.
Let the creditors take all his belongings.
Let strangers steal his land.
Don't let anyone show him mercy.
Don't let anyone show his children compassion.
Cut off any future generations.
Don't forget his sin, his father's sin, or his mother's sin.
Take the curses that he put on others and put it on him.
David spews out all this anger and then.... turns from it, letting it go.
"But Thou, O God, the Lord , deal kindly with me for Thy name's sake. " ( v21)
Help me.
Save me.
Bless me.
Be my deliverer and my Advocate.
When those who are evil do there best to harm us, we need to remember these things:
1. Vengeance belongs to the Lord. We must leave it in His hands.
2. He is on the side of those who recognize their own neediness and who call on Him.
Father in heaven, we look to You for our every need. For daily bread. For forgiveness. For direction. For deliverance from the evil one. May Your Name be hallowed and praised. May Your Kingdom come. May Your will be done. Yours, O God, is the glory and power, forever and ever. Amen.
Monday, December 26, 2016
Psalm 107 A little over 3 years ago I wrote about this psalm ( see Sept. 23, 2013). I noted that there are 4 groups of people:
v4-9 The wanderers
v10-15 The prisoners
v17-22 The foolish
v23-31 The stricken
Each group cries out to God and He rescues them.. because of His lovingkindness.
Verse 2 " Let the redeemed of the Lord say so..." To say that the Lord is good and to give Him thanks.
We give Him thanks because:
He delivers us from distresses. ( v6,13,19,28)
He leads us by "straight ways" ( v7)
He satisfies our thirsty souls.(v9)
He fills us hungry souls with what is good. (v9)
He brings us out of darkness. (v14)
He breaks our bonds. (v14)
He shatters the prison gates. (v16)
He sends His word. (v20)
He heals us. (v20)
He delivers us. (v20)
He stills the storms. (v29)
He quiets the waves. (v29)
He guides us home. (v30)
What a Mighty God we serve!
He is good!
Lord, You are our fortress and our deliverer, our help in Whom we can trust.
Bless us with fruitful lives in Your service. Grant to us Your strength to serve You faithfully today and every day. We give You our thanks and our praise, in the Name of our dear Savior, Jesus Christ,
Amen.
v4-9 The wanderers
v10-15 The prisoners
v17-22 The foolish
v23-31 The stricken
Each group cries out to God and He rescues them.. because of His lovingkindness.
Verse 2 " Let the redeemed of the Lord say so..." To say that the Lord is good and to give Him thanks.
We give Him thanks because:
He delivers us from distresses. ( v6,13,19,28)
He leads us by "straight ways" ( v7)
He satisfies our thirsty souls.(v9)
He fills us hungry souls with what is good. (v9)
He brings us out of darkness. (v14)
He breaks our bonds. (v14)
He shatters the prison gates. (v16)
He sends His word. (v20)
He heals us. (v20)
He delivers us. (v20)
He stills the storms. (v29)
He quiets the waves. (v29)
He guides us home. (v30)
What a Mighty God we serve!
He is good!
Lord, You are our fortress and our deliverer, our help in Whom we can trust.
Bless us with fruitful lives in Your service. Grant to us Your strength to serve You faithfully today and every day. We give You our thanks and our praise, in the Name of our dear Savior, Jesus Christ,
Amen.
Friday, December 23, 2016
Psalm 106 Although this psalm starts out as many others, " Praise the Lord! Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good..." it quickly turns into a history lesson. A history lesson that reviews the many failures of the nation of Israel. " We have sinned like our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have behaved wickedly." The psalmist once again paints us a picture, this time one that is dark:
It starts out in Egypt.
They didn't understand God's "wonders".
They didn't remember His kindness to them.
They "rebelled at the Red Sea."
But, God saved them anyway, leading them through on dry ground and closing the waters over the enemies.
Then, they believed, but it did not last. In the wilderness they:
Forgot His works.
Didn't wait for His counsel.
" Craved intensely" and "tempted God"
And God gave them what they wanted, however, He also sent a disease among them.
Next, they became envious of Moses and Aaron and rebelled against God's appointed leaders.
And, God opened the earth to consume the wicked.
They made a calf out of gold at Horeb.
They "exchanged their glory for the image of an ox that eats grass. They forgot God their Savior."
God wanted to destroy them, but Moses interceded.
Then they refused to enter Canaan.
" They did not believe in His word."
They grumbled.
They wouldn't listen to the voice of the Lord.
God judged them there in the wilderness, refusing them their chance to enter the promised land.
They started worshipping idols.
They ate "sacrifices offered to the dead."
They so provoked God that He sent a plague upon them.
But, Phinehas stood up and interceded and the plague stopped.
They provoked God at Maribah.
They rebelled again and made Moses so mad that he spoke rashly and lost his chance to enter the Land.
They didn't destroy the peoples in their new land when they finally entered.
But, instead mingled with them, learned their ways, and worshipped their idols.
They "even sacrificed their sons and daughters to the demons, and shed innocent blood...."
They became unclean.
They " played the harlot".
They kindled the Lord's anger.
He gave them to the nations.
They were oppressed.
They were subdued.
Every time He would deliver them they rebelled and "sank down in their iniquity."
"Nevertheless He looked upon their distress, when He heard their cry; and He remembered His covenant for their sake and relented according to the greatness of His lovingkindness. "
"Save us , O Lord our God, and gather us from the nations, to give thanks to Thy holy name, and glory in Thy praise. "
They didn't understand.
They didn't remember.
They didn't believe.
They wanted their stomachs filled.
They wanted their own power.
They wanted their own gods.
They wanted their own iniquities.
Over and over again these same sins are played out in every nation, ( so true of our nation today)...and in every individual.
Yet, over and over again, God hears our cry for help. remembers His promises, and saves us.
O tidings of comfort and joy!
God rest you merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy!
Gracious and kind Father , thank You for being infinitely patient with us. Thank You for sending Jesus to save us, even while we were yet sinners.. How good You are! Keep our steps on Your path and our hearts in Your love today, I ask in the Name of the Wonderful Savior, Jesus, Amen.
