praise

Perfect Counsel and Instruction

There is nothing we bring to Him that He needs yet He brings everything to us that we need. There is nothing we do apart from Him that is good yet everything we do in Him is because of His goodness and for His glory.

Psalm 16:7 I will bless the LORD who has counseled me; Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night.

The first thing we read is David says he will bless the LORD. This is an act of adoration which is different than the way we might think of God blessing us. God bestows His grace and mercy on our lives constantly. We often pray for blessing – for health, in relationships, and provision, etc. God’s blessings and His acts of lovingkindness, improve our lives on earth.

When David writes that ‘he will bless the Lord’, it is not that he is benefiting God in any way – God is complete in and of Himself. Looking back at verse two in this same chapter, we learn that we bring no benefit to God, we cannot improve who He is; He is perfect in all things.

Psalm 16:2 I said to the LORD, “Thou art my Lord; I have no good besides Thee.”

“There is nothing we bring to Him that He needs yet He brings everything to us that we need. There is nothing we do apart from Him that is good yet everything we do in Him is because of His goodness and for His glory. God is the source of anything good in our life. It is a greater fact that we are allowed to serve Him than what we might offer Him in our service”, (WBS, Week 2, Ps 16, v.2-5).

Blessing the Lord means that we bring Him our adoration. We praise Him and thank Him for who He is and what He has done. In order to say I will bless the Lord, we must understand who He is and what He has done for us. To adore God and to bless God, means to love Him, to worship Him, to glorify Him, and to honor Him.

Read the verse which comes before our studied text, Psalm 16:6 “The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me”. In this verse, we learned about the certain hope we have in our inheritance in Christ. Think again how utterly magnificent it is that God chose you to be His child, to grant you His protection, to provide all that is necessary for you to honor Him with your life on this earth, and to give you the promise of eternal life. God deserves our praise!

The Psalmist David honors God for His counsel. He says, “I will bless the Lord who has counseled me”. To get counsel from someone means to get their advice on a matter. It is good for us to seek counsel from those who have more experience or wisdom in certain matters.

Where and why have you sought counsel in the past?

We seek advice often in our lives. We look for help in raising children, in moving, in changing employers, and acquiring medical treatment. When we get counsel from others, we hope they are right. We take the counsel we are given, then we do our best to decipher the good from the bad, and we make decisions, sometimes with our fingers crossed behind our backs! When I was a young single mom with three small children, I relied heavily on the wisdom of others. At that time I could barely keep everyone fed and clothed. I certainly was unable to make serious decisions on my own!

Think! Has every piece of advice you have received from others been right? Of course the answer is no. Man’s skill to understand is limited. It is flawed with personal opinion and built on incomplete information because we simply cannot know all things. Man’s counsel is often influenced by experience. For instance, someone may be looking for a career in construction. As they approach one individual who has found success in this type of job, they may receive glowing reports of the industry and opportunities available. However, if they ask questions of someone who has had negative experiences, they might become quite discouraged as they are persuaded to seek another type of employment. The counsel they receive is wrought with subjective interpretation.

There is only One who has perfect counsel. God’s truths offer us perfectly guided instruction without the inconsistency and instability of human reason. His plans are without error; they are sure. We do not need to wonder if following God’s commands will work. We can be absolutely confident in the truths of His word. We fail because we are unable to perfectly understand and execute His commands. However, this does not mean we just give up without having hope – it does mean we place our hope and trust in the work of His Holy Spirit. If we remain yielded to God, He will fulfill His work in our lives. Paul wrote this encouragement to the church in Philippi.

Philippians 1:6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Psalm 19:7-10 speaks of the perfection and power of God’s word.

Psalm 19:7-10 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Thy servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

According to Psalm 19:7-10, God’s ways are perfect, they are sure, they give wisdom, they are right, they are without error, they are eternal, and they are true. We are warned of the consequences of not following God and we are reminded of the rewards of keeping His commands.

Perhaps you have heard the saying ‘to devise a plan’. God has a purposed plan for our lives and for the world. He already has everything figured out for us. He conceived of His plan and set it into motion before we existed, and it will continue. His plan and perfect counsel is given to us in His Word and through His Holy Spirit. In a world filled with uncertainty, where almost nothing goes according to our plan, we can rest and trust in God’s guidance.

How do you show your adoration of God? Do you recognize He has a perfect plan? Where do you go for counsel?

We have the best counseling tool in the world – God’s word and His Holy Spirit to interpret it. As we seek Him, He will give us understanding of how to live for Him. And for those times you are unable to think correctly for yourself, He gives us individuals who genuinely seek to follow Him and readily share their support and advice based on God’s truth.

Proverbs 28:5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand all things.

Psalm 119:104 From Thy precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.

Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth [come] knowledge and understanding.

The second part of verse 7 says, “Indeed, my mind instructs me in the night”.

The translation of instruction, from the Hebrew word yacar, means instruction by chastisement, correction, punishment, reforming, reproving, or teaching. The following verses speak of teaching and correction from God.

Psalm 17:3 Thou hast tried my heart; Thou hast visited [me] by night; Thou hast tested me and dost find nothing; I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.

Psalm 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and try me; test my mind and my heart.

Whenever we begin a sentence with the words, ‘I think’, we need to be certain our thoughts are based on the truth in God’s word. It does not really matter what I think, it completely matters what God says. God will give us wisdom as we seek Him. He alone knows our true thoughts and affections. He will instruct us how to please Him. Psalm 16:7 uses the phrase, ‘in the night’. This refers to those seasons of adversity when things seem difficult. Even then, we are secure in Him; He will bring to mind His instruction. He is faithful to show us where we need to re-think our thoughts and/or actions. We do not always have to figure out all the answers, we need to have faith that God knows our heart and will exact His purpose. We can have peace that His plan will prevail. Our goal is to give Him blessing and honor through all circumstances as we seek to follow His instruction.

His Marvelous Light!

He is the light that illuminates understanding in our soul. He is the light that gives hope now and for the future. He is the light which gives strength when we are weak, direction when we have lost our focus, and clarity instead of confusion.

1Peter 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR [God's] OWN POSSESSION, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

The dispersed Christians were reminded of the benefits they had in Christ – they were a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a people for God’s own possession. These rights were no longer just for a particular group but for all Christians. And these advantages were theirs for a reason – to proclaim the excellencies of God so that others would be sanctified in Truth.

That you may proclaim – there is an intentional purpose for those who follow Christ. To proclaim here means to publish or to celebrate. Both ensue action, the KJV uses the phrase ‘that ye should shew forth’. We have the privilege of being God’s messengers. Paul reminded the elders of the church in Ephesus of his own boldness in speaking of Christ and charged them with the reminder that they also needed to speak Truth; they were to care for those who were like-minded.

Acts 20:27-28 “For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. "Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.

Consider. When someone gives you a gift, you respond with thanks. Salvation offered to us is a gift. Do we tend to this gift with gratitude and display it for all to see? Do we share the value of this gift with others? Salvation has not been granted to us to be hoarded and put into the dark recesses of a cabinet. Rather, we are to exhibit the blessings of God by seeking to live a holy life, proclaiming Christ to others.

Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary offers the following response to our salvation –

By proper ascriptions of praise to Him in public, family, and social worship;

By being always the avowed friends of God, ready ever to vindicate His government and ways;

By endeavouring to make known His excellences to all those who are ignorant of Him; and

By such a life as shall constantly proclaim His praise – as the sun, the moon, the stars, the hills, the streams, the flowers do, showing what God does. The consistent life of a devoted Christian is a constant setting forth of the praise of God, showing to all that the God who has made him such is worthy to be loved.

Isaiah 43:21 "The people whom I formed for Myself, will declare My praise.

Our lives are about Him, not us. We are vessels meant for offering praise and glory to God for who He is and what He has done. The 1599 Geneva Bible Notes says, “that by all means possible we [are] to set forth the great goodness of the most mighty God”.

Does your behavior speak of Jesus? How? What behaviors do not honor Christ?

We are to proclaim the excellencies of God. It is impossible to proclaim with any kind of enthusiasm that which we do not know or understand. For example, ask two people to explain how to raise a puppy. One who has firsthand experience and one who has only heard others talk about it. Which testimony would be more compelling to listen to?

What are the excellencies of God? How would you explain who God is and why your faith is placed in Him? There are intrinsic virtues of God, His very essence, His attributes, are what makes Him God. We are to proclaim God’s wisdom, power, truth, goodness, and mercy. Foremost because He has called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light.

Consider the darkness. This means shadiness or obscurity, either literally or figuratively. There is darkness in trouble and in ignorance. When you are taking a photograph, shadows will keep you from getting a good picture.

Do you let circumstances obscure your view or do you rely upon God’s light to show you the way?

Also consider the shadiness associated with honesty. Are we allowing the world’s message to cast a shadow on our understanding of God?

God has literally pulled us away from sin’s power and control to the blessings, privileges, and power of the gospel. This assurance was given to the nation of Israel while they were being held captive and it is our assurance also, that by abiding in Christ, we are not held captive by sin. “…when the gospel comes to any place, to any soul, light comes. Let us earnestly pray that it may shine into our hearts, and make us wise unto salvation”, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on Isa 9:2.

Isaiah 9:2 The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.

Isaiah 42:16 "And I will lead the blind by a way they do not know, in paths they do not know I will guide them. I will make darkness into light before them and rugged places into plains. These are the things I will do, and I will not leave them undone."

2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

Read the account of Paul upon his conversion:

Acts 26:15-18 "And I said, 'Who art Thou, Lord?' And the Lord said, 'I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. 'But arise, and stand on your feet; for this purpose I have appeared to you, to appoint you a minister and a witness not only to the things which you have seen, but also to the things in which I will appear to you; delivering you from the [Jewish] people and from the Gentiles, to whom I am sending you, to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, in order that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.'

Also read the words of Paul to the Colossian church:

Colossians 1:9-14 For this reason also, since the day we heard [of it], we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please [Him] in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. For He delivered us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Recognize, we are called out of darkness into His marvelous light! This is more than just an ‘aha’ moment – it is the light of Truth, the gospel, and the wonderful blessings associated with God’s great love for us. He is the light that illuminates understanding in our soul. This is the light that gives hope now and for the future. He is the light which gives strength when we are weak, direction when we have lost our focus, and clarity instead of confusion. God’s light replaces hate with love, it is the source of compassion and patience.

When we consider what we have been saved from and what we are saved to, our response must be to shout God’s praise. Darkness and light are opposites. The darkness – idolatry, ungodliness, willful disobedience, and spiritual death – is appointed for those who reject Christ. God’s children, through faith and trust in Jesus, sit in the glorious light of His marvelous redemption.

1 Thessalonians 5:3-5 While they are saying, "Peace and safety!" then destruction will come upon them suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness;

“As a family, let us remember how the Lord has favored us in his grace, and let each saved one among us remember whereunto he is called. Chosen, royal priestly, peculiar, and beloved of heaven, - what manner of persons ought we to be? We ought to be far better than others, for the Lord has dealt so much better with us. May rich grace rest upon us, and cause us to show forth the praises of our God”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

How will you follow the apostle Peter’s charge to proclaim Christ?

What truths are you reminded of in 1 Peter 2:9 that cause you to praise God?

1 Peter 1:3

Our redeemed lives, every blessing that we see as good and even the life circumstances we do not understand, are to be offerings to God for His glory.

Do you think and act different than the world?

Hopefully, you feel as if you do not belong. Our lives are not about here, they are about heaven. We have been saved for God’s purpose and He is working all things for His pleasure and honor. This truth gives us peace in all circumstances, even in extreme difficulties, because God is in control!

1Peter 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead”

We have a living hope – a certain expectation of eternal life. This reality helps to keep our time on earth in a right perspective. We deserve nothing yet God has chosen to show us great mercy and compassion. He extended His love to us through the death and resurrection of His Son.

Are you compelled to action? We are to live in praise and gratitude for the gift of our salvation. Our redeemed lives, every blessing that we see as good and even the life circumstances we do not understand, are to be offerings to God for His glory. Read the example of praise given in 1 Chronicles 29:10-13, as David consecrated the building of the temple.

“So David blessed the LORD in the sight of all the assembly; and David said, "Blessed art Thou, O LORD God of Israel our father, forever and ever. "Thine, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth; Thine is the dominion, O LORD, and Thou dost exalt Thyself as head over all. "Both riches and honor [come] from Thee, and Thou dost rule over all, and in Thy hand is power and might; and it lies in Thy hand to make great, and to strengthen everyone. "Now therefore, our God, we thank Thee, and praise Thy glorious name”.”

I pray that today your life is a sweet representation of the hope you have in Christ.

Romans 15:13, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”.

Praise, Glory, and Honor to God!

We need to minor in self and major in Christ. True faith is placing your complete trust in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, claiming His sacrifice as your key to heaven.

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Because –

Trials prove our faith (v.7)

1Peter 1:7 that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

The blessings of being born again, of our hope because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, the certainty of our heavenly home, and the protection of God’s power to sustain us for salvation, are the reasons we can be joyful. Even in the midst of trials and sorrow, nothing is able to touch our glorious future. There is more – trials prove our faith and the proof of our faith is valuable. In fact, the proof of our faith is desirable, something we should want. We do not glory in the difficulty, but rejoice in the result.

Is your faith real?

There is a difference between simply acknowledging facts verses trusting in them to be true. The first is intellectual assent, the second is heart embraced. Let us look a bit closer at these two possibilities.

Intellectual assent uses the rational mind to decide if something might work or might be true. It involves fact gathering and a conclusion based upon those facts. There is no heart response or life-changing revelation. Intellectual assent is merely the acknowledgement of information to be true. Only knowing who God is will not save you. Man can think so highly of his intellect and reasoning that it becomes difficult to recognize his need of a Savior.

Fully embracing something with your heart involves knowledge with trust. It means understanding the facts and adopting them as your own. It is humbly accepting that you need something and are unable to provide the answer. It is realizing that however intelligent you may be, it is impossible to fully understand God’s ways. We need to minor in self and major in Christ. True faith is placing your complete trust in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, claiming His sacrifice as your key to heaven. The word faith <pistis> is explained as the moral conviction and reliance upon Christ for salvation. It is the assurance that what God says is true. Therefore, sincere faith involves a confidence in the truth of God’s word. This is only possible through God’s grace working in the lives of His children.

