Truth 101 Class

  Psalm 57 is one of the "cave psalms," along with Psalm 142, in which David is hiding in a cave as he is fleeing from Saul (1 Samuel 22:1).  Yet, even as his life is in danger, he knows that God will protect and fulfill His purposes.  So, he sings out in praise to God, likely longing for his harp and lyre, as he exalts God above the heavens and His glory over all the earth. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1: How might starting our prayers to God with the repeated phrase, " be merciful to me " affect our prayerful attitudes? God may not stop the storms in our lives, but He protects us under "the shadow of [His] wings" until they pass by.  How does this perspective help us as we face storms? Verse 2 In what ways has God "fulfilled His purpose for me" through the storms I have experienced? [NOTE: Philippians 1:6 says "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in ...

  The background to Psalm 56 includes the circumstances recorded in 1 Samuel 21:10-15, when David is captured by the Philistines in Gath.  David cries out to God in the midst of his fears due to the constant attacks from his many enemies. With the assurance that God is for him and knows all that he is going through, David repeats his trust in God in the choruses of this Psalm.  He closes with the declaration that God's deliverance enables him to walk rightly in His presence and light.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 David repeats the phrase "all day long."  What does this, along with phrases he uses such as "trample on me," "oppress me," or "attack me," show about what he is going through? Verses 3-4 When we feel afraid and constantly "trampled on,"  what can we do? Verses 5-7 What does verse 7 tell us about the fate of the wicked?  Why should we think abou...

  In Psalm 55, David cries out to God as his life is in danger because of wicked enemies.  His situation is so overwhelming that he even longs to escape by flying far way with wings like a dove.  To add to the pain, his troubles are being caused by someone who was formerly a familiar friend.  Because of the resulting violence, strife, oppression and fraud he sees around him in the city, David calls for God's judgment and justice upon the wicked.  In contrast, the righteous can cast their burden upon the LORD and trust in Him! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 David cries out to God in the midst of restlessness, trouble, anguish, terrors of death, fear, and overwhelming horror.  What situations in my life have caused me to go through similar experiences? Verses 6-8 When are times that I have also longed to fly far away to find shelter from raging tempests? Verses 9-11 Take time now to ...

  Psalm 54 The background to Psalm 54 is narrated in 1 Samuel 23:19-24 with the Ziphites revealing David's hiding place during the time when David was fleeing from Saul.  David prays to God for deliverance and vindication and is assured that God will help and sustain him.  Thus, he offers sacrifices of thanksgiving to the LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 How does God's name and power give me assurance in times of trouble? The Ziphites are actually from the tribe of Judah, which is the same as that of David; but, because of their actions, they are like "strangers" and "ruthless men" instead.  When are times in which we have felt betrayed by those close to us? Verse 4 During times of betrayal by others, how might God be our helper and sustainer? Verses 5-7 How should I respond when God delivers me from my troubles?  Have I done this? If you would like to meditate on this psalm thr...

  Psalm 53 is almost identical to Psalm 14 lamenting the depravity of man.  There are a few differences, such as with the addition of "ACCORDING TO MAHALATH. A MASKIL" in the Psalm 53 title; more of a reference to God as Elohim in Psalm 53 as consistent with Book II, instead of Yahweh or LORD in Psalm 14 as consistent with Book I; and an emphasis in verse 53:5 on what happens to the wicked in contrast to 14:4-6 on God's care for the poor.  However, the repetitions in the two psalms remind us that even though man has rejected God, He still provides a way for restoration and salvation through Jesus Christ. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 These verses are quoted in Romans 3:10-12.  What does the unrighteousness of man show about the righteousness of God? Knowing that when "God looks down from heaven" (v.2) and finds that "there is none who does good, not even one" (v.3), but seein...

  The terrible events behind Psalm 52 are recorded in 1 Samuel 21-22, where Doeg the Edomite brought an evil report to Saul of David's presence among the priests at Nob, resulting in their massacre.  This psalm describes the destruction and uprooting of the wicked through judgment, contrasted with the longevity and blessing of the righteous who is like an olive tree.  The psalm closes with praise to God and hope in him forever. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 The evils words of Doeg resulted in the massacre of innocent priests.  What do these verses warn me about the "tongue" of the wicked? Verse 5-7 What is God's judgment for the wicked who trust in their riches? What is our response when we see God's justice?  (NOTE:  In light of Scripture passages like Proverbs 24:17, "Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles," the laughter in verse...

  Psalm 51 may be the most familiar of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143).  David wrote this when confronted by the prophet Nathan for his adultery with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:1-12:25).  He confesses and repents of his sins, appealing to God's mercy, lovingkindness, and compassion for cleansing and restoration.  Then, in gratitude for anticipated forgiveness, he plans to teach other sinners and to declare God's praises.  In his closing, he appeals for God's favor on Jerusalem. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-12 Throughout these verses, David uses three words