TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 40
The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. - Psalm 18:2
TODAY IN THE WORD
John’s dad always boasts: “Whenever I give your mother one ounce of affection, she always gives me at least ten ounces in return.” Although God does not love us based on how much we love Him (1 John 4:19), we do see God acting exponentially more than the psalmist in Psalm 40 in response to his patient waiting.

Psalm 40 opens with thanksgiving and celebration of the Lord’s past faithfulness to redeem (vv. 1-10). The psalmist does one thing, whereas, the Lord is the subject of six verbs in three compact verses (vv. 1-3). The result of the Lord’s actions is that many see and put their trust in Him, and those who trust in the Lord are blessed. After his testimony, the psalmist bursts forth in praise: God’s actions on behalf of His people are innumerable.

At first glance, verses 6 through 8 seem to disturb the flow of the psalm. Then we recall that Psalm 40 is attributed to David. More was required of the kings of Israel than bringing sacrifices and offerings. They were to have humble hearts inclined to love and serve God and obey His word (see Deut. 17:14-20). It is clear that Psalm 40 is written in the context of David’s intimate relationship with God.

Yet David as king also represents the people. Note how the psalm oscillates between David’s individual remarks and his concern for the assembly (vv. 3, 5, 9-10, 16). See how David publicly and unashamedly broadcasts the Lord’s faithfulness and salvation.

The thanksgiving in the first ten verses functions as preparation and context for David’s current prayers for further deliverance (vv. 11-17). There are two sources for David’s crisis: external troubles and personal sins. David looks to God’s mercy, love, and faithfulness for protection. Although his earlier testimony demonstrates his patient waiting on God’s deliverance, David’s present circumstances prompt him to plead urgently: “come quickly, LORD” (v. 13) and “do not delay” (v. 17). He knows he is utterly helpless apart from God, for God is his only help and deliverer.

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Habits of faithfulness, sometimes called spiritual disciplines, put us in the position to wait patiently for God and to receive from Him. Daily habits often include prayer and Bible study. Other habits are worth cultivating in our lives as we grow in deeper discipleship with Jesus. Invite a friend or small group to grow in habits of faithfulness such as simplicity, solitude, hospitality, and justice.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 107
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
TODAY IN THE WORD
One Thanksgiving Day ritual is having each person present share something he or she is most thankful for from the previous year. The best testimonies include a problem and a solution for which the witness is especially grateful. Psalm 107 is like this popular holiday ritual in that thankful worshipers are invited to testify to God’s redeeming love: “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever” (vv. 1-2). Psalm 107 lifts up thanksgiving to God for His loyal love (hesed), His deliverance for those who cry out to Him (see Psalm 103). His love is the content of praise (v. 1), and the wise meditate upon it (v. 43).

In parallel movements, the psalmist recites God’s rescue of four groups: hungry and thirsty desert wanderers whom God leads into the city and nourishes (vv. 4-9); prisoners, oppressed by their sin whom God sets free (vv. 10-16); sick and afflicted people, suffering under their rebellion whom God heals (vv. 17-22); and sailors, battered by the sea whom God rescues (vv. 23-32). The groups represent all kinds of people who experience God’s redemption.

The pattern of each movement is simple: first, a summary of adversity that begins with “some”; next, a cry for help that begins with, “then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble”; third, a description of God’s rescue response; finally, a call to thanksgiving for God’s hesed (vv. 8, 15, 21, 31). God is praised for saving the lost, releasing the oppressed, healing the sick, and rescuing the endangered. Notice that God always responds with hesed after a cry for help (vv. 6-7, 13-14, 19-20, 28-30).

Jesus also feeds the hungry in the wilderness (Mark 6:30-44), frees those imprisoned by the evil one (Mark 5:1-20), heals and forgives the sick (Mark 2:1-12), and calms storms (Mark 6:45-52). He is the embodiment of hesed (cf. Col. 1:15; Heb. 1:3). Psalm 107 is not only about God’s ancient people being redeemed, but about all God’s people being redeemed.

