Psalm 118
This Psalm has many interesting things for us to discuss, so let's get started. This Psalm starts out by telling us that we should give thanks to God because His love endures forever. This is something to be thankful for everyday.
Because we know that we are loved with an everlasting love, we need not fear that something we do will cause the Lord to withhold His love from us. This should always motivate us to love and serve the Lord to the best of our ability.
Verse 8 tells us that it is better to trust in God than to trust in man. No human being no matter how important or powerful can help us as the Lord can.
When we are facing difficult circumstances in life, we need to take our problem to the Lord first. He is the one who spoke and brought the universe into existence. He certainly has enough power to help us when we are in need.
This Psalm tells us that the stone that the builders rejected has become the capstone. This is a Messianic prophecy. Jesus uses this verse to describe His earthly ministry. He was rejected when He came the first time. When He comes again, He will rule over all. Jesus is the cornerstone of His church.
Verse 24 tells us that the Lord has made this day, and we should rejoice in it. When you suffer with depression like I do, this isn't always easy. Sometimes, days don't seem to have much in them to rejoice about. On these days, we need to remember that we are loved by God. We can always rejoice that we have been redeemed. The Lord is always watching over us.
Monday, August 31, 2020
Sunday, August 30, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 24
Psalm 117
Psalm 117 holds the distinction of being the shortest chapter in the entire Bible. If you want to impress someone, tell them that you have memorized an entire Psalm, and then recite Psalm 117. They can't say you weren't telling them the truth.
While it may be short, this Psalm has important things to teach us. It tells us that God's love for us is great. As Christians, we know that God showed His love for us most clearly when He sent His Son to this Earth to be the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
God demonstrates His love for us in a multitude of other ways. God has provided a beautiful world for us to live in. Our needs are provided by the Lord. God shows His love by giving us things that make us happy.
This Psalm tells us the the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. He will never leave us or forsake us. The Lord has promised that those who love Him will be with Him for all eternity. We can see in the Bible how God faithfully kept His promises to Abraham, David and Israel. He will also be faithful to honor all the promises that He has made to those who believe in Him. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Psalm 117 holds the distinction of being the shortest chapter in the entire Bible. If you want to impress someone, tell them that you have memorized an entire Psalm, and then recite Psalm 117. They can't say you weren't telling them the truth.
While it may be short, this Psalm has important things to teach us. It tells us that God's love for us is great. As Christians, we know that God showed His love for us most clearly when He sent His Son to this Earth to be the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
God demonstrates His love for us in a multitude of other ways. God has provided a beautiful world for us to live in. Our needs are provided by the Lord. God shows His love by giving us things that make us happy.
This Psalm tells us the the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. He will never leave us or forsake us. The Lord has promised that those who love Him will be with Him for all eternity. We can see in the Bible how God faithfully kept His promises to Abraham, David and Israel. He will also be faithful to honor all the promises that He has made to those who believe in Him. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.
Saturday, August 29, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 23
Psalm 115
The first words of Psalm 115 are, "Not to us O Lord, but to thy name be glory." These words have often been used in musical settings. The one that comes most readily to my mind is when the Latin translation of this text was put to music in the Kenneth Branaugh version of Henry V. It was heard in the film after the events at the Battle of Agincourt.
This verse tells us that we are not to seek glory or fame for ourselves. All glory and honor belongs to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who is the True and Living God. All glory goes to Him because of His love and faithfulness. God loves His people. He sustained the people of Israel through good times and bad. He loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross to save us from our sins. He will never leave us or forsake us. He is our Father, and we are His children.
Verse 3 tells us that our God is in the heavens and does whatever He pleases. He is all knowing and all powerful. His will for the universe will be accomplished no matter how much the powers of evil try to stop it.
In contrast, all of the other so called gods are just idols. They are statues and figures made by people. They have absolutely no power. Those who follow after other gods will separated eternally from the one True and Living God.
Psalm 115 tells us that the Lord will bless those who fear Him. God is no respector of persons. He will assist both small and great as long as that person honors Him. You may think that you are insignificant. You are important and highly valued by the King of the Universe.
The first words of Psalm 115 are, "Not to us O Lord, but to thy name be glory." These words have often been used in musical settings. The one that comes most readily to my mind is when the Latin translation of this text was put to music in the Kenneth Branaugh version of Henry V. It was heard in the film after the events at the Battle of Agincourt.
This verse tells us that we are not to seek glory or fame for ourselves. All glory and honor belongs to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who is the True and Living God. All glory goes to Him because of His love and faithfulness. God loves His people. He sustained the people of Israel through good times and bad. He loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross to save us from our sins. He will never leave us or forsake us. He is our Father, and we are His children.
Verse 3 tells us that our God is in the heavens and does whatever He pleases. He is all knowing and all powerful. His will for the universe will be accomplished no matter how much the powers of evil try to stop it.
In contrast, all of the other so called gods are just idols. They are statues and figures made by people. They have absolutely no power. Those who follow after other gods will separated eternally from the one True and Living God.
Psalm 115 tells us that the Lord will bless those who fear Him. God is no respector of persons. He will assist both small and great as long as that person honors Him. You may think that you are insignificant. You are important and highly valued by the King of the Universe.
Friday, August 28, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 22
Psalm 113
Before we get into what Psalm 113 has to teach us, there are some other interesting things for us to know about this Psalm. Psalm 113 is a Psalm that is often read during the time of Passover. When Jesus and His disciples were in the Upper Room when they shared the Last Supper together, they more than likely recited this Psalm at some point in the evening.
Psalm 113 is a poem that has a specific structure. Each line begins with one of the letters in the Hebrew alphabet from the beginning of the alphabet to the end. As a poet, I find this very interesting. I think that it is much more difficult to compose a poem using a set form than it is composing in a completely free form style.
The final portion of Psalm 113 tells us that the name of the Lord should be praised from the rising to the setting of the sun. Our God is great. We have so much to thank and praise Him for. If we praised God every waking moment of our lives, we could not praise Him enough.
Two things tell the greatness of God. Our God is so great that He cares about the needs of His creation.
The Lord cares about those who are poor and needy. These are the ones that many people do not care about. God cares, and He has directed those who follow Him to care for the least of these.
Ultimately, all those who have suffered in this life will he made whole and receive justice.
Great is the Lord. May the Lord be praised both now and forevermore.
Before we get into what Psalm 113 has to teach us, there are some other interesting things for us to know about this Psalm. Psalm 113 is a Psalm that is often read during the time of Passover. When Jesus and His disciples were in the Upper Room when they shared the Last Supper together, they more than likely recited this Psalm at some point in the evening.
Psalm 113 is a poem that has a specific structure. Each line begins with one of the letters in the Hebrew alphabet from the beginning of the alphabet to the end. As a poet, I find this very interesting. I think that it is much more difficult to compose a poem using a set form than it is composing in a completely free form style.
The final portion of Psalm 113 tells us that the name of the Lord should be praised from the rising to the setting of the sun. Our God is great. We have so much to thank and praise Him for. If we praised God every waking moment of our lives, we could not praise Him enough.
Two things tell the greatness of God. Our God is so great that He cares about the needs of His creation.
The Lord cares about those who are poor and needy. These are the ones that many people do not care about. God cares, and He has directed those who follow Him to care for the least of these.
Ultimately, all those who have suffered in this life will he made whole and receive justice.
Great is the Lord. May the Lord be praised both now and forevermore.
Thursday, August 27, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 21
Psalm 110
Psalm 110 is a Messianic Psalm of great importance. This Psalm tells us of the divinity of the Messiah Jesus Christ. It also tells us that Jesus is a priest forever in the order of Melchizadek. This point is also made in the book of Hebrews. The future rule and reign of the Messiah is also discussed in this Psalm. You will also find that Jesus discusses this Psalm in Matthew 22.
Verse one is the verse that Jesus used in His dispute with the Pharisees. It says, "The Lord says to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool for your feet. Jesus asked how the Messiah can be David's son when David calls Him Lord? The reason is that the Messiah is divine. He is the Lord of Glory and the son of David in the flesh. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant that promised that a descendant of David would forever rule on David's throne. This Psalm, and Jesus' use of this Psalm, make His divinity very clear.