The proof of our faith is more precious than gold. The KJV says it is much more precious than gold. Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives us a clearer understanding of the properties of gold. “Gold is defined by chemists to be the most perfect, the most ductile, the most tenacious, and the most unchangeable of all metals… When exposed to the action of the fire it becomes red hot before it melts, but in melting suffers no alteration; but if a strong heat be applied while in fusion, it becomes of a beautiful green colour. The continual action of any furnace, howsoever long applied, has no effect on any of its properties… Gold is so very tenacious that a piece of it drawn into wire, one-tenth of an inch in diameter, will sustain a weight of 500lbs. without breaking”.

James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have [its] perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

When we seek to glean a small understanding of gold being refined by fire in order to purify it, we can begin to understand the necessity of trials in our lives. In addition, when we understand the reason for trials, our response is led to thankfulness and peace for the work God is performing to strengthen our faith. Revisit the beginning of this section of scripture. 1 Peter 1:2b reads, May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure. God’s work in your heart, the reflection of His love in your life, a heart of gratitude in understanding the gift of your salvation, and the quietness in your heart that stems from a secure future no matter the turmoil around you, are the hallmarks of a soul that fully relies upon God. This is the precious proof of your faith.

Your faith will be tested in one form or another.

Will it “be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ?

Job 23:10 "But He knows the way I take; [When] He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

Proverbs 17:3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the LORD tests hearts.

James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which [the Lord] has promised to those who love Him.

2Thessalonians 1:11-12 To this end also we pray for you always that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power; in order that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Check the genuineness of your faith. Is it mixed with imposters of pride, selfishness or worldliness? Is it something kept for ‘emergencies’? Is your faith only used as a security blanket?
What is your reaction to trials? Do you persevere in serving God? Do you complain?
Will your faith sustain you?

Read Matthew Poole’s Commentary of 1 Peter 1:7, “He compares the faith of the saints with gold, and argues from the less to the greater … If men do so far esteem their gold, that they will make the excellency and preciousness of it appear by trying it in the fire, which purgeth away the dross, and discovers the goodness of the metal; no wonder if God will have the faith of the saints (more precious to him than gold is to men) tried by afflictions, that the excellency of it may more fully be discovered”.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Purposed

What does it mean to live? It is opposite of death. As a child of God, a believer who has placed their trust completely in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live is to be made alive again. To be revived, to be preserved, to be saved and made whole in Christ. Our need to be saved from the power of sin and death has been fully met in Christ.

Word by word, line by line and we’ve come to the last two verses of Psalm 119! This study of understanding God’s gift to us through His written commands has caused my heart to grow in its praise for our Lord and Savior. The value contained in the Bible written by hands, directed by God, is immeasurable. These last two verses in this Psalm end with a praise, a prayer request, and a determination and purpose to follow God’s commands.

Psalm 119:175 Let my soul live that it may praise Thee, and let Thine ordinances help me.

My soul is what makes me, me! It is that very part of me that only God can access, It is the inner most recesses of my heart, The soul is not found in anatomy books, its location is known only to God, it is His to change, to direct and to own. It is God who initiates the love that causes our conversion to trust in Him; it is God who has the authority to place us exactly where He desires; and it is God who possesses our soul to use our lives for His glory. The request of David to let his soul live is directed to the only One who is able to do so. The Psalmist understands that this most precious part of him that defines his spiritual awakening belongs to God.

What do you think? When we believe these truths with our whole heart, we will more likely desire His leading, and plan and move forward even in difficulty. The question of ‘why is this happening?’ is not where we will linger. Instead it will be a question of ‘what would You have me to do?’

What does David request in Psalm 119:175? – let my soul live.

Remember the setting which David is writing. He repeatedly asks for God’s mercies and protection as his life is threatened. David suffers because others hate what he believes and what he stands for. Truth is always a threat to those who follow their own selfish ambitions.

Romans 1:18-20 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

David represents truth and because of that, his life is in danger.

At one point, the Psalmist also has the hand of God disciplining him for sin in his own life, for choosing to follow worldly lusts rather than keeping his eyes on God.

Psalm 119:75 I know, O LORD, that Thy judgments are righteous, And that in faithfulness Thou hast afflicted me.

The Psalmist has experienced God’s protection and God’s judgement. He has learned to cry for help and forgiveness. He realizes he deserves neither yet he also knows God’s great love for him.

A familiar section of scripture comes to mind.

Ephesians 2:1-5 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. 3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),

Consider this: the very fact that you are able to understand scripture – not as a grammatical exercise but as a life-changing manual of love from God – is because God has reached down into your soul and claimed it for Himself, because He loves you! Ponder this truth for a moment. It should move you to an overwhelming sense of thankfulness and awe for God’s power and presence in your life.

Why does the Psalmist pray to let his soul live? That it may praise God! Our soul is designed to be with God in heaven. Is your soul filled with praise for God who alone makes this possible? Whom do you speak of, whom do you boast about, and whom do you celebrate?

Psalm 34:2 My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear it and rejoice.

Jeremiah 9:23-24 Thus says the LORD, "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; 24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things, "declares the LORD.

We are saved to praise! Our desire as we live on this earth should be to praise God. When we are called to heaven, we will praise God. It’s not about us – it is about God’s glory. How are you praising God with your life? Do you freely speak of Him? Where do you spend the time He has given you? Are you quick to serve others as an opportunity to show your praise to God? Is His praise the goal of your pursuits? Are you light in a world of darkness? Are you aiming to fulfill your desires or to fulfill the desires God has for you?

There are things we all enjoy. Each of us has been given unique likes and dislikes, dreams, abilities and opportunities. All of this is good – as long as my pursuit of them does not diminish my obedience and desire to serve God. How are you doing in this area? Are you willing to pray that God will even remove the desires you have so that your focus and pursuit is more completely on Him?

Our example in David is that he asks God to protect his soul and to comfort his soul – so that he can praise God.

“Let my soul live. Fill it full of life, preserve it from wandering into the ways of death, give it to enjoy the indwelling of the Holy Ghost, let it live to the fulness of life, to the utmost possibilities of its new created being.” Treasury of David

How does David determine to praise God? Through the power of His word: “And let Thine ordinances help me.”

All of God’s word collectively – His judgments, His commands, His blessings – every aspect of God’s word is to be used to help us live in a manner that brings glory to His name.

David can personally testify to God’s protection, His guidance, His care, His discipline, His promises, His unwavering love, His forgiveness, His strength, His mercies, His grace, His peace, and His comfort. Each of us are able to do the same! God is David’s hope presently and for the future. Each of us is able to have the same hope!

Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.

Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.

2Corinthians 4:17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,

1Peter 1:3-9 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to [obtain] an inheritance [which is] imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.

God’s judgments – the fact that He is in control, sees things exactly as they are, and will right all wrong in His time – comfort and help us in time of affliction. We can be secure in our direction as we seek to follow Him in all righteousness and we can be assured that God will tend to those who are against Him. God’s word is an encouragement to those who seek Him. God has given His children a complete instruction manual on how to live in a way that is honoring to Him. This is not a manual in which we check off a box each time a task is completed. Rather it is a living guide that will continually direct us if we are sincere in our desire to follow God. God will work in our lives as He corrects us and leads us to be conformed to His likeness. Either in death or life, we are to praise God – His glory is our focus.