It starts out in Egypt.
They didn't understand God's "wonders".
They didn't remember His kindness to them.
They "rebelled at the Red Sea."
But, God saved them anyway, leading them through on dry ground and closing the waters over the enemies.
Then, they believed, but it did not last. In the wilderness they:
Forgot His works.
Didn't wait for His counsel.
" Craved intensely" and "tempted God"
And God gave them what they wanted, however, He also sent a disease among them.
Next, they became envious of Moses and Aaron and rebelled against God's appointed leaders.
And, God opened the earth to consume the wicked.
They made a calf out of gold at Horeb.
They "exchanged their glory for the image of an ox that eats grass. They forgot God their Savior."
God wanted to destroy them, but Moses interceded.
Then they refused to enter Canaan.
" They did not believe in His word."
They grumbled.
They wouldn't listen to the voice of the Lord.
God judged them there in the wilderness, refusing them their chance to enter the promised land.
They started worshipping idols.
They ate "sacrifices offered to the dead."
They so provoked God that He sent a plague upon them.
But, Phinehas stood up and interceded and the plague stopped.
They provoked God at Maribah.
They rebelled again and made Moses so mad that he spoke rashly and lost his chance to enter the Land.
They didn't destroy the peoples in their new land when they finally entered.
But, instead mingled with them, learned their ways, and worshipped their idols.
They "even sacrificed their sons and daughters to the demons, and shed innocent blood...."
They became unclean.
They " played the harlot".
They kindled the Lord's anger.
He gave them to the nations.
They were oppressed.
They were subdued.
Every time He would deliver them they rebelled and "sank down in their iniquity."
"Nevertheless He looked upon their distress, when He heard their cry; and He remembered His covenant for their sake and relented according to the greatness of His lovingkindness. "
"Save us , O Lord our God, and gather us from the nations, to give thanks to Thy holy name, and glory in Thy praise. "
They didn't understand.
They didn't remember.
They didn't believe.
They wanted their stomachs filled.
They wanted their own power.
They wanted their own gods.
They wanted their own iniquities.
Over and over again these same sins are played out in every nation, ( so true of our nation today)...and in every individual.
Yet, over and over again, God hears our cry for help. remembers His promises, and saves us.
O tidings of comfort and joy!
God rest you merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy!
Gracious and kind Father , thank You for being infinitely patient with us. Thank You for sending Jesus to save us, even while we were yet sinners.. How good You are! Keep our steps on Your path and our hearts in Your love today, I ask in the Name of the Wonderful Savior, Jesus, Amen.
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Psalm 105 Part of this psalm is recorded in I Chronicles 16 as the ark was brought up into the tent that David had prepared for it. Here we see the whole history of Israel recounted, a call of thanksgiving for all that the Lord had done to bring His nation into existence in the place that He had chosen for them. The people were reminded to sing praises to the Lord and to "make known His deeds among the people."
Christmas time is a good time for us to stop and reflect on all the Lord has done for us in our own lives and to make known His deeds among our own people.
The Lord brought me to Himself as a child. He placed me in a family where I was taken to church from the beginning of my life. He gave me godly examples to follow.. my mom, my grandmother, and some of my siblings.
The Lord rescued me from darkness and gave me His light.
The Lord has worked good in my life, even from my failures.
The Lord has blessed me with much more than I could ever dream of.
The Lord has given me a hunger and thirst for more of Himself.
I have much to praise the Lord for everyday. Yet I know I can never thank Him enough for His great love towards me.
I am struck by verse 4 " Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually." This is God's desire for us every day. This Christmas, I want to do just that.. seek Him, seek to see Him better, seek His strength for what ever lies ahead in the new year.
Father, thank You for loving me and saving me through Jesus Christ, the Lord. Guide me in Your ways that I might live for Your glory, I ask in His name. Amen.
Christmas time is a good time for us to stop and reflect on all the Lord has done for us in our own lives and to make known His deeds among our own people.
The Lord brought me to Himself as a child. He placed me in a family where I was taken to church from the beginning of my life. He gave me godly examples to follow.. my mom, my grandmother, and some of my siblings.
The Lord rescued me from darkness and gave me His light.
The Lord has worked good in my life, even from my failures.
The Lord has blessed me with much more than I could ever dream of.
The Lord has given me a hunger and thirst for more of Himself.
I have much to praise the Lord for everyday. Yet I know I can never thank Him enough for His great love towards me.
I am struck by verse 4 " Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually." This is God's desire for us every day. This Christmas, I want to do just that.. seek Him, seek to see Him better, seek His strength for what ever lies ahead in the new year.
Father, thank You for loving me and saving me through Jesus Christ, the Lord. Guide me in Your ways that I might live for Your glory, I ask in His name. Amen.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Psalm 104 All the works of God.. all of creation testifies of His greatness. This psalm gives praise to the "Lord my God" who is indeed "very great." The psalmist draws us a picture with his words that will lead us to a fresh vision of God's intimate connection with His creation:
Picture Him, above the heavens, wrapped in a cloak of brilliant light. His covering is majestic and glorious.
He "stretches out heaven like a tent curtain..." Every star and planet in its place. Isaiah writes, " Lift up your eyes on high and see who has created these stars, the One who leads forth their host by number, He calls them all by name; because of the greatness of His might and the strength of His power not one of them is missing."
The Lord designed the heavens to cover the earth and made Himself a "chamber" above. He is close by... the clouds are His to ride, the wind is His to walk upon, the breezes are His to send messages and fire is His to minister to us.
The creation of the earth itself is firmly established so that it will not move. He covered it with water and then moved the water to make mountains and valleys. He has set boundaries for the waters ( no matter what climate scientists want us to believe). He provided streams and springs to bring drinking water to the wild animals. He designed rain to come so that grass will grow. He arranged plants that could be grown to provide food for mankind.
Trees.
Birds.
Animals.
Seasons.
Night and day.