Jesus is a priest forever after the order of Melchizadek. Jesus is the mediator of a new and better covenant. The Levitical Aaronic priesthood was part of the old covenant. It was part of the law. The priests had to come continually to make offerings for sin. They could only cover sin. These sacrifices could not wash sins away.
Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Through His once for all sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus has dealt with sin once and for all.
Psalm 110 tells us that the Messiah will come to judge the nations. Jesus will judge based on what He taught in Matthew 25. Jesus said that the nations would be judged on the basis of how they treated the least among them. Jesus is judge. Jesus is our great high priest. Jesus is King. Jesus is Lord.
Psalm 110 is a Messianic Psalm of great importance. This Psalm tells us of the divinity of the Messiah Jesus Christ. It also tells us that Jesus is a priest forever in the order of Melchizadek. This point is also made in the book of Hebrews. The future rule and reign of the Messiah is also discussed in this Psalm. You will also find that Jesus discusses this Psalm in Matthew 22.
Verse one is the verse that Jesus used in His dispute with the Pharisees. It says, "The Lord says to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool for your feet. Jesus asked how the Messiah can be David's son when David calls Him Lord? The reason is that the Messiah is divine. He is the Lord of Glory and the son of David in the flesh. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant that promised that a descendant of David would forever rule on David's throne. This Psalm, and Jesus' use of this Psalm, make His divinity very clear.
Jesus is a priest forever after the order of Melchizadek. Jesus is the mediator of a new and better covenant. The Levitical Aaronic priesthood was part of the old covenant. It was part of the law. The priests had to come continually to make offerings for sin. They could only cover sin. These sacrifices could not wash sins away.
Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Through His once for all sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus has dealt with sin once and for all.
Psalm 110 tells us that the Messiah will come to judge the nations. Jesus will judge based on what He taught in Matthew 25. Jesus said that the nations would be judged on the basis of how they treated the least among them. Jesus is judge. Jesus is our great high priest. Jesus is King. Jesus is Lord.
Wednesday, August 26, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 20
Psalm 103
This Psalm is just packed with interesting things for us to explore. I would like to focus on three items from Psalm 103.
The first theme I want to focus on is found in verse 6 that states, "The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the opressed." The Old Testament is especially clear that God will not tolerate injustice against those who are poor weak or vulnerable. He will bring action. Most often that occurs when Godly people are moved by the Holy Spirit to take action on behalf of others. In my country, we've seen that the Civil Rights Movement and efforts to help the opressed have been led by Christians.
Verse 12 is one of my favorite verses in the Psalms. It is often used after the corporate prayer of confession in many churches when the assurance of pardon is given. This verse says, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us."
When we confess our sins and come to faith and trust in Jesus, He forgives all of our sins. Our slate is wiped clean, so to speak.
When our sins are removed from us by the Lord, He remembers them against us no more. He won't bring them back up and remind us of our past faillings. We can rest in the knowledge of His forgiveness. He wants us to make move forward and do good deeds that are pleasing to Him.
The final theme that I want to explore is found in verses 15 and 16. These verses speak to us of the fact that life is brief. They remind me that I need to do all that I can while I am able to serve the Lord and try to make the world a better place.
We can't put things off until tomorrow. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Make sure that today you let those you love know how much you care about them. Follow your dreams before it is too late. If you've not acceptee Jesus as Lord and Savior, today is the day of salvation.
This Psalm is just packed with interesting things for us to explore. I would like to focus on three items from Psalm 103.
The first theme I want to focus on is found in verse 6 that states, "The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the opressed." The Old Testament is especially clear that God will not tolerate injustice against those who are poor weak or vulnerable. He will bring action. Most often that occurs when Godly people are moved by the Holy Spirit to take action on behalf of others. In my country, we've seen that the Civil Rights Movement and efforts to help the opressed have been led by Christians.
Verse 12 is one of my favorite verses in the Psalms. It is often used after the corporate prayer of confession in many churches when the assurance of pardon is given. This verse says, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us."
When we confess our sins and come to faith and trust in Jesus, He forgives all of our sins. Our slate is wiped clean, so to speak.
When our sins are removed from us by the Lord, He remembers them against us no more. He won't bring them back up and remind us of our past faillings. We can rest in the knowledge of His forgiveness. He wants us to make move forward and do good deeds that are pleasing to Him.
The final theme that I want to explore is found in verses 15 and 16. These verses speak to us of the fact that life is brief. They remind me that I need to do all that I can while I am able to serve the Lord and try to make the world a better place.
We can't put things off until tomorrow. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Make sure that today you let those you love know how much you care about them. Follow your dreams before it is too late. If you've not acceptee Jesus as Lord and Savior, today is the day of salvation.
Tuesday, August 25, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 19
Psalm 100
Psalm 100 is a very familiar Psalm. I would say that it is one of the top five most familiar Psalms. When I was in grade school, this was one of the Psalms we learned in Bible memorization class. Psalm 100 is a popular Psalm utilized in services during the Thanksgiving Day period in my country the United States. It is a Psalm that remindes us to praise the Lord and always be thankful for the abundant blessings that God has given us.
There is one particular verse that I want us to focus on today. Verse five states, "His faithfulness continues through all generations."
The Lord has shown Himself to be faithful to His chosen people down through the centuries. God called Abraham out of Ur and told him that he would make from him a great nation. The Lord said that through Abraham's seed, all the nations of the world would be blessed.
Even when the people of Israel turned their backs on God and followed after idols, God continued to watch over His people. He would preserve His people as a nation clear till this day.
The Lord has also been faithful to His church. Two thousand years after the time of Christ on Earth, the church is still preaching the message of Jesus' atoning death on the cross and His bodily resurrection from the dead.
The Lord is faithful to us. Jesus said that He will never leave us nor forsake us. One day, He will take us home to be with Him forever. No matter what happens to us during the course of this life Jesus will always keep us in His love.
Psalm 100 is a very familiar Psalm. I would say that it is one of the top five most familiar Psalms. When I was in grade school, this was one of the Psalms we learned in Bible memorization class. Psalm 100 is a popular Psalm utilized in services during the Thanksgiving Day period in my country the United States. It is a Psalm that remindes us to praise the Lord and always be thankful for the abundant blessings that God has given us.
There is one particular verse that I want us to focus on today. Verse five states, "His faithfulness continues through all generations."
The Lord has shown Himself to be faithful to His chosen people down through the centuries. God called Abraham out of Ur and told him that he would make from him a great nation. The Lord said that through Abraham's seed, all the nations of the world would be blessed.
Even when the people of Israel turned their backs on God and followed after idols, God continued to watch over His people. He would preserve His people as a nation clear till this day.
The Lord has also been faithful to His church. Two thousand years after the time of Christ on Earth, the church is still preaching the message of Jesus' atoning death on the cross and His bodily resurrection from the dead.
The Lord is faithful to us. Jesus said that He will never leave us nor forsake us. One day, He will take us home to be with Him forever. No matter what happens to us during the course of this life Jesus will always keep us in His love.
Monday, August 24, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 18
Psalm 96
Two important themes are found in our Psalm today. The first theme deals with singing a new song of praise to the Lord. The second theme deals with the return of the Lord.
The first verse of this Psalm tells us to sing a new song of praise to the Lord. This means at least two things to me. We should praise the Lord, for He is worthy of praise. We should continually praise the Lord for who He is and for what He has done. The Lord is the King of Glory. All of the other so called gods are merely idols. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob rules over all.
We should attempt to come up with new songs of praise to sing to the Lord. It is fun to try to come up with tunes and lyrics that praise the Lord. You can make up your own songs to the Lord. You don't have to present them to the world, they can be just between you and God. Sing songs that let Him know how much He means to you.
Now, the second major theme deals with the Lord's coming. When He comes, all of creation will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord.
This world is in desperate need of the return of Jesus. I am so distraught when I see over and over again how the strong oppress the weak and the rich exploit and oppress the poor. So many don't treat their workers right or pay them a living wage. The poor are denied access to the healthcare they need by powerful corporations and their political allies.
