God’s Word For Today

Text: Mark 1:9-15 (ESV)

9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

12 The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. 13 And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.

14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

YOU ARE MY BELOVED SON I AM WELL PLEASED

Jesus grew up as a Galilean, from Nazareth. Before He started His public ministry, He was baptized by John the baptizer. John’s baptism was for repentance but Jesus needed no repentance. Jesus argued that it should be done because “it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness” (Mat 3:15). His baptism confirmed Himself as the Messiah. Secondly, it confirmed John as the forerunner to the Messiah. Both Jesus and John were acting in fulfillment of prophecy. Interestingly, God the Father was pleased.

Immediately, the Spirit led Him to the wilderness to be tempted. It should be noted that His obedience led Him to trials and in danger with wild animals. The devil was allowed to tempt Him but the angels were ministering to Him. God won’t lead us to where He isn’t able to protect us.[1 Cor 10:13]

Afterwhich, He began preaching in Galilee, for the people to repent and believe the good news. His message is backed up by His impeccable character. His courage was notable that though John was arrested, it did not deter Him to preach the truth. What prompts us to proclaim the good news to others?

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Text: Mark 1:4-8 ESV

4 John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

5 And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.

6 Now John was clothed with camel's hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey.

7 And he preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie.

8 I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

-Mark 1:4-8 ESV

REPENTANCE

John's message to the people to repentance [turn away from their sins] is the spiritual truth behind the geographic metaphor. Their repentance would prepare them for the coming Messiah. In like manner, by rejecting our sins and seeking God's forgiveness, we smooth the way for our hearts to receive God and the forgiveness we so desperately need.

John did appear much different than others. He was clothed with camel's hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. He himself has recognized that he was the ‘voice from the wilderness.’ And as such, he and his message of repentance was counter-culture and unpopular.

He was a simple prophet with a straight forward prophetic message. The Messiah would soon appear. He exalted Him so much, expressing that the Messiah is so great that a menial job of untying the sandal he felt so unworthy to do. In other words, serving Him is the greatest privilege for John. Do you feel the same?

Why?

He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He grants forgiveness and baptizes us with the Holy Spirit. His giving us the Spirit is the best expression of God’s goodness. As Jesus said, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” [Luke 11:13]

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Text: Mark 1:1-3 ESV

1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

2 As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, “Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way,

3 the voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,’”

-Mark 1:1-3 ESV

PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD

Mark begins by quoting Isaiah’s prophecy [Isa 40:3] which anticipated John's ministry. The phrase "before your face," in the ESV, simply means John preceded Jesus. In the the NASB this is stated as "I send my messenger ahead of you." The first 13 verses [Mark 1:1–13] is the first section of this book describing how God used John the Baptist, Israel’s last prophet, to prepare His people.

In this section, John "prepares the way" for Jesus and the message of salvation, and shows how John prepared for His ministry. The Messiah's arrival had happened finally as prophesied in Genesis 3:15.

He introduced Jesus as both the Christ[Messiah] and the Son of God. The term "Messiah," means the "anointed one." By His anointing, God has chosen or commissioned Him to save us from our sins and restore our relationship with God. And, as the "Son of God," Jesus is both Messiah and divine. Jesus is the one who has come from the Father and is equal with the Father. He is God and man in one person, fully God and fully human.

God has been warning His people not to sin. A number of prophecies exhorting the Israelites to look for the Messiah's coming. Similarly today, He will often send messengers to us, preparing our hearts for His truth. Our responsibility is to listen and take God's warning.

John's message to the people to repentance [turn away from their sins] is the spiritual truth behind the geographic metaphor. Their repentance would prepare them for the coming Messiah. In like manner, by rejecting our sins and seeking God's forgiveness, we smooth the way for our hearts to receive God and the forgiveness we so desperately need.

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Text: Psalm 148:1-14 (ESV)

1 Praise the LORD!

Praise the LORD from the heavens;

praise him in the heights!

2 Praise him, all his angels;

praise him, all his hosts!

3 Praise him, sun and moon,

praise him, all you shining stars!

4 Praise him, you highest heavens,

and you waters above the heavens!

5 Let them praise the name of the LORD!

For he commanded and they were created.

6 And he established them forever and ever;

he gave a decree, and it shall not pass away.

7 Praise the LORD from the earth,

you great sea creatures and all deeps,

8 fire and hail, snow and mist,

stormy wind fulfilling his word!

9 Mountains and all hills,

fruit trees and all cedars!

10 Beasts and all livestock,

creeping things and flying birds!

11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,

princes and all rulers of the earth!

12 Young men and maidens together,

old men and children!

13 Let them praise the name of the LORD,

for his name alone is exalted;

his majesty is above earth and heaven.

14 He has raised up a horn for his people,

praise for all his saints,

for the people of Israel who are near to him.

Praise the LORD!

LET ALL PRAISE THE NAME OF THE LORD

All creation displays the wonders of God. Thereby, every created thing should praise him.

Praise the LORD!

Praise the LORD from the heavens;

praise him in the heights!

2 Praise him, all his angels;

praise him, all his hosts!

3 Praise him, sun and moon,

praise him, all you shining stars!

4 Praise him, you highest heavens,

and you waters above the heavens!

5 Let them praise the name of the LORD!

What is the reason behind?[v.5a-6]

For he commanded and they were created.

6 And he established them forever and ever;

he gave a decree, and it shall not pass away.

Creatures including the angelic beings and all the beasts of the earth should praise him. From the farthest regions of outer space to the depths of the sea, his name should be praised (v.7-10).

7 Praise the LORD from the earth,

you great sea creatures and all deeps,

8 fire and hail, snow and mist,

stormy wind fulfilling his word!

9 Mountains and all hills,

fruit trees and all cedars!

10 Beasts and all livestock,

creeping things and flying birds!

Above all, human beings in particular should praise him. Without distinction of age or rank, the people of the world should exalt God. They should praise him not only because he is the sovereign Lord of the universe, but also because through Israel he has made himself known to them (11-14).

11 Kings of the earth and all peoples,

princes and all rulers of the earth!

12 Young men and maidens together,

old men and children!

13 Let them praise the name of the LORD,

for his name alone is exalted;

his majesty is above earth and heaven.

14 He has raised up a horn for his people,

praise for all his saints,

for the people of Israel who are near to him.

Praise the LORD!

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Please read the text: Psalm 147:1-20 (ESV)

IT IS GOOD TO SING PRAISES TO OUR GOD

God’s people should praise him constantly. It’s pleasant and befitting. (v.1-2),

Praise the LORD!

For it is good to sing praises to our God;

for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting.

2 The LORD builds up Jerusalem;

he gathers the outcasts of Israel.

God’s care extends over to those who are sorrowing and humble as He takes care His creation intimatetly through His power (v.3-6).

3 He heals the brokenhearted

and binds up their wounds.

4 He determines the number of the stars;

he gives to all of them their names.

5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;

his understanding is beyond measure.

6 The LORD lifts up the humble;

he casts the wicked to the ground.