Is our hope and confidence in God? Is our praise to Him shown in a life of desiring holiness – even when it means denying what the world calls happiness? Think eternal versus momentary.

Psalm 119:176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Thy servant, for I do not forget Thy commandments.

This is an interesting conclusion to this Psalm. In the previous verse, David was praising God, now he seems to be considering his dire straits. The more we understand our need for God, the more our praise will increase as we recognize His protection and blessings. Consider what it means to hear good news. Typically it is information beneficial to ourselves or others, something that is desirable and has positive effects. The Good News of the gospel shines brighter and brighter when we identify more and more with the bad news of our lost condition.

Truth –

All humankind is lost in their sin (Ecclesiastes 7:20).
Sin is anything done against God’s commands (1 John 3:4; 5:17).
Sin is avoiding to do what God says (James 4:17).
Our thoughts can be sinful (Genesis 6:5).
Our speech can be sinful (Matthew 15:19).

These are sobering statements. But, the hope we have is great and the writer of Psalm 119, David, never completely forgot who he was and the miraculous gift he’d been given. The beginning of verse 176 above mirrors a familiar verse in Isaiah.

Isaiah 53:6 All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.

Sheep are largely thought of as unintelligent animals. They tend to panic and are easily preyed upon as they have little ability to defend themselves. Sheep need constant protection. Adam Clarke’s Commentary says, “A sheep, when it has once lost the flock, strays in such a manner as to render the prospect of its own return utterly hopeless”.

Something important to note is the tone of David’s words. He knows his tendency is to wander from God, he is in constant battle with his sin nature. Understanding his need for God’s direction increases his desire to obey God and seek His protection. It is a scary world out there with opportunities to stumble around each corner!

Paul understood the pull of sin in his life also. Romans 7 beginning with verse 19 says, “For the good that I wish, I do not do; but I practice the very evil that I do not wish. But if I am doing the very thing I do not wish, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wishes to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind, and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members. (Romans 7:19-23)

Do we have an accurate view of ourselves? Do we see the conflict in our heart? We cannot fight what we do not recognize. A lost soul does not recognize its misery and does not understand its eternal ruin. A graced soul desires God’s hand to hold him secure and pull him back when he wanders.

Throughout this Psalm, David has requested God’s help and protection. He has confessed his sin and he has confessed his love and need for God’s word. David’s heart is full of devotion to God. We see this in his praise for Him and his purpose to obey Him.

David requests for God to “seek Thy servant”. On our own, we would not seek God. It takes God’s hand reaching down to us. God will not leave His children defenseless; He will not allow them to remain lost and without their Shepherd. David knew what it meant to be a shepherd. This is a heartwarming picture of God’s love and tender care and mercies.

Ezekiel 34:12 "As a shepherd cares for his herd in the day when he is among his scattered sheep, so I will care for My sheep and will deliver them from all the places to which they were scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day.

Matthew 18:12 "What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying?

Luke 19:10 "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."

God will look after His children. He will help them to avoid danger. He will restore them to peace. We must make an effort to remember and practice His commands. This effort is more than just awareness. It is more than ‘I’ve been in the Word today’. We cannot claim any portion of our lives for ourselves. All of us belongs to God.

David ends Psalm 119 with his resolve to follow God, “For I do not forget Thy commandments”. He’s penned similar words several times over the course of his writing.

Psalm 119:16, “I shall not forget Thy word”.
Psalm 119:44, “I will keep Thy law continually”
Psalm 119:55, we read that David intends to “keep Thy law”.
Psalm 119:93, “I will never forget Thy precepts”.

The repeated dedication to observing and keeping God’s word speaks of the value it holds to the Psalmist.

“In this humble, prayerful manner this long Psalm closes, and so will the believer's life-story end. Confession mourns a thousand faults, faith sees grace still alive within the soul, and prayer pleads for divine mercy. With such a prayer our earthly life will come to a fitting FINIS.” Spurgeon Devotional Commentary

I forget all kinds of things. Often, I am looking for my phone or even the car in a parking lot. I have even momentarily forgotten names of those I’ve known for years. In those cases, I’m largely on my own to remember details. God wants us to remember His commands, therefore He will not leave us alone with our feeble brains to call to mind what His word says – He’s given us His Holy Spirit to help. God knows we are weak. Because of His amazing love for us, He gives us every possible way to succeed in following Him.

Philippians 2:12-13 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure.

We have a great and certain hope. In this last verse of Psalm 119, we have a confession of sin, a request for God’s help and a renewed commitment to follow Him. In humility we need to come before God seeing and believing in His truths. God has showered His mercy upon us through His Son. He gives us grace to weather any storm and He desires to continually bless His children.

Are we seeking our Savior through God’s sanctifying Word or are we determined to satisfy ourselves?

2Corinthians 3:4-5 And such confidence we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as [coming] from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God,

Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, [even] Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Psalm 119:172-174

Accounts of waiting upon, longing for, hoping in, delighting in and rejoicing in God’s salvation and His word are seen throughout the Old and New Testaments. These are actions and attitudes for us to emulate in all the circumstances of our life as we hold on to the promise of what is to come.

Psalm 119:172-174

Ps 119:169-171 Let my cry come before Thee, O LORD; Give me understanding according to Thy word. Let my supplication come before Thee; Deliver me according to Thy word. Let my lips utter praise, For Thou dost teach me Thy statutes.

Recognize the humility of our Psalmist as he requests that God will hear him. When we ask something from someone else, we recognize our lack and need for help. David seeks understanding from God; he asks for deliverance according to God’s plan. The Psalmist’s instruction and protection come only from God and he bows before the very source of his life – Jehovah, the Eternal Lord. As we move forward to verse 172, David continues to capture the value of God’s word and his need to be encompassed by its truths.

Ps 119:172 Let my tongue sing of Thy word, for all Thy commandments are righteousness.

In verse 171, the Psalmist requested that his speech burst forth in continuous praise for God’s instruction to him. He now expands this thought in his desire to offer praise in song as a response to God’s righteous commandments.

Consider. In order to offer praise to God for His commands through speaking and singing, it would be necessary to know them. How can we sincerely speak of God’s commands without knowledge and understanding of them? Do we contemplate the words we are singing when lifting praise to God in music or are we just held captive by a pleasing melody?

For instance, when we sing the familiar words ‘How Great Thou Art’, what do they mean? How is God great, what makes Him great, how is His greatness displayed?

David desires that every word from his mouth, whether in speech or song, is from God’s truths. Our words are a powerful tool. They can be used as instruments in blessing others if we are careful to have God’s commands in our heart and thoughts.

When David writes ‘all God’s commands are righteousness’, he includes God’s word in its entirety, not choosing only those things that are easy but everything that God requires. He is careful to use his words to speak truth. In Psalm 37 and 40, also authored by David, we read the same volition.

Ps 37:30 The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.

Ps 40:9 I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great congregation; Behold, I will not restrain my lips, O LORD, Thou knowest. Do you hesitate to share the gospel or speak of God because you’re uncomfortable or think it is someone else’s job? Each one of God’s children has been given a precious gift. With this gift comes a responsibility to use it for God’s glory and tell others who He is and what He has done for them – even if you feel lacking in your communication skills.

In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses gave specific instruction to seek knowledge and understanding of God’s commands and continuously speak of them.

