Psalm 138 – A Song Of Praise For God’s Saving Help Against Threatening Foes
Psalm 139 – A Prayer For God To Examine The Heart And See Its True Devotion
Psalm 140 – A Prayer For Deliverance From The Plots And Slander Of Unscrupulous Enemies
Psalm 141 – A Prayer For Deliverance From The Wicked And Their Evil Ways
Thoughts about serving others
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Let the Word evoke words. May your life encourage lives.
Psalm 138. A song of praise to the Lord, inviting all to join in singing. Verse 2, “I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness,” stands in contrast to those in Ezekiel’s vision of men bowing to the sun with their backs toward the temple (Ezekiel 8:16). Such shameful defiance is not mentioned here, rather the opposite: joyful obedience for God’s amazing grace, “When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me…Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life” (Psalm 138:3,7). Nice.
Psalm 139. As I read this psalm I’m reminded of one of the last songs by Rich Mullins, Nothing Is Beyond You, great thoughts included in the words of this psalm. Tears form as I let the thoughts fill my mind,
It’s impossible to explain why words and music draw emotions, simple words and melody, but there is nothing beyond God. This truth provides incredible hope and strength and is the hope for this generation as it was and will be for all who recognize the one true God of the universe.
Thanks, Lord, for these powerful words this morning.
Psalm 140. “Do not grant the wicked their desires, Lord; do not let their plans succeed” (Psalm 140:8). It’s easy for me to exercise my faith, to be bold and express my love of Christ, for I hold no position of interest, I’m simply one of the masses labeled as a Christ follower. My prayer is for those who are in leadership positions, who guide many with their words and actions. These are the men and women Satan targets with fury. For these leaders I pray the wicked will trip and fall. Sure, for myself as well, but more for those who stand up weekly before congregations, who lead businesses, who teach in universities, all tempted to move toward the left. Lord, guard our leaders, guard us against the plans of Satan and his band of evildoers that tempt, do not let their plans succeed. Grant us all favor for your glory, Lord.
Psalm 141. This psalm continues the sentiment of the previous psalm, “Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies” (141:4). All the people, even those of us who are lowly in this world, need to stay far from evil, this is where we find strength. “But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge–do not give me over to death” (141:8). Finally, “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by in safety” (141:10). Yes, Lord, I trust you will take care of the righteous and the wicked.