" O Lord, how many are Your works! In wisdom Thou hast made them all. The earth is full of Thy possessions."
And we all wait. For God to provide. For God to satisfy us with good.
"Let the glory of the Lord endure forever; Let the Lord be glad in His works;"
Father God, Mighty One, wonderful Creator, are You glad in Your works? Are You glad that You made us? Are You well pleased with us today? We have such limited vision... we fail to see You in all of Your greatness and glory. Open our eyes today.. especially this week as we celebrate the coming of Jesus... that we may see beyond the distractions of this world, to the One who never becomes weary or tired, "the Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth." We need to .. we must lift up our eyes to the Only True God and sing praises to You while we have life to do so. Great are You Lord and greatly to be praised!
Amen
Picture Him, above the heavens, wrapped in a cloak of brilliant light. His covering is majestic and glorious.
He "stretches out heaven like a tent curtain..." Every star and planet in its place. Isaiah writes, " Lift up your eyes on high and see who has created these stars, the One who leads forth their host by number, He calls them all by name; because of the greatness of His might and the strength of His power not one of them is missing."
The Lord designed the heavens to cover the earth and made Himself a "chamber" above. He is close by... the clouds are His to ride, the wind is His to walk upon, the breezes are His to send messages and fire is His to minister to us.
The creation of the earth itself is firmly established so that it will not move. He covered it with water and then moved the water to make mountains and valleys. He has set boundaries for the waters ( no matter what climate scientists want us to believe). He provided streams and springs to bring drinking water to the wild animals. He designed rain to come so that grass will grow. He arranged plants that could be grown to provide food for mankind.
Trees.
Birds.
Animals.
Seasons.
Night and day.
" O Lord, how many are Your works! In wisdom Thou hast made them all. The earth is full of Thy possessions."
And we all wait. For God to provide. For God to satisfy us with good.
"Let the glory of the Lord endure forever; Let the Lord be glad in His works;"
Father God, Mighty One, wonderful Creator, are You glad in Your works? Are You glad that You made us? Are You well pleased with us today? We have such limited vision... we fail to see You in all of Your greatness and glory. Open our eyes today.. especially this week as we celebrate the coming of Jesus... that we may see beyond the distractions of this world, to the One who never becomes weary or tired, "the Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth." We need to .. we must lift up our eyes to the Only True God and sing praises to You while we have life to do so. Great are You Lord and greatly to be praised!
Amen
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Psalm 103
I am drawn back to Psalm 102:19-21 this morning, " For He looked down from His holy height; from heaven the Lord gazed upon the earth, to hear the groaning of the prisoner; to set free those who were doomed to death; that men may tell of the name of the Lord in Zion, and His praise in Jerusalem."
Isn't that exactly why we celebrate Jesus' birth? I love the fact that He hears the individual groaning.. each of us trapped in our own prisons.. our self-made bars constructed from our rebellious hearts and darkened minds. He sees us.. and came to set us free! "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased." the angels proclaimed.
"Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy Name." we reply.
The psalmist reminds us once again to remember... "forget none of His benefits;"
He pardons our iniquities.
He heals our diseases.
He redeems us.. buys us from the pit... from hopeless, desperate, endless death.
He crowns us... CROWNS us.. with righteousness and compassion.
He satisfies us with "good things"
He does righteous deeds.
He makes fair judgements.
He makes His ways known.
"The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness." ( I love to read this in Exodus 34... for this is how God describes Himself!)
He does not stay angry with us.
He does not treat us "according to our sins" ( Thank You Lord!)
His lovingkindness is as high as the heavens!
He removes our sins "as far as the east is from the west".
He has compassion on us even as a father has compassion on his own children.
He knows our frailty.
He knows our mortality.
He loves us eternally!
He keeps His promises... to those who keep His covenant.
Glory to God who" has established His throne in the heavens."
Glory to God who rules over all in His sovereignty.
Glory to God, who sends out His mighty angels to perform His word.
Glory to God!
"Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, you who serve Him, doing His will. Bless the Lord , all you works of His, in all places of His dominion; Bless the Lord, O my soul!"
Amen!
I am drawn back to Psalm 102:19-21 this morning, " For He looked down from His holy height; from heaven the Lord gazed upon the earth, to hear the groaning of the prisoner; to set free those who were doomed to death; that men may tell of the name of the Lord in Zion, and His praise in Jerusalem."
Isn't that exactly why we celebrate Jesus' birth? I love the fact that He hears the individual groaning.. each of us trapped in our own prisons.. our self-made bars constructed from our rebellious hearts and darkened minds. He sees us.. and came to set us free! "Glory to God in the Highest and peace among men with whom He is pleased." the angels proclaimed.
"Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy Name." we reply.
The psalmist reminds us once again to remember... "forget none of His benefits;"
He pardons our iniquities.
He heals our diseases.
He redeems us.. buys us from the pit... from hopeless, desperate, endless death.
He crowns us... CROWNS us.. with righteousness and compassion.
He satisfies us with "good things"
He does righteous deeds.
He makes fair judgements.
He makes His ways known.
"The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness." ( I love to read this in Exodus 34... for this is how God describes Himself!)
He does not stay angry with us.
He does not treat us "according to our sins" ( Thank You Lord!)
His lovingkindness is as high as the heavens!
He removes our sins "as far as the east is from the west".
He has compassion on us even as a father has compassion on his own children.
He knows our frailty.
He knows our mortality.
He loves us eternally!
He keeps His promises... to those who keep His covenant.
Glory to God who" has established His throne in the heavens."
Glory to God who rules over all in His sovereignty.
Glory to God, who sends out His mighty angels to perform His word.
Glory to God!
"Bless the Lord, all you His hosts, you who serve Him, doing His will. Bless the Lord , all you works of His, in all places of His dominion; Bless the Lord, O my soul!"
Amen!
Monday, December 19, 2016
Psalms 98-102
" O sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done wonderful things.... " These psalms go on to proclaim " O Lord, how many are Thy works! In wisdom Thou hast made them all; the earth is full of Thy possessions." ( 104:24)
Some of these " wonderful things" are:
He has " made known His salvation." ( 98:2)
He has "revealed His righteousness."
