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God has revealed Himself to us through His Word. In the Old Testament was often described with two groupings of writings inspired by God. These two groupings were and are still called the Law and the Prophets. It is only fitting then that the Hebrew book of Psalms begins with a psalm representative of these two groupings of inspired writings.
Psalm 1 and 2 are interesting because we don’t know exactly who God used to give them to us. Authorship is not known on these two psalms. Even though we do not know the authors - we can see God’s hand in giving these two psalms as the first and second in the Psalter. Psalm 1 is about the Law of the Lord, while Psalm 2 is about a prophetic warning concerning the raging of the nations. Psalm 1 speaks to us about the blessing that comes to the one who delights in God’s Law, while Psalm 2 is about the problems that will come to those who reject God’s Anointed. The Law and the Prophets each have their own representation in Psalms - and it is what we read to start God’s hymn and prayer book. Psalm 1 addresses the Law. The song/prayer speaks of how blessed one is to not follow the world - but delight in God’s Law. It is an emotional psalm. God is communicating and revealing to us that the blessed and happy life is the life that is lived according to His Law/Word. God promises spiritual vitality and prosperity to those who meditate and live according to His Word. Psalm 2 addresses a problem - something that is seen often in the prophets. Why are the nations in an uproar? Why are the peoples devising an empty thing? Why are they rebelling against God’s anointed and turning against the Messiah? God offers strong rebuke and a revelation of Himself that should make the nations tremble. He also gives strong counsel to honor the Son - Whom He has enthroned and given honored Himself. These two psalms lay the groundwork for the rest of this 150 chapter volume in God’s Word. We see that mankind is blessed when turning to God’s Word and to God’s Anointed. Psalm 1 starts with a blessing and ends with a curse; Psalm 2 begins with a curse and ends with a blessing. Psalm 1 shows us the meditation of the godly, while Psalm 2 reveals the meditation of the ungodly. There is much to be learned before we finish this longest book of the Bible - but even as we begin we are reminded that life is about what we do with the Word of God and the Son of God. A good way to start and a wise thing to remember.
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 Chastening. It is a term we don’t use much in modern Christianity. Some would view the teaching of God chastening us as a negative teaching - one that is thrown out with things like legalism and law. But the fact of God’s chastening is something that is not just an Old Testament truth that went away with the Gospel and the New Testament. God chastens those He loves and He scourges every son He accepts. Those words come straight out of the twelfth chapter of Hebrews, where we are warned not to despise when God comes to us in this way. It is proof that He loves us. David writes for us a chastening song - to help us grasp how we are to walk through these times of God’s discipline and displeasure with us.
DAVID’S PITIFUL CRY “O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your anger, Nor chasten me in Your wrath. Be gracious to me, O LORD, for I am pining away; Heal me, O LORD, for my bones are dismayed. And my soul is greatly dismayed; But You, O LORD—how long?” Psalm 6:1-3 First we should probably identify when this most likely happened. This is one of seven “penitential psalms” that David wrote during the time when he was dealing with his sin of adultery with Bathsheba, and the subsequent cover-up where he sent her husband Uriah to his death in battle. David was dealing with a horrific sin he had committed - and was struggling to come to grips with repentance and receiving God’s forgiveness. His first cry is for God’s mercy - that the Lord would not rebuke him and chasten him in anger and wrath. This is something we just don’t grasp as well as we should in this current day. God is angry with sin - every day. God’s wrath is not something that comes when He supposedly loses it over our sin. It is a settled disposition that He has always had toward our choice to disobey and embrace sin in our lives. David feels the displeasure of God very consciously in his heart and spirit. He cries out for God’s grace as he is “pining away.” This word speaks of a weakness and despair that seizes us when we grasp when God’s powerful hand begins the process of chastening us. David also complained of problems he felt physically. Not all sin leads to or causes sickness - but in this case David here and in other places speaks of how his health was affected by his sin. His bones were dismayed. That word means to disturb or to terrify - and speaks of something that comes upon a person suddenly. Possibly for David an illness he could feel in his bones came upon him with a suddenness that terrified him. But the malady in his physical body was nothing compared to what was going on in his soul. David used the same word again to speak of how his soul was greatly disturbed. His soul was filled with an even greater sense of being terrified and sick. He was a mess both spiritually and physically. The cry of his heart at the thought of all that was rightfully coming upon him was this - But You, O Lord — how long? David finishes this first section with a literary device called aposiopesis, “sudden stop.” It is a dramatic stop in something said - and it reveals just how devastated David is as he faces God’s chastening and realizes his sin which brought it to pass. DAVID’S 3-FOLD PLEA Return, O LORD, rescue my soul; Save me because of Your lovingkindness. For there is no mention of You in death; In Sheol who will give You thanks? I am weary with my sighing; Every night I make my bed swim, I dissolve my couch with my tears. My eye has wasted away with grief; It has become old because of all my adversaries. Psalm 6:4-7 David, after initially reacting to the chastening of God, makes a three-fold request of God. He first makes a plea based on God’s grace. He calls for God to rescue and save him because of God’s covenant love. The word “lovingkindness” speaks of God’s grace and the covenant He made with His people. David appeals to this covenant and cries out for God’s grace in light of it. When we deal with chastening it is wise for us to follow David’s example and cry for mercy on the basis of God’s grace in Jesus Christ. The second plea of David was that God would rescue him and give him a second chance to serve God and honor Him. David speaks of death, which would be his eventual end if God refused to heal him. David’s life and voice would be silenced by death - and in the place of the dead (Sheol) there would be no opportunity to serve and honor God. We too should plead with God for a gracious second chance (or third or fourth, etc.) so we can honor and glorify Him as He deserves. David’s third plea was one based out of grief over sin. We could call it the deep repentance plea. David speaks of how his sin has made him grieve - sighing and weeping over his godless behavior. He used a strong figure of speech in stating this - saying that he has so many tears that they dissolve the couch upon which he sheds them. Here is where I want to take a moment to ask us to consider David’s example. Too often I hear preachers and teachers say that crying, tears, and weeping are not necessary for us to experience repentance. In principle I agree with this - because becoming upset does not necessarily mean that we’ve come to repentance. But - with that being said - I am concerned that we are encouraging a tearless repentance and confession as the norm. What I see in Scripture seems to disagree with that premise. When I read of those experiencing confession and repentance in the Word - I see people weeping and experiencing tears of sadness and grief. Could it be that we are setting ourselves up for failure by not embracing the grief that should be attending our realization and confession of sin? I fear the answer to this is seen in the current spiritual condition of the church. DAVID’S BREAKTHROUGH Depart from me, all you who do iniquity, For the LORD has heard the voice of my weeping.The LORD has heard my supplication, The LORD receives my prayer. All my enemies will be ashamed and greatly dismayed; They shall turn back, they will