Sunday School: Psalm 119:41-56 Hebrews letters Waw and Zayin.
Truth is found in the Word of God only. And God is faithful. So His Word can be trusted.
With God's help, the Psalmist says he will seek the wisdom there, and find the answer for those who reproach him. I think of other songs, in which the writer speaks of those who say to him, "Where is your God? Let Him come to help you!" They mock the troubles of the upright, while they seemingly prosper. Here the Psalmist says he will not be disappointed by God's Word.
"Take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for I have trusted in Your ordinances...."
I am reminded of an earlier Psalm where David asks to not be ashamed because God doesn't do what He's said He will do. In other words, "I trust You. I have spoken of Your truth and promises and lovingkindness to everyone. If you don't come through, I will be ashamed." I am amazed that the psalmist can express this, and at the same time speak confidently of God's faithfulness and justice.
He is committed to study the law and do it, in spite of the mockery of those around him.
V. 45 ESV reads, "walk in a wide place." while the NKJV reads, "walk at liberty."
I am reminded of multiple psalms that speak of the upright being set in a broad place by God, because of their obedience and trust. A broad place........rather than the narrow, steep and often slippery road that carried the added danger of not being able to see dangers all around. In a broad place, the road is easier, less dangerous.
Verse 49-56, Zayin. Ask God to remember His promises....for they are the psalmists only hope, comfort and life. The Word comforts when trouble comes and there is no one else to help.
"I am angered by the wickedness of those who forsake God"......I remember Psalm 55 particularly.
Again (verse 51), he speaks of his commitment to God's Word......he will not turn aside from it!
"Your statutes have been my songs..." expressing emotion. But also using God's own word to worship Him......in everyday life.
"in the night"....speaks to me of times of trouble. The only reason to be up at night is trouble. Reference multiple other Psalms that speak of insomnia due to inner turmoil. But the Psalmist always rests only when he runs to God. He runs to God because he knows and keeps God's precepts.
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Worship: I Thessalonians 5:9-22
Salvation looks like a game of follow the leader. First we follow Christ, but second we are to follow the leaders God has set over us. .....
Salvation is through Christ only. His death was necessary for this, and because of this we will live with him, whether alive or dead. Death does not end our relationship with Him. Because we have this great and sure hope, we can encourage and build one another up.
A believer will have a proper view of authority. First and foremost, Christ is our Head. No me, myself or I. But Christ. Secondly, He has placed authorities over us in the church, whom we are to recognize, esteem very highly, and love. Added to that, we are to be at peace among ourselves. I think this is directly tied to the above......recognizing and esteeming those in authority.
While doing the above, we are to serve one another.....admonish the idle (don't turn a blind eye!), encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, not repay evil for evil, and seek to do good. Take an active role in the Body! (while following the leadership, and keeping peace).
An outflow of all this is that we can
rejoice always. This doesn't mean fake smiles and an altruistic, unreal attitude. It means the believer ALWAYS had a reason to rejoice, even in times of trouble. It means no grumbling or complaining, and not tearing the house down with your words/actions. (my take on it anyway!)
Pray without ceasing. Not just at church. Not just at bedtime or before meals. But that an attitude of speaking to God and listening to Him becomes the norm of the day. You to talk to and listen to those you love here on earth......how much more so your creator and savior!
In every thing give thanks,(or in every circumstance), for this is the will of God concerning you.
I used to think the "will" referred to the giving thanks. But I now think it referrs not only to that, but more so to the circumstances. He makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him, and that good is that we become more Christlike. He is sovereign, and there isn't a chance happening in our lives. Any circumstance we face is His will for us.
Be patient to all......remember the great mercy shown yourself. There is a reference that says that you will receive mercy in the same measure that you gave it to others. (ouch!)
Test everything......Know the Word, so that you will recognize untruth when it is spoken.
Do not quench the Spirit.......listen to Him and obey immediately when He brings the Word to your mind. Delayed obedience is disobedience. And it grieves Him.
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Evening Service. Psalm 134, a song of ascents.
Bart: "The Psalms are God's playlist. His favorites." Love it!
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