He has shown lovingkindness and faithfulness to His people. (v3)
He has revealed His salvation to all the earth.
He reigns over all the earth.( 99:1)
He loves justice. ( v4)
He answers prayer. (v6)
He forgives sin. (v8)
He made us. (100:3)
He is good. ( v5)
His love and faithfulness never ends and is for all generations. ( v5)
Psalm 101 is David's pledge to live for the Lord as best he can. He promises to walk according to God's ways, to stay connected to those who are faithful to the Lord, and to cut off those who are not. Although we cannot earn righteousness through our own works, we need to give heed "to the blameless way" as David did. We need to commit our lives to walking in integrity, to staying away from the worthless things, and to refuse that which is evil.
Psalm 102 is a prayer for mercy from someone who is afflicted. This statement touches my heart, " I have become like a lonely bird on a housetop."
He feels forgotten by God and by others.
He feels consumed by the world.
He feels like his heart has withered.
He feels like life has seeped out.
But.... he looks back at the Lord and remembers those "wonderful" works and seeks God's face again:
You abide forever, Lord.
Your Name is for my generation too!
You will have compassion on Your people at the right time.
All the nations will fear You and bow before You.
You hear the prayers of the destitute.
You look down from Your throne on high and You gaze upon the earth...
You hear the "groaning of the prisoner" .
You set free those "who were doomed to death "
" The heavens are the works of Thy hand. Even they will perish, but Thou dost endure; and all of them will wear out like a garment; like clothing Thou wilt change them, and they will be changed.
But Thou art the same, and Thy years will not come to an end."
Have you ever felt like a "lonely bird on a housetop" ?
Those who struggle with depression know that feeling well. Holiday times, while many are celebrating and excitedly running here and there, are times when some are hit hardest by sadness.
For whatever reason, or in whatever season, we may all have times like this.
Like the psalmist we need to be reminded of the truth of who our God is and what He has done.
Eternal God and Gracious Father, we turn our eyes towards You to once again see the salvation that You have provided through Jesus Christ, Your Son. It is in Jesus that Your righteousness is revealed. It is in Jesus that Your compassion is made known. It is in Him that our sins are forgiven and our transgressions are removed as far as the east is from the west. Thank You. Bless the Lord, O my soul and all that is within me. Bless Your holy Name, Lord Most High. Amen.
" O sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done wonderful things.... " These psalms go on to proclaim " O Lord, how many are Thy works! In wisdom Thou hast made them all; the earth is full of Thy possessions." ( 104:24)
Some of these " wonderful things" are:
He has " made known His salvation." ( 98:2)
He has "revealed His righteousness."
He has shown lovingkindness and faithfulness to His people. (v3)
He has revealed His salvation to all the earth.
He reigns over all the earth.( 99:1)
He loves justice. ( v4)
He answers prayer. (v6)
He forgives sin. (v8)
He made us. (100:3)
He is good. ( v5)
His love and faithfulness never ends and is for all generations. ( v5)
Psalm 101 is David's pledge to live for the Lord as best he can. He promises to walk according to God's ways, to stay connected to those who are faithful to the Lord, and to cut off those who are not. Although we cannot earn righteousness through our own works, we need to give heed "to the blameless way" as David did. We need to commit our lives to walking in integrity, to staying away from the worthless things, and to refuse that which is evil.
Psalm 102 is a prayer for mercy from someone who is afflicted. This statement touches my heart, " I have become like a lonely bird on a housetop."
He feels forgotten by God and by others.
He feels consumed by the world.
He feels like his heart has withered.
He feels like life has seeped out.
But.... he looks back at the Lord and remembers those "wonderful" works and seeks God's face again:
You abide forever, Lord.
Your Name is for my generation too!
You will have compassion on Your people at the right time.
All the nations will fear You and bow before You.
You hear the prayers of the destitute.
You look down from Your throne on high and You gaze upon the earth...
You hear the "groaning of the prisoner" .
You set free those "who were doomed to death "
" The heavens are the works of Thy hand. Even they will perish, but Thou dost endure; and all of them will wear out like a garment; like clothing Thou wilt change them, and they will be changed.
But Thou art the same, and Thy years will not come to an end."
Have you ever felt like a "lonely bird on a housetop" ?
Those who struggle with depression know that feeling well. Holiday times, while many are celebrating and excitedly running here and there, are times when some are hit hardest by sadness.
For whatever reason, or in whatever season, we may all have times like this.
Like the psalmist we need to be reminded of the truth of who our God is and what He has done.
Eternal God and Gracious Father, we turn our eyes towards You to once again see the salvation that You have provided through Jesus Christ, Your Son. It is in Jesus that Your righteousness is revealed. It is in Jesus that Your compassion is made known. It is in Him that our sins are forgiven and our transgressions are removed as far as the east is from the west. Thank You. Bless the Lord, O my soul and all that is within me. Bless Your holy Name, Lord Most High. Amen.
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Psalm 97
Verse 11 strikes me... " Light is sown like seed for the righteous ..."
Because of this we are told to be "glad in the Lord... and give thanks to His holy name. "
Light is sown. It is planted. It germinates. It grows.
Psalm 112:4 says " Light arises in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious and compassionate and righteous."
Proverbs 4:18 says, " But the path of the righteous is like the dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day."
The Bible Knowledge Commentary speaks of light as the "blessings of joy and spiritual prosperity" . It refers back to Psalm 27: 1 " The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" and Psalm 36:9 " For with Thee is the fountain of life; in Thy light we see light." BKC says "Light signifies understanding, joy, and life and the stronghold signifies defense. With these provisions from the Lord, whom shall a believer fear?" It also says, " life and light come from God, their Source. So in contrast with the corruptions of the wicked, an obedient believer's life is characterized by security in the Lord, abundant provisions, life, and understanding in God's presence. "
Light - understanding, joy, life. A gift from God. The first gift given to the newly formed heavens and earth ( Gen. 1:3) . John 1:4-5 " In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not comprehend it." Jesus says, " .. I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." ( John 8:12)
Paul, in his testimony before Agrippa, says this about the Lord's call upon him," .. I am sending you, to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, in order that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me. " ( Acts 26: 18)
Jesus, the Light of the world...reigns.. and the earth rejoices.