All of this is coming to an end. The Lord will come and bring about justice. Jesus' mother summed it up in Luke 1 in her Magnificat. She said that her son would bring down rulers from their thrones, but He would lift up the humble. He will fill the hungry with good things, and send the rich away empty. Come quickly Lord Jesus.
Two important themes are found in our Psalm today. The first theme deals with singing a new song of praise to the Lord. The second theme deals with the return of the Lord.
The first verse of this Psalm tells us to sing a new song of praise to the Lord. This means at least two things to me. We should praise the Lord, for He is worthy of praise. We should continually praise the Lord for who He is and for what He has done. The Lord is the King of Glory. All of the other so called gods are merely idols. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob rules over all.
We should attempt to come up with new songs of praise to sing to the Lord. It is fun to try to come up with tunes and lyrics that praise the Lord. You can make up your own songs to the Lord. You don't have to present them to the world, they can be just between you and God. Sing songs that let Him know how much He means to you.
Now, the second major theme deals with the Lord's coming. When He comes, all of creation will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord.
This world is in desperate need of the return of Jesus. I am so distraught when I see over and over again how the strong oppress the weak and the rich exploit and oppress the poor. So many don't treat their workers right or pay them a living wage. The poor are denied access to the healthcare they need by powerful corporations and their political allies.
All of this is coming to an end. The Lord will come and bring about justice. Jesus' mother summed it up in Luke 1 in her Magnificat. She said that her son would bring down rulers from their thrones, but He would lift up the humble. He will fill the hungry with good things, and send the rich away empty. Come quickly Lord Jesus.
Sunday, August 23, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 17
Psalm 84
This Psalm expresses the author's joy at being able to be in the house of the Lord. The belief is that he was responsible for music that was sung and performed in the Temple. Whoever wrote this Psalm was very glad for the opportunity to go to a place set aside for the glory and honor of God.
The writer also expresses joy at the beauty of the Temple. Even the sparrows could find a dwelling place in God's house.
From what I read in the Bible, the Temple built by Solomon was a thing of beauty. Its design included gold and silver along with the cedars of Lebanon.
I've been in some beautiful churches in my life. One church I found particularly beautiful was the church at Boy's Town near Omaha, Nebraska. The Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City is another beautiful church that I was in when I went to listen to a concert of Bach's music.
It fills our hearts with wonder and joy when we can go into a nice place and experience communion with the Lord. Being in a serene setting lets us understand something of the majesty and grandeur of our God.
God does not dwell in buildings. He is too powerful to be contained within them. His glory is throughout the whole universe. In my opinion, this world is a cathedral ringing out the praise of the Creator.
The writer of Psalm 84 ends with the thought that the Lord grants His favor and goodness on those who trust in Him and walk in His ways. This will have ultimate fulfillment when we are with the Lord and we see Jesus face to face. All will be well on that day. We will see the glorious beauty of Heaven.
This Psalm expresses the author's joy at being able to be in the house of the Lord. The belief is that he was responsible for music that was sung and performed in the Temple. Whoever wrote this Psalm was very glad for the opportunity to go to a place set aside for the glory and honor of God.
The writer also expresses joy at the beauty of the Temple. Even the sparrows could find a dwelling place in God's house.
From what I read in the Bible, the Temple built by Solomon was a thing of beauty. Its design included gold and silver along with the cedars of Lebanon.
I've been in some beautiful churches in my life. One church I found particularly beautiful was the church at Boy's Town near Omaha, Nebraska. The Grace and Holy Trinity Cathedral in Kansas City is another beautiful church that I was in when I went to listen to a concert of Bach's music.
It fills our hearts with wonder and joy when we can go into a nice place and experience communion with the Lord. Being in a serene setting lets us understand something of the majesty and grandeur of our God.
God does not dwell in buildings. He is too powerful to be contained within them. His glory is throughout the whole universe. In my opinion, this world is a cathedral ringing out the praise of the Creator.
The writer of Psalm 84 ends with the thought that the Lord grants His favor and goodness on those who trust in Him and walk in His ways. This will have ultimate fulfillment when we are with the Lord and we see Jesus face to face. All will be well on that day. We will see the glorious beauty of Heaven.
Saturday, August 22, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 16
Psalm 74
Psalm 74 was written by a man named Asaph. Asaph wrote the second highest number of Psalms next to David as far as we know. Several Psalms are not attributed to a specific author.
I have a special affinity in my heart for Asaph. He really believed in God. However, he had a hard time understanding why God allowed certain things to happen. He had questions, but he always maintained his faith in the Almighty.
In this Psalm, Asaph is writing about the enemies of the people of Israel. Apparently, these enemies had invaded and caused destruction. They had even caused damage to the house of the Lord.
Asaph wanted to know how long God was going to allow this to continue. He wanted to know when God was going to come and drive out Israel's foes.
Asaph recognizes that God has the power to do anything. He is the Creator and sustainer of the entire universe. He could easily defend His people from their enemies.
In my life, there have been a lot of times when bad things have happened. I didn't really understand why the Lord was allowing all of this to happen. For instance, my Mom had a bad stroke when she was in her mid 70s. It caused her to experience a great deal of difficulty. On top of that, she suffered from Alzheimer's. I prayed for years that she would get better, but she never did. The Lord did answer important prayers. He healed me of vitiligo, and he healed my friend Toby. I know God had the power to help my mom. Like, Asaph, I wondered why He did not act.
It is during these times when we must have faith in the Lord. We must have faith in His plans and purposes even though we don't always understand them. Knowing that Jesus is loving, merciful and good helps us to know that He is looking out for us.
Ultimately, all will be well. God will align all things with His perfect will. We must continue to persevere in prayer as we wait on the Lord and His ultimate restoration of all things.
Psalm 74 was written by a man named Asaph. Asaph wrote the second highest number of Psalms next to David as far as we know. Several Psalms are not attributed to a specific author.
I have a special affinity in my heart for Asaph. He really believed in God. However, he had a hard time understanding why God allowed certain things to happen. He had questions, but he always maintained his faith in the Almighty.
In this Psalm, Asaph is writing about the enemies of the people of Israel. Apparently, these enemies had invaded and caused destruction. They had even caused damage to the house of the Lord.
Asaph wanted to know how long God was going to allow this to continue. He wanted to know when God was going to come and drive out Israel's foes.
Asaph recognizes that God has the power to do anything. He is the Creator and sustainer of the entire universe. He could easily defend His people from their enemies.
In my life, there have been a lot of times when bad things have happened. I didn't really understand why the Lord was allowing all of this to happen. For instance, my Mom had a bad stroke when she was in her mid 70s. It caused her to experience a great deal of difficulty. On top of that, she suffered from Alzheimer's. I prayed for years that she would get better, but she never did. The Lord did answer important prayers. He healed me of vitiligo, and he healed my friend Toby. I know God had the power to help my mom. Like, Asaph, I wondered why He did not act.
It is during these times when we must have faith in the Lord. We must have faith in His plans and purposes even though we don't always understand them. Knowing that Jesus is loving, merciful and good helps us to know that He is looking out for us.
Ultimately, all will be well. God will align all things with His perfect will. We must continue to persevere in prayer as we wait on the Lord and His ultimate restoration of all things.
Friday, August 21, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 15
Psalm 51
As I have mentioned before, the Bible says that David was a man after God's own heart. But he really made some tragic errors in his life. The worst was when he decided to have an adulterous affair with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite. She became pregnant with David's child, so David devised a plan to have Uriah killed during the course of a battle. David then took Bathsheba as his wife.
David thought he had gotten away with the whole business. Then Nathan the prophet showed up. He confronted David with his sin, and he informed David of the consequences. Psalm 51 was composed as a penitential Psalm expressing David's sorrow for his sin and his desire to be right once again in his relationship with God. This Psalm tells us how we are to approach sin and repentance.
First of all, David makes a plea for God's mercy. David asks for his transgressions to be blotted out.
David acknowledged that he had done wrong. He in no way tried to justify his actions. That is how we should approach sin in our lives. We must admit to the Lord that we have done wrong. We must take responsibility for our actions.