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“Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story” (v. 2). When is the last time you shared with a friend, family member, coworker, or neighbor about how God is at work in your life to redeem and rescue you and bring you into abundant new life? Look for opportunities this week to tell others how God has redeemed you in Christ. Find joy in sharing about how God works continuously in your daily life to rescue you.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 35
The LORD will vindicate me; your love, LORD, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands. - Psalm 138:8
TODAY IN THE WORD
The 1987 classic movie, The Princess Bride, is unforgettable. One of its colorful characters, the Spanish fencing master, Inigo Montoya, constantly touts: “My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.” Montoya’s passion to avenge his father’s death drives him throughout the entire film. He assumes the role of judge over his enemies. The genre of psalms that invokes judgment upon one’s enemies is called Imprecatory Psalms. In contrast to Montoya, the psalmists know that God is the ultimate avenger.

Psalm 35 is an imprecatory psalm. The psalmist is the king facing the threat of war and the legal ramifications of a broken treaty with a foreign nation. He prays to God for vindication, victory, and the downfall of the foreign nation who has been unfaithful to the treaty.

First, he asks God for assistance in battle and deliverance from his enemy (vv. 1-3). He seeks his enemy’s disgrace and defeat (vv. 4-8, 23-26) and anticipates the Lord’s salvation and his response of praise (vv. 9-10). The king laments his enemy’s dishonesty, malice, and gloating (vv. 11-16, 19-21). Then he pleads to the Lord: “How long, Lord, will you look on?” (v. 17). He knows that the Lord has seen his enemy’s unrighteousness and his own faithfulness to the treaty. He calls upon the Lord to respond. He again anticipates his response of thanksgiving and praise among the people (vv. 18, 27-28). The king depends on his only defense, God alone (cf. Isa. 50:9-10; Rom. 12:19; Heb. 10:30).

Jesus referenced Psalm 35 in light of His life and ministry (John 15:25). Jesus is different than the king in Psalm 35: He surrendered to His enemies’ hatred to the point of death. Jesus bears God’s judgment to reconcile all God’s enemies to Himself (cf. Rom. 5:10). Now, when God’s people face suffering, there is hope in Christ’s resurrection victory (1 Peter 3:14-18); God’s people can rejoice in suffering, confident that it develops perseverance (Acts 5:41; James 1:1-3, 12); and through the Spirit God’s people can love their enemies.

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Perhaps you are currently facing persecution for your faith in Christ. Or maybe you are experiencing deep pain and suffering, crying out for God’s help and hope. In such challenges, seek out community to support, pray for, and uphold you. You may also find encouragement through these Christian writings: Daughters of Hope by Strom and Rickett; Wounds that Heal by Seamands; or A Grief Observed by Lewis.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 109
While they curse; may you bless. - Psalm 109:28
TODAY IN THE WORD
Ask anyone who has been the victim of injustice: it is much easier said than done to turn the other cheek! Our natural impulse is to settle the score, seeking to hurt those who have hurt us. We can resist the temptation toward violence only if we have a fundamental belief that God will ultimately bring justice and make things right. The Psalms strengthen our belief in God alone as defender, judge, and vindicator.

Psalm 109 is another Imprecatory Psalm. According to one Bible scholar, “It is the most vehement of the imprecations in the psalter.” Pay attention to words like “mouth(s),” “speak/spoken,” “words,” “accuse(r),” “pronounce,” and “cursing” that saturate Psalm 109. The scene is a courtroom where an innocent person is on trial and surrounded by hostile witnesses. The psalmist is the defendant crying out to God to establish his innocence and turn the cursing of his accusers back on them. He wants to see his accusers put on trial and condemned (vv. 7, 31). Notice the two references to “at the right hand” (vv. 6, 31). The psalmist knows God will defend him.

The psalmist indicts his accusers with bearing false witness and repaying his good with evil (vv. 2-5). His harsh curse upon his enemy dominates the center of Psalm 109 and encompasses the accuser’s personal life, profession, family, assets, descendants, and even his relationship with God (vv. 6-15). “For” at the beginning of verse 16 begins to illuminate why. Rather than kindness and blessing, he treated the poor, needy, and brokenhearted with cursing and drove them to death, so the psalmist wants this evil to be repaid with evil (vv. 19-20).