God delights to sustain creation and provide for the physical needs of his creatures (v.7-9).

7 Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving;

make melody to our God on the lyre!

8 He covers the heavens with clouds;

he prepares rain for the earth;

he makes grass grow on the hills.

9 He gives to the beasts their food,

and to the young ravens that cry.

But of all his creatures, He does not delight in those who are proud but toward those who humbly trust in his steadfast love (v.10-11).

10 His delight is not in the strength of the horse,

nor his pleasure in the legs of a man,

11 but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him,

in those who hope in his steadfast love.

That is why he delights in Israel above other nations. He protects his people and gives them food to enjoy (v.12-14).

12 Praise the LORD, O Jerusalem!

Praise your God, O Zion!

13 For he strengthens the bars of your gates;

he blesses your children within you.

14 He makes peace in your borders;

he fills you with the finest of the wheat.

He sends them a tough winter weather to make them tough in order to endure hardship. After the winter, He sends them pleasant weather to remind them of His continual care(v.15-18).

15 He sends out his command to the earth;

his word runs swiftly.

16 He gives snow like wool;

he scatters frost like ashes.

17 He hurls down his crystals of ice like crumbs;

who can stand before his cold?

18 He sends out his word, and melts them;

he makes his wind blow and the waters flow.

Most importantly, He has given them his word. Through His word, they can know him better and as a result bring him further joy. (v.19-20).

19 He declares his word to Jacob,

his statutes and rules to Israel.

20 He has not dealt thus with any other nation;

they do not know his rules.

Praise the LORD!

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Text: Psa 146:1-10 ESV

1 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul!

2 I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

3 Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.

4 When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish.

5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,

6 who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever;

7 who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free;

8 the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous.

9 The LORD watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

10 The LORD will reign forever, your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!

-Psa 146:1-10 ESV

THE LORD WILL REIGN FOREVER

No matter how stable people may appear to be, they can never be fully relied upon. They do not have unlimited power and their lives may be cut short at any time (v.1-4).

1 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul!

2 I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

3 Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.

4 When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish.

God, on the other hand, can be relied upon, for he is the all-powerful Creator and his life never ends (v.5-6).

5 Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,

6 who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever;

Also, he has special care for those suffering from poverty, injustice, physical handicaps and social insecurity (v.7-10).

7 who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free;

8 the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous.

9 The LORD watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

10 The LORD will reign forever, your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!

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Text: Psa 145:1-21 ESV

1 I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever.

2 Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.

3 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.

4 One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.

5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.

6 They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare your greatness.

7 They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.

8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

9 The LORD is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.

10 All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your saints shall bless you!

11 They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom and tell of your power,

12 to make known to the children of man your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.

13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations. [The LORD is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.]

14 The LORD upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.

15 The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season.

16 You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.

17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works.

18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

19 He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.

20 The LORD preserves all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.

21 My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD, and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

-Psa 145:1-21 ESV

GREAT IS THE LORD, AND GREATLY TO BE PRAISED!

The last 6 chapters of the book of Psalms are six hymns of general praise.

This psalm [chap 145] is David’s ‘Song of Praise’ and is an acrostic. Whereas, he other five have no titles. Notedly, each begins and ends with the words ‘Praise the Lord’.

God’s greatness is unsearchable. Thus, He is worthy to be the object of people’s praise, day and night, for ever and ever (v.1-3).

Those who know God’s greatness should meditate upon it and proclaim it to the next generations.(v.4-7).

He is full of goodness too, showing His covenant faithfulness to his people and gracious love to all people (v.8-9).

Those who have experienced his love should show their gratitude by praising him and telling others of his mighty works. In this way they will help spread his rule to the lives of others (10-13a).

His generosity and graciousness are always available to all his creatures (13b-16).

[The LORD is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.]

14 The LORD upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.

15 The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season.

16 You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.

He is always on the side of those who call upon him, honour him and love him. But he is against those who in their sin reject the offer of his mercy (17-20).

17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works.

18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

19 He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.

20 The LORD preserves all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.

All creation, and most specially His people, should bring him continual praise (v.21).

21 My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD, and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

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Text: Psalm 142:1-7 (ESV)

1 With my voice I cry out to the LORD;

with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD.

2 I pour out my complaint before him;

I tell my trouble before him.

3 When my spirit faints within me,

you know my way!

In the path where I walk

they have hidden a trap for me.

4 Look to the right and see:

there is none who takes notice of me;

no refuge remains to me;

no one cares for my soul.

5 I cry to you, O LORD;

I say, “You are my refuge,

my portion in the land of the living.”

6 Attend to my cry,

for I am brought very low!

Deliver me from my persecutors,

for they are too strong for me!

7 Bring me out of prison,

that I may give thanks to your name!

The righteous will surround me,

for you will deal bountifully with me.

I CRY TO YOU, O LORD

Having been pursued by his enemies relentlessly, David has escaped from Gath and fled to the cave of Adullam.[1 Sam 22:1). He was a fugitive and alone.

He is overwhelmed with a terrible feeling of loneliness. He feels that no one cares for him. Thus, he cries out to God (v.1-4).

With my voice I cry out to the LORD;

with my voice I plead for mercy to the LORD.

2 I pour out my complaint before him;

I tell my trouble before him.

3 When my spirit faints within me,

you know my way!

In the path where I walk

they have hidden a trap for me.

4 Look to the right and see:

there is none who takes notice of me;

no refuge remains to me;

no one cares for my soul.

God does know all about David’s problems beforehand, does He not? But, David did not eliminate the necessity of his calling upon God for help. Jesus said, “Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things” (Mat 6:32).

He prayed that God will deal with his enemies. That God will bring him out of prison. And for him to live a normal life in freedom and security again (v.5-7).

5 I cry to you, O LORD;

I say, “You are my refuge,

my portion in the land of the living.”

6 Attend to my cry,

for I am brought very low!

Deliver me from my persecutors,

for they are too strong for me!

7 Bring me out of prison,

that I may give thanks to your name!

The righteous will surround me,

for you will deal bountifully with me.

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Text: Psalm 141:1-10 (ESV)

1 O LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me!

Give ear to my voice when I call to you!

2 Let my prayer be counted as incense before you,

and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!

3 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;

keep watch over the door of my lips!

4 Do not let my heart incline to any evil,

to busy myself with wicked deeds

in company with men who work iniquity,

and let me not eat of their delicacies!

5 Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness;

let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head;

let my head not refuse it.

Yet my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.

6 When their judges are thrown over the cliff,

then they shall hear my words, for they are pleasant.

7 As when one plows and breaks up the earth,

so shall our bones be scattered at the mouth of Sheol.

8 But my eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord;

in you I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless!

9 Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me

and from the snares of evildoers!

10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets,

while I pass by safely

MY EYES ARE TOWARD YOU, O GOD, MY LORD

David has been maligned and slandered. How should he respond? He was tempted to use strong words and vile speech in return but he did not. David prays that he may be kept from such sins. That he won’t follow the evil ways of the wicked (v.1-4).

O LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me!