suddenly be ashamed. Psalm 6:8-10 One of the dangers of sinning is that rather than repenting and responding to God’s chastening, a person would turn away from God further and begin to embrace the lifestyle of those who live their lives in sin and iniquity. David responded to the chastening of God in a way where he saw the folly of this kind of choice. There is a radical change in this psalm where David experiences a breakthrough with God. He turns and finds mercy, grace, and forgiveness. He begins by telling those who want him to come over to a sinful lifestyle to depart from him. He has broken through the to LORD and knows that God has heard his voice, heard his weeping, heard his request. Rather than be rejected by God - David knows that God has accepted him and receives his prayer! What a glorious thing to remember in times of chastening! God hears us as we pray and weep before Him. We don’t need to heed the siren call of the devil and the world when we find ourselves far from the Lord due to sin. That call tells us there is no hope - and that we might as well hang it up and quit. Nothing could be further from the truth. God disciplines and chastens those He LOVES! The very chastening the devil says means God hates us is actually proof that He loves us. He is using it to lead us to repentance and bring about a return to Him. God receives our prayer! He accepts us! He welcomes us back in our repentance! That is a truly glorious truth we need to embrace! David also knows that his enemies, who saw his sin and spiritual demise as an opportunity to bring him down, will be turned back by his restoration to God. They saw this as a chance to not only bring David down a few notches - but also to bring his God down as well. But when God restores us and revives our hearts our enemies take a huge shot that will dismay them. The world’s thought is this - you mess up - you are done. A mess like David’s must surely mean his is history - washed up - over. But God’s grace and forgiveness changes everything. We are restored - and our enemies are ruined. They see God’s work and are dismayed that He receives us again. They turn back from their attack - and are dismayed at grace. Chastening seems bad at first to all who receive it. Even Hebrews 12 acknowledges that. It is not pleasant to be chastened - it hurts. Oh, but what wonderful fruit it brings to us. What a marvelous harvest of forgiveness and grace is ours as God’s chastening plows our hearts, plants the seeds of repentance, and waters them with our tears. Knowing this should make us far more receptive to God’s love in the future when, due to our sin, our spiritual welfare requires that we sing the chastening song. O LORD, lead me in Your righteousness because of my foes; Make Your way straight before me. There is nothing reliable in what they say; Their inward part is destruction itself. Their throat is an open grave; They flatter with their tongue. Hold them guilty, O God; By their own devices let them fall! In the multitude of their transgressions thrust them out, For they are rebellious against You. But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You. For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield. Psalm 5:8-12
LORD, LEAD ME! David’s first request in this next section is for God to lead him. Just as a refresher we need to remember the context of this - Absalom’s rebellion. David cried out to God for His leadership because of his foes. This was Absalom - who was the rebellious son who longed to be king. It was also Ahithophel, David’s former advisor, who joined in the rebellion with Absalom. There was also a host of others who ran to Absalom’s side in this rebellion. David’s foes were numerous - and he desperately needed God’s direction. For him it was a life and death matter. David’s cry was for God to make His way straight or smooth before him. Every decision mattered. It is this way with us too. We have an Absalom too - it is Satan, who also desires to usurp God’s rule and authority. His work is to subtly deceive us into thinking we should join his rebellion. The world is also filled with a myriad of Ahithophel’s, who seek to counsel us contrary to God’s Word. These may be anything from an actual person who wants us to walk in their way rather than God’s way. The spirit of Ahithophel is in our entertainment, our news, our music - it is everywhere. It is the spirit that wants to convince us to live for ourselves - or for the values of the world rather than those rooted in the Word of God. Believe me when I assert that we need to cry out to God daily that He lead us in His righteousness - and make His way straight so we can walk in it. We should note before moving on that David’s request is to be led in God’s righteousness - not his own self-styled direction. HARSH WORDS - FOR WHO - AND WHY? Verse 9 and 10 are a watershed moment in Scripture. They are the verse first time we have an imprecatory portion in the Psalms. If that word is new to you (imprecatory) - it refers to a call or prayer to bring down evil things or curses upon a person or group of people. There are those who are offended with these prayers - seeing them as an embarrassment to the Bible and to God. Nothing could be further from the truth. These prayers are representative of God’s holiness - and His steady position of wrath against all sin. It is what the wicked deserve for rebelling against God. Maybe it would be wise to remember what Absalom did shortly after becoming king. He was counseled by Ahithophel to rape all the remaining wives of David in broad daylight before the people. He also raised an army with the intent of killing David and all those with Him. David’s prayer is not so much a wish on his part - but as a mouthpiece for God - he offered a prophecy for those who continued in this rebellion. Indeed there was nothing true in what these two said. Their inner most beings were given over to destruction - wanting to kill David. Their throats were like an open grave with the smell of death and rotting corpses in it. All the time they were flattering the children of Israel - they were plotting death, destruction, and devastation to the King. But - before we get too self-righteous about things - Paul used these very words to describe our nature and what we are capable of in life. We do have an inner Absalom and Ahithophel in our flesh. Our “inward part” is destruction too because of our sin nature. The word used there speaks of a chasm of wickedness within us - and when we fall into it and live out of it as a source there is no depth to that which we are capable of thinking or doing. We can speak deathly words and even use flattery to accomplish sinful desires. David’s exact request is that they be destroyed - and that God would let them fall by their own wicked counsels. And for those who remember the history of these events, that is exactly what God did. He thwarted the counsel of Ahithophel when he listened instead to David’s friend, Hushai, who was working as a secret agent for David inside Jerusalem. Ahithophel hung himself when his ungodly counsel was rejected - and Absalom was destroyed in battle. But, before we become too critical toward David for this request we should also see that his desire was not for his own honor - but for the honor of God (they have rebelled against You!). Absalom and Ahithophel indeed had heaped up a multitude of sins as they rebelled not just against David - but against God. This reminds us that these imprecatory psalms have as their basis the honor and glory of God - not any personal vendetta of a man or men. PROMISES AND PRAISE David finishes this song with a call to be glad, sing for joy, and be exult over God’s gracious defense and favor. When we trust in the Lord - coming to Him in prayer for our needs and our protection - God delights in bringing that protection into our lives. It is a good thing to trust the Lord and to love His name and honor in life. It may not bring the less bumpy road to us - but even in our trials and troubles we will see Him work mightily and have reason to praise Him much! Three things here are told us concerning how God will work to answer our prayers. First we find refuge in Him. The word refuge means to rest in the shade of a tree. The word was also used as a picture describing how baby birds would find refuge under the wings of their mother. God protects and gives us a refuge in Him in our darkest and most difficult moments. Second, when we embrace God’s righteousness in our troubles - God will