The psalmist looks for deliverance in his sovereign and loving Lord (v. 21). He identifies himself as the poor, needy, and brokenhearted (v. 22), and for the second time he cries out for deliverance “according to [God’s] unfailing love” (vv. 21, 26). The psalmist knows that cursing may come from his fellow human, but blessing comes from God (v. 28), and in the same way that Psalm 109 begins, it also ends: with praise to God for His salvation (vv. 1, 30-31).

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Jesus calls us to love our enemies, pray for those who mistreat us, and turn the other cheek (Luke 6:27-36). God’s mercy enables us to respond so radically. We are also free to love our enemies because we trust, like the psalmist, that God defends the mistreated and justly judges the oppressor. How do you react to people who hurt you? Today, entrust situations and offender(s) in your life to God and seek to love them.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 32
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9
TODAY IN THE WORD
When we imagine “confession,” many think of a movie scene where a man mutters to a priest behind a screen. In other words, personal confession may be a foreign concept. Confession was not unfamiliar to the psalmists. It was a regular practice of both individuals and the community in ancient Israel and early Christianity. Psalm 32 was included among seven “Penitential Psalms” or songs of confession (Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143).

“Blessed is the one” who lives life according to God’s design and is forgiven before the Lord (vv. 1-2). Psalm 32 does not presuppose a sinless person, but rather one whose sins are forgiven. This psalm employs three key words: sin, transgression, and iniquity (vv. 1-2, 5). The psalmist does not intend for each word to convey a precise distinction from the two other words, but instead for the group of words to be parallel in meaning, reflecting different aspects of the same idea. Sin is an offense, a turning from God’s way. Transgression is willful defiance against God by crossing the boundaries He sets for us. Iniquity is a distortion or gross injustice, an absence of respect for God’s will. The psalmist declares that blessed is the one who experiences God’s forgiveness of sin in all its manifestations.

Verses 3 through 5 are the psalmist’s personal testimony of confession. Prior to confession, his spiritual life was weakened. He groaned, bearing the guilt. Though he had an awareness of his need to repent, he was stubborn, and God’s hand was heavy upon him. “Then” marks the contrast of life before confession and after. The psalmist acknowledged his sin to the Lord, and immediately God “forgave the guilt” of his sin (v. 5).

After reflecting on his deliverance, the psalmist calls others to the same course of action (v. 6). Do not be stubborn and resist confession, he pleads (v. 9). Psalm 32 ends with the chasm between the wicked and the righteous (vv. 10-11). The Lord’s unfailing love surrounds those who trust in God’s deliverance and choose to walk on His path.

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Our sin creates barriers between us and God and between us and others. Genuine confession accepts God’s righteous judgment and His power to forgive and restore. It takes honesty, vulnerability, and courage to confront our sin and bring it to God, but we approach God confidently because of His promise of forgiveness and restoration in Jesus (Rom. 8:1-4). Make it a practice to confess your sin before God and others, perhaps with a spouse, friend, or pastor.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 90
Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. - Psalm 90:1
TODAY IN THE WORD
In our individualistic society, we can all relate to the idea, “I am responsible for myself alone”; but if you have ever played on a sports team you know a saying about collective responsibility: “We win as a team and we lose as a team.” There are spiritual parallels to both these concepts. Most are aware that we stand as individual sinners before God in need of His grace, but Scripture also emphasizes corporate sin. Our psalm today is a window into understanding communal confession (cf. Joel 2:12-17).

Psalm 90 begins with two affirmations: God is eternal (vv. 1-2, 4); humans are mortal (vv. 3, 5). The opening also declares God’s enduring help throughout all generations. These truths set the context for the remainder of the corporate prayer.

The original congregation of God’s people who prayed the prayer of Psalm 90 suffered enduring hardships and distress. Some biblical scholars suggest it was the experience of Exile, after the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem and the temple in 586 B.C. Others suggest it was the wilderness wandering after God rescued His people from slavery in Egypt. Whatever the original circumstances were to evoke such a prayer, Psalm 90 remains today an apt confession for all God’s people.