David asked the Lord to create within him a clean heart. He wanted renewal of his spirit. David wanted to live a better life in the future. He did not have the idea in mind that he would receive God's forgiveness and go right back and do the same thing over again. He wanted sin rooted out of his life in order that he might have a close relationship with the Lord.
Sin separates us from God. When we sin, we need to confess it right away. I John tells us that if we confess our sins, God will forgive us and cleanse us from our sins and unrighteousness. Thanks be to God that we are eternally forgiven through Jesus' death on the cross.
As I have mentioned before, the Bible says that David was a man after God's own heart. But he really made some tragic errors in his life. The worst was when he decided to have an adulterous affair with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite. She became pregnant with David's child, so David devised a plan to have Uriah killed during the course of a battle. David then took Bathsheba as his wife.
David thought he had gotten away with the whole business. Then Nathan the prophet showed up. He confronted David with his sin, and he informed David of the consequences. Psalm 51 was composed as a penitential Psalm expressing David's sorrow for his sin and his desire to be right once again in his relationship with God. This Psalm tells us how we are to approach sin and repentance.
First of all, David makes a plea for God's mercy. David asks for his transgressions to be blotted out.
David acknowledged that he had done wrong. He in no way tried to justify his actions. That is how we should approach sin in our lives. We must admit to the Lord that we have done wrong. We must take responsibility for our actions.
David asked the Lord to create within him a clean heart. He wanted renewal of his spirit. David wanted to live a better life in the future. He did not have the idea in mind that he would receive God's forgiveness and go right back and do the same thing over again. He wanted sin rooted out of his life in order that he might have a close relationship with the Lord.
Sin separates us from God. When we sin, we need to confess it right away. I John tells us that if we confess our sins, God will forgive us and cleanse us from our sins and unrighteousness. Thanks be to God that we are eternally forgiven through Jesus' death on the cross.
Thursday, August 20, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 14
Psalm 50
There are many points that we could consider in Psalm 50 today. First of all, this Psalm teaches us that God is the final judge of all things. At the end of the age, both the righteous and the wicked will be judged.
In the New Testament, Jesus told us that all judgment had been given over to the Son by the Father. Jesus is the final judge. The Apostles' Creed states that Jesus will come to judge both the living and the dead when He comes again. Those who die before the coming of the Lord have their eternal destiny decided at death. Scripture tells us that we are all appointed to die, and after this the judgment.
Those who are in Christ will have a judgment based on service for the Lord. It is not a judgment to see if someone has done enough good to get into heaven. We are saved by grace through faith and not by works. We are reedemed by what Jesus did for us through His death and resurrection. The believer's judgment determines the rewards and crowns we will receive from Jesus. The Lord is a rewarder of those in who diligently seek Him. Some will have a lot of treasure laid up in heaven. Unfortunately, others will have little. Jesus will let us know if we have done what He has told us to do.
Those who do not follow Jesus Christ will face a different judgment. Those who do not accept the Lordship of Jesus will be cast from His presence.
When Jesus returns, He will judge what is right. Every injustice will be made right in some way by the Lord. The Lord will rule with equity.
Psalm 50 also lets us know that all animals belong to the Lord. He is their Creator and sustainer. We do not have the right to do whatever we want to them. The Lord made us stewards of the earth. We are to tend and care for all that God has made. It is unfortunate that so many Christians do not respect the lives of animals and do not show proper regard for what God has made. I believe that the Lord will have a lot to say about this when He returns. Will He say that we were the type of stewards He called us to be? The verdict for humanity on this point is not looking good right now.
There are many points that we could consider in Psalm 50 today. First of all, this Psalm teaches us that God is the final judge of all things. At the end of the age, both the righteous and the wicked will be judged.
In the New Testament, Jesus told us that all judgment had been given over to the Son by the Father. Jesus is the final judge. The Apostles' Creed states that Jesus will come to judge both the living and the dead when He comes again. Those who die before the coming of the Lord have their eternal destiny decided at death. Scripture tells us that we are all appointed to die, and after this the judgment.
Those who are in Christ will have a judgment based on service for the Lord. It is not a judgment to see if someone has done enough good to get into heaven. We are saved by grace through faith and not by works. We are reedemed by what Jesus did for us through His death and resurrection. The believer's judgment determines the rewards and crowns we will receive from Jesus. The Lord is a rewarder of those in who diligently seek Him. Some will have a lot of treasure laid up in heaven. Unfortunately, others will have little. Jesus will let us know if we have done what He has told us to do.
Those who do not follow Jesus Christ will face a different judgment. Those who do not accept the Lordship of Jesus will be cast from His presence.
When Jesus returns, He will judge what is right. Every injustice will be made right in some way by the Lord. The Lord will rule with equity.
Psalm 50 also lets us know that all animals belong to the Lord. He is their Creator and sustainer. We do not have the right to do whatever we want to them. The Lord made us stewards of the earth. We are to tend and care for all that God has made. It is unfortunate that so many Christians do not respect the lives of animals and do not show proper regard for what God has made. I believe that the Lord will have a lot to say about this when He returns. Will He say that we were the type of stewards He called us to be? The verdict for humanity on this point is not looking good right now.
Wednesday, August 19, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 13
Psalm 46
As with some of the previous Psalms, there are two points that I want to emphasize in our study today. The first part of the Psalm states, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."
As I am writing this piece, the world is in the grip of a coronavirus pandemic. In my country, over 170,000 people have died. No one knows for sure how things are going to work out. Children in some areas are starting back to school, and this is causing great anxiety for many.
In times of trouble and uncertainty, this Psalm provides great comfort. No matter what tragedy or hardship may beset us, we can take refuge in the God who created the heavens and the earth. Even if things get so bad the mountains crumble, God is with us. Ultimately, there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God. We know that to be in Christ means that we are secure forever in Him even when we die. We have nothing to fear.
I would also like us to take a look at what verse 10 has to teach us. This verse says, "Be still and know that I am God." This verse reminds me that my relationship with the Lord isn't all about me talking during times of prayer. I also need to be quiet and listen for the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart. I need to clear my mind and focus on the majestic power of God. I need to experience His peace and the light of His love. We feel His peace when we are still and wait before Him.
As with some of the previous Psalms, there are two points that I want to emphasize in our study today. The first part of the Psalm states, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."
As I am writing this piece, the world is in the grip of a coronavirus pandemic. In my country, over 170,000 people have died. No one knows for sure how things are going to work out. Children in some areas are starting back to school, and this is causing great anxiety for many.
In times of trouble and uncertainty, this Psalm provides great comfort. No matter what tragedy or hardship may beset us, we can take refuge in the God who created the heavens and the earth. Even if things get so bad the mountains crumble, God is with us. Ultimately, there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God. We know that to be in Christ means that we are secure forever in Him even when we die. We have nothing to fear.
I would also like us to take a look at what verse 10 has to teach us. This verse says, "Be still and know that I am God." This verse reminds me that my relationship with the Lord isn't all about me talking during times of prayer. I also need to be quiet and listen for the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart. I need to clear my mind and focus on the majestic power of God. I need to experience His peace and the light of His love. We feel His peace when we are still and wait before Him.
Tuesday, August 18, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 12
Psalm 42
There is s beautiful hymn that has been composed from the opening verse of today's Psalm. This verse states, "As the deer thirsts for water, so my soul thirsts for God. When can I go and meet with God?"
The deer living in the forest can develop a voracious thirst. This is true of all animals. We all like to have a cool drink of water after working out in the scorching noontime sun.
This is the way that things should be with our relationship with the Lord Jesus. We must have such a desire to know more about Him that we feel like a deer that thirsts for the stream. We are not content until our desire for nearness with the Lord is satisfied.
One way that we assuage our thirst is by spending time with the Lord in prayer. We can also grow close to the Lord when we meditate on His great compassion and love. By spending time reading the words of Jesus recorded in the Gospels, we learn more about the Lord and what He expects from us. We grow close to the Lord through obedience. Jesus said that we are His friends if we do what He says.
The Psalmist asks, "When can I go and meet with God?" I often ask Jesus when will it be time when I can come to be with Him. I am tired of living in this evil, broken and sinful world.
One day, all of us who have been redeemed by the Lord will see Him face to face. That is when our spiritual hunger will ultimately be satisfied.