De 6:6-7 "And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.

Paul warned the church in his letter to the Ephesians to be careful with their words.

Eph 4:29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such [a word] as is good for edification according to the need [of the moment,] that it may give grace to those who hear.

When we speak with God’s truths and think with His commands and engulf our lives with His word, we will be pleasing to Him and the words that come out of our mouths will be a sweet praise to His name. Regardless of what I think or feel or want, God’s commandments are righteous – naturally, morally and legally just. God’s commands are perfect in their essence, their judgment and their sentence. There are no mishaps or errors. Each of God’s commands are truth.

Ro 7:12 So then, the Law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.

Ps 19:8 The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

What do we speak of – ourselves or God? Do we speak of God from a heart that is fully devoted to following His commands? With each word that comes from our mouth, we have an incredible opportunity to encourage others with the truths of God’s word. However this cannot be in our own strength. We need to rely upon God’s help. In the next verse of Psalm 119, the requests of a humble servant continue to be lifted to God.

Ps 119:173 Let Thy hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Thy precepts.

Consider God’s hands. In the verse above, we are talking specifically about His open hands, indicating power and direction.

Ex 15:6 "Thy right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power, Thy right hand, O LORD, shatters the enemy.

Ps 17:7 Wondrously show Thy lovingkindness, O Savior of those who take refuge at Thy right hand from those who rise up [against them].

Ps 89:13 Thou hast a strong arm; Thy hand is mighty, Thy right hand is exalted.

Isa 48:13 "Surely My hand founded the earth, And My right hand spread out the heavens; when I call to them, they stand together.

Job 12:9-10 "Who among all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this, in whose hand is the life of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind?

Isa 41:10 ‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'

Where do we look for power and protection in our life? Who is my defender? Do we rely upon ourselves?

Many homes today are equipped with alarm systems. They are used to warn of intruders, fire and carbon monoxide. As advanced as some of these systems are, technology is not perfect, and it fails. Or, we fail and walk in a house forgetting to turn the alarm off. These alarms also only warn of trouble coming from outside our bodies. Where is the protection of a soul? Who will defend trouble from within?

We are insufficient and weak. We need God’s help – His guidance and protection. He is ready and willing to hold us in the power of His hands. We see a similar request to Psalm 119:173 earlier in verse117.

Ps 119:117 Uphold me that I may be safe, that I may have regard for Thy statutes continually.

David chooses to follow God’s commands knowing that God alone is the one who will help him. David’s reliance is solely upon God’s work in his life. Do we choose to follow God? It is easy to recognize in the whole of Psalm 119 that David is committed to surrendering his entire life to God. His desire is to live for Him. This devotion is seen in his words and through his actions, in his desires and in his trust. Either we love God or we hate God. There is no ‘sort of’ in this relationship. God sent His Son to die for all sin. He has made complete atonement for us. Our response needs to be complete commitment to Him.

Recall the account of Mary and Martha when Jesus dined at their home. Mary was commended for recognizing the importance of being completely engaged in her devotion to Christ. Luke 10:42 but [only] a few things are necessary, really [only] one, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." The first and foremost concern for our life is choosing to trust God by following His commands.

David’s example in Psalm 119 is to hope in God’s word (v. 81), and to consider God’s law as his delight (v. 92). It is obvious through his choices that God’s commands are more important to him than anything or anyone else. When we choose to follow God, we can count on His help. Matthew Poole’s Commentary says David has chosen God’s commands for his ‘guide and companion, and chief joy and treasure’.

Ps 119:30 I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Thine ordinances [before me.]

Ps 119:111 I have inherited Thy testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart.

Joshua, after leading the Israelites to the Promised Land, just before he dies, gives the nation counsel to remember and follow the God who has chosen them and protected them through their exile.

Jos 24:15 "And if it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

“For I have chosen, thy precepts. A good argument. A man may fitly ask help from God's hand when he has dedicated his own hand entirely to the obedience of the faith. "I have chosen thy precepts." His election was made, his mind was made up. In preference to all earthly rules and ways, in preference even to his own will, he had chosen to be obedient to the divine commands. Will not God help such a man in holy work and sacred service? Assuredly he will. If grace has given us the heart with which to will, it will also give us the hand with which to perform. Wherever, under the constraints of a divine call, we are engaged in any high and lofty enterprise, and feel it to be too much for our strength, we may always invoke the right hand of God in words like these.” Treasury of David [emphasis mine]

Our salvation is in Christ. Our sufficiency is in Christ. Our support is in Christ. None other can save us, none other can supply us and none other can protect us.

Ps 119:174 I long for Thy salvation, O LORD, and Thy law is my delight.

I desire Your deliverance, I desire the victory I have in You. To long for something is to desire it strongly or persistently. Do we foresee that day when we will be with Jesus? Do we yearn for our salvation in Him to be finally and fully realized?

David says his ‘soul languishes’ for God’s salvation (Ps 119:81); and he hopes for God’s salvation (Ps 119:166). The Psalmist’s hope is certain, not one of wishing but absolute. Accounts of waiting upon, longing for, hoping in, delighting in and rejoicing in God’s salvation and His word are seen throughout the Old and New Testaments. These are actions and attitudes for us to emulate in all the circumstances of our life as we hold on to the promise of what is to come.

Addressing God as Lord puts Him in the context of Creator. He is self-existing, He is eternal. Thus, our longing to be with Him is a certainty. God will always be and always has been. What a marvelous thought to consider that we have a relationship with Him now and have the guarantee of being in His presence forever!

What is your delight? Where is your enjoyment or pleasure found? David places his delight in God’s law throughout Psalm 119.

Ps 119:16 I shall delight in Thy statutes; I shall not forget Thy word.

Ps 119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight; [They are] my counselors.

Ps 119:47 And I shall delight in Thy commandments, which I love.

Ps 119:77 May Thy compassion come to me that I may live, for Thy law is my delight.

Ps 119:111 I have inherited Thy testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart.

There is no question from the words above that the writer finds his greatest enjoyment and pleasures in God’s word. David longs for the day when he will be delivered from all the persecution and difficulties surrounding him. Yet, he remains focused on the pleasures of God’s truths, not allowing his circumstances to distract him. In one breath the Psalmist cries to God for help while in the same thought he is praising God for His goodness and care while he waits and trusts in His plan.

Those who have placed their trust completely in Christ’s death and resurrection are saved now and enjoy the pleasures of God’s law and His protection and guidance. One day, our salvation will be complete as we no longer are surrounded by sin and all its temptations. Imagine a place bereft of trouble and disorder; no disturbances to cause our eyes to look elsewhere. Our entire self will be focused on our glorious Savior and Lord!

Until that day we can take extreme delight in God’s blessings through His word and promises that He has so graciously bestowed on us. Focus on what is to come and frowns will turn to smiles. It is a true pleasure to be able to trust in the God of our salvation. Do you possess this kind of faith? – A faith so strong and certain that you can walk through even the greatest difficulty with a heart of peace and hope.

Dinosaur Age!