In 5 verses, “anger,” “indignation,” and “wrath” are used five times. Human life is not only temporary, it is also lived in light of God’s holiness, subject to His wrath (vv. 7-11). The congregation knows that sin and iniquity are incompatible with God’s holiness, and that no sin is hidden from God. Notice the connection between brevity of life and sin. This relationship is established after Adam and Eve disobey God in the garden (Gen. 3:19, 22), and Paul reiterates the fact in Romans 6:23: “for the wages of sin is death.”

Verse 12 is the key to the entire psalm. The congregation knows they are sinful and mortal. This wisdom teaches them to “number our days,” seek God’s forgiveness while it may be found, and make the most of each day to God’s glory (vv. 13-17).

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If your church or small group has a regular time dedicated to prayer, consider incorporating corporate confession. We often spend much of our corporate prayer time making requests of God, but very little time confessing our sins. You could use the model from the Book of Common Prayer, confessing, “We have not done those things which we ought to have done; and we have done those things which ought not to have done.”

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 51
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. - Psalm 51:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
Have you ever violated your conscience and then suffocated under the weight of your guilt? King David experienced the smothering burden of his guilt after lusting for another man’s wife, sleeping with and impregnating her, then killing her husband to cover it up (2 Samuel 11). Psalm 51 is associated with this infamous transgression in David’s life. It records his honest confession and repentance, and it is a model of contrition before God.

David begins with a desperate plea for mercy, forgiveness, and cleansing. Such deliverance only comes from God’s loyal covenantal love and compassion. David employs three words for sin and three verbs for forgiveness (vv. 1-2). Any and all sin separates us from God, and uncleanness excludes David from worship and God’s presence. Only complete eradication of his sin will restore him to God. David is continually aware of his sin and the accompanying shame and guilt (v. 3). To sin against fellow humans is to sin against God Himself. David affirms God’s righteous judgment against sin (v. 4) and His desire for righteousness in His people (v. 6)

After confession, David seeks forgiveness (vv. 7-9). The theme of cleansing is repeated again. Hyssop was the bush used to sprinkle blood on the Hebrew’s doorposts at Passover (Ex. 12:22; cf. Lev. 14:4-6, 49-52). David enhances the imagery by imploring God to cleanse him inwardly with the hyssop.

The heart is viewed as the center of a person’s reason and volition. David desires not only that his sin be forgiven but also that his heart be made pure so not to produce more sin (v. 10-12). He longs to return to communion with God and awareness of His presence and to remember again the joy of salvation, which was lost when his relationship with God was estranged.

The result is praise and calling others to repentance. King David affirms that God is not looking for outward ritual for confession and absolution of sin, but rather, He is concerned with the heart (vv. 16-17).

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An accountability partner is someone to whom you say, “My life is your business.” With this wise and godly person, you regularly and honestly give (and receive) account of your choices, temptations, and failures and welcome their hard questions, rebuke, and prayer. An accountability partner is someone who should point you to Christ (cf. James 5:16; Gal. 6:1-2; Heb. 3:13). Prayerfully consider inviting someone to be a mutual accountability partner with you.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 23
You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign LORD. - Ezekiel 34:31
TODAY IN THE WORD
If you hear the phrase, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want,” where do you imagine you are? Most people would answer: “a funeral.” Psalm 23 has been used in funeral liturgies for over a century, and perhaps because of this it’s often disregarded for other contexts including daily prayer. Psalm 23, however, must be resurrected for our daily lives; it nourishes our souls and bolsters trust in our Shepherd. This will begin five days of studying Wisdom Psalms.

Throughout the Scriptures, many metaphors are used to describe God’s relationship with His people. For example, God is our husband (Hosea 2:16), God is our father (Isa. 63:16), and God is our king (1 Sam. 8:7). The driving metaphor of Psalm 23 is the Lord as shepherd, implying that His people are His flock (cf. Ezek. 34:11).