Give ear to my voice when I call to you!

2 Let my prayer be counted as incense before you,

and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice!

3 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;

keep watch over the door of my lips!

4 Do not let my heart incline to any evil,

to busy myself with wicked deeds

in company with men who work iniquity,

and let me not eat of their delicacies!

If ever a godly person has a cause to rebuke him, David prays that he may receive it as a blessing. I is as if he has been anointed with oil. But, he will always remain opposed to evil (v.5).

5 Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness;

let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head;

let my head not refuse it.

Yet my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.

People will be forced to take notice when God acts, for his punishments will leave the wicked completely shattered (v.6-7).

6 When their judges are thrown over the cliff,

then they shall hear my words, for they are pleasant.

7 As when one plows and breaks up the earth,

so shall our bones be scattered at the mouth of Sheol.

Even when the wicked is still actively on attack mode, David prays that he will be saved from the traps and deception they have set for him (v.8-10).

8 But my eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord;

in you I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless!

9 Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me

and from the snares of evildoers!

10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets,

while I pass by safely.

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Text: Psa 140:1-13 ESV

1 Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men,

2 who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually.

3 They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah

4 Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet.

5 The arrogant have hidden a trap for me, and with cords they have spread a net; beside the way they have set snares for me. Selah

6 I say to the LORD, You are my God; give ear to the voice of my pleas for mercy, O LORD!

7 O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle.

8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah

9 As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them!

10 Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into fire, into miry pits, no more to rise!

11 Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily!

12 I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy.

13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.

-Psa 140:1-13 ESV

I SAY TO THE LORD, YOU ARE MY GOD

The next four chapters belong to the time when David was fleeing from Saul. David was a fugitive who went to the Philistine city of Gath. But, he found no refuge there and narrowly escaped. Those events are recorded in 1 Samuel 21:10 - 22:1. Subsequently, David went to the cave at Adullam where many desperate men joined him later.

David’s enemies used treacheries and slanders to attack him. These wicked men are like venomous snakes, asps and cunning hunters (v.1-5).

1 Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men,

2 who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually.

3 They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah

4 Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet.

5 The arrogant have hidden a trap for me, and with cords they have spread a net; beside the way they have set snares for me. Selah

But, David’s confidence is in Yahweh, His God, God is his defender in whom he trusts for deliverance and salvation (v.6-8).

6 I say to the LORD, You are my God; give ear to the voice of my pleas for mercy, O LORD!

7 O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle.

8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah

David’s enemies will receive a fitting retribution. They would suffer the torments that they intended to inflict upon David (v.9-11).

9 As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them!

10 Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into fire, into miry pits, no more to rise!

11 Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily!

David praises God confidently to see his justice in punishing the wicked and delivering the innocent to the afflicted and needy like himself. (v.12-13).

12 I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy.

13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.

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Text: Psa 139:1-24 ESV

1 O LORD, you have searched me and known me!

2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.

3 You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.

4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.

5 You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.

6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.

7 Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?

8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!

9 If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,

10 even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.

11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,”

12 even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.

13 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb.

14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

15 My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.

17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!

18 If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you.

19 Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God! O men of blood, depart from me!

20 They speak against you with malicious intent; your enemies take your name in vain.

21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?

22 I hate them with complete hatred; I count them my enemies.

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!

24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!

-Psa 139:1-24 ESV

SEARCH ME, O GOD, AND KNOW MY HEART!

God is all knowing. He knows all about the psalmist’s life - what he does, what he thinks, where he goes and what he says (v.1-4).

Because of the realization that God is all around him, the psalmist sometimes feels helpless (v.5-6).

A person may be tempted to run away from such an overpowering presence, but no escape is possible. Surely, this may bring fear to rebels. But, it brings comfort to believers (v.7-8).

Wherever he goes, God is present with him (v.9-10).

Whether in darkness or in light, God sees him constantly (v.11-12).

Being the Creator, God has perfect knowledge of those he created. He knows their innermost thoughts as well as their physical characteristics, and has a detailed knowledge of their lives that are yet to be (v.13-16).

As the psalmist contemplates about the wonderful works of God, he finds they are too vast to understand and too numerous to count. When he awakes after his meditation he knows that God is still with him (v.17-18).

Through his meditation, the psalmist has grown so close to God. As a result, he sees the wicked as God sees them and hates evil as God hates it. His heartbeat is as God’s heartbeat. He therefore prays that God will act in righteous judgment (v.19-22).

Nevertheless, he also looks at her heart. He is also aware that he himself is not perfect. He honestly prays that God will show him his sin, cleanse him, and lead him into a life of holiness (v. 23-24).

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Please read the text: Psalm 136:1-26 (ESV)

FOR HIS STEADFAST LOVE ENDURES FOREVER

In the Jewish tradition, Psalms 136 was sung after the Hallel at the Passover Feast. As a reminder, Psalms 113 to 118 form a collection called the Hallel or Praise songs. Israelites sang the Hallel at various annual festivals, the most important of which was the Passover.

In each verse from verse 1 to 26, the leader sings of the greatness of God, and the congregation replies that this is seen in his loyal love to his people, a love that will never end.

Israel’s God is good, and He is the only true God (v.1-3).

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,

for his steadfast love endures forever.

2 Give thanks to the God of gods,

for his steadfast love endures forever.

3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

He has perfect wisdom and he created all things (V.4-9).

4 to him who alone does great wonders,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

5 to him who by understanding made the heavens,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

6 to him who spread out the earth above the waters,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

7 to him who made the great lights,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

8 the sun to rule over the day,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

9 the moon and stars to rule over the night,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

He saved his people from bondage in Egypt (V.10-15)

10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

11 and brought Israel out from among them,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

12 with a strong hand and an outstretched arm,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

13 to him who divided the Red Sea in two,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

14 and made Israel pass through the midst of it,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

15 but overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

He gave them victory over their enemies (V.16-20)

16 to him who led his people through the wilderness,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

17 to him who struck down great kings,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

18 and killed mighty kings,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

19 Sihon, king of the Amorites,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

20 and Og, king of Bashan,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

And, He guided them into Canaan (v.21-22).

21 and gave their land as a heritage,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

22 a heritage to Israel his servant,

for his steadfast love endures forever.

All this was not because his people deserved his blessings, was it? No, but because he exercised his steadfast love towards them (v.23-26).

23 It is he who remembered us in our low estate,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

24 and rescued us from our foes,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

25 he who gives food to all flesh,

for his steadfast love endures forever.

26 Give thanks to the God of heaven,

for his steadfast love endures forever.

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Please read the text: Psalm 135:1-21 (ESV)

PRAISE THE LORD!

This psalm of descriptive praise extols God for His greatness and for blessing His people. Like Psalms 134, it calls on the priests to praise the Lord. There is a call to the worshippers to gather in the temple to praise God because he has chosen the nation Israel to be his people (v.1-4).

Praise the LORD!

Praise the name of the LORD,

give praise, O servants of the LORD,

2 who stand in the house of the LORD,

in the courts of the house of our God!