I wrote this study to share at the Assisted Living Home that my Mom now resides at. They offer a devotional group every Tuesday at 10 a.m. and I was blessed to have the opportunity to encourage my Mom and some of her friends and residents with God’s word. It is a delight for me to watch those who are getting up there in years have the desire to serve God in any way they are able. Sometimes it may just be an encouraging hug and smile. I have been given the blessing of watching my Mom bloom spiritually in her nineties! A few months ago she told me that God had a plan for her right where she was with the ‘older’ people! She is developing a heart of compassion towards those who are lonely and she has taken it upon herself to become an encourager. God is truly amazing to have allowed me to witness this caring heart in my Mom in her senior years!

Several weeks ago, while in the car with my six year old granddaughter, she asked me this question. “Mina, do you have pictures of Tyrannosaurus Rex?” My reply was yes, I think we may have a few pictures in a book. She then proceeded to let me know what she really meant. She wanted to know if I had pictures of myself as a child with a T-Rex! Apparently, her Daddy had told her that dinosaurs lived a very long time ago. She had concluded that I must have lived with them! To a six year old, I am beyond old!

Try to think back to when you were in your twenties. Remember how you would look at people in their thirties and forties and think they were pretty old?! Then, suddenly, when you find yourself in your fifties, you realize you have friends in their sixties and that age no longer seems so old. Now, as I’m pushing sixty personally, seventy still seems rather young to me! Age, at least the number of our years, is relative. How old or how young you are depends on your comparison. For instance, to my grandchildren, I am old. To those in their nineties, I am still young!

There are many accounts of old people in the Bible.

In the book of Genesis, we read that Adam lived to be 930 years old (Genesis 5:5). In comparison, you are all just infants! Still in the book of Genesis, we read that Seth was 912 (Gen 5:8), Enosh lived to be 905 (Gen 5:11), and Jared died at 962 (Gen 5:20).

You’ve heard of Noah. He lived to the ripe old age of 950 years old. By the way, the ark was built over a span of approximately 100 years and Noah began construction of it when he was about 500 years old! Now that seems extremely old to us as we consider age, but when you take in account that he lived to the age of 950, Noah was only middle aged when the construction of the ark began! Isn’t it encouraging to know that at 500 years old God still used Noah?! What does that mean for us? No matter our age, God has a purpose and use for His children! Our understanding of time is measured in what we know, so it has limits. God’s measure of time is eternal.

Methuselah has the honor of having the longest life span recorded – he reached the age of 969 years before he died. So all of us should be thinking that we’re pretty young by now!

Jacob, the father of Joseph, only lived to the age of 147. Young by the standards of those who lived before him.

There are some good things and not-so-good things about aging. Try to recall when you were a teenager. You probably got up each morning and practically jumped out of bed. You didn’t know what sore muscles were and the energy to do everything was readily available! That is a good thing. The downside for most teenagers, is the need to fit in with the crowd. You may have acted or dressed a certain way in order to look like everyone else.

As you become older, you may not have the same boundless energy, but independence develops, and the constraints of looking or acting like those who are the same age disappear. The pictures I’ve seen of my Mom when she was a young adult are striking. She was fashionable and wore the tight sweaters that were popular in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Isn’t it true that the style of clothing as you become older is chosen for its comfort rather than if it’s trendy or not? I remember thinking it was odd that my Mom would find a certain kind of top she liked and she’d get it in every color. For her, it was practical, it was comfortable and it worked! There was no concern of needing to ‘fit in’ with the crowd. This is a good thing! What does the Bible say about becoming older? We’ll look at Psalm71:5-9 and break it down into sections.

Ps 71:5-9 For Thou art my hope; O Lord GOD, [Thou art] my confidence from my youth. 6 By Thee I have been sustained from [my] birth; Thou art He who took me from my mother's womb; my praise is continually of Thee. 7 I have become a marvel to many; for Thou art my strong refuge. 8 My mouth is filled with Thy praise, and with Thy glory all day long. 9 Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength fails.

We can read the above scripture and be encouraged by it as we apply it to our lives right now. For instance, if you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you will be able to look back upon your life and see His hand in supplying you with exactly what was needed through the good times and the difficult times. God gave us life, He caused us to born into this earth. And, like the Psalmist, our praise should be continually of God. He is the reason we live! King David was able to proclaim these truths because he trusted in God completely. When we place our complete trust in God for His direction and His answers, we find peace. We realize we’ve already been chosen for His team! There is no pressure to try to fit in, to look like everyone else. We also no longer feel the need or have the responsibility to figure everything out. An important question then to ask ourselves personally is, ‘Have we placed our trust in the One True God, or have we placed it in someone or something else?’

Most older individuals have learned that they cannot trust in their health. It becomes obvious that our body has a life span as it begins to break down. But what about other things we might trust rather than fully relying upon God? We may trust in someone or something in the sense of counting on them, but how often are we disappointed? Money doesn’t last and really can’t buy true and fulfilling happiness. People, even our closest family and friends, are not perfect and therefore can sometimes be a discouragement or can disappoint us even without meaning to. God is the only constant in our lives. With Him there are no variables. He has never changed and will never change. He is always available and accessible. He alone provides true joy even in the midst of uncertainty and pain. The conclusion?

God is our hope,

God is our confidence,

He has sustained us,

He will continue to do so and,

Our response should be continuous praise to Him!

Let’s continue with Psalm 71 and look at the next verse.

David, our Psalmist, says he ‘had become a marvel to many’. Consider. He was just a shepherd boy when he fought off Goliath with a slingshot and a stone. This same boy became King and reigned for forty years! It is amazing what God can do with a life, how He orchestrates His perfect plan.

I’m sure many of you have the most incredible stories of God’s hand in your lives. It is a blessing in older age to look back and recognize how God has protected you, encouraged you, and strengthened you. Some people may even look at your long life in amazement as they have seen your ability to remain steadfast in God even through difficult and scary times. It is a marvel to watch God’s work! A blessing of becoming older is being able to see God’s story in your life. As you look back and see His care and guidance, your assurance of His continued work in your life grows.

I love that the second part of Psalm 71:7 says, “for Thou art my strong refuge”. Consider. What is a refuge? The Hebrew translation of this word [machaceh] means a shelter, hope, a place of refuge, trust.

God is our refuge. Our shelter, our hope and our trust. This truth is incredibly comforting. Whether we consider ourselves to be young or old, we have a place of hope. We have Someone to trust. Our nation seems to be taking a turn away from God rather than following Him as our founders did. Some of you can recall a television show from years ago, ‘I Love Lucy’. There was no foul language, no violence, and no morality issues in that series – it was just a funny show, made for entertainment. I must be getting old because I can hardly find a television show that I believe is decent today. Perhaps things really are just getting worse. Regardless, there is truth we can stand on. God is in control and He is not at all surprised at how things are going in the world. In fact, He knows the whole story from beginning to end. And, we can completely trust Him! When life seems bleak and our paths take a difficult turn, when exhaustion sets in or pain is something to be dealt with on a daily basis, you name it, in any circumstance – God is our place of comfort, our hope for the future and our shelter from the storm.

Let’s not miss out on the word that precedes ‘refuge’ in Psalm 71:7. It says, “strong” refuge. Strong: great power, force and authority. I’ve noticed that as I get older, I’m not as physically strong as I used to be! My arm muscles seem to have fallen from the tops of my upper arms! Some of you may notice that the strength in your legs has decreased as you’ve aged. Eyesight changes, balance can change and the need for a cane or walker for support may become necessary. The brand of hearing aids is a topic of conversation in older circles. But there should be no discouragement in these facts of aging. Why?