The shepherd provides for his flock; there is no lack (v. 1). The shepherd leads his flock to abundant pasture and clean water; he protects, guides, and nourishes his sheep (vv. 2-3). Even when facing difficult or dangerous circumstances, the Lord’s sheep exchange fear and anxiety for trust and comfort in their shepherd. The shepherd carries a rod to protect against wild animals and those who would want to devour the sheep; he uses his staff to guide his flock. So also the Lord safeguards, defends, and leads His sheep (v. 4).

The image shifts to a banquet of thanksgiving (v. 5). Usually, in the enemy’s presence, one would be armed for battle rather than sitting down to a peaceful feast. With the Lord as shepherd, He is the one who defends and protects His flock, so His people can recline peacefully at a table of the Lord’s provision without fear of attack. “My cup overflows” testifies to life full of God’s abundant provision and blessing. The psalmist knows that with the Lord as shepherd, God’s goodness, love, and presence will be with him “all the days of [his] life” (v. 6). Psalm 23 begins and ends with “the LORD,” indicating that the psalm is sung within the context of a relationship with God full of trust and confidence in His covenant promises.

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Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd (John 10). The primary characteristic of the Good Shepherd is that He sacrifices His life for His sheep (John 10:11, 17-18), which Jesus does on our behalf that we might have abundant life in Him. If you have never done so, today is the day to place your life under the care and lordship of your Good Shepherd, Jesus. If you need to talk to someone about how to do this, you can call the toll-free number gotcha13-NEED HIM.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 37
Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD. - Proverbs 23:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
Whether you are contemplating a personal dilemma like watching your coworker consistently bend the rules to meet deadlines or a larger scale problem such as unjust and tyrannical governments oppressing their people, you are asking the same age-old question: “Why do the wicked prosper?” Israel’s sages knew this question could not go unanswered, for to walk faithfully with God is to maintain peace and hope in the midst of this conundrum. Psalm 37 is part of the wisdom literature of the Bible. It is about how to live a godly life and understand the success and prosperity of those who ignore God.

Psalm 37 revives the contrast between the righteous and the wicked of Psalm 1. The wicked are described as those who do evil and wrong others with corrupt schemes. They borrow and do not repay; they oppress the poor and needy. The wicked plot against the righteous and attack those who are upright. Despite these ways of life, they prosper and often through persecution of the righteous. How should a wise person seeking to love God and follow Him respond?

The righteous must live radically different lives. Psalm 37 instructs the righteous to trust in God and surrender one’s whole life to Him. They must refrain from anger and envy of the wicked and instead be at peace and delight in the Lord, waiting patiently for the Lord to act. They are called to give generously and lend freely.

The destinations of the righteous and the wicked are opposite. The wicked are temporary; they will be destroyed in the end. They will be stripped of power, and their own wicked schemes will be their downfall. Even their descendants will reap the consequences of their wickedness.

On the other hand, during the time of trial, the Lord will protect the righteous, care for them, and make their future secure. As the righteous live obediently in the Lord’s love, they will experience His peace and contentment. In the end, they will be vindicated. Six times in Psalm 37 the righteous are promised to inherit the land; the Lord keeps His promises.

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Often in Psalm 37 the wicked gain wealth and prosper at others’ expense. The Bible says a lot about how God’s people should steward money and possessions. We are called to live justly and give generously and justly, to earn and steward money for God’s kingdom purposes. We are not called to keep up with or covet the Joneses or earn and spend at others’ expense. Neither Poverty nor Riches by Craig Blomberg is an excellent resource as you seek faithful stewardship.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. - Psalm 46:1
TODAY IN THE WORD
At Teotihuacán in Mexico, visitors begin at the Pyramid of the Moon and walk down the Avenue of the Dead toward the Pyramid of the Sun, which is dwarfed by the enormous mountain behind it. As one gets closer and closer to the Pyramid of the Sun, however, the mountain begins to diminish in comparison. At the foot of the Pyramid of the Sun, the mountain is invisible. Often when we hear the news from around the world we can feel overwhelmed by sex scandals, natural disasters, political turmoil, death and disease, and injustice. It might feel like the mountain towering over the Pyramid of the Sun. But today’s psalm teaches that as we approach God’s throne, our perspective on these threats changes, just as the mountain disappears when standing at the foot of the Pyramid of the Sun.