3 Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good;

sing to his name, for it is pleasant!

4 For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself,

Israel as his own possession.

God’s choice of Israel is particularly significant, because anything God does is deliberate. It is as sure and certain as his acts in the creation and control of nature (v.5-7).

5 For I know that the LORD is great,

and that our Lord is above all gods.

6 Whatever the LORD pleases, he does,

in heaven and on earth,

in the seas and all deeps.

7 He it is who makes the clouds rise at the end of the earth,

who makes lightnings for the rain

He demonstrated his special care for the people of Israel by rescuing them from Egypt, conquering their foes and giving them Canaan for their homeland (v.8-14).

8 He it was who struck down the firstborn of Egypt,

both of man and of beast;

9 who in your midst, O Egypt,

sent signs and wonders

against Pharaoh and all his servants;

10 who struck down many nations

and killed mighty kings,

11 Sihon, king of the Amorites,

and Og, king of Bashan,

and all the kingdoms of Canaan,

12 and gave their land as a heritage,

a heritage to his people Israel.

13 Your name, O LORD, endures forever,

your renown, O LORD, throughout all ages.

14 For the LORD will vindicate his people

and have compassion on his servants.

By contrast the so-called gods of other nations are merely useless and lifeless pieces of stone or metal (v.15-18).

15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold,

the work of human hands.

16 They have mouths, but do not speak;

they have eyes, but do not see;

17 they have ears, but do not hear,

nor is there any breath in their mouths.

18 Those who make them become like them,

so do all who trust in them.

All Israelites should therefore offer thankful worship to their covenant God (v.19-21).

19 O house of Israel, bless the LORD!

O house of Aaron, bless the LORD!

20 O house of Levi, bless the LORD!

You who fear the LORD, bless the LORD!

21 Blessed be the LORD from Zion,

he who dwells in Jerusalem!

Praise the LORD!

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Text: Psa 134:1-3 ESV

1 Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who stand by night in the house of the LORD!

2 Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the LORD!

3 May the LORD bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth!

-Psa 134:1-3 ESV

COME, BLESS THE LORD, ALL YOU SERVANTS OF THE LORD

This is the last of the fifteen Psalms called Songs of Ascents. And, it is closely connected with the two preceding Psalms [132 & 133]. It is an exhortation to the priests and Levites who kept nightly watch in the temple, to serve zealously in praising the Lord.

It seems to consist of two parts: 1. An exhortation, probably from the high priest, to those priests and Levites who kept watch in the temple by night, to spend their time profitably, and duly celebrate the praises of God.[v.1-2]

Priests were on duty round the clock at the temple. They served as guards, offered sacrifices and carried out other priestly functions during the daylight hours. The psalmist exhorted them to praise God even during the night.

They are to lift their hands unto the Lord. Lifting up the hands in prayer was a common posture that symbolized the petitioners offering praise up to God and receiving

blessings from Him.

The second part is the prayer of the priests and Levites for the high priest, who seems now to be going to his rest.[v.3]

The pilgrim then asked God to bless these special servants of His. The reference to God being the Maker of heaven and earth recalls and highlights His greatness (see Psalms 115:15). That, He alone is worthy of praise and worship. This verse is also an appropriate book end to the collection of the 15 ascent psalms, from Psalms 120 to Psa 134.

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Text: Psa 133:1-3 ESV

1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!

2 It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes!

3 It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.

-Psa 133:1-3 ESV

WHEN BROTHERS DWELL IN UNITY

This refers to the priests and Levites having returned from captivity, and are united in the service of God in the sanctuary. They enter God's temple and pour out their benediction. And, here, the beautiful order and harmony of the temple service had been pointed out.

Unity is good and pleasant. “Unity is, according to this scripture, a good thing and a pleasant; and especially among brethren-members of the same family, of the same Christian community, and of the same nation. And why not among the great family of mankind? On the other hand, disunion is bad and hateful. The former is from heaven; the latter, from hell.”[Clarke’s Commentary]

How the pleasantness of it is illustrated?

It’s as the holy anointing oil, which was strongly perfumed, and diffused its odors, to the great delight of all the bystanders, when it was poured upon the head of Aaron. This has an undeniable application as a symbol of the Holy Spirit’s infilling. Brethren dwelling together in unity is possible only when such fruits of the Holy Spirit as love, joy, peace, goodness, longsuffering, kindness, faithfulness, self-control, etc. (Gal 5:22,23) are found among them, isn’t it? Where these are present, one finds a little breath of heaven on earth. Blessed indeed is such unity.

What’s the result?

It sets the blessing from God. It is God's prerogative to command the blessing, man can only beg a blessing. Blessings according to the promise are commanded blessings, for he has commanded his covenant forever. Blessings that take effect are commanded blessings, for he speaks and it is done. There is ‘life’ where love is.[John 13:35]

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Text: Psalm 130:1-8 (ESV)

1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD!

2 O Lord, hear my voice!

Let your ears be attentive

to the voice of my pleas for mercy!

3 If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities,

O Lord, who could stand?

4 But with you there is forgiveness,

that you may be feared.

5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,

and in his word I hope;

6 my soul waits for the Lord

more than watchmen for the morning,

more than watchmen for the morning.

7 O Israel, hope in the LORD!

For with the LORD there is steadfast love,

and with him is plentiful redemption.

8 And he will redeem Israel

from all his iniquities.

WITH YOU THERE IS FORGIVENESS

A great sense of their own sinfulness overwhelms the travelers as they approach the temple.[v.1] There is no deeper pit than the black hole of despair. It is when the soul has painful realization that one’s sins have separated him from God. “The beginning of true personal religion is the sense of personal sin. An insufficient realization of that is the mother of heresies in the creeds and superficial deadness in the practice of Christianity.”[Alexander Maclaren]

Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD!

They know that they badly need forgiveness. No person in a sinful condition can stand before the holy God in his holy presence at the temple (v.2-4). “The only hope is in God’s forgiveness, which in turn quickens the feeling of awe”[Wycliffe Bible Commentary

2 O Lord, hear my voice!

Let your ears be attentive

to the voice of my pleas for mercy!

3 If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities,

O Lord, who could stand?

4 But with you there is forgiveness,

that you may be feared.

They wait for the assurance of God’s forgiveness with the same longing as watchmen on night duty waiting for the light of dawn (v.5-6). The repetition occurring in verse 5 is emphatic; implying, that he trusted in God even with the deepest affections of his soul. Verse 6 could be rendered, "My soul waiteth for the Lord from the morning watches to the morning watches." That is, "I wait both day and night."

5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,

and in his word I hope;

6 my soul waits for the Lord

more than watchmen for the morning,

more than watchmen for the morning.

And at all times, they have unwavering confidence that God, in his stedfast love, will forgive them (v.7-8).

7 O Israel, hope in the LORD!

For with the LORD there is steadfast love,

and with him is plentiful redemption.

8 And he will redeem Israel

from all his iniquities.

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Text: Psalm 129:1-8 (ESV)

1 “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth”—

let Israel now say—

2 “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth,

yet they have not prevailed against me.