Jesus, surrounded by clouds and darkness, breaks through with His righteousness and justice, a fire that burns all the darkness away.
" His lightnings lit up the world." Stop and think about that!
His presence makes the earth tremble and the mountains melt.
"The heavens declare His righteousness and all the peoples have seen His glory."
To serve any other god is shameful, wicked, and useless. For He is "exalted far above all gods."
They are nothing. He is everything.
They are darkness. He is Light.
He is a Light that grows brighter and brighter, bringing us understanding and joy and life.
Be glad.
Be thankful.
Be in awe of Him.
Father in heaven, You are Light and in You there is no darkness at all! You have given us Yourself in Your Son, Jesus Christ, the true Light of the world. Let that light grow in us. Increase our understanding. Increase our joy. Fill us with Your life, Your light growing brighter and brighter until that day when Christ returns . Let the truth of Your words stir our hearts and fill us with joy and gladness in Christ today. Amen.
Verse 11 strikes me... " Light is sown like seed for the righteous ..."
Because of this we are told to be "glad in the Lord... and give thanks to His holy name. "
Light is sown. It is planted. It germinates. It grows.
Psalm 112:4 says " Light arises in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious and compassionate and righteous."
Proverbs 4:18 says, " But the path of the righteous is like the dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day."
The Bible Knowledge Commentary speaks of light as the "blessings of joy and spiritual prosperity" . It refers back to Psalm 27: 1 " The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" and Psalm 36:9 " For with Thee is the fountain of life; in Thy light we see light." BKC says "Light signifies understanding, joy, and life and the stronghold signifies defense. With these provisions from the Lord, whom shall a believer fear?" It also says, " life and light come from God, their Source. So in contrast with the corruptions of the wicked, an obedient believer's life is characterized by security in the Lord, abundant provisions, life, and understanding in God's presence. "
Light - understanding, joy, life. A gift from God. The first gift given to the newly formed heavens and earth ( Gen. 1:3) . John 1:4-5 " In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not comprehend it." Jesus says, " .. I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." ( John 8:12)
Paul, in his testimony before Agrippa, says this about the Lord's call upon him," .. I am sending you, to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, in order that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me. " ( Acts 26: 18)
Jesus, the Light of the world...reigns.. and the earth rejoices.
Jesus, surrounded by clouds and darkness, breaks through with His righteousness and justice, a fire that burns all the darkness away.
" His lightnings lit up the world." Stop and think about that!
His presence makes the earth tremble and the mountains melt.
"The heavens declare His righteousness and all the peoples have seen His glory."
To serve any other god is shameful, wicked, and useless. For He is "exalted far above all gods."
They are nothing. He is everything.
They are darkness. He is Light.
He is a Light that grows brighter and brighter, bringing us understanding and joy and life.
Be glad.
Be thankful.
Be in awe of Him.
Father in heaven, You are Light and in You there is no darkness at all! You have given us Yourself in Your Son, Jesus Christ, the true Light of the world. Let that light grow in us. Increase our understanding. Increase our joy. Fill us with Your life, Your light growing brighter and brighter until that day when Christ returns . Let the truth of Your words stir our hearts and fill us with joy and gladness in Christ today. Amen.
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Psalm 96 Again we are called to sing to the Lord.
What are we to sing? A new song!
Who is to sing? All the earth.
How are we to sing? So that He is blessed!
Our songs are meant to proclaim "His salvation from day to day." and to "Tell of His glory among the nations."
We are to sing of "His wonderful deeds."
We are to sing of His greatness.
We are to sing of His worthiness.
We are to sing of His Sovereignty.
We are to sing of His Power in creation.
We are to sing of His splendor and majesty.
We make known His glory and strength.
We make known the "glory of His name."
We make known to every nation that " the Lord reigns."
We make known the fact that He is coming and that He will judge the earth.
We make known the fact that His judgement will be according to His righteousness.
We make know the fact that He will show Himself faithful to His own people.
All the earth and all the heavens will be glad in that day. The seas, the fields, and the trees... all creation will rejoice at the coming of the Lord!
Father in heaven, I look forward to that day when true joy will be expressed in the songs of all Your creation. Every creature and every plant and every animal.. every star and every planet... will exult You. O to see that day! Until then, Lord keep my heart singing a new song, a song of Your great salvation every day. You are my God and I am Your child, Your servant, and I want to worship You with all my heart, soul, and being. Fill me Holy Spirit, that I might be made complete as only You can do, in the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
What are we to sing? A new song!
Who is to sing? All the earth.
How are we to sing? So that He is blessed!
Our songs are meant to proclaim "His salvation from day to day." and to "Tell of His glory among the nations."
We are to sing of "His wonderful deeds."
We are to sing of His greatness.
We are to sing of His worthiness.
We are to sing of His Sovereignty.
We are to sing of His Power in creation.
We are to sing of His splendor and majesty.
We make known His glory and strength.
We make known the "glory of His name."
We make known to every nation that " the Lord reigns."
We make known the fact that He is coming and that He will judge the earth.
We make known the fact that His judgement will be according to His righteousness.
We make know the fact that He will show Himself faithful to His own people.
All the earth and all the heavens will be glad in that day. The seas, the fields, and the trees... all creation will rejoice at the coming of the Lord!
Father in heaven, I look forward to that day when true joy will be expressed in the songs of all Your creation. Every creature and every plant and every animal.. every star and every planet... will exult You. O to see that day! Until then, Lord keep my heart singing a new song, a song of Your great salvation every day. You are my God and I am Your child, Your servant, and I want to worship You with all my heart, soul, and being. Fill me Holy Spirit, that I might be made complete as only You can do, in the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
Monday, December 12, 2016
Psalm 95 The next 5 psalms are songs of worship and praise to the Lord. They are songs we can make our own, as many have been used in choruses and hymns throughout the history of the church.