Psalm 46 declares God’s protection from two potential threats: natural disasters and the demise of nations. God is a refuge in the context of environmental catastrophe (vv. 1-3); He is also ashelter in the context of the nations of the world (vv. 4-6). Verses 7 through 10 declare God’s ever-present help in the face of both threats.

“Earth” is repeated five times throughout psalm 46 (vv. 2, 6, 8-10). Psalm 46 is rooted in the real experiences of God’s people while on earth and asserts that in times of trouble, God’s presence and protection are sure. In fact, it is in God’s presence that His people find His protection. The psalmist points to God’s city where He dwells, and the refrain asserts, “The LORD Almighty is with us” (vv. 7, 11).

Mountains are traditionally a symbol of stability. The psalmist proclaims that though mountains may fall and kingdoms may fall, the city of God where He dwells will not fall. The LORD Almighty is the ultimate source of stability. He is called “our refuge, strength, ever-present help, and fortress,” and because of who He is, “we will not fear” (v. 2). Therefore, it is possible to “be still,” and know that He is God (v. 10).

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Are you distressed by the world’s mess or feel like mountains are lurking in your life? Where do you find refuge and help in the midst of chaos? Most people rely on themselves, money, possessions, or prestige for security—but these provide a false sense of protection from vulnerability. Only our sovereign and good Creator and Redeemer is a trustworthy protector and provider. Repent of ways you turn to false security and place your hope in God alone.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 78
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. - Psalm 100:5
TODAY IN THE WORD
Consider the different ways that the American Civil War is presented. Some describe it as “The War Between the States” or “The War of Northern Aggression.” Debates still continue over whether it was a war about slavery, economic rights, preservation of the Union—or some combination of all those factors. History inevitably includes interpretation of what happened, why it happened, and why it matters today.

Similarly, Psalm 78 is not simply an inventory of Israel’s history. It is an interpretation of God’s actions and His people’s response throughout history. Its main message is to remember God’s faithfulness in the face of Israel’s unfaithfulness. Its purpose is to recall the past (vv. 1-3) in order to teach future generations (vv. 4-5) so that they will place their confidence in God alone, remember His faithfulness, and obey Him (vv. 6-8).

Scholars suggest three potential references for the “men of Ephraim” who did not trust God, remember His loyalty, or obey Him (see 1 Samuel 4; 31; and 2 Kings 17). Each represent a time in Israel’s history when the people rebel and God removes His presence from them. The “men of Ephraim” are a foil to the kind of people the psalmist commends.

The remainder of Psalm 78 contains parallel sections recounting the wilderness events from Egypt to Canaan (vv. 12-39 and 40-72). Each tells of God’s acts of salvation, the people’s rebellion, God’s divine anger and punishment, and His ultimate compassion and mercy.

The beginning and end of Psalm 78 are noteworthy. Verse 65 broadcasts: “The Lord awoke as from sleep.” After the tumultuous time from the judges to Saul, the Lord intervenes in a fresh way. King David and his line represent God’s presence and protection sealed by an everlasting covenant. The psalmist calls Psalm 78 a “parable” or “riddle” (v. 2). It is not that the psalm is difficult to decipher. Rather, the mystery is God’s consistent, gracious saving work in the midst of Israel’s consistent unfaithfulness. In the covenant He makes with David, God promises this steadfast love forever (2 Sam. 7:1-17).

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Can you relate with the Israelites in Psalm 78? They recognize, “Yes, God did that”; yet quickly doubt, “But can He also do this?” (see vv. 19-20). How often do you remember God’s past faithfulness to provide, comfort, or guide, yet in a present circumstance you are anxious and wonder if He will be faithful again? Today, consider your worries, apply Philippians 4:6, and trust the lesson of God’s faithfulness from Psalm 78.