I hope that your spiritual hunger and thirst will lead you into a closer relationship with the Lord. If you have not invited Jesus into your life as Lord and Savior, I hope that you will do so today.
There is s beautiful hymn that has been composed from the opening verse of today's Psalm. This verse states, "As the deer thirsts for water, so my soul thirsts for God. When can I go and meet with God?"
The deer living in the forest can develop a voracious thirst. This is true of all animals. We all like to have a cool drink of water after working out in the scorching noontime sun.
This is the way that things should be with our relationship with the Lord Jesus. We must have such a desire to know more about Him that we feel like a deer that thirsts for the stream. We are not content until our desire for nearness with the Lord is satisfied.
One way that we assuage our thirst is by spending time with the Lord in prayer. We can also grow close to the Lord when we meditate on His great compassion and love. By spending time reading the words of Jesus recorded in the Gospels, we learn more about the Lord and what He expects from us. We grow close to the Lord through obedience. Jesus said that we are His friends if we do what He says.
The Psalmist asks, "When can I go and meet with God?" I often ask Jesus when will it be time when I can come to be with Him. I am tired of living in this evil, broken and sinful world.
One day, all of us who have been redeemed by the Lord will see Him face to face. That is when our spiritual hunger will ultimately be satisfied.
I hope that your spiritual hunger and thirst will lead you into a closer relationship with the Lord. If you have not invited Jesus into your life as Lord and Savior, I hope that you will do so today.
Monday, August 17, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 11
Psalm 27
There are two well-known passages in today's Psalm that I want us to go over. The first one is the first verse that states, "The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?"
Fear is an emotion that plagues us all from time to time. Unfortunately, I have to say that I have spent a lot of time being afraid. And this fear was put into me by a religious community that my parents were members of. We were always taught that God was just looking for something to punish us for. If someone did the slightest thing that the church thought was wrong, God would cause something bad to happen. It took many years for me to learn who Jesus really is and what He really taught.
The Bible tells us that perfect love casts out fear. When Jesus is in our hearts, we have his love living in us. We don't have to be afraid. We can live in the light of His love.
We don't have to fear what this life brings, including death, when we know Jesus. Because Jesus has been raised from the dead, we have eternal life. Jesus is the resurrection and the life.
The second well-known verse in this Psalm is verse 14. This verse says, "Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart, and wait for the Lord."
This verse has two meanings as I understand it. First of all, we have to be patient and wait for answers to prayer. Jesus told us about this in the parable about the woman and the unjust judge.
I remember a time when I was praying for peace in two countries. It took many years for peace to come, so I had to continue to pray and wait for the Lord.
I also had to wait and persevere in pray when I asked Jesus to heal me of vitiligo. After about a year, I was completely healed.
My friend Toby had a skin problem caused by an immune problem. It took over one year of praying and waiting, but the Lord completely healed him. Praise God.
The second meaning of waiting on the Lord has to do with waiting for the Lord's coming. He will come and restore all things as He promised. We must have faith and not lose heart. One day Jesus will come, and joy will fill our hearts.
There are two well-known passages in today's Psalm that I want us to go over. The first one is the first verse that states, "The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?"
Fear is an emotion that plagues us all from time to time. Unfortunately, I have to say that I have spent a lot of time being afraid. And this fear was put into me by a religious community that my parents were members of. We were always taught that God was just looking for something to punish us for. If someone did the slightest thing that the church thought was wrong, God would cause something bad to happen. It took many years for me to learn who Jesus really is and what He really taught.
The Bible tells us that perfect love casts out fear. When Jesus is in our hearts, we have his love living in us. We don't have to be afraid. We can live in the light of His love.
We don't have to fear what this life brings, including death, when we know Jesus. Because Jesus has been raised from the dead, we have eternal life. Jesus is the resurrection and the life.
The second well-known verse in this Psalm is verse 14. This verse says, "Wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart, and wait for the Lord."
This verse has two meanings as I understand it. First of all, we have to be patient and wait for answers to prayer. Jesus told us about this in the parable about the woman and the unjust judge.
I remember a time when I was praying for peace in two countries. It took many years for peace to come, so I had to continue to pray and wait for the Lord.
I also had to wait and persevere in pray when I asked Jesus to heal me of vitiligo. After about a year, I was completely healed.
My friend Toby had a skin problem caused by an immune problem. It took over one year of praying and waiting, but the Lord completely healed him. Praise God.
The second meaning of waiting on the Lord has to do with waiting for the Lord's coming. He will come and restore all things as He promised. We must have faith and not lose heart. One day Jesus will come, and joy will fill our hearts.
Sunday, August 16, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 10
Psalm 24
There are two things that I want us to see as we explore Psalm 24. One point that I want to emphasize is found in verse one that states, "The earth is the Lord's and everything in it." All that lives and breathes, along with all the inanimate objects in the universe, belong to the Lord.
This is an important point to recognize as some teach that the world belongs to humans, and humans can do whatever they please with it.
This Psalm teaches that God owns it all. He cares for people and the creatures on this Earth. People do not have the right to damage or harm what God has made in order to make money and fulfill their own selfish desires.
There is a passage in the book of Colossians that sums it all up nicely. Cossians 1:16 says, "For by Him, all things were created, things in heaven and on Earth, visible and invisible; whether thrones or powers, or rulers or authorities. All things were created by Him, and for Him." It all belongs to Jesus.
Now the second thing that I want to point out is the Messianic character of this Psalm. The Old Testament is quite clear that the Messiah will rule and reign on the earth. He will bring justice and goodness to all. This Psalm tells us that one day, the King of Glory will rule all.
We know that Jesus is the king who will come back to rule. He will bring justice, righteousness and peace. Every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. He will reign over the universe, and evil will come to an end. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
There are two things that I want us to see as we explore Psalm 24. One point that I want to emphasize is found in verse one that states, "The earth is the Lord's and everything in it." All that lives and breathes, along with all the inanimate objects in the universe, belong to the Lord.
This is an important point to recognize as some teach that the world belongs to humans, and humans can do whatever they please with it.
This Psalm teaches that God owns it all. He cares for people and the creatures on this Earth. People do not have the right to damage or harm what God has made in order to make money and fulfill their own selfish desires.
There is a passage in the book of Colossians that sums it all up nicely. Cossians 1:16 says, "For by Him, all things were created, things in heaven and on Earth, visible and invisible; whether thrones or powers, or rulers or authorities. All things were created by Him, and for Him." It all belongs to Jesus.
Now the second thing that I want to point out is the Messianic character of this Psalm. The Old Testament is quite clear that the Messiah will rule and reign on the earth. He will bring justice and goodness to all. This Psalm tells us that one day, the King of Glory will rule all.
We know that Jesus is the king who will come back to rule. He will bring justice, righteousness and peace. Every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. He will reign over the universe, and evil will come to an end. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
Saturday, August 15, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 9
Psalm 23
This Psalm is probably the most, or the second most, familiar passage in the entire Bible. The only other passage that might be more familiar with the general public is John 3:16. I have a feeling that many don't even know what John 3:16 actually says. They have just seen a sign saying John 3:16 being held up by some guy at a football game.
This Psalm is a Psalm of comfort. It is often read out at funerals to let people feal the realization that their friend or loved one is in the hands of the Good Shepherd as they pass over the veil of death.
The first part of the Psalm lets us know that the Lord watches over us and protects us in this life. Just as a shepherd provides good grazing and fresh water for the members of his flock, so also does the Lord provide for those who are part of the family of God.
In this life, we need the help of the Lord in every circumstance. The Lord generously provides us with food, clothing and gainful employment. He also is there to keep us safe in the midst of the strife that so often surrounds us.
If we are a part of the family of God, we know that His goodness and love will be with us throughout the course of our lives. When we pass from this life, we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Looking at this Psalm from the perspective of a New Testament Christian, we know that Jesus is the Good Shepherd just as He tells us in John 10. He will even leave the 99 sheep in the fold and go out searching for the one sheep that is wandering astray. As Jesus' sheep, we follow Him. His voice leads in the way that we are to go. A stranger's voice we will not follow.
When we die, we know that we will be with Jesus if we have accepted Him as Savior and Lord. Jesus said that He had gone to prepare a place for us. It is comforting to know that our eternity is secure in the Lord.