3 The plowers plowed upon my back;

they made long their furrows.”

4 The LORD is righteous;

he has cut the cords of the wicked.

5 May all who hate Zion

be put to shame and turned backward!

6 Let them be like the grass on the housetops,

which withers before it grows up,

7 with which the reaper does not fill his hand

nor the binder of sheaves his arms,

8 nor do those who pass by say,

“The blessing of the LORD be upon you!

We bless you in the name of the LORD!”

THE LORD IS RIGHTEOUS

Recalling their sorrows when they were in bondage, the travelers recall that the days of the nation’s ‘youth’ in Egypt where they suffered much. The backs of the people had been whipped and severely bruised as slaves. (v.1-3).

“Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth”—

let Israel now say—

2 “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth,

yet they have not prevailed against me.

3 The plowers plowed upon my back;

they made long their furrows.”

But, God is righteous. He’ll save them from slavery and set them free.

4 The LORD is righteous;

he has cut the cords of the wicked.

However, the enemy hated and troubled them. The traveler prays that God will turn back their enemies. That, He will make them wither as stalks of grass and die under the sun (v.5-7).

5 May all who hate Zion

be put to shame and turned backward!

6 Let them be like the grass on the housetops,

which withers before it grows up,

7 with which the reaper does not fill his hand

nor the binder of sheaves his arms,

The destruction of the enemy is overwhelming. They’re left without friends, and have no one to help them. This caused them to bless God. (v.8).

8 nor do those who pass by say,

“The blessing of the LORD be upon you!

We bless you in the name of the LORD!”

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Text: Psa 128:1-6 ESV

1 Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways!

2 You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you.

3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table.

4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD.

5 The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life!

6 May you see your children's children! Peace be upon Israel!

-Psa 128:1-6 ESV

BLESSED IS EVERYONE WHO FEARS THE LORD

Blessedness is always a result of fearing God (v.1,4).

1 Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways!

4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD.

Wherever God dwells, whether in the sense of dwelling in the family or in the sense of dwelling in Jerusalem, his people there will enjoy his fullest blessing. First, he would be blessed in his labor (v.2). Labor isn’t a curse but a blessing.

2 You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you.

Moreover, there is a metaphor of fruitfulness as vine and olive shoots. These refer to his wife and children, respectively.[v.3]

3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table.

The fear of the Lord is the backbone that provides stability. And ultimately, as families that fear God today are blessed, so is the next generation that follows and the city of Jerusalem.[v.5-6]

5 The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life!

6 May you see your children's children! Peace be upon Israel!

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Text: Psa 127:1-5 ESV

1 Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.

3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.

5 Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

-Psa 127:1-5 ESV

THE LORD BUILDS THE HOUSE

The travelers have to take note that God is in-charge in building the city of Jerusalem or a family. In both cases, they must acknowledge the sovereign rule of God. Their days, maybe, are filled with worry and they have sleepless nights. And, these could affect them adversely. Thus, they have to recognize God and Him alone as the builder (v.1-2)

1 Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.

Moreover, these travelers should be encouraged to trust in God by reminding themselves that their large and healthy family is a blessing from God. Their children provide stability, strength and honor in society (v.3-5)

3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.

5 Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

Today, let’s not forget that Jesus is the builder of our lives and family.[1 Cor 3:11]Apart from Him we are nothing.[John 15:5,16]. God is indespensable. Otherwise, we are building in vain.

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Text: Psalm 124:1-8 (ESV)

1 If it had not been the LORD who was on our side—

let Israel now say—

2 if it had not been the LORD who was on our side

when people rose up against us,

3 then they would have swallowed us up alive,

when their anger was kindled against us;

4 then the flood would have swept us away,

the torrent would have gone over us;

5 then over us would have gone

the raging waters.

6 Blessed be the LORD,

who has not given us

as prey to their teeth!

7 We have escaped like a bird

from the snare of the fowlers;

the snare is broken,

and we have escaped!

8 Our help is in the name of the LORD,

who made heaven and earth.

THE LORD WHO WAS ON OUR SIDE

These travelers were persecuted in the foreign lands where they dwelt. Once more, they recall the experience of David’s affliction as persecuted and sing one of his psalms that reflects their own experience. Their help was in the Lord entirely [v.1,2]

If it had not been the LORD who was on our side—

let Israel now say—

2 if it had not been the LORD who was on our side

when people rose up against us,

Only through God’s grace and power have they been kept from much worse treatment. Their oppressors are as violent and destructive as a raging flood (v.3-5) as cruel as wild animals and as cunning as bird-trappers (v.6-7),

But, the travelers have the great Protector. He is the Creator on their side (v.6-8).

6 Blessed be the LORD,

who has not given us

as prey to their teeth!

7 We have escaped like a bird

from the snare of the fowlers;

the snare is broken,

and we have escaped!

8 Our help is in the name of the LORD,

who made heaven and earth

Let’s not forget that in most cases, God allows us to pass through hardships. He permits the enemy to attack us but ‘with the trials He would give us a way to bear and escape it.’ [1 Cor 10:13] Thus, we say, ‘If it had not been the LORD who was on our side”. The Lord is our help. In short, the battle is the Lord’s.

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Text: Psalm 123:1-4 (ESV) 

1 To you I lift up my eyes,

O you who are enthroned in the heavens!

2 Behold, as the eyes of servants

look to the hand of their master,

as the eyes of a maidservant

to the hand of her mistress,

so our eyes look to the LORD our God,

till he has mercy upon us.

3 Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us,

for we have had more than enough of contempt.

4 Our soul has had more than enough

of the scorn of those who are at ease,

of the contempt of the proud.

O LORD, HAVE MERCY UPON US

The pilgrims are persecuted. Though tempted to look for worldly help, he resolved to only seek God and his help. This was not an equivocal decision.

To you I lift up my eyes,

O you who are enthroned in the heavens!

How did he describe his trust unto God?

2 Behold, as the eyes of servants

look to the hand of their master,

as the eyes of a maidservant

to the hand of her mistress,

so our eyes look to the LORD our God,

till he has mercy upon us.

He perseveres for he believes God is merciful. He pleaded for mercy patiently. And, nobody can demand God’s mercy.

3 Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us,

for we have had more than

enough of contempt.

The enemy is relentless. They had more than enough troubles. But he trusts God won’t tolerate their wicked works.

4 Our soul has had more than enough

of the scorn of those who are at ease,

of the contempt of the proud.

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Text: Psa 122:1-9 ESV

1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!”

2 Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem!

3 Jerusalem—built as a city that is bound firmly together,

4 to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD.

5 There thrones for judgment were set, the thrones of the house of David.

6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! “May they be secure who love you!

7 Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!”

8 For my brothers and companions' sake I will say, “Peace be within you!”

9 For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.

-Psa 122:1-9 ESV

LET US GO TO THE HOUSE OF THE LORD

This psalm expresses the excitement of the pilgrim to worship. Like David, he is imagining himself as standing in Jerusalem to worship (v.1-2).

1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!”

2 Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem!