bless us. The word blesses in this passage speaks of someone giving a greeting that promises friendliness and camaraderie - and here it says that God is the One greeting us in this way. What a joy to know that He comes to us in such trying times with a friendly greeting that promises blessing, fellowship, deliverance, hope, strength - and everything you can imagine coming from a close friendship with God in those moments! Third, God promises that He will encircle us with His favor (read grace here!) like a huge shield. The shield referred to here was one that was over twice the size as a normal shield. It was used by the warrior to kneel down behind and be covered by its protection. God is that way with us - and how we should love the imagery used here. God is that shield to us - but only as we kneel in prayer and take our refuge in Him. So there we have our primer in prayer from David. It begins with a cry for God’s presence - an audience with Him in prayer. It begins with a heartfelt and sincere desire to connect with Him and wait for His answer and deliverance. It then moves into a time where we request God’s leadership and guidance, knowing that not only our outward enemies are evil - but also our inward tendencies when we look to ourselves rather than Him for that guidance. Finally, we see that it ends with a turn to God’s promises for comfort, encouragement, and endurance. We take our refuge not in our own abilities to deliver ourselves - but in our God and His promise to bless those who turn to Him in righteousness and godly dependence. Oh, to learn these lessons again and again as we pray and seek His face. Indeed we would find our God infinitely able to handle any problem, trial, or trouble we face - and - we would go from concerned cry to praise for protection and provision. And through it all we would learn that intimacy with our Father in heaven is at the core of every answer we receive. Psalm 5:4-7 For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness; No evil dwells with You. 5 The boastful shall not stand before Your eyes; You hate all who do iniquity. 6 You destroy those who speak falsehood; The LORD abhors the man of bloodshed and deceit. 7 But as for me, by Your abundant lovingkindness I will enter Your house, At Your holy temple I will bow in reverence for You.
Prayer is communication with God. That is what David is teaching us in Psalm 5. There are times when you talk with God about your requests and what you need. But there are other times when God is communicating to you - even in what you pray. That is what is happening in this second part of David’s song about prayer and seeking God. David walks through a process of reminiscing about God. He reminds himself Who God is as He is seeking Him. What a good reminder this is to all of us as we come into the presence of God. We need to be reminded of Who God is - so that prayer does not become a one-way street where we don’t quite remember who exactly we are talking to as we pray. Another term for this is process is reverence. We need to revere God - honoring Him - respecting Him - even fearing Him as we approach Him to pray. David speaks of 7 different things he knows about God. His reminder of God’s character could be described as praise to God. God Takes No Pleasure in Wickedness David is basically reminded that God is holy. He does not take pleasure in wickedness. The word David uses for wickedness basically means someone who is lawless and a criminal. Those who disobey God and His word - who fight against His will being established in the world are lawless criminals - and God takes no pleasure in their behavior. There is a thought that may shock us a little. Disobedience to God is not just a crime against Sunday School lessons - it is a crime against the God of the universe Who should be obeyed. No Evil Dwells with God Evil is the word “ra” which is the basic word for evil in Hebrew. Thus we see the lawless criminal is evil in God’s sight. Evil is a word we don’t use that much any longer - because to many it is offensive. You can ask someone if they have sinned or are a sinner, and many will agree with you that they are a sinner or have sinned. But ask someone if they are evil - and they will take exception with being described by that Word. Yet to set ourselves in a contrary way than God’s way IS evil. And God said that evil will not receive any kind of hospitality from Him. that is what the word “dwells” means here. It speaks of hospitality - one who is received graciously and who is treated well as they stay with another. God will show NO hospitality or gracious treatment towards evil. Boastful, Foolish People will not Stand Before God David is praying in the midst of the situation with Absalom, who was a foolish, self-centered, proud, boastful man. Here was a conceited, handsome man who had charm and charisma - but who thought that by these he could claim the throne. He was a foolish young man and thought far too highly of himself. Such a self-boaster would be odious in God’s eyes. God hates pride. If we come to Him in prayer with a boastful, self-serving attitude, we can know that we won’t stand in His presence either. God Hates Those Who do Iniquity Not many people realize that God said that He hates things - but He does. The short of it is that God hates sin. The word iniquity speaks of those who chase after empty, meaningless, vain things. God hates it when mankind spends their lives chasing after emptiness and meaninglessness. God calls us to a meaningful life lived for His glory and honor. It might help us to remind ourselves as we seek God’s face - that He has a purpose for our lives - and that His purpose is NOT that we spend our days running after meaninglessness and frivolity. God Isn’t Too Keen on Falsehood Two things are said about those speaking and living in deceit. First off God will destroy them. The word David uses is “abad” which can mean a literal destruction or that God takes what someone does and reduces it to disorder and futility. The second thing God says is that he abhors the man who gives himself to bloodshed and deceit. The word abhor is “ta’ab” and it means to find something utterly abhorrent, detestable, or an abomination. Once again - God is speaking in terms we may think are objectionable for Him to use - and yet He feels that strongly about sin - violence (i.e. bloodshed) and deceit. At this point we might be thinking to ourselves that it is going to be impossible to come into the presence of God to pray. Apart from Jesus Christ - it actually is. The things David describes makes this fairly clear to us. We could become despondent about this whole matter of prayer if it were not for how David finishes this section. Grace and Reverence David’s final statement before he turns to requests is one that should bring a flood of relief to those of us who are sinners and who do evil (which is all of us). There is a way to come before God and be welcome and accepted. It is by the lovingkindness of God. That word “lovingkindness” is precious to us because it means “covenant love.” It is the closest word in the Old Testament to the New Testament word “grace.” It is worth noting that David says it is by “abundant lovingkindness” that he enters God’s house. This is something we MUST remember as we come to pray. The primer on prayer tells us that God is holy. God hates and abhors sin. God despises the very things of which we are guilty - and even promises destruction to those who do them. Therefore we can NEVER step into His presence based on our own works or our own supposed goodness. We would be consumed much like Nadab and Abihu if we come before Him in any way that does not plead for His grace on our behalf. Jesus made the way for us - and it is only and always through Him we will find our entrance to the place of prayer. But, when we come in the name of Jesus, knowing it is His blood that speaks for our sin - and His righteousness that makes us acceptable to God - we are WELCOME! We CAN come into the presence of the Lord - we CAN pray - we CAN know He will receive us graciously. What a glorious reminder! I’ve heard people say we should preach the gospel to ourselves daily. Often I do that as I come into the presence of God to pray. I do it because I feel like I might not be accepted - I might not be welcome - my sins may be too horrible for God to see me that day - or to want to even talk to me. But the truth is that by God’s abundant grace I can enter and I can pray. Prayer is talking with God.