This Psalm is probably the most, or the second most, familiar passage in the entire Bible. The only other passage that might be more familiar with the general public is John 3:16. I have a feeling that many don't even know what John 3:16 actually says. They have just seen a sign saying John 3:16 being held up by some guy at a football game.
This Psalm is a Psalm of comfort. It is often read out at funerals to let people feal the realization that their friend or loved one is in the hands of the Good Shepherd as they pass over the veil of death.
The first part of the Psalm lets us know that the Lord watches over us and protects us in this life. Just as a shepherd provides good grazing and fresh water for the members of his flock, so also does the Lord provide for those who are part of the family of God.
In this life, we need the help of the Lord in every circumstance. The Lord generously provides us with food, clothing and gainful employment. He also is there to keep us safe in the midst of the strife that so often surrounds us.
If we are a part of the family of God, we know that His goodness and love will be with us throughout the course of our lives. When we pass from this life, we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Looking at this Psalm from the perspective of a New Testament Christian, we know that Jesus is the Good Shepherd just as He tells us in John 10. He will even leave the 99 sheep in the fold and go out searching for the one sheep that is wandering astray. As Jesus' sheep, we follow Him. His voice leads in the way that we are to go. A stranger's voice we will not follow.
When we die, we know that we will be with Jesus if we have accepted Him as Savior and Lord. Jesus said that He had gone to prepare a place for us. It is comforting to know that our eternity is secure in the Lord.
Friday, August 14, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 8
Psalm 22
This Psalm has much for us to look into. This is one of the Messianic Psalms. There are portions of this Psalm that were fulfilled in the life and death of Jesus. When Jesus was on the cross, He quoted the section that states, "My God my God, why have you forsaken me?"
Now, let us see how this Messianic Psalm's predictions were fulfilled. Verse 7 states that people would mock and hurl insults at the Messiah. This happened to Jesus on the cross. Verse 8 tells us that the people would say that the Lord would deliver Him if He was really the chosen one. This also happened to Jesus on the cross.
In verse 16, we see that the piercing of Jesus' hands and feet was predicted. Jesus retained the marks of His crucifixion even in His resurrection body.
In verse 19 we read, "They divided my garments among them, and cast lots for my clothing." The Roman soldiers did this at Calvary. They divided up most of the Lord's clothes, but Jesus' robe was woven all of one piece. It was too nice to tear up, so they cast lots to see who would win it.
This is a great Psalm to point people to when you are attempting to show them the uniqueness and reliability of Scripture. It is also a useful passage to point out when showing people that Jesus truly is the Messiah.
Now, I want to point something else out. We often wonder if God has forsaken us when difficult times come. Jesus our perfect example even felt this way. The Lord will never leave us nor forsake us. We have ultimate victory and deliverance in our God.
The Father did not forsake the Son. The Father confirmed all that the Son said and did when Jesus rose from the grave on Easter Sunday.
Jesus will always be with us in this life and in the world to come. He has prepared a place for us so that where He is , we will be there too.
This Psalm has much for us to look into. This is one of the Messianic Psalms. There are portions of this Psalm that were fulfilled in the life and death of Jesus. When Jesus was on the cross, He quoted the section that states, "My God my God, why have you forsaken me?"
Now, let us see how this Messianic Psalm's predictions were fulfilled. Verse 7 states that people would mock and hurl insults at the Messiah. This happened to Jesus on the cross. Verse 8 tells us that the people would say that the Lord would deliver Him if He was really the chosen one. This also happened to Jesus on the cross.
In verse 16, we see that the piercing of Jesus' hands and feet was predicted. Jesus retained the marks of His crucifixion even in His resurrection body.
In verse 19 we read, "They divided my garments among them, and cast lots for my clothing." The Roman soldiers did this at Calvary. They divided up most of the Lord's clothes, but Jesus' robe was woven all of one piece. It was too nice to tear up, so they cast lots to see who would win it.
This is a great Psalm to point people to when you are attempting to show them the uniqueness and reliability of Scripture. It is also a useful passage to point out when showing people that Jesus truly is the Messiah.
Now, I want to point something else out. We often wonder if God has forsaken us when difficult times come. Jesus our perfect example even felt this way. The Lord will never leave us nor forsake us. We have ultimate victory and deliverance in our God.
The Father did not forsake the Son. The Father confirmed all that the Son said and did when Jesus rose from the grave on Easter Sunday.
Jesus will always be with us in this life and in the world to come. He has prepared a place for us so that where He is , we will be there too.
Thursday, August 13, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 7
Psalm 19
Psalm 19 is a wonderful Psalm that presents us with two of the ways that God reveals Himself in the world. One of the ways God makes Himself known is through creation. This Psalm tells us, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skys declare the work of His hands."
The beauty of the sun, moon and stars tell us about the power of the creator. When I observe the glorious things that God has made, I am amazed by His power. Just to think of all the animals, birds and other creatures that God has made boggles the mind. Seeing this great creation allows us to know more about what our God is like.
There is another way that God speaks to us. That is through His word revealed to us in the Bible. God has given us His laws, statutes, precepts and commands. God has not hidden His requirements and knowledge of Himself from the human race. God provided His word by inspiring the writers of the Bible through the power of the Holy Spirit. God gave His laws to His people through Moses.
All of us have the opportunity to know about the Lord. We just have to take the time to open up the Bible and read it. Why would you not want to know as much as possible about the creator of the universe?
What amazes me is that the God who created everything loves me and cares about what happens to me. He cared about all of us so much that He gave us His Son as an atonement for sin. Praise be to God.
Psalm 19 is a wonderful Psalm that presents us with two of the ways that God reveals Himself in the world. One of the ways God makes Himself known is through creation. This Psalm tells us, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skys declare the work of His hands."
The beauty of the sun, moon and stars tell us about the power of the creator. When I observe the glorious things that God has made, I am amazed by His power. Just to think of all the animals, birds and other creatures that God has made boggles the mind. Seeing this great creation allows us to know more about what our God is like.
There is another way that God speaks to us. That is through His word revealed to us in the Bible. God has given us His laws, statutes, precepts and commands. God has not hidden His requirements and knowledge of Himself from the human race. God provided His word by inspiring the writers of the Bible through the power of the Holy Spirit. God gave His laws to His people through Moses.
All of us have the opportunity to know about the Lord. We just have to take the time to open up the Bible and read it. Why would you not want to know as much as possible about the creator of the universe?
What amazes me is that the God who created everything loves me and cares about what happens to me. He cared about all of us so much that He gave us His Son as an atonement for sin. Praise be to God.
Wednesday, August 12, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 6
Psalm 15
Have you ever wanted a succinct list of the behaviors and actions that God requires of those who will be close to Him? If so, you will find what God requires in Psalm 15.
This Psalm begins with the questions, "Lord, who may live in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?" The Psalmist proceeds to spell out the requirements. First of all, we need to have a blameless walk. This has two meanings for the Christian. We know that we are not made righteous by our works. We are made righteous in the eyes of God through the redeeming work of Christ on the cross. He did for us what we could not do for ourselves. The Bible says that He who knew no sin became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. He took away our sins, and in place of our sins, He imputed His righteousness.
Now that we are redeemed, we demonstrate that we have a true possession of faith by our deeds. We are saved unto good works.
In order to dwell in the presence of the Lord, we need to be people who speak the truth. As Jesus said, our yes should be yes, and our no should be no.
This Psalm says that we are to do good to our neighbor. This is in keeping with the words of Jesus telling us to love our neighbor as ourselves. As we would like to be treated, that is the way that we should treat others .
We are to honor those who honor God. We are to resist the forces of evil in our society.
Verse 5 is interesting. We are not to lend our money hoping to get repaid with interest. We are to help others without the thought of gain.
The Psalmist concludes by telling us that those who follow the instructions in Psalm 15 will never be shaken. We will have close fellowship with the Lord.
Have you ever wanted a succinct list of the behaviors and actions that God requires of those who will be close to Him? If so, you will find what God requires in Psalm 15.