According to the Bible, strength is found in God. Now you may not be able to physically do the things you want, but when our strength is found in God, He will give you the ability to do whatever He desires of you. God is our force – our drive – and He is our security – our protection. Consider. If God was powerful enough to cause a young shepherd boy to slay a giant, and commission Noah to build an ark at the age of 500 years old, then He is able to use anyone, regardless of age or ability, for His glory!

There is a story of a woman named Joni Eareckson Tada. You may have heard of her name. She became paralyzed from her neck down when she was quite young. God has used her life to encourage many thousands of people even though most of her life has been spent in a wheelchair.

The second reason we can be encouraged is that every step we move forward here on earth brings us closer to our eternal destiny! Heaven. Forever with God. In the book of Revelations there is a beautiful description of heaven. This particular section of scripture is close to my heart as it is the one I read with my Dad just weeks before He died. I remember that as we read this together, he was peaceful even though he was in significant pain. He was comforted and had a smile on his face as he closed his eyes and pictured the place he was being called home to in a short while. His body was breaking down but He trusted fully in the work of Jesus on the cross, and he had been given the assurance through his trust in Jesus that his soul would live on. God was his strong refuge even through the process of a dying physical body.

Re 21:4 and He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall no longer be [any] death; there shall no longer be [any] mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." I encourage you to read Revelation 21:1-27.

Did you know that being old and gray is a privilege? Not everyone gets this opportunity.

Pr 16:31 A gray head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness.

The Hebrew words in this scripture can actually be translated to say, “old age is beautiful”!

Pr 20:29 The glory of young men is their strength, and the honor of old men is their gray hair. (The word ‘honor’ in this verse means magnificence, ornament or splendor – beauty) Consider. The one thing that comes with age is experience. An older person has the blessing of looking back and seeing God’s faithfulness in their life.

Just as God showed His love and faithfulness to the Jews, God’s children can trust that He will continue to be faithful, “even to old age and even in graying years”.

Isa 46:4 Even to your old age, I shall be the same, and even to your graying years I shall bear you! I have done it, and I shall carry you; and I shall bear you, and I shall deliver you.

Job 12:12 "Wisdom is with aged men, with long life is understanding.

We do need to be careful. Old age is not to be held above those who are younger. There are many young individuals who are wise and have understanding. Both youth and age have advantages and we can all learn from and help one another.

Perhaps the encouragement that can be taken is that even in old age, you have many things to offer. If God has planned for your life to reach well into the eighties and nineties and even beyond, you can be sure He has a reason for it. Consider it an honor that He still is working through your life for the sake of His glory!

In the book of Titus, there is a list of characteristics for older men and older women. (Titus 2:2-3)

Older men are to be:

temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love and perseverance.

Older women are to be:

reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, not enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good.

When we are tempted to wonder about our usefulness or our purpose, especially as we get older, the above lists give a clear directive of what we are to be about doing.

In the book of Hebrews, we read about Jacob as he was dying. According to Genesis 47:28, he was 147 years old.

Heb 11:21 By faith Jacob, as he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.

We are given a picture of an old man, feeble and weak. As he leaned on his cane, he blessed his grandchildren. Most important to note is Jacob’s worship of God. One of the commentaries I read says,

“Nothing was more natural than that the old man should lean reverently forward, and incline his head upon the top of his staff, and adore the covenant faithfulness of his God.” (Albert Barnes NT Commentary)

Jacob expressed his gratitude towards God. He had the assurance that God would fulfill His promises. Jacob was weak in his body but remained strong and hopeful in his faith. God was his strong refuge.

The assurance that God is your strong refuge, your hope, your confidence and your strength will lead you to praise and worship of Him for His promises. Sometimes, it is easier to complain than to think of what is good. When you realize that your very breath comes from God, and that He has your life planned for His glory, there is much to be thankful for. The next verse in Psalm 71, verse 8, says “My mouth is filled with Thy praise, and with Thy glory all day long”.

Let’s recognize a few key things in this scripture. First, the words, ‘my mouth is filled’. Specifically, the Psalmist’s speech is filled or confirms God’s glory, honor and majesty. And notice this is not a one-time thing. It is continual – all day long. Perpetually. David remains in the place of offering God praises continuously. As you look back at God’s faithfulness in your own life and ‘marvel’ at His guidance and protection, does praise for who He is and what He has done fill your mouth?

Consider how this attitude might be an encouragement to those around you! Having an attitude of praise to God in all circumstances is an incredible tool in encouraging someone else. Just a smile and friendly hello or sincere question of concern can lighten someone’s day.

Read what this commentary (Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman) says about Ps 71:8, “And that I shall still have abundant cause to praise without ceasing thy most magnificent goodness towards me”.

Ps 35:28 And my tongue shall declare Thy righteousness [And] Thy praise all day long.

Ps 146:2 I will praise the LORD while I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.

Our hearts should be filled with gratitude because of God’s goodness to us. His faithfulness to His children produces an assurance of His love and protection for all of their life. The recognition of this truth can then lead us to know that even into old age, God will not forsake His children. He will not abandon us just as He did not abandon Jacob. Look at Psalm 71:9.

David, our Psalmist, calls to God for His help just as he did when he was young. He requests of God to continue to use him even in his older age and weakness. God does not discard us when we become old. He will continue to give His strength to His children. Our bodies may become weak, but our souls remain strong in Christ.

Ps 71:18 And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Thy strength to this generation, Thy power to all who are to come.

Ps 92:13-15 Planted in the house of the LORD, They will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still yield fruit in old age; they shall be full of sap and very green, to declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

Isa 46:4 Even to your old age, I shall be the same, and even to your graying years I shall bear you! I have done it, and I shall carry you; and I shall bear you, and I shall deliver you.

Ps 73:26 My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Charles Spurgeon, in his ‘Treasury of David’, says this, “Old age robs us of personal beauty, and deprives us of strength for active service; but it does not lower us in the love and favour of God”.

If you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior then you have seen Him work throughout your life for His glory. His blessings abound and will continue to do so even through your aged years and weakness. We can all have this hope in Christ and continue to be used by Him if we trust in His work on the cross. It’s never too late to come to an understanding of who Jesus is and recognize your need for His grace.

John Wesley wrote the following on his 86th birthday. “This day I enter on my eighty-sixth year. I now find I grow old:

(1) My sight is decayed, so that I cannot read a small print, unless in a strong light.

(2) My strength is decayed, so that I walk much slower than I did some years since.

(3) My memory of names, whether of persons, or places, is decayed, till I stop a little to recollect them.

What I should be afraid of, is, if I took thought for the morrow, that my body should weigh down my mind, and create either stubbornness, by the decrease of my understanding, or peevishness, by the increase of bodily infirmities; But Thou shalt answer for me, O Lord my God.”

Whether you feel as if you lived with the dinosaurs or even perhaps think you look like you may have lived in the prehistoric time, the blessing of God’s favor and presence is available to each of His children at any age. There is no need to fear getting old if your faith is placed in the one true Eternal God of the Bible. Old age is a crown of glory and a blessing.

2Co 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.

Happy New Year!

God will change your thinking and enlighten your understanding if you are desiring. Why? Because He is merciful. He will give you discernment of the things which are good and acceptable and complete in His will.