That is the simplest statement one can make about prayer – but for those who are not familiar with talking to someone Who is Spirit – it can be a little difficult to know how to pray. That is why David’s psalms are so precious to the believer – they give us examples and teaching on actual praying. Psalm 5 is one of the most wonderful examples. It is primer on prayer. It is one of David’s songs that teach us how to approach God, what things to bring up in his presence, and what attitude should be evident in us as we pray. Give ear to my words, O LORD, Consider my groaning. Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God, For to You I pray. In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch. David begins by calling on God to hear his prayer. This may seem strange to us, seeing that we rarely begin our conversations with statements asking others to hear us – consider what we’re saying – and to heed our call for help. Yet with God this is actually a wise practice. Conversation with your average sinful human being (which if you’re not familiar with the biblical worldview – is “every” human being) is based on similarity. We are similar physically, spiritually, and morally. But with God we are speaking with someone Who is holy. We are anything but similar. We are speaking to an infinitely superior being in every way. In fact we can say that He is wholly another category of being with no one else in that same category. So approaching Him asking for His mercy and attention to our prayer is definitely a good thing to do. David speaks of words, groaning, and a cry for help. Considering that David was praying during the time of the incident with Absalom – this is understandable. He was facing a rebellious son – a rival to his throne – and a person who intended on killing him if possible. But this is also a great way to grasp three aspects of our prayers to God. First there are our words themselves. We speak by using words when we talk with God. But there is more to communication than the mere words we use. There is also our “groaning.” The word here is the Hebrew word “hagiyd” which refers to someone sighing or to a meditation in the mind even while the mouth is speaking. It is the though behind the words – it can also refer to the intent behind the prayer. This particular word refers to an intense meditation or sigh in the spirit or heart of the one praying. What are the intent, the motive, and the desire of the one speaking the words? Then finally, David speaks of his “cry for help.” David was crying out of despair and a very real sense of danger – and definitely wanted God to get that idea. David also uses three verbs that are very instructive in this prayer – that indicate just how bold he is being as he calls out to God. First he asks God to “give ear” to his words. This first verb means to “broaden the ear,” This phrase meant to cup one’s hand behind their ear so as to hear well. The second phrase is even bolder as David asks, “heed the sound” which is a great phrase – even though it may seem mildly inappropriate when speaking to God. The phrase is used of a dog or animal that cocks its head and perks up its ears to hear something. David boldly asks God to cup His ear – cock His head – and perk up His ears to hear what he is praying. Though this may sound like a little much – when we are serious about being heard – there will be a passion in us to know that God is listening – hearing our cry to Him. There is also a submission to authority that resounds in this prayer. David calls God his Lord, His King, and His God! What a beautiful picture of submission to God even as David speaks so boldly to Him of a request that God listen. When we talk to God – we are speaking with the Lord of the universe – and the King of all – the One Who is God. Who I am talking to governs how I will speak to Him. We can pray for what we want – but if the One we address is absolutely sovereign over all things – it might be wise for us to come with humility, submission, and honestly – a willingness to alter our plans according to His will. Another thing we see here is that David is approaching God in the morning. Twice we see this in his approach of God. Jon Courson made a wonderful comment about this verse when he said that when he doesn’t meet God early as the day begins – he winds up mourning his day when it comes to a close. We are not speaking of a legalism when we say to come to God early each morning – but – we can say that when an orchestra plays a symphony – it warms up before it plays the piece – not afterwards. Consider the symphony the way you are going to live through today – and the warm-up as your time with God before the day begins. The last thing we see about David’s approach is that he is waiting for God’s instruction with eagerness. He says that he is ordering his prayer to God (a word meaning to set things in a row or organize things) and then watching for God eagerly. He expects God to speak to him about the matter. When prayer becomes a monologue where we speak to God – but God says nothing to us – it will become drudgery to us. Real prayer communicates with God – and that communication is a two way street. Our hearts need to speak to God, yes – but it is just as important that we hear from Him as well. David said that he “eagerly” watched for God to speak. What a wonderful thing it is when God speaks through a passage of Scripture – through a leader – through a brother or sister who loves us – or just through circumstances in our lives. It is why we speak to Him – so that He will speak to us as well. Too often though – people pray with little or not expectation that God is going to speak. They pray out of duty – our out of obligation – or out of some misguided thought that it makes them godly to do so. The reason we pray – is to communicate with God. Therefore why wouldn’t we pray and then watch with anticipation of what He will do or say in answer to what we’ve prayed to Him. Prayer is meant to be an exciting endeavor – not a monologue to the ceiling or some religious object in a room. It is meant to be communication with the Living God Who answers and Who speaks to us in real life situations. It is such a blessing when we move prayer out of the realm of being only a spiritual discipline into being a relationship with God Himself. Yes it requires discipline – but if that is all that is happening – you won’t pray for long. You’ll lose heart. Prayer is meant to be a time of literally talking to God and hearing from Him. That is why David’s example of prayer is so instructive and invaluable. It reminds us that we speak to our very real God – who hears – who speaks – and who invites us into His presence to experience Him in a very real life lived on this earth. If your times of talking to God have degenerated into just “prayer times” where you seek to maintain the façade of religious activity – my request to God is that He reveals Himself to you in a way that draws you into a relationship with Him. I hope that it becomes the time where you experience God’s wisdom – God’s direction – God’s gracious care – God’s comfort – God’s love in a way that wonderfully impacts how you live every day.  Here is a great part of a Psalm that is very instructive to those who are angry. It is even more instructive if your anger is against either elected officials – or even officials like a pastor, elders, or deacons in a church. Bet I got your attention with that statement, didn’t I.