I don't know about you, but sometimes the more familiar the words are, the less meaningful they can become. They become rote.. not felt. For example.. " O come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation." Sing and shouting for joy... with joy... to the Lord.. is not something that happens much anymore. We sing. We might even sing with enthusiasm or enjoyment. But, how many people feel joyful... how many are aiming their song towards the Lord?
We are to come before His presence with thanksgiving.
We are to shout to Him with joy.
We are to bow down and worship Him.
We are allowed, encouraged, and maybe even commanded to.... be emotional!
Our Lord is a great God!
Our Lord is a great King!
Our Lord is the Creator of everything!
Our Lord holds the seas and the mountains in His Hands!
Our Lord has chosen us to be His people!
Our Lord has spoken to us.. speaks to us.. today!
Don't harden your heart, the psalmist warns us. Don't err in your heart, don't ignore His ways.
Instead, kneel before Him.
Bring Him a song of joy.
Let yourself feel... joy, thankfulness, reverence, and awe for the Lord Most High who loves us and offers us His rest.. a home of peace and comfort and consolation.
Holy Father, Maker of heaven and of earth, Mighty God and King, I hallow Your Name. Your Name is above all names. You are above all things, the owner of all things, the maker of all things. There is nothing that exists that You have not brought into being. You have called me to know Your Name and to sing to You, Lord. To sing with joy and thanksgiving. May I be faithful to hear Your voice and never harden my heart. Help me, Lord Jesus, to become like You, always glorifying the Father. Make my heart free to feel and to express the joy of Your salvation. Open my eyes to see You more clearly today, open my ears to hear Your voice.. today. Amen.
I don't know about you, but sometimes the more familiar the words are, the less meaningful they can become. They become rote.. not felt. For example.. " O come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation." Sing and shouting for joy... with joy... to the Lord.. is not something that happens much anymore. We sing. We might even sing with enthusiasm or enjoyment. But, how many people feel joyful... how many are aiming their song towards the Lord?
We are to come before His presence with thanksgiving.
We are to shout to Him with joy.
We are to bow down and worship Him.
We are allowed, encouraged, and maybe even commanded to.... be emotional!
Our Lord is a great God!
Our Lord is a great King!
Our Lord is the Creator of everything!
Our Lord holds the seas and the mountains in His Hands!
Our Lord has chosen us to be His people!
Our Lord has spoken to us.. speaks to us.. today!
Don't harden your heart, the psalmist warns us. Don't err in your heart, don't ignore His ways.
Instead, kneel before Him.
Bring Him a song of joy.
Let yourself feel... joy, thankfulness, reverence, and awe for the Lord Most High who loves us and offers us His rest.. a home of peace and comfort and consolation.
Holy Father, Maker of heaven and of earth, Mighty God and King, I hallow Your Name. Your Name is above all names. You are above all things, the owner of all things, the maker of all things. There is nothing that exists that You have not brought into being. You have called me to know Your Name and to sing to You, Lord. To sing with joy and thanksgiving. May I be faithful to hear Your voice and never harden my heart. Help me, Lord Jesus, to become like You, always glorifying the Father. Make my heart free to feel and to express the joy of Your salvation. Open my eyes to see You more clearly today, open my ears to hear Your voice.. today. Amen.
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Psalm 94 " O Lord, God of vengeance ; " This character trait belongs strictly to the Lord. Deuteronomy 32:35-36 " Vengeance is Mine, and retribution... For the Lord will vindicate His people.. " makes this clear. Romans 12:19 says " Never take you own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord."
To take revenge carries the meaning of repayment for wrongs or injuries by punishing the evil doer.
It also speaks of vindication, or defense of the one wronged. God Himself claims the right and responsibility for all vengeance.
The psalmist calls upon the Lord to proceed with His work of vengeance in his immediate circumstances.
The wicked are proud and arrogant.
They are crushing people.
They are murdering the helpless... the widows and orphans.
They have denied God's ability to see them or care about their actions.
We wonder about this sometimes too. Our country has experienced too much trouble and turmoil caused by these same kinds of wicked people. We wonder how long it will be, how bad it will get before the Lord moves to punish and stop those who are evil.
But the psalmist doesn't dwell there.. he instead gives a warning, " Pay heed you senseless among the people; and when will you understand, stupid ones?" ( v8)
God made the ear, "does He not hear?"
God formed the eye, " does He not see?"
God judges nations.
God is the teacher of all knowledge.
God knows the thoughts of every individual.
Pay attention.. for vindication, vengeance is in His Hands. Repent while you can.
The Lord will help those who call upon Him.
He will hold us up and He will console us.
He will be our stronghold, our refuge, and our defender.
And He will destroy those who continue in their wickedness and refuse to repent.
The last few psalms have focused on qualities of God that we need to meditate on and praise Him for - His lovingkindness, His faithfulness, His goodness, His Majesty, His strength, His Might, and His holiness . And now we add to this, His vengeance.... I for one am thankful that this is His responsibility and I praise Him that He will do it perfectly for He is excellent is all His ways.
Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your Name. May we honor this title, " God of vengeance " as we honor every Name that You have revealed to us, that we might know You better. When we face those who do wickedness, help us to remember that You have already declared that You will bring vengeance. May we warn them and lead them to You... or leave them in Your hands. Be our Rock and Consolation, O Lord. We are confident in this truth, You will not abandon Your people and You will punish those who refuse to heed Your Word. We cast our cares on You and cling to You, the God who reigns in majesty and splendor. Praise to our Mighty God and to our Lord Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
To take revenge carries the meaning of repayment for wrongs or injuries by punishing the evil doer.
It also speaks of vindication, or defense of the one wronged. God Himself claims the right and responsibility for all vengeance.
The psalmist calls upon the Lord to proceed with His work of vengeance in his immediate circumstances.