This Psalm begins with the questions, "Lord, who may live in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?" The Psalmist proceeds to spell out the requirements. First of all, we need to have a blameless walk. This has two meanings for the Christian. We know that we are not made righteous by our works. We are made righteous in the eyes of God through the redeeming work of Christ on the cross. He did for us what we could not do for ourselves. The Bible says that He who knew no sin became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. He took away our sins, and in place of our sins, He imputed His righteousness.
Now that we are redeemed, we demonstrate that we have a true possession of faith by our deeds. We are saved unto good works.
In order to dwell in the presence of the Lord, we need to be people who speak the truth. As Jesus said, our yes should be yes, and our no should be no.
This Psalm says that we are to do good to our neighbor. This is in keeping with the words of Jesus telling us to love our neighbor as ourselves. As we would like to be treated, that is the way that we should treat others .
We are to honor those who honor God. We are to resist the forces of evil in our society.
Verse 5 is interesting. We are not to lend our money hoping to get repaid with interest. We are to help others without the thought of gain.
The Psalmist concludes by telling us that those who follow the instructions in Psalm 15 will never be shaken. We will have close fellowship with the Lord.
Tuesday, August 11, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 5
Psalm 14
This a familiar Psalm that begins with a familiar verse. It tells us, "The fool has said in his heart there is no God." A person can have an abundance of knowledge and may have reached the pinnacle of their profession. However, no matter how smart a person appears to be, in God's opinion, an atheist is a foolish person.
The Lord also lets us know in this Psalm that every person on this planet is a sinner. There is none who does good. Elsewhere in the Bible, we are told that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned everyone to his own way.
Those who do not acknowledge God, and those who do not acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ, often act in ways that bring injustice and oppression upon those who are poor and weak. They try to persecute those who put their trust in the Lord.
This Psalm tells us that the Lord is the refuge of His people. He will look after His own, and He will bring justice for those who are persecuted and oppressed.
Phillipians tells us that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. There will not be any atheists or doubters on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed in all of His glory.
Before that great and glorious day comes, the Lord is giving an opportunity for all people everywhere to acknowledge Him. Whosoever will may come. The Bible tells us in the Revelation that there will be a great multitude around the throne worshipping the Lamb. The multitude will be made up of every tribe, nation and language group. I hope that everyone who is reading this will be part of that great multitude.
This a familiar Psalm that begins with a familiar verse. It tells us, "The fool has said in his heart there is no God." A person can have an abundance of knowledge and may have reached the pinnacle of their profession. However, no matter how smart a person appears to be, in God's opinion, an atheist is a foolish person.
The Lord also lets us know in this Psalm that every person on this planet is a sinner. There is none who does good. Elsewhere in the Bible, we are told that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned everyone to his own way.
Those who do not acknowledge God, and those who do not acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ, often act in ways that bring injustice and oppression upon those who are poor and weak. They try to persecute those who put their trust in the Lord.
This Psalm tells us that the Lord is the refuge of His people. He will look after His own, and He will bring justice for those who are persecuted and oppressed.
Phillipians tells us that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord. There will not be any atheists or doubters on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed in all of His glory.
Before that great and glorious day comes, the Lord is giving an opportunity for all people everywhere to acknowledge Him. Whosoever will may come. The Bible tells us in the Revelation that there will be a great multitude around the throne worshipping the Lamb. The multitude will be made up of every tribe, nation and language group. I hope that everyone who is reading this will be part of that great multitude.
Monday, August 10, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 4
Psalm 13
Our Psalm for today starts out with a question that I often ask. The writer of Psalm 13 asks, "How long O Lord, will you forget me forever?" I don't know for sure, but I think that just about everyone has asked that question at least once or twice in this life.
I've asked this question in two different circumstances. I asked the Lord how long when I saw my mom suffer from the effects of a bad stroke for five years. She was in a bad way both mentally and physically. I asked the Lord how long she would have to suffer like this.
As, I am writing this, the world is in the midst of a pandemic. I ask the Lord how long He will let this go on. "Will you forget us forever?
I have asked this question when I see the world in the state that it is in. There is an incredible amount of injustice in this world. The strong oppress the weak, and the rich oppress the poor. Many don't have enough to eat, and there are hundreds of thousands of homeless just in my country alone. How long will the Lord allow this to go on?
None of us know the answers to these questions. I do know that sickness and oppression and war will not last forever. When we pass from this life to the next, we will be with Jesus. When we are with Him, we will be healthy, and we will be holy as He is holy.
One day, the Lord will descend to this Earth from His throne and restore all to the Edenic state. When the Lord reigns, justice will cover the Earth like the waters of the seas. All will be well. Until that day, we must have faith and believe that God is moving everything to the event in history when the restoration of all things will occur. We walk by faith and not by sight.
Our Psalm for today starts out with a question that I often ask. The writer of Psalm 13 asks, "How long O Lord, will you forget me forever?" I don't know for sure, but I think that just about everyone has asked that question at least once or twice in this life.
I've asked this question in two different circumstances. I asked the Lord how long when I saw my mom suffer from the effects of a bad stroke for five years. She was in a bad way both mentally and physically. I asked the Lord how long she would have to suffer like this.
As, I am writing this, the world is in the midst of a pandemic. I ask the Lord how long He will let this go on. "Will you forget us forever?
I have asked this question when I see the world in the state that it is in. There is an incredible amount of injustice in this world. The strong oppress the weak, and the rich oppress the poor. Many don't have enough to eat, and there are hundreds of thousands of homeless just in my country alone. How long will the Lord allow this to go on?
None of us know the answers to these questions. I do know that sickness and oppression and war will not last forever. When we pass from this life to the next, we will be with Jesus. When we are with Him, we will be healthy, and we will be holy as He is holy.
One day, the Lord will descend to this Earth from His throne and restore all to the Edenic state. When the Lord reigns, justice will cover the Earth like the waters of the seas. All will be well. Until that day, we must have faith and believe that God is moving everything to the event in history when the restoration of all things will occur. We walk by faith and not by sight.
Sunday, August 9, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 3
Psalm 3
The Bible describes David as a man after God's own heart. He was chosen by God to replace King Saul who had disobeyed the Lord over and over again. David was a man who was in a covenental relationship with God. The Lord told David that one from his lineage would forever reign in Jerusalem. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant. One day, Jesus will return to rule in the city of the New Jerusalem that will descend from heaven to this Earth.
Even though David received so many blessings, he experienced many problems in his life. Many were a result of his own sinful behaviors.
During the course of his reign, David's son Absalom led a rebellion against his father. His rebellion achieved initial success. David and his entourage were were forced to flee for their lives.
In Psalm 3, David is calling on the Lord to deliver him from his son. David knew that many in Israel were saying that God had abandoned David. David knew better. He had a history with the Lord. The Lord delivered David in the past, and David believed that God would deliver him in the present and in the future. This reminds me of Hebrews 13:8 that tells us that Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever. We can always rely on Him to do for us what He has promised.
The Lord is the one who delivers us now and ultimately. No matter what life throws at us, the Lord is there to see us through. He will never leave us, and He will never forsake us. As believers in Jesus, we know that ultimately we have the victory through Him.
Even when the world gives us its worst, we know that Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life. Those who trust in the Lord will be with Him for all eternity.
So, what was the outcome of David's situation? Absalom's rebellion was crushed, and he was killed. David experienced deep sorrow over his son's death. God delivered David, and God honored His covenant with him.
The Bible describes David as a man after God's own heart. He was chosen by God to replace King Saul who had disobeyed the Lord over and over again. David was a man who was in a covenental relationship with God. The Lord told David that one from his lineage would forever reign in Jerusalem. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant. One day, Jesus will return to rule in the city of the New Jerusalem that will descend from heaven to this Earth.
Even though David received so many blessings, he experienced many problems in his life. Many were a result of his own sinful behaviors.
During the course of his reign, David's son Absalom led a rebellion against his father. His rebellion achieved initial success. David and his entourage were were forced to flee for their lives.
In Psalm 3, David is calling on the Lord to deliver him from his son. David knew that many in Israel were saying that God had abandoned David. David knew better. He had a history with the Lord. The Lord delivered David in the past, and David believed that God would deliver him in the present and in the future. This reminds me of Hebrews 13:8 that tells us that Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever. We can always rely on Him to do for us what He has promised.