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Happy New Year! Resolutions abound. If you haven’t made a New Year’s resolution or need ideas, just open your phone or any social media and you’ll find several suggestions. I’m not big on making a statement of fact that I will do something different or accomplish a specific task simply because I know there is a good chance I will fail. It’s easy to begin strong and then get distracted or lose heart, then the excuses begin. So, I personally choose to avoid this popular activity of the New Year. However, as I was considering this, I realized perhaps I just need to make a resolution that is within a different realm of thinking. God-centered. God’s will and desire. Success will then be at my fingertips! Because of Him.

Resolved! To know and follow God more fully in the coming year! This resolution is a winner because it’s what God wants for me and is within His will to accomplish.

Jer 9:23-24 Thus says the LORD, "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; 24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things, "declares the LORD.

To boast here means to shine, to celebrate, to praise! Shine for God. Celebrate God. Praise God. For all to see! God has chosen to give you understanding and consideration of who He is. He wants you to know Him!

Php 3:8-11 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ, 9 and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from [the] Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which [comes] from God on the basis of faith, 10 that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 11 in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Consider. All things in your life should be unimportant when compared to the superiority of knowing Jesus. What floats your boat? Is it sitting at His feet trying to understand Him, the miraculous gift and power of His resurrection, being able to share in whatever hardships He allows for the sake of knowing and understanding Him more? Wow! This is the example we’ve been given. This is what God wants for His children! Our hearts should be breaking out into a chorus of Halleluiah’s right about now to be considered worthy of His fellowship.

Halleluiah indeed!

Ro 12:1-2 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Joh 17:3 "And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent.

know <ginosko> allow, be aware of, feel, have knowledge, perceived, be resolved, can speak, be sure, understand.

Resolved! In my direction and purpose determined to know my Lord and Savior, the only true God.

Jer 29:13 'And you will seek Me and find [Me,] when you search for Me with all your heart.

Only by His grace and mercy. Because it is what He wants for me! He will see to completion my resolution to seek Him.

Pr 8:17 "I love those who love me; and those who diligently seek me will find me.

It is a Happy New Year! Amen. Halleluiah. Praise God!

Out of Control…

Things happen! Difficult things happen! Unfair things happen! Tragic things happen! Where do you go for understanding, for comfort? How do you respond to those unexpected tragedies?

OUT OF CONTROL…

In 2008, Natalie Grant released the song In Christ Alone. Read the words to the first line below.

In Christ alone my hope is found, He is my light, my strength, my song.

Things happen! Difficult things happen! Unfair things happen! Tragic things happen! Where do you go for understanding, for comfort? How do you respond to those unexpected tragedies? Is there truth to be considered in the lyrics written above?

Consider. Hope placed in any resource, except that of the promises of God, is at best fleeting. Temporary comfort, brief periods of peace, momentary relief, and abbreviated times without stress, can be found. Religion or religious entities offer some answers. But, following a religious beliefs and customs, adhering to standards written by men, practicing rituals in order to attain peace are all things WE do. Consider. If we had the power within ourselves to bring about true lasting peace in all circumstances, why did God send His Son to die on the cross? In Christ Alone…

1Pe 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

2Co 1:3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort;

A living hope. Living. Something that endures. Something active. Something in existence. Not dead. Not extinct.

In Christ alone my hope is found. Truth – when we take ourselves out of the equation. Dependence on me, on myself, in doing anything other than relying upon God’s promises, offers only temporary hope. Devastation and unforeseen tragedy will kill all hope found in anything but Christ.

Ex 15:2 "The LORD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation; This is my God, and I will praise Him; My father's God, and I will extol Him.

He is my light, my strength, my song.

God created light. Ge 1:3-5 Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. And God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day.

God gives light. He gives us understanding. Ps 119:105 Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path. Ps 119:130 The unfolding of Thy words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.

Christ is our strength. 1Ch 16:11 Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face continually.

How is Christ our strength? He is our force, our security, our majesty, our praise, our boldness, our power. Ps 29:11 The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace. Ps 37:39 But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble.

The Lord is my song. My reason for praise.

Ps 103:1-5 (A Psalm of David.) Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities; Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit; Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.

Ps 34:1-6 (A Psalm of David when he feigned madness before Abimelech, who drove him) (away and he departed.) I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear it and rejoice. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the LORD, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed. This poor man cried and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.

“This Cornerstone, this solid ground, firm through the fiercest drought and storm. What heights of love, what depths of peace, when fears are stilled, when strivings cease. My Comforter, my All in All, here in the love of Christ I stand.” 2008, Natalie Grant

Always out of our control… NEVER OUT OF GOD’S CONTROL

Hope found in Christ gives us light in the darkness, strength when we’re weak and reason to praise at all times!

Make Lemonade

You know how you suggest to others different Bible verses to help with whatever circumstances they are facing? Usually, those scriptures stick in our mind because they have been instrumental in our own lives.

One of my favorite sections of scripture is familiar to most believers. It begins in Philippians Chapter 4 verse 6. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. To be anxious means to be disquieted, to be worried or nervous or uneasy. We are commanded to not be troubled by anything at all! Easier said than done, right? Instead of being worried we are to earnestly pray, presenting our requests to God. The result promised, when this is done, is peace – the opposite of a disquieted spirit – a quiet, restful, serenity of mind. These two verses go on to say that we cannot even begin to understand how peace can enter into our troubled hearts but, when we obey and act according to God’s word, it does and the result is a heart and mind that is protected in Christ Jesus.

The first time I truly studied this scripture in a pen-to-the-paper practical mode, I was in California and my son and his wife lived across the country. My young daughter-in-law was found to have an extremely large tumor which would require immediate and extensive surgery, followed by a long recovery and the question of whether pregnancy would ever be possible. It’s in those times especially that you feel the distance of miles that separate you from loved ones. I was unable to sleep and was beginning to feel a bit overwhelmed by circumstances. It’s so cool how God uses His word to direct us to the place He wants us. I was led to Philippians 4 and when I carefully read verse eight, God showed me clearly there was a very practical exercise that would direct my thoughts to a place of rest. This was the first time I took out my notebook and physically wrote a list according to the categories in Phil 4:8: (I’ve done this several times since.)

“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.”

After completing my list of all that was absolute truth, the facts; all that was honest and honorable; all that was just and pure and acceptable; and so forth, in connection with my son and his wife and the challenge they were facing, I had so much to ponder of God’s grace in their lives that my heart was put at rest once again.

There is a saying: When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. How about adding to that? When life gives you lemons, make lemonade and dwell on God’s Truth – then you will be refreshed both inside and out! Dwelling on Truth – an incredible, practical remedy for discouragement. Sometimes life can seem overwhelmingly complicated, confusing, unfair and downright depressing.

Have you been in a place where you’ve almost had to physically will yourself to remain hopeful and joyful in the things that were true and honest and good so that the things that were unfair and dishonest and bad were unable to find a dwelling place in your heart? God understands and He offers His Divine direction.

Once again, in Philippians 4:9, God promises his peace with us as we seek to follow Him.

Php 4:9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you.

When tears are at the surface, when the words don’t come, when you are tired and feel like giving up, or you don’t know which way to turn, focus heavenward. God’s prescription for healing has already been written.

Tag: praise

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