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Read: 1 Chronicles 17:1-15
I declare to you that the Lord will build a house for you. - 1 Chronicles 17:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
The heart of worship is always ready to adore our great God. That was the attitude not only of David but of countless believers through history. Augustine, for example, prayed: “O Lord in whom all things live, who commanded us to seek you, who are always ready to be found: to know you is life, to serve you is freedom, to praise you is our soul's delight. We bless you and adore you, we worship you and magnify you, we give thanks to you for your great glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

For David in today's reading, a heart of worship meant he didn't want to live in a palace while the Ark remained in a tent. He wanted to build a proper temple. But he didn't rush ahead, as he had done previously. Instead, he consulted Nathan the prophet, showing that he had learned an important lesson about submitting all his plans, even ones with good motives, to the Lord. God's answer, however, was “no”—the honor of building a temple would go to his son, Solomon.

Though the request was denied, the Lord's answer was much richer than what King David had asked for. In what is often called the “Davidic covenant,” God confirmed that the kingdom would be secure, remaining enemies would be subdued, and a golden age was about to begin. The themes of homecoming and safety (v. 9) would have been especially poignant to the returned exiles for whom Chronicles was first written. They would also have been encouraged by the long-term promise that David's throne and house would be established forever, a promise with clear messianic implications (v. 14).

Jesus Christ fulfills that promise. His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, were both in the line of David. When He was crucified, it was under a sign proclaiming Him “King of the Jews” (Matt. 27:37). And the last book of the Bible opens by identifying Him as the “ruler of the kings of the earth” (Rev. 1:5).
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As with David, God has promised us many things within His plan of salvation. Keeping these promises close to our hearts can strengthen our faith. Good verses to memorize include Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 1:13-14; and Hebrews 9:28. In Christ, we have a “living hope . . . an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade,” and we are “shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 121
The LORD watches over the way of the righteous. - Psalm 1:6
TODAY IN THE WORD
The Heidelberg Catechism is a sixteenth-century confessional document still used today to teach important Christian doctrine. It takes the form of 129 questions and answers. Questions 26 and 28 address trust in God our Creator. The answers affirm that “God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth . . . [is the one] on whom I rely so entirely that I have no doubt, but he will provide me with all things necessary for soul and body and . . . that he will make whatever evils he sends upon me . . . turn out to my advantage, for he is able to do it, being Almighty God, and willing, being a faithful Father.”

These answers are a creedal form of the ancient song, Psalm 121. Psalm 121 also opens with a question and answer that articulate its theme: “My help comes from the LORD the Maker of heaven and earth” (v. 2). The remainder of the psalm testifies to the kind of helper the Lord is.

Psalm 121 is part of a collection of psalms called “The Songs of Ascents” (Psalms 120-134). These fifteen psalms were thehymnal used by pilgrims making their journey to Jerusalem during the three annual festivals. Note the language of journey in Psalm 121: “to the mountains,” “foot slip,” and “coming and going.” Psalm 121 applies to the literal journey toward Jerusalem and to the spiritual journey of life. Six times the same Hebrew word, translated as “keep” or “watch(es),” appears (vv. 3-5, 7-8). In the center of Psalm 121, the main declaration resounds. In the original language, it literally reads, “the LORD is your keeper” (v. 5) He is the one who preserves, protects, and upholds you. The psalmist invokes God’s name, “LORD,” five times (vv. 2, 5, 7-8), recognizing His covenant loyalty to His people.

He also refers to God as “Maker of heaven and earth,” reminding singers that the Almighty Creator is sovereign over all, does not sleep, and needs no help Himself. “All” and “now and forevermore” affirm, as one Bible scholar describes, that “the Lord will protect your soul everywhere always from every danger.”

APPLY THE WORD
The Psalms resonate with our deepest feelings of joy, sorrow, anger, shame, and praise. Maybe you or someone you care about is facing a dark time of despair or stress or maybe beginning to feel restored and coming out of such a season. Reciting the Songs of Ascents, whether alone or in a small group of two or more, is a heartening exercise of praise and hope. This week, make time to read these fifteen Psalms out loud. Invite a friend or family member to join you if possible.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 124
If God is for us, who can be against us? - Romans 8:31
TODAY IN THE WORD
The Kelly family lived the past decade in a country officially closed to missionaries and known for its authoritarian government. They raised their four children there, established roots, and gained trust of indigenous leaders. In the past two years, routine police questioning and censorship has escalated to imprisonment for local Christian pastors, unexplained beatings of practicing believers, and home raids of both local leaders and missionaries. Local pastors have fled the country, and the Kelly family has been permanently deported. In the face of seeming setback or defeat, the Christians in this country, along with the missionaries, have unshakable faith that if God is on our side, we will yet see victory. This is the message of Psalm 124.