He sees Jerusalem as a beautiful, well-built city. The tribes of Israel are united in their worship of God. He recognizes that God rules his people through the throne of David (v.3-5).

3 Jerusalem—built as a city that is bound firmly together,

4 to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD.

5 There thrones for judgment were set, the thrones of the house of David.

He encourages everyone to pray that God will always preserve the city and prosper its people (v.6-8).

6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! “May they be secure who love you!

7 Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!”

8 For my brothers and companions' sake I will say, “Peace be within you!”

He himself will do all he can for the city’s good (v.9).

9 For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.

Yes the Lord is the builder of the city. But, he is not a passive bystander. He is actively involved to enhance the good of the city’

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Text: Psa 121:1-8 ESV

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?

2 My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.

4 Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand.

6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.

8 The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.

-Psa 121:1-8 ESV

THE LORD IS YOUR KEEPER

The pilgrim journeys through the hill country. He looks up and that God who made the hills cares for him (v.1-2).

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?

2 My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

He could be tired and weary so that he sleeps by the roadside at night. But, God, who never sleeps, watches over him (3-4).

3 He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.

4 Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

God protects him from dangers by day and by night (5-6).

5 The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand.

6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.

Surely, they will be back home again safely. For God will keep him through his journey to Jerusalem and bring him safely home again (V.7-8).

7 The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life.

8 The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.

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Text: Psalm 119:145-160 (ESV)

145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O LORD!

I will keep your statutes.

146 I call to you; save me,

that I may observe your testimonies.

147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;

I hope in your words.

148 My eyes are awake before the watches of the night,

that I may meditate on your promise.

149 Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;

O LORD, according to your justice give me life.

150 They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;

they are far from your law.

151 But you are near, O LORD,

and all your commandments are true.

152 Long have I known from your testimonies

that you have founded them forever.

153 Look on my affliction and deliver me,

for I do not forget your law.

154 Plead my cause and redeem me;

give me life according to your promise!

155 Salvation is far from the wicked,

for they do not seek your statutes.

156 Great is your mercy, O LORD;

give me life according to your rules.

157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,

but I do not swerve from your testimonies.

158 I look at the faithless with disgust,

because they do not keep your commands.

159 Consider how I love your precepts!

Give me life according to your steadfast love.

160 The sum of your word is truth,

and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.

THE SUM OF YOUR WORD IS TRUTH

In the midst of difficulties, we can hang on and hope in God’s word.[v.145-147]

145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O LORD!

I will keep your statutes.

146 I call to you; save me,

that I may observe your testimonies.

147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;

I hope in your words.

With great expectations, we should saturate our minds with the words of God.[v.148,152-154]

148 My eyes are awake before the watches of the night,

that I may meditate on your promise.

152 Long have I known from your testimonies

that you have founded them forever.

153 Look on my affliction and deliver me,

for I do not forget your law.

154 Plead my cause and redeem me;

give me life according to your promise!

Ironicallly, his persecutors just drove him nearer to God. [v.149,150-151]

149 Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;

O LORD, according to your justice give me life.

150 They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;

they are far from your law.

151 But you are near, O LORD,

and all your commandments are true.

A godly life is far better than wickedness[v.155-158]

155 Salvation is far from the wicked,

for they do not seek your statutes.

156 Great is your mercy, O LORD;

give me life according to your rules.

157 Many are my persecutors and my adversaries,

but I do not swerve from your testimonies.

158 I look at the faithless with disgust,

because they do not keep your commands.

He concludes expressing his satisfaction in God alone.[v.159-160]

159 Consider how I love your precepts!

Give me life according to your steadfast love.

160 The sum of your word is truth,

and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.

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Text: Psalm 119:129-144 (ESV)

129 Your testimonies are wonderful;

therefore my soul keeps them.

130 The unfolding of your words gives light;

it imparts understanding to the simple.

131 I open my mouth and pant,

because I long for your commandments.

132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,

as is your way with those who love your name.

133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise,

and let no iniquity get dominion over me.

134 Redeem me from man's oppression,

that I may keep your precepts.

135 Make your face shine upon your servant,

and teach me your statutes.

136 My eyes shed streams of tears,

because people do not keep your law.

137 Righteous are you, O LORD,

and right are your rules.

138 You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness

and in all faithfulness.

139 My zeal consumes me,

because my foes forget your words.

140 Your promise is well tried,

and your servant loves it.

141 I am small and despised,

yet I do not forget your precepts.

142 Your righteousness is righteous forever,

and your law is true.

143 Trouble and anguish have found me out,

but your commandments are my delight.

144 Your testimonies are righteous forever;

give me understanding that I may live.

YOUR TESTIMONIES ARE WONDERFUL

There is pleasure to the soul in keeping God’s Word. [v.129-130]

129 Your testimonies are wonderful;

therefore my soul keeps them.

130 The unfolding of your words gives light;

it imparts understanding to the simple.

As a hungry and desperate man, he longs for the word.[v.131-133]

131 I open my mouth and pant,

because I long for your commandments.

132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,

as is your way with those who love your name.

133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise,

and let no iniquity get dominion over me.

He is sad for people who dishonor His word. And, he desires to be free from anyone who would pull him away from God [v134-136]

134 Redeem me from man's oppression,

that I may keep your precepts.

135 Make your face shine upon your servant,

and teach me your statutes.

136 My eyes shed streams of tears,

because people do not keep your law.

He always maintains the truthfulness of God’s word.[v.137-138]

137 Righteous are you, O LORD,

and right are your rules.

138 You have appointed your testimonies in righteousness

and in all faithfulness.

In the midst of pressure, he did not cave in for his confidence is in the faithfulness of God. He delights in God’s word despite his difficulties.[v.139-144]

139 My zeal consumes me,

because my foes forget your words.

140 Your promise is well tried,

and your servant loves it.

141 I am small and despised,

yet I do not forget your precepts.

142 Your righteousness is righteous forever,

and your law is true.

143 Trouble and anguish have found me out,

but your commandments are my delight.

144 Your testimonies are righteous forever;

give me understanding that I may live.

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Text: Colossians 3:1-4 ESV

1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

- Col 3:1-4 ESV

YOU HAVE BEEN RAISED WITH CHRIST

Paul's use of "if" here is not really a question, but an assumption. He writes for those who are saved by faith in Christ. Appropriately, their goal was to live with an eternal perspective rather than a focus on the rules and regulations of this world. We live because Jesus lives. Christians are to set their minds above, because that is where Christ is. Christ didn’t remain in the grave—He is at God's right hand. This was the consistent teaching of Jesus, and of the early church (see Luke 22:69; Acts 2:33; 5:31; 1 Peter 3:22).

The "things of the earth" are associated with ungodly activities. This does not mean that believers should ignore all earthly concerns completely. It does, however, mean that believers ought to give their time and attention to things pleasing to God, rather than things pleasing to men. Or, using the things in this world as means to glorify God.

Why?