The wicked are proud and arrogant.
They are crushing people.
They are murdering the helpless... the widows and orphans.
They have denied God's ability to see them or care about their actions.
We wonder about this sometimes too. Our country has experienced too much trouble and turmoil caused by these same kinds of wicked people. We wonder how long it will be, how bad it will get before the Lord moves to punish and stop those who are evil.
But the psalmist doesn't dwell there.. he instead gives a warning, " Pay heed you senseless among the people; and when will you understand, stupid ones?" ( v8)
God made the ear, "does He not hear?"
God formed the eye, " does He not see?"
God judges nations.
God is the teacher of all knowledge.
God knows the thoughts of every individual.
Pay attention.. for vindication, vengeance is in His Hands. Repent while you can.
The Lord will help those who call upon Him.
He will hold us up and He will console us.
He will be our stronghold, our refuge, and our defender.
And He will destroy those who continue in their wickedness and refuse to repent.
The last few psalms have focused on qualities of God that we need to meditate on and praise Him for - His lovingkindness, His faithfulness, His goodness, His Majesty, His strength, His Might, and His holiness . And now we add to this, His vengeance.... I for one am thankful that this is His responsibility and I praise Him that He will do it perfectly for He is excellent is all His ways.
Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your Name. May we honor this title, " God of vengeance " as we honor every Name that You have revealed to us, that we might know You better. When we face those who do wickedness, help us to remember that You have already declared that You will bring vengeance. May we warn them and lead them to You... or leave them in Your hands. Be our Rock and Consolation, O Lord. We are confident in this truth, You will not abandon Your people and You will punish those who refuse to heed Your Word. We cast our cares on You and cling to You, the God who reigns in majesty and splendor. Praise to our Mighty God and to our Lord Jesus Christ in whose name we pray. Amen.
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
Psalm 93 " The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty; The Lord has clothed and girded Himself with strength."
"clothed" - to wrap around or put on - God puts on "majesty" - Majesty is an ornament of excellence, glory, magnificence, triumph, highness. Psalm 104:1b-2 says, " O Lord my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with spender and majesty; Covering Thyself with light as with a cloak..."
His belt is "strength".- power, security, might, force.. He prevails!
God has established His throne "from of old; Thou art from everlasting". v2
"The Lord on high is mighty." v4b
"Thy testimonies are fully confirmed." v5a - all that He says is found true and certain.
" Holiness befits Thy house, O Lord forevermore." (v5b)
The majesty, the excellence of our God, is His covering of Light. He is eternally glorious in His strength, His might, His Truth, and His holiness. When we acknowledge and meditate on this.. our hearts are filled with awe and wonder. Here is where we come to worship and bow down, falling before His throne. We sing praises to Him, the Most High. We declare His lovingkindness and His faithfulness. We remember His works and rejoice with thanksgiving for what He has done for us.
Father, open our eyes to see Your majesty and splendor. Someday we will experience this is a way we can't begin to imagine, but until then, help us to know You as the psalmist did. You are great and mighty, kind and faithful! We give praise and thanks to You. Reign forevermore, O Lord! Let Your kingdom come and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. amen.
"clothed" - to wrap around or put on - God puts on "majesty" - Majesty is an ornament of excellence, glory, magnificence, triumph, highness. Psalm 104:1b-2 says, " O Lord my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with spender and majesty; Covering Thyself with light as with a cloak..."
His belt is "strength".- power, security, might, force.. He prevails!
God has established His throne "from of old; Thou art from everlasting". v2
"The Lord on high is mighty." v4b
"Thy testimonies are fully confirmed." v5a - all that He says is found true and certain.
" Holiness befits Thy house, O Lord forevermore." (v5b)
The majesty, the excellence of our God, is His covering of Light. He is eternally glorious in His strength, His might, His Truth, and His holiness. When we acknowledge and meditate on this.. our hearts are filled with awe and wonder. Here is where we come to worship and bow down, falling before His throne. We sing praises to Him, the Most High. We declare His lovingkindness and His faithfulness. We remember His works and rejoice with thanksgiving for what He has done for us.
Father, open our eyes to see Your majesty and splendor. Someday we will experience this is a way we can't begin to imagine, but until then, help us to know You as the psalmist did. You are great and mighty, kind and faithful! We give praise and thanks to You. Reign forevermore, O Lord! Let Your kingdom come and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. amen.
Monday, December 5, 2016
Psalm 92 This is as song for the Sabbath day, the title tells us. It is a song of praise to the Lord. It is one thing to say " Praise the Lord"... it is another to really mean it. Sometimes I feel.. conflicted... unsettled about this... am I just saying words? Do I really mean what I say? Am I being sincere in my praise? I know that I want to be. This psalm helps...
" It is good to give thanks to the Lord," the psalmist writes. It is easy to be thankful. God has given us so much! We are thankful for His salvation through Jesus. We are thankful for our families and for our blessings. We are thankful for daily bread and for answers to prayer. But, there is more to it.
The Hebrew word used here for "give thanks" is yadah. It means to hold out or use your hands; to revere or worship with extended hands.. to make a confession, to praise. It is a physical action involving an open hand. We extend our open hand.. to give... or to demonstrate our thankfulness.
" And to sing praises to Thy name, O Most High;" the writer continues. "Sing praises"- to make music.. to touch the strings or strike the instrument... to celebrate in song. A musical celebration of the Most High, that declares His lovingkindness and His faithfulness.
To "declare" - to boldly stand, to manifest, announce, expose, predict, explain, praise... His qualities day and night. Our God is full of lovingkindness - He is kind and shows us favor, good, mercy, pity and beauty. Our God is also full of faithfulness - established, trustworthy, firm, secure, steady, true.
It is good for us to celebrate our God. To boldly proclaim His greatness. He is faithful. He is love. He wants us to know these truths about who He is and to remember them by singing about them morning and evening.. lest we forget.