Psalm 4 is part of a unit with Psalm 3 – and both of these songs arose out of David being betrayed by his son Absalom. Just a short review of this is in order. After David committed adultery with Bathsheba and then killed her husband through a horrific military mismanagement on purpose – God said that David would face some serious consequences for his actions. The first of those came as his son Amon fell in lust with his half sister (whose brother was Absalom). He then connived so as to get her into his house – raped her – and then threw her out wanting nothing to do with her after his crime. Tamar, the half sister who was raped, was devastated and lived a desolate life in her bother’s household. Amon was not punished – and his half brother Absalom fumed with rage at what he had done. Absalom would have his day of vengeance at a feast he threw for all David’s sons. At a high point in the festivities he arose and had Amon killed. He then withdrew into a self-imposed exile. Through a series of events Absalom was restored to the kingdom, but David would not see him personally. That led to Absalom being bitter at his father – which also led to him stealing the hearts of the people of Israel by saying that David wasn’t caring for them as he should (something Absalom felt just about every day due to their very sticky situation). In time a conspiracy grew to the point where it was clear Absalom was going to declare himself king (and probably his first act would be to kill David and those who supported him). Just for the record – this was a bona-fide mess in every way. There was enough sin to go around for just about everyone in this situation. But – it did not merit rebelling against the king God established – and then seeking to kill him. Just an aside here for our benefit is in order. We live at a time when men are furious with whatever president we have – regardless of which party he comes from in the political world. The press keeps us enraged so that our anger is always brewing beneath the surface. One can easily see where this may one day end in a coup and a rebellion to overthrow just about anyone who is in office. In light of our equally sticky situation in this day – it would be wise for us to consider the admonition given in this “Mad-as-all-Get-out” song. Tremble and do not sin; Meditate in your heart upon your bed and be still. Selah Offer the sacrifices of righteousness And trust in the LORD. Many are saying, “Who will show us any good?” Lift up the light of Your countenance on us O LORD! You have put gladness in my heart, More than when their grain and new wine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep. For you alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety. Psalm 4:4-8 David began this song by crying out to God for help in his distress. He wanted God more than anything in this distressing situation – which was good. When we face distressing situations it would behoove us to remember that God is better than anything, anyone, or any position that is available now – or – even will be available. David was king – deposed at the moment – but he was not crying out for a return to power. He was crying out for more of God in the midst of this mess. That is a sure sign that God is working in your mess – when you want Him more than you want relief from your problems. Many of the Jewish scholars say that by this time David was across the river and was in a relatively safe place. People were gathering to him in larger numbers – and he was no longer in grave danger of losing his life any minute. God was turning things – and eventually Absalom’s rebellion would be put down – and the young man Absalom would be killed. It is in this sense of God turning things that this part of the song was written. Go Ahead – Be Angry . . . But Tremble in verse 4 means to tremble with anger – and later this verse is quoted in Ephesians 4:26 as “Be angry and do not sin.” It is one thing to be angry about the sin and failings of others – but it is quite another to allow that anger to turn into bitterness, gossip, discontent, and arrogance. That is where Absalom went and it led him into murderous revenge, rebellion, gossip and lies, and even raping 10 of David’s concubines in public (the very sin he despised in Amon). When we don’t deal with our sin, as God would have us to deal with it – we wind up eventually sinning in similar ways ourselves. When it comes to anger – be very careful what you describe as “righteous anger.” If your anger leads you to other sins – it isn’t righteous. Oh what wise counsel is given to us when David says our response should at least include time lying still meditating on our beds. I’ve noticed in my own life when I get angry that if I do not consciously do something to calm down – my anger will only escalate. Telling others about my anger leads to things like gossip, rebellious statements toward authority, judgmental statements toward authority, and arrogant statements about 99% of the time. It is better to shut down the anger – and lay down to take some time to meditate on matters. The word for meditate means to “speak within your own heart.” When we do this – and combine it with being still before God – it does wonders for our “mad-as-all-get-out” moments. David offers another wise piece of advice. Offer the sacrifices of righteousness. The phrase can also be translated, “Offer righteous sacrifices.” Cling to God’s righteousness – but also cling to the way the Righteous One shows mercy to those who offend it as well. A righteous sacrifice could also mean dealing with our own sin – even as we are so keenly aware of the sin of others in that moment. Remember that we prefer God to show mercy – when we are the ones being stupid and sinful. We might want to offer that same mercy to others in the midst of their mess too. Go Ahead - Be Cynical . . . But What is fascinating at this point is that what others are saying it brought into this equation. They are saying, “Who will show us ANY good!” (Emphasis mine) There is a tendency in moments like this to see the human sinfulness of these situations and want to throw up your hands in frustration. Is there any good out there? Can anyone make any sense of the mess between Absalom and David? By the time it is over the whole situation is like a three-dimensional puzzle that is beyond solving! With the prospect of no good at all – some become cynical and throw up their hands saying that there is no hope. There is no justice. There is no answer. Therefore we can’t even begin to come up with what is right. Therefore we either quit – or we just look after ourselves and give up on the rest of humanity. David’s answer is priceless! Lift up the light of Your countenance on us O LORD! The human factor alone will lead us every time to hopelessness – because mankind is hopelessly bound in sin and selfishness. That is why we need to lift our gaze off of man – and put it on God. I’m losing all faith – until – I cry for God Himself to lift up the light of His face upon me. That is where hope – and more specifically redemption – is found. They are in HIM! When we look into the light of His face – the things of earth grow strangely dim – and we learn wisdom and what makes for true righteousness, justice, and change. Wisdom is to fear Him. Righteousness is His gift to us in Jesus Christ. Justice is what He did at Calvary, taking the sin of the world upon His Son and paying it in full. Jesus bore the penalty for all the sin of mankind. It is all answered in Him – but remember – only in Him. David further reminds us that gladness comes from Him by His merciful grace to us. There is a gladness that abounds through Him – and that can beat any earthly possession or desire. Finally we see that we can lie down in peace and sleep – undeterred by the failings of men – by the foibles of politics – and by the frustrations of human leaders. God is the One who will give us such peace. We can even sleep peacefully. Imagine David – only a day or two out of being exiled from his kingdom. Imagine that he is only hours from fearing for his life – as he crossed a flowing river and scrambled up a mountainside to shelter. Yet now – after calling on the LORD – he is sleeping peacefully. HOW!? He took the situation and left it in the presence of God. He prayed – and possibly even sang to the God who promised to protect and keep him. This is truly amazing. So what do we do when we are in a “Mad-as-all-get-out” moment singing a blues song about how ticked off we are at another person – another politician – another spiritual leader who we learned has clay feet? For starters – we don’t give anger a wide berth in our lives. We narrow it to God’s righteousness – and temper it with God’s mercy (even as we remember more than a few times when God withheld wrath and showed mercy. Then we take time to talk to ourselves in a peaceful, meditative moment with the Lord. Then we ignore the naysayers who want to fill our minds with hopelessness – with cynicism – and with recrimination against those who have failed us. Instead, we fix our eyes on the Lord Himself. We find what is good and holy in a fixed gaze upon Him. Then we remember that what is best is He Himself and what He provides. And we surrender to God taking us out of our “mad-as-all-get-out moment and introducing us to His view of things where even as sin abounds – mercy abounds as well.  There is such comfort in the Christian worldview in the fact that we know a relationship with God. Every worldview has a reason for being held. The Biblical explanation for most other worldviews is simply that they do not want a god in their life unless they can control this god. The idea of a God other than they are - wholly separate and sovereign is terrifying. Yet this is what the Christian view has - a holy God who is sovereign and separate from us - who does not need us - and who is the ultimate authority. The world looks at this and cringes - thinking Him to be an evil despot who will not let them live as they choose in their sin. But for the one who knows Him - it is the ultimate comfort. David expresses this - but does so in verse 3 and 4 in a way that balances Who God is in a very healthy way.