We have died and live in Christ. This metaphor that a believer has "died" to sin, in the sense of being separated from it. Thus, his life is "hidden," or "contained" within Christ. Let’s remember that Christ is not only the giver and sustainer of life (Colossians 1:16); Christ is our life [v.4]

And that we will appear with Him in glory. There is an anticipation to Christ’s return at any moment. This is a subject both consistent and clear through the New Testament. When Christ "appears," believers will be with Him in glory (1 Thess 4:13–18; 1 John 3:2).

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Text: Hebrew 13:13 ESV

Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured.

-Heb 13:13 ESV

LET’S BEAR CHRIST’S REPROACH

Today, as we comemorate the gruesome sacrifice of Christ, we ask. “What does His sacrifice mean to me today?” This verse encouraged us to endure like Him.

We read in the gospels the way Jesus was taken outside the city walls of Jerusalem for His merciless execution. One thing certain. It was a journey of no return. Jesus won’t be coming back to the city again alive. In John 19:17–20, we read;

“17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. 18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. 19 Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” 20 Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek.”

This parallels to the way sacrificed animals to consecrate Aaron's priesthood were also taken outside the camp to be burnt and forgotten. Jesus is the fulfilment of the animal scrifices in the Old Testament. We read this in Exodus 29:14, that is, “But the flesh of the bull and its skin and its dung you shall burn with fire outside the camp; it is a sin offering.”

Christians, having been scattered and persecuted for their faith, need to "hold fast" to faith in Christ, despite persecution (see Hebrews 3:6; 4:14; 6:18; 10:23). It’s worth for them to look unto the example of Christ. They should hold on firmly the superiority of the new covenant in Christ over the old covenant of animal sacrifices.

Our difficulties today are not signs of failures, are they? God allows them. They’re often part of God's plan to grow our faith (Hebrews 12:3–11). And, tribulations are expected for believers living in a fallen world (John 16:33). Elsewhere in the New Testament, we're told that hardships, particularly persecutions, comes because we're so closely identified with Christ. It is a vital sign of our relationship with Him (1 Peter 4:14).

Rather than despairing when that hardship comes, or running from it, we should embrace being identified with Christ. Did not Jesus teach us to bear our cross on daily basis? [Luke 9:23]

The actor of the infamous film ‘The Passion of the Christ’[2004], Jim Caviezel was warned by Mel Gibson, the director-producer, about the adverse effect of his role as Jesus to his carreer at Hollywood. He said, 'We all have to embrace our crosses.” He added: "Jesus is as controversial now as he has ever been. Not much has changed in 2,000 years."

If Jesus has given His all for us, should we not give our all for Him as well.

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Text: Psalm 119:81-96 (ESV)

81 My soul longs for your salvation;

I hope in your word.

82 My eyes long for your promise;

I ask, “When will you comfort me?”

83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,

yet I have not forgotten your statutes.

84 How long must your servant endure?

When will you judge those who persecute me?

85 The insolent have dug pitfalls for me;

they do not live according to your law.

86 All your commandments are sure;

they persecute me with falsehood; help me!

87 They have almost made an end of me on earth,

but I have not forsaken your precepts.

88 In your steadfast love give me life,

that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

89 Forever, O LORD, your word

is firmly fixed in the heavens.

90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;

you have established the earth, and it stands fast.

91 By your appointment they stand this day,

for all things are your servants.

92 If your law had not been my delight,

I would have perished in my affliction.

93 I will never forget your precepts,

for by them you have given me life.

94 I am yours; save me,

for I have sought your precepts.

95 The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,

but I consider your testimonies.

96 I have seen a limit to all perfection,

but your commandment is exceedingly broad.

I HOPE IN YOUR WORD

The writer has experienced hardships. See v. 83-87.

83 For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke,

yet I have not forgotten your statutes.

84 How long must your servant endure?

When will you judge those who persecute me?

85 The insolent have dug pitfalls for me;

they do not live according to your law.

86 All your commandments are sure;

they persecute me with falsehood; help me!

87 They have almost made an end of me on earth,

but I have not forsaken your precepts.

His anguish and longing for help is understandable [v.81-82, 88]

81 My soul longs for your salvation;

I hope in your word.

82 My eyes long for your promise;

I ask, “When will you comfort me?”

88 In your steadfast love give me life,

that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.

His faith towards the stability of God’s word kept his feelings at bay.[v.89-91]

89 Forever, O LORD, your word

is firmly fixed in the heavens.

90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;

you have established the earth, and it stands fast.

91 By your appointment they stand this day,

for all things are your servants

His resolve is to grasp firmly to God’s word. It’s his delight[v.9-96]

92 If your law had not been my delight,

I would have perished in my affliction.

93 I will never forget your precepts,

for by them you have given me life.

94 I am yours; save me,

for I have sought your precepts.

95 The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,

but I consider your testimonies.

96 I have seen a limit to all perfection,

but your commandment is exceedingly broad.

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Text: Psalm 119:65-80 (ESV)

65 You have dealt well with your servant,

O LORD, according to your word.

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,

for I believe in your commandments.

67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,

but now I keep your word.

68 You are good and do good;

teach me your statutes.

69 The insolent smear me with lies,

but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;

70 their heart is unfeeling like fat,

but I delight in your law.

71 It is good for me that I was afflicted,

that I might learn your statutes.

72 The law of your mouth is better to me

than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;

give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.

74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,

because I have hoped in your word.

75 I know, O LORD, that your rules are righteous,

and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.

76 Let your steadfast love comfort me

according to your promise to your servant.

77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;

for your law is my delight.

78 Let the insolent be put to shame,

because they have wronged me with falsehood;

as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.

79 Let those who fear you turn to me,

that they may know your testimonies.

80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,

that I may not be put to shame!

TEACH ME GOOD JUDGMENT AND KNOWLEDGE

The psalmist is wise to ask good judgment and knowledge.

65 You have dealt well with your servant,

O LORD, according to your word.

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,

for I believe in your commandments.

The result was his proper perspective towards sufferings. He found God’s word to be real and embrace it wholeheartedly[v.67-72]

67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,

but now I keep your word.

68 You are good and do good;

teach me your statutes.

69 The insolent smear me with lies,

but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;

70 their heart is unfeeling like fat,

but I delight in your law.

71 It is good for me that I was afflicted,

that I might learn your statutes.

72 The law of your mouth is better to me

than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

Hardships were not to harm but to harness his resolve; not to destroy but develop him to become a better person[v.73-76]

73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;

give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.

74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,

because I have hoped in your word.

75 I know, O LORD, that your rules are righteous,

and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.

76 Let your steadfast love comfort me

according to your promise to your servant.

While his enemies will be put to shame, he will become stronger day by day to become a blessing to others. As a much wise person now, he will be able to encourage and teach others.Hardships should make us not bitter but better, even blameless, to bless others.[v.77-80]

77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;

for your law is my delight.

78 Let the insolent be put to shame,

because they have wronged me with falsehood;

as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.

79 Let those who fear you turn to me,

that they may know your testimonies.

80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,

that I may not be put to shame!

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Text: Psa 119:49-64 ESV

49 Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope.

50 This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.

51 The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law.

52 When I think of your rules from of old, I take comfort, O LORD.

53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, who forsake your law.