The psalm goes on ... " For Thou, O Lord, hast made me glad by what Thou hast done, I will sing for joy at the works of Thy hands. How great are Your works, O Lord! Thy thoughts are very deep. "
This points to a personal response towards God's loving actions towards us individually.
The wicked, the senseless, and the stupid... don't understand this. They will perish.
But, the "righteous " who "declare that the Lord is upright", who build their lives on Him, who praise and worship Him ... they will "flourish". They will be fruitful.. even in "old age". They will overcome their foes.. because the Lord is " on high forever".
Our pastor has explained that thanksgiving is given for what God had done. Praise is given for who God is. We are to give both... in celebration of Who God is and what He has done for us. These gifts - praise and thanks - are offerings- held out by our own hands to the Most High Who is our rock. It is a gift from our hearts to Him that reveals that we are His. If we fail to make this offering we are like the wicked, senseless, stupid man who will be scattered.
Father in heaven, forgive us for neglecting to give to You the honor and thanks that You deserve. We get so focused on praying about ourselves, our families, our needs... that we miss out on the most important part of praying... giving You praise for Who You are and thanking You for what You have done for each of us personally. Great is Your lovingkindness to us O Lord! You are good. You are merciful, and You are beautiful. Great is Your faithfulness! You never change and You are always trustworthy. Thank You for the gifts that You have given to us this morning.. for life, for love, and for wonder and truth and security. Let our hearts sing of Your greatness morning and evening forever more. Amen.
" It is good to give thanks to the Lord," the psalmist writes. It is easy to be thankful. God has given us so much! We are thankful for His salvation through Jesus. We are thankful for our families and for our blessings. We are thankful for daily bread and for answers to prayer. But, there is more to it.
The Hebrew word used here for "give thanks" is yadah. It means to hold out or use your hands; to revere or worship with extended hands.. to make a confession, to praise. It is a physical action involving an open hand. We extend our open hand.. to give... or to demonstrate our thankfulness.
" And to sing praises to Thy name, O Most High;" the writer continues. "Sing praises"- to make music.. to touch the strings or strike the instrument... to celebrate in song. A musical celebration of the Most High, that declares His lovingkindness and His faithfulness.
To "declare" - to boldly stand, to manifest, announce, expose, predict, explain, praise... His qualities day and night. Our God is full of lovingkindness - He is kind and shows us favor, good, mercy, pity and beauty. Our God is also full of faithfulness - established, trustworthy, firm, secure, steady, true.
It is good for us to celebrate our God. To boldly proclaim His greatness. He is faithful. He is love. He wants us to know these truths about who He is and to remember them by singing about them morning and evening.. lest we forget.
The psalm goes on ... " For Thou, O Lord, hast made me glad by what Thou hast done, I will sing for joy at the works of Thy hands. How great are Your works, O Lord! Thy thoughts are very deep. "
This points to a personal response towards God's loving actions towards us individually.
The wicked, the senseless, and the stupid... don't understand this. They will perish.
But, the "righteous " who "declare that the Lord is upright", who build their lives on Him, who praise and worship Him ... they will "flourish". They will be fruitful.. even in "old age". They will overcome their foes.. because the Lord is " on high forever".
Our pastor has explained that thanksgiving is given for what God had done. Praise is given for who God is. We are to give both... in celebration of Who God is and what He has done for us. These gifts - praise and thanks - are offerings- held out by our own hands to the Most High Who is our rock. It is a gift from our hearts to Him that reveals that we are His. If we fail to make this offering we are like the wicked, senseless, stupid man who will be scattered.
Father in heaven, forgive us for neglecting to give to You the honor and thanks that You deserve. We get so focused on praying about ourselves, our families, our needs... that we miss out on the most important part of praying... giving You praise for Who You are and thanking You for what You have done for each of us personally. Great is Your lovingkindness to us O Lord! You are good. You are merciful, and You are beautiful. Great is Your faithfulness! You never change and You are always trustworthy. Thank You for the gifts that You have given to us this morning.. for life, for love, and for wonder and truth and security. Let our hearts sing of Your greatness morning and evening forever more. Amen.
Friday, December 2, 2016
II Peter 3
In 1:12 Peter says he wants to remind us of the truth of our calling by Christ.
In 1:13 he speaks of stirring us up with his reminders.
And again here, in 3:1, he speaks again to stir up our minds to remember the Word, that of the prophets and that of our Lord.
Remember, he tells us, that even though mockers say that Christ isn't coming, He surely is.
Remember, that God established the heavens and earth, and as long as they are still standing You have proof that the Word of God still stands.
Remember that there is a day coming when all the universe as we know it will be destroyed.
Remember that the Lord is waiting patiently because of His great love for us, because we wants all of us to come to repentance.
Remember that He is coming and we need to be living in holiness and godliness until that day.
Remember that He will establish a new heaven and a new earth.
Remember to be on guard so that we won't follow the false teachers but stay steadfast in His Truth.
Grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, Peter exhorts us, for that day is coming.
Father in heaven, be Lord of our hearts and lives, that we may be steadfast in Your Truth, growing in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus. We ask this in His holy Name, amen.
In 1:12 Peter says he wants to remind us of the truth of our calling by Christ.
In 1:13 he speaks of stirring us up with his reminders.
And again here, in 3:1, he speaks again to stir up our minds to remember the Word, that of the prophets and that of our Lord.
Remember, he tells us, that even though mockers say that Christ isn't coming, He surely is.
Remember, that God established the heavens and earth, and as long as they are still standing You have proof that the Word of God still stands.
Remember that there is a day coming when all the universe as we know it will be destroyed.
Remember that the Lord is waiting patiently because of His great love for us, because we wants all of us to come to repentance.
Remember that He is coming and we need to be living in holiness and godliness until that day.
Remember that He will establish a new heaven and a new earth.
Remember to be on guard so that we won't follow the false teachers but stay steadfast in His Truth.
Grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, Peter exhorts us, for that day is coming.
Father in heaven, be Lord of our hearts and lives, that we may be steadfast in Your Truth, growing in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus. We ask this in His holy Name, amen.
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