David's boast in this song is that all others should know that God sets apart the godly man for Himself. This does not sound like some far off despot who does not care. By His grace God saves us and sanctifies us so that we are godly. And the godly man - this is the one God wants for Himself. He desires fellowship with such a man - and draws him close. What the world misses so often in their quest for some kind of love is what God made man for in the beginning. How was it in the beginning? Man walked with God in the garden talking with Him and fellowshipping with Him. God gave man dominion over the paradise - even spending a day naming the animals together with him. God taught him lessons about how it was not good for him to be alone. Then God provided a mate for Adam - and brought Eve to him - blowing his mind and filling his heart with love previously only experienced in the Trinity. What a joy - until sin entered the picture. But wonder of wonders, this God Who had to punish them and send them out of the garden, clothed them with skins from animals sacrificed for them. God Himself would later become that sacrifice - even as His Son had been from the foundation of the world the lamb slain for sin. Why? God was going to make man godly again - and set Him apart for Himself redemptively. What an amazing thing - and what a wonderful thing. He sets apart the godly man for Himself. The sons of men may mock, but the godly man knows and walks with God. This relationship happens as God hears when we pray. Oh the joy of these precious words - Jehovah hears when I pray. What a gracious condescension happens every time He bends His ear low to hear the prayers of His people. What an invitation above all other invitation is ours as He calls us to speak to Him. What is the comfort to the believer? What is the joy of the Christian worldview? It is that God calls us to Himself and hears us when we pray. That is true when we simply enjoy sweet fellowship with Him - but it is also true when we are overwhelmed with trouble and cry out to Him. It is true when we praise Him with joy, yet is equally true when our eyes fill with tears of sorrow and pain and our voice is barely heard over our weeping. It is true when we speak with Him confidently, yet is also true when we are confused and don't know our way - calling to Him with our last ounce of hope. Comfort of all comforts that God hears us when we pray - this is the ultimate comfort for the believer. So how is it with us? What do our actions reveal about our worldview. For you see a worldview is not merely a set of ideas shared only in deep philosophical and theological conversations. It is best represented by how we live. Do you find your greatest comfort in God's great love for you? Do you boast of how you speak with Him daily - even every hour - in prayer as you place all before Him? Is it God who walks with you through life - and Who hears you as you talk with Him about anything and everything? Oh the peace we often forfeit - oh what painful toil we bear - all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. It is not just lyrics in a song. It is a worldview - a Psalm 4 worldview that was sung long before any hymnal was every put together. One might even say that it was in the original hymnal - written by David - inspired by God. Dear saints, it is not just a song. It is an invitation . . . because God has made you - godly man and godly woman - for Himself.  When the world and the evil one tells you that there is no hope for you - not even in God - sleep tends to escape you. This is especially the case when you are being chased by your own son and the vast majority of the army of Israel. Yet that is exactly what David says here. He lay down and slept. What is it that allowed David to do this - and how can we access the same kind of peace and tranquility that he did - even in the midst of our storms and trials?
The main reason for David's peace is a fresh vision of God in the midst of his trials. We previously learned of how David saw God as His shield, glory, and head-lifter - all aspects of God's grace and protection. In addition to this David also cried out to God and God answered from the place of His habitation. This allowed David to lay down and sleep. We would be wise to follow this same path if we want peace in the midst of trouble and trial. David understood God's sustaining hand as well. David most likely had sentries and guards standing around him in this situation. But before we put too much stock in this we must remember that David's entire army at this point was somewhere around 600-1000 men. They were facing an army of well over 1.5 million soldiers - led by a son who hated his father vehemently. A guard or even a 1000 guards are no guarantee of safety. David know God was going to sustain him. The word for sustain means to hold up or to bear up. Is God currently holding you up in life? Is it a trust and reliance upon God that is undergirding your life in the midst of trials and suffering? David chose to know God in the midst of his great difficulty - to know His grace and mercy - to know His sustaining. That is what allowed him to sleep. But for David there was far more than just sleep involved in knowing God in the midst of his trial. David also had a confidence that God would protect him against his enemies. Some might speak of being afraid of thousands and ten thousands and it is nothing more than hyperbole. But for David this statement was literally. He was surrounded by thousands and even ten thousands. Yet he says here that he was not afraid of them. What was it that gave David such strong confidence? This was not David's first rodeo on the matter of having a godless man chase him through the wilderness trying to kill him. This situation had to have an altogether strange feel to it. David had been here before - with Saul - and with God. So many times his life had been bound up with God even as his enemy was all around him. What I believe sustained David was God's Word - His promise that He would build an enduring legacy through David. Little did David know that this legacy would be fulfilled through a suffering Savior Who would come on the scene hundreds of years later. God was committed to David - even when David had blown it and blown it badly. God was up to something in history - and nothing or no one was going to derail it. David knew, after he had been in God's presence that he was once again in the stream of God's will. That stream cannot be stopped. The truly wise man makes sure that he is in the current of that stream - no matter what it takes. That was the difference between verse 1 of this Psalm and verse 6. David turned to the Lord