The Lord is the one who delivers us now and ultimately. No matter what life throws at us, the Lord is there to see us through. He will never leave us, and He will never forsake us. As believers in Jesus, we know that ultimately we have the victory through Him.
Even when the world gives us its worst, we know that Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life. Those who trust in the Lord will be with Him for all eternity.
So, what was the outcome of David's situation? Absalom's rebellion was crushed, and he was killed. David experienced deep sorrow over his son's death. God delivered David, and God honored His covenant with him.
Saturday, August 8, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 2
Psalm 2
The Psalm for the second day of our study is Psalm 2. This Psalm is referred to as a Messianic Psalm because it foretells what will happen when the Messiah is on the Earth. Some Psalms give us information about the first Advent of the Messiah who Christians believe is the Lord Jesus Christ. Other Messianic Psalms provide information regarding the Messiah's return or Second Advent.
Our Psalm today does both of these. Verse seven tells us that the Messiah is the Son of God. He is the one begotten by God. John 3:16 tells us that God loved the world and gave unto the world His only begotten Son.
During the earthly ministry of Jesus, the Father on two occasions acknowledges Jesus as His Son . At the baptism of Jesus, the Father spoke from the heavens saying, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." The other instance was when Jesus was on the mount of Transfiguration. The Father said, This is My Son, listen to Him."
Other verses in this Psalm tell about the Messiah's reign on this Earth after the Second Coming. Some will not want to acknowledge Jesus as Lord. The Bible is quite clear that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
On that day when Jesus returns in power and great glory, those who have done what is evil will receive the justice that is due for their actions. Those who have followed the Lord Jesus and done what He has commanded will honor and worship the Son. As verse 12 tells us, those who take refuge in the Lord will be blessed.
Psalm 2 is a Psalm that points to the Messiah. Jesus is the one who is the fulfillment of this Psalm. He fulfilled part of the Psalm while He was on the Earth, and He will fulfill the rest when He comes again.
We must set our hearts on following Jesus and doing His will until He returns. We are to obey the Great Commission and seek to bring others into the Kingdom until Christ's return.
The Psalm for the second day of our study is Psalm 2. This Psalm is referred to as a Messianic Psalm because it foretells what will happen when the Messiah is on the Earth. Some Psalms give us information about the first Advent of the Messiah who Christians believe is the Lord Jesus Christ. Other Messianic Psalms provide information regarding the Messiah's return or Second Advent.
Our Psalm today does both of these. Verse seven tells us that the Messiah is the Son of God. He is the one begotten by God. John 3:16 tells us that God loved the world and gave unto the world His only begotten Son.
During the earthly ministry of Jesus, the Father on two occasions acknowledges Jesus as His Son . At the baptism of Jesus, the Father spoke from the heavens saying, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." The other instance was when Jesus was on the mount of Transfiguration. The Father said, This is My Son, listen to Him."
Other verses in this Psalm tell about the Messiah's reign on this Earth after the Second Coming. Some will not want to acknowledge Jesus as Lord. The Bible is quite clear that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
On that day when Jesus returns in power and great glory, those who have done what is evil will receive the justice that is due for their actions. Those who have followed the Lord Jesus and done what He has commanded will honor and worship the Son. As verse 12 tells us, those who take refuge in the Lord will be blessed.
Psalm 2 is a Psalm that points to the Messiah. Jesus is the one who is the fulfillment of this Psalm. He fulfilled part of the Psalm while He was on the Earth, and He will fulfill the rest when He comes again.
We must set our hearts on following Jesus and doing His will until He returns. We are to obey the Great Commission and seek to bring others into the Kingdom until Christ's return.
Friday, August 7, 2020
30 Days 30 Psalms -- Day 1
As I mentioned last week, we will be doing something different here on the blog for the next 30 days. Each day, I will post a devotional piece on a Psalm from the book I have completed. This material is copyrighted, and while I do not care if you disseminate it, please don't charge anything for it. There will not be a sermon, verses or reviews while we are in the 30 days.
Psalm 1
This Psalm is one of the more familiar Psalms, and it is one of the first passages of Scripture that I memorized while at Christian school as a boy. It is a brief Psalm whose basic message is that those who act in a righteous manner and follow the law of the Lord will have a life that is blessed. On the other hand, those who follow the path of unrighteousness and wickedness are ultimately destined for trouble.
This Psalm starts out by telling us that we will be happy if we do not listen to the counsel of those who do not follow God. We are not to keep company with those who practice a sinful lifestyle or with those who mock God or the ways of God.
One application of this for our lives is what we take into our minds by way of media and entertainment. If we continually bring into our minds those things that are contrary to God's word, it can dull our sense of what is right and acceptable in the eyes of God.
A righteous person is a person who loves to study God's word. We need to study the whole counsel of God giving special attention to the words and teachings of the Lord Jesus. Those who follow this will have deep roots like the trees near the rivers of water. We can withstand the trials and the tribulations of this life. We can produce the fruit of the Spirit and lead other people to a relationship with the Lord Jesus.
Those who will not follow the ways of the Lord are like the chaff of wheat that easily blows away in the slightest breeze. They will not stand when the Lord Jesus comes again to judge the living and the dead.
This Psalm ends by telling us that the Lord knows who the righteous are. Those follow the Lord are known by Him, and they are cared for by Him. In this we can find great comfort.
Psalm 1
This Psalm is one of the more familiar Psalms, and it is one of the first passages of Scripture that I memorized while at Christian school as a boy. It is a brief Psalm whose basic message is that those who act in a righteous manner and follow the law of the Lord will have a life that is blessed. On the other hand, those who follow the path of unrighteousness and wickedness are ultimately destined for trouble.
This Psalm starts out by telling us that we will be happy if we do not listen to the counsel of those who do not follow God. We are not to keep company with those who practice a sinful lifestyle or with those who mock God or the ways of God.
One application of this for our lives is what we take into our minds by way of media and entertainment. If we continually bring into our minds those things that are contrary to God's word, it can dull our sense of what is right and acceptable in the eyes of God.
A righteous person is a person who loves to study God's word. We need to study the whole counsel of God giving special attention to the words and teachings of the Lord Jesus. Those who follow this will have deep roots like the trees near the rivers of water. We can withstand the trials and the tribulations of this life. We can produce the fruit of the Spirit and lead other people to a relationship with the Lord Jesus.
Those who will not follow the ways of the Lord are like the chaff of wheat that easily blows away in the slightest breeze. They will not stand when the Lord Jesus comes again to judge the living and the dead.
This Psalm ends by telling us that the Lord knows who the righteous are. Those follow the Lord are known by Him, and they are cared for by Him. In this we can find great comfort.
Wednesday, August 5, 2020
Something To Pray About
The devastation from the explosion in Beirut is horrific. Let us pray that the injured will soon recover, and let us pray that the people will receive the aid and assistance that is needed.
A Poem And A Reminder
To start off, I want to remind everyone that this Friday we will begin 30 days 30 Psalms.
The following is a poem that I wrote published in the Winter 1999 edition of Footprints Magazine.
The Unseen Destroyer
Banging the rickety feeder,
that rests on a half-dead elm,
bird seed scatters donward,
along with its former home.
In that crippled elm,
the woven home of a thrush
tears helplessly apart
as the occupants flee to safety.
Clanging in a broken chorus,
the windmill turns oblong,
bent and mangled
by an invisible force.
Without a thought,
the havoc is unleashed
upon the helplessly victims
dangling in the breeze.
The following is a poem that I wrote published in the Winter 1999 edition of Footprints Magazine.
The Unseen Destroyer
Banging the rickety feeder,
that rests on a half-dead elm,
bird seed scatters donward,
along with its former home.
In that crippled elm,
the woven home of a thrush
tears helplessly apart
as the occupants flee to safety.
Clanging in a broken chorus,
the windmill turns oblong,
bent and mangled
by an invisible force.
Without a thought,
the havoc is unleashed
upon the helplessly victims
dangling in the breeze.
Monday, August 3, 2020
Verses For The Week
Hebrews 11:1-2 -- "God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world."
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