54 Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my sojourning.

55 I remember your name in the night, O LORD, and keep your law.

56 This blessing has fallen to me, that I have kept your precepts.

57 The LORD is my portion; I promise to keep your words.

58 I entreat your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise.

59 When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies;

60 I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.

61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, I do not forget your law.

62 At midnight I rise to praise you, because of your righteous rules.

63 I am a companion of all who fear you, of those who keep your precepts.

64 The earth, O LORD, is full of your steadfast love; teach me your statutes!

-Psa 119:49-64 ESV

YOUR PROMISE GIVES ME LIFE

Basically, in these verses, the psalmist expressed his comfort and hope in the promise of God.[v. 49-50]

49 Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope.

50 This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.

He was attacked and it stirred up feelings of righteous anger against those who deliberately ignore God’s standards (v.53).

53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, who forsake your law.

However, the psalmist does not allow discouragement to overwhelm him. What did he do? He draws his vigour by meditating on God’s word (v.54-56).

54 Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my sojourning.

55 I remember your name in the night, O LORD, and keep your law.

56 This blessing has fallen to me, that I have kept your precepts.

There is a growing enjoyment of God himself to those who cherished His words (v.57-58).

57 The LORD is my portion; I promise to keep your words.

58 I entreat your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise.

It results to a life of obedience and prayer.[v.59-62]

59 When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies;

60 I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.

61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, I do not forget your law.

62 At midnight I rise to praise you, because of your righteous rules.

Although there is hatred from the wicked, but he finds company among those who share his love for God (v.63-64).

63 I am a companion of all who fear you, of those who keep your precepts.

64 The earth, O LORD, is full of your steadfast love; teach me your statutes!

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Text: Psa 119:33-48 ESV

33 Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end.

34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.

35 Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.

36 Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!

37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.

38 Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared.

39 Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good.

40 Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!

41 Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise;

42 then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in your rules.

44 I will keep your law continually, forever and ever,

45 and I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts.

46 I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame,

47 for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love.

48 I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes.

-Psa 119:33-48 ESV

INCLINE MY HEART TO YOUR TESTIMONIES

In a nutshell these verses the psalmist focused on having our lives being built around our devotion to God’s word. He does not want to be sidetracked by trying to gain wealth or prestige (v.33-37).

33 Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end.

34 Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.

35 Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.

36 Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!

37 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.

What he dreads most is to displease God. What he longs for is a life directed by God through his word (v.38-40).

38 Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared.

39 Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good.

40 Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!

What does the word give him? An assurance of salvation. This salvation in turn gives him courage to answer those who mocked him (v.41-43)

41 Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise;

42 then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in your rules.

There is a confidence to live because of the freedom God has given him (v.44-45)

44 I will keep your law continually, forever and ever,

45 and I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts.

And, there is boldness to testify about God to the nation’s rulers (v.46-48).

46 I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame,

47 for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love.

48 I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes.

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Please read the text: Psalm 118:1-29 (ESV)

HIS STEADFAST LOVE ENDURES FOREVER

Originally this song was apparently sung by a combination of the temple singers, the congregation and the king, to mark some great national occasion such as a victory in battle. The scene is set in the temple, where the royal procession enters the gates and moves to the altar (see v. 19,20,27).

The singers call Israel to worship, and the congregation responds with praise to God for his steadfast love (v.1-4). The king then recounts how, in answer to prayer, God saved him from his enemies (v.5-7). The people respond that God is worthy of people’s trust (v.8-9). The king describes the hopeless position he had been in, with enemies attacking him on every side, but with God’s help he overthrew them (v.10-14). The people respond that God is all-powerful (v.15-16).

After expressing his confidence in God and his gratitude for God’s chastening, the king commands that the temple gates be opened to him (v.17-19). The gatekeepers open the gates, but they add the reminder that only the righteous can enter God’s temple (v.20). The king responds by thanking God for his righteous salvation, for this alone enables him to enter God’s presence (v.21).

The people then sing their rejoicings. When the king had been on the edge of embarassing defeat, he seemed like a useless stone that the builders had thrown away in disgust. Now, with his triumph, the same stone seems to have been brought back and made as the chief cornerstone, giving perfection and character to the building (v.22-25).

From the altar in the temple courtyard, the priests sing their welcome as the worshippers, in procession and waving branches of palm trees, draw near. The palm branches give the appearance of binding the worshippers together as they surround the altar in preparation for the sacrifice (v.26-27). Before the sacrificial ceremony commences, the king, followed by the congregation, offers a final thanksgiving (v.28-29).

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Text: Psalm 117:1-2 (ESV)

1 Praise the LORD, all nations!

Extol him, all peoples!

2 For great is his steadfast love toward us,

and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.

Praise the LORD!

GREAT IS HIS STEADFAST LOVE

This is the shortest psalm but loaded with great truth. It’s a recognition of God’s loyal love to Israel. And, this should cause his people to spread the good news of His love to other nations. And consequently, will cause the people of those nations to bring their praise to him (V.1-2).

God’s love is great towards us. It’s steadfast, meaning it won’t change and fade away. His love isn’t dependent on our goodness. It flows from His nature of love. God is love. The nation of Israel was unfaithful in many instances. Did God abandon them? He chastened them as a father does to his children.

His steadfast love prompts them to testify and glorify God. When our hearts are full, our mouth speaks. May, as His children, we will praise and glorify Him unashamedly in this world. God should be known in and through His redeemed people.

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Text: Psa 116:1-19 ESV

I LOVE THE LORD!

This psalm is about an individual worshipper bringing a sacrifice to God to pay his vows and offer thanks (v. 17-19).

17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD.

18 I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people,

19 in the courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the LORD!

However, prior his offering of sacrifice, he pauses to muse on the great mercy and love of God. As he does so, he finds that his own love towards God increases, particularly when he recalls how God has answered his prayers and saved his life (v.1-4).

1 I love the LORD, because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy.

2 Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.

3 The snares of death encompassed me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me; I suffered distress and anguish.

4 Then I called on the name of the LORD: “O LORD, I pray, deliver my soul!”

He has personally experienced God’s compassion and goodness (v.5-7).

5 Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; our God is merciful.

6 The LORD preserves the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me.

7 Return, O my soul, to your rest; for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.

When he was unable to help himself and when so-called friends proved useless, he still trusted God. He prayed, and God gave him new life (v.8-11).

8 For you have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling;

9 I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living.

10 I believed, even when I spoke: “I am greatly afflicted”;

11 I said in my alarm, “All mankind are liars.”

Then, He openly thank God by offering prayers and sacrifices in fulfillment of his vow (v.12-14).

12 What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me?

13 I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD,

14 I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people.

He sees how highly God values the life of the believer. Yet, God does not allow him to die [v.16]. The death of His people is precious in God’s sight. The writer recognizes that God preserves him alive, and for this, he offers overflowing thanks (v.15-19).

15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.

16 O LORD, I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your maidservant. You have loosed my bonds.

17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD.

18 I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people,

19 in the courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the LORD!

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