and in a wonderful return to the heart and purposes of God, David was once again caught up in that glorious, comforting, sustaining flow of the will of God. Oh the confidence gained in that stream! David again calls upon the name of the Lord. This time he calls for God's protection in battle, for he knows that a battle looms in his future. Absalom IS coming, and he is coming with all tens and hundreds of thousands of Israel. But note how David speaks here. It is amazing that he prays, not in the future tense - as in one who is asking for God to do something out in the future. He prays as if things are already done. First David prays for God to arise and save him. There is a total reliance on God for the victory in this situation. One study of Scripture that will blow your mind is a study of what happens when God does arise and fight for His people and His purposes. It is at both a terrifying thing for His enemies as well as a wonderful comfort to those defended by His actions. We see things like a single angel slaying 185,000 of the enemy in one night. We watch as God fights for His people by having large rocks from heaven crush them as they flee. We hear His marching in the tree tops and find when we emerge from t he forest that He has already gone before us to win the day. Here the picture given to us is that of God swinging with a mighty blow and landing a right hook to the check of His enemy. The force of the blow is so strong that it crushes and shatters the teeth of the opposition. David prays not that this will happen - but knows that is has already happened. One of the pictures given to us in the Scriptures of the attacks of the devil is that of a lion crouching and awaiting the kill. We read in 1 Peter that Satan is prowling about like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. But we are not to fear - for the Lord has already gone before us and struck our enemy to where all his teeth have been shattered and crushed in his mouth. We face a toothless lion because of God's victory - and it is one that is already won. The teeth of that conflict is the Law and our sin. Because of our sin we are doomed to be consumed by the justice of God Himself as the Law points out our rebellion and wickedness. But take great hope saints - even as the wicked one accuses us (for he is the accuser of the brethren) and calls for us to be consumed - God has already won the victory. He won it through Jesus Christ - Who through all eternity has been the lamb slain from the foundation of the world. He was slain for our sin - and raised for our justification. He now stands as our victory in all things. This is why there IS HOPE for you in God. There is hope because of the gospel of Jesus Christ. You see, your enemy has already been rendered toothless because of God's powerful and eternal deliverance. David ends this particular Psalm stating this as he says, "Salvation belongs to the Lord; Your blessing be upon Your people! Selah." It is because of Christ that we are saved from all our failures and all the sins that we envision taking away our hope in God. It is because of Him that we can have confidence and peace - even as we fully understand what messed up people we are. It is grace and God's salvation that will allow us to stand. David says, Salvation belongs to the Lord! What an interesting way to put it. What he is saying is that there is no salvation apart from Him. It belongs to Him - and He grants it to whomever He chooses. AND - as if we can handle much else - His salvation also comes with His blessing. David also writes, "Your blessing be upon your people," as well. It is astounding to imagine it, but not only is our salvation provided by God, but it comes with His blessing as well. David closes with one last "Selah." Stop and think about that. Meditate on this blessing - this salvation, this Defender, this Hearer of prayer, this One Who saves to the uttermost. Stop and meditate on the victory of this Dread Champion who shatters the teeth of those stupid enough to oppose Him and His purposes in the gospel. Stop and think about His salvation. The enemy may whisper or even shout that there is no hope for you in God. Remember this thought when he does. He is a liar and the father of lies. The only place where there is ever a sure hope is in God, His gospel, His sure defense, and His blood-bought blessing. NO HOPE FOR YOU?
Dark times came slithering into my life, Dark times with venom of struggle and strife, Dark days hung like clouds in the air, Dark whispers spoke of ultimate despair. No hope for you O Adam's son, No hope for you O sinning one, No hope at all child of this sod, No hope for you, no hope in God. Failures swirled about and encircled my head, Failures hissing their doubts and their dread, Failures mounting up mountainous in size, Failures prophesying of my demise. No hope for you O Adam's son, No hope for you O sinning one, No hope at all child of this sod, No hope for you, no hope in God. Turning to Him to stop this assault, Turning to Him O grace given halt, Turning to Him for whisperings to cease, Turning to Him for mercy's release. No hope for you O Adam's son? No hope for you O sinning one? No hope at all child of this sod? There's hope for you - but only in God. He is a shield, a shield all about, He is a shield from darkness and doubt, He is a shield, flaming arrows to quench, He is a shield from sin and death's stench. No hope for you O Adam's son? No hope for you O sinning one? No hope at all child of this sod? There's hope for you - but only in God. My Glory, arrested by a life-changing name, My Glory, the only One worthy of fame, My Glory, blinded by a sight-granting view, My Glory, all glory owned only by You. No hope for you O Adam's son? No hope for you O sinning one? No hope at all child of this sod? There is hope for you - but only in God. Head-lifter, golden scepter extended to me? Head-lifter, are those scars in your hand I see? Head-lifter, can it be that I see Your face? Head-lifter, Bestower of mercy and grace, Now hope for you O Adam's son. Now hope for you O blood-bought one. Now hope for you, child of this sod. Now hope for you - but only in God.  David is once again running for his life. This time it is his son who is chasing him around the wilderness. As he climbs the far side of Jerusalem heading for the wilderness (and the climb is a long one), he hears whispers in his heart. There is no hope for you in God, David. Your failures have come home to roost. Yet, as we saw in part one of this study of Psalm 3, David took time to consider what was being whispered in his spirit. What a wise thing to do - to stop and meditate - think about - consider - what is being said.
Selah. David takes a moment and thinks seriously about what he has started this song saying. He is singing a type of the blues - at least a country song that commiserates with his audience about how bad it is for him. But he stops singing the words though for an instrumental portion in the song. Selah means to stop and consider what you've just heard. It was usually done with an instrumental moment in the music. Ever stop in the midst of your miserable self-monologues and think about what you've just said? It is something we should do - especially when our misery wants to lead us to helplessness and despair. "Wait a minute!" we should say to ourselves. Stop and think a moment about what you've just said. "But You, Jehovah, are a shield about me. My glory, and the One Who lift my head." What a radical change from, "no help for you in God" to God being his shield, glory, and head-lifter. Amazing what comes to us when we exercise our right to shut up and listen for a few moments. Astounding what we can learn when we stop and consider the words spoken to us - and even those which we are speaking to ourselves in a rough moment. Are we listening to God - or just focusing on our inner-Eyeore? David, much more than most, had reason to be depressed. He was facing, after all, exile because his son was leading a successful rebellion and overthrow of his kingdom. Yet, stopping and thinking in the presence of God is NEVER a bad idea. Why did I just use the phrase, "stopping and thinking in the presence of God?" It is because that is what is evident in David's words. He stopped and considered things from the stand point of God. He stopped and considered what was being said about God. Is God no longer his deliverer? Is there no hope of salvation for David? Once he stops and considers these words - he doesn't turn only to what God said - but more importantly - Who God is! That is the answer to His dilemma. Who is God right now? What a great question to ask.YOU - Jehovah! That is the answer to every problem we face and every issue that comes up in our lives. YOU - Jehovah! That is ultimately where we need to turn when the world, the flesh, the devil tell us that all hope is lost. Turning to ourselves in such moments is like turning to a defaulted bank for funds. The bank is bankrupt - and has nothing. We ourselves, in ourselves, are bankrupt as well. So - our first thought should be this . . . Who are You in all this, God? That is what will help us in this and every other situation that we face. David is reminded of Who God says that He is. You are a shield about me! You are my glory! You are the lifter of my head! You answer prayer! Let's take a quick look at these answers to David's problem. You, Jehovah are a shield about me. God is a shield and refuge to us. David thinks and remembers the way that God dealt with these situations in the past. Time and time again God surrounded David in times of difficulty and trial like a giant shield. David was protected against the enemy - against Saul when he was crazy - against Goliath - against every foe he had ever faced. This dawned upon him the same way that Elisha's servant was awakened to the protection of God evidenced to him when God opened his eyes to the mountains filled with angels of fire all around him. But then again, that is one of our fundamental problems isn't it. We cannot see Him - so we tend to wonder if He is there. This is not a problem usually for us until the physical problems in our lives get in our face - and we are blinded to the unseen because of the overwhelming presence and demand of the seen. Jehovah was and is a shield to His people and His anointed. But - there are times when though seeing, we are blind to His presence. Regardless of our circumstances though - He is with us - and He is here. You, Jehovah, are my glory! Though this may seem not a huge issue at first, it is the first issue David sees in refocusing on God - and it is a primary issue for him, and for us as well. Honestly, we probably have not thought about "glory" and how important it is to have the right glory in your life. Often we freak out in life because someone is messing with our "glory." Let me explain a little more what I mean by this. Our glory is what is of utmost importance in our lives. For many people that is themselves, their stuff, their position, their power, their happiness . . . in short - they glory in themselves. When someone messes with their glory it is serious. But consider for a moment David and this issue of "glory." As a young man he walked into a situation that involved glory. Goliath stood for 40 days and defied Israel to send out anyone to fight him. Everyone except David missed that glory was being addressed. Saul and his entire army were scared and depressed about this situation - but only saw it in reference to their own glory. This looked bad on them - their fighting ability - their standing and position - and honestly - their own selves - because to go out and fight this monster of a man surely meant death to whoever tried it! Stupid Goliath! He's messing with our glory! Then along came David. He heard the taunts, heard the challenge, heard the same insults and came away with a radically different view of things. How dare this uncircumcised Philistine say these things about God! Stupid Goliath! He's messing with God's glory! That is why he knew he could take Goliath. He KNEW he could take out this doofus who was messing with God's glory! He knew it because he was far more concerned with God's glory than his own. Out David waltzes on the battlefield - no armor - no sword - just a sling and five stones (one for Goliath and each of his ugly brothers too - if they dare to act against God's glory!) WOW - what an amazing faith this young man had! You, Jehovah, are my glory! That is what got David through all this. It is what will get you through your mess too! Your problems and distresses are ultimately NOT ABOUT YOU! God is working through everything He allows so that as you trust Him - look to Him - rely on Him - pray to Him - and fight by His power - you will be to the praise of His glory! Oh God! You are my glory - it is all about You! All this that I am facing - is so that men may see Your glory and what You can do! How did David radically change in these moments? He radically changed the center of this controversy from himself to God. Just a few thoughts. Who did God say that He would build an enduring kingdom through? Who had God said that He forgave when David repented of his sin of adultery, murder by proxy, and deceit? Who did God say that he would protect and keep through all his troubles? And ultimately - Whose glory was MOST affected by Absalom's rebellion, open immorality, and dishonoring of his father and his father's God? Yeah - it wasn't David's glory - it was God's glory. You, Jehovah, are the lifter of my head! The last of these three statements about God may be the most glorious. "Wait a minute," you may think. "What does 'head-lifting' have to do with being chased through the wilderness by another madman?" The answer to that question is found in the whispers that filled David's head - not by his situation in general. David heard that there was no hope for him in God. That meant that God was through with him - done - finished! He wanted nothing more to do with David. But David, in meditating on that thought, realized that this did not fit Who God had been in his life. You see, David was a mess (much like we all are as well). This was not his first rodeo, so to speak. He had failed multiple times before. His failures at times seemed to go above his head so that he feared drowning in the sea of his own transgressions and sin. As David considered his bleak past, he also considered just Who it was that he met at every turn. It was God - Who often was working even through David's sin. He met God at every failure - even though as he came upon the Lord his head was hanging low in shame and disgrace. But God was not there to cast him to the side, offering him judgment and condemnation void of any hope. God met him with grace and forgiveness - as if someone had paid the ultimate price for his sin. (Little did David know - Someone had paid it as the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.) This was not a God who banished him. This was The God who "lifted his head" out of disgrace into renewed favor and grace. The golden scepter of grace in Jesus Christ had been extended, removing the death sentence he deserved in the presence of the King Who would never welcome such a sinful man. This is Who Jehovah is - the One Who lifts my head - giving me grace - giving me mercy - offering compassion. No hope for you in God? Far from it saints - but only as you remember Who God is. The answer to your dilemma - indeed to ALL your dilemmas - is found in Who God is. This God, Who maybe even unknown to you allowed these circumstances to come into your life, is not Who you think Him to be. He has not cast you off - thrown you away - or left you behind because of your sins. If He reacted to you apart from mercy - He would have consumed you at the occasion of your first sin! Your God is your shield of protection - only allowing in your life what is needed for your sanctification to be accomplished. Your God is your glory - reminding you to lay down the ridiculous thought that it is or ever was about you and what you want. Your God lifts your head - rather than crushes it due to your sin. He has laid His hand of judgment on His Son at Calvary - and now by faith you receive grace upon grace. Even in the most dire of difficulties this is Who He is. So stop making yourself the center of this situation - your comfort the center of your pursuits - and your glory the purpose of your life. This will lead only to misery in the end. Stop! Consider what you are thinking! And realize the answer is this - Who is God? The sooner we come to this conclusion - the sooner that we can experience the transformation - the same transformation David experienced in Psalm 3. |
Pastor John LawrencePsalms for Life . . . God moved on several people to write the Psalms. This is a book of songs and poems written by people who were seeking to be devoted to God as they walked though their lives. This is a collection of songs and poems that express the true, wonderful, and often raw emotions that we have as we journey through life with God. I hope you will be blessed and encouraged as you read. But more than that I hope that these expositions and writings will help you to seek Him in the midst of the life you live in this world. It will be at times comforting and encouraging, while at others it will be challenging and awkward. Regardless of where you find yourself on this spectrum as you read, it will be a reminder that God invites us into His presence to truly walk with Him, know Him, and at times, pour out emotions of joy, sorrow, frustration, anger, and everything else you can imagine. He not only invites you to do this - He delights in it too! Hope you enjoy your journey! Archives
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