PSALM 34 The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18). During our study of the Psalms, we have often encountered the theme of God’s goodness—how He providentially cares for the world and protects His people. Despite this focus in David’s writings, he … Continue reading “GOD’S GOODNESS IN TRIALS”
JOYFUL PRAISE
PSALM 33 Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful (Psalm 33:1). Every pastor and teacher who has stood before a congregation during worship can attest to the tragic reality that many come dressed with dour expressions instead of joyful countenances. The reasons for this could be many—deep conviction … Continue reading “JOYFUL PRAISE”
THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS
PSALM 32 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity (Psalm 32:1–2a). David’s repentant soul seen in Psalm 32 should stir us to seek forgiveness and find the blessing that comes with it. Only when we are reconciled to God … Continue reading “THE GIFT OF FORGIVENESS”
SECURITY OF SALVATION
PSALM 31 For You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your name’s sake, lead me and guide me (Psalm 31:3). David offers a prayer of thanksgiving in Psalm 31 for God’s faithfulness in protecting him throughout his life. Like David, we also rely completely on God’s strength, even though at times we do … Continue reading “SECURITY OF SALVATION”
THE JOY OF SALVATION
PSALM 30 I will extol You, O Lord, for You have lifted me up, and have not let my foes rejoice over me (Psalm 30:1). While believers praise the Lord for many blessings, none so stirs the heart more than God’s setting them free from sin. The joy that fills a Christian’s heart stupefies the … Continue reading “THE JOY OF SALVATION”
HUMILITY BEFORE GOD
PSALM 29 Give unto the Lord the glory due His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (Psalm 29:2). Like the men who built the tower of Babel as a monument to their own achievement, the rulers and princes in the day of David proudly opposed the Lord, exalting themselves instead of humbly … Continue reading “HUMILITY BEFORE GOD”
PEACE IN THE LORD
PSALM 28 To You I will cry, O Lord my Rock: Do not be silent to me, lest, if You are silent to me, I become like those who go down to the pit (Psalm 28:1). Prayer serves as a lifeline for believers. In it they worship the Lord, find solace and comfort, offer thanksgiving … Continue reading “PEACE IN THE LORD”
OUR GREATEST DESIRE
PSALM 27 When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek” (Psalm 27:8). Psalm 27 reveals David’s greatest fear—losing fellowship with God. He could bear losing his home, his country, even his life, but he could not face separation from His heavenly Father. After praising God at … Continue reading “OUR GREATEST DESIRE”
OPPOSING UNGODLINESS
PSALM 26 I have hated the assembly of evildoers, and will not sit with the wicked (Psalm 26:5). In Psalm 26, David implores the aid of God, entreating Him to undertake the cause of a man who has been unrighteously afflicted and accused by ungodly men. The psalm is filled with references to David’s own … Continue reading “OPPOSING UNGODLINESS”
PORTRAIT OF A BELIEVER
PSALM 25 Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; on You I wait all the day (Psalm 25:4–5). In Psalm 24, we learned how God has separated His people from the world and has elected them … Continue reading “PORTRAIT OF A BELIEVER”