Whereas yesterday’s psalm speaks from the individual perspective, Psalm 124 is a song sung by the community of God’s people. Notice the pronouns “our,” “us,” and “we.” The people of God are a community chosen by Him and collectively shepherded by Him. The deliverance they sing about is communal.

As the community of God makes its way to Jerusalem, they proclaim boldly that “if the LORD had not been on our side” we would have been overcome. They know confidently that any triumph over enemies comes from the Lord’s help; without Him, they would be without help and without hope.

Verses 1 through 5 recollect past deliverance. The graphic images of a fire of anger burning against God’s people swallowing them alive and of violent flood waters engulfing them indicate that the past threat was real, overwhelming, and likely devastating. Verses 6 and 7 praise God for salvation from their enemies. It was a close escape, like a bird’s from a fowler’s snare.

Remember that their enemies are not people with whom they harbor personal frustrations. “Enemies” in the psalms are enemies first to God and His purposes, and thus they oppress and offend God’s people who are trying to live faithfully. The people declare that their only help is in God their Creator.

APPLY THE WORD
On the second day of this month’s study, we encouraged you to pray for the persecuted church worldwide. Your prayers are not in vain and are a great encouragement to our brothers and sisters seeking to follow Christ faithfully in the midst of severe persecution. Consider making prayer for the persecuted church a daily practice. One resource to guide your prayers is a monthly prayer calendar, which may be found on the Open Doors Web site (www.opendoorsusa.org/pray/).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 126
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” declares the LORD. - Jeremiah 30:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
Since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita shattered the U.S. Gulf Coast in 2005, Habitat for Humanity, a Christian nonprofit organization, has helped build over 2,200 affordable homes with low-income families in Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Alabama. The executive director of Habitat for Humanity in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, explains, “Every time we see a homeowner move into a new home, it’s renewal for us.” There is nothing like witnessing lives being renewed after such great devastation. God’s people anticipate the same joy of restoration in Psalm 126.

Psalm 126 is comprised of two parts (vv. 1-3, 4-6). Each opens with the phrase “restore . . . fortunes” followed by a simile introduced by the word “like” (vv. 1, 4). The first section focuses on joy remembered, the second on joy anticipated. Notice that “laughter” and “joy” appear five times in six verses, giving Psalm 126 the predominant emotional tone of rejoicing and celebration. “When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion” (v. 1) refers to the rebuilding of Jerusalem once the exiles began to return. It was like a dream, almost unbelievable. Even the Gentile nations noticed the new thing the God of Israel was doing for His people (vv. 1-3).

The first section looks back at the past, on what God has already done. The second section longs for a completion of restoration, for God to do what He had already promised (Amos 9:14; Jer. 29:14; Zeph. 2:7). The people cry out for the Lord to restore them, too. The Negev is a dry, cracked desert covering most of Israel. Its wadis, or riverbeds, are known for their radical transformation during the rainy season, where they go from dry beds to flash-flooded streams. The exiles desire this kind of renewal.

The exiles are confident, like the farmer who sows seeds with tears, desperately depending on the land for livelihood, but then returns at harvest time with songs of joy. Although now they weep, they will return with songs of joy (vv. 5-6).

APPLY THE WORD
We, too, long for God’s total restoration of ourselves and all things (Rom. 8:22-23; cf. 2 Cor. 5:17-19). If we share in Christ’s death, we also share in His resurrection (Rom. 6:4-11), and we are confident that God transforms us daily into Christ’s image by His Spirit (2 Cor. 3:18). Why not make a list of all the things that God has done for you. After you have given thanks for each one, make a list of things you can expect God to do in the future and use it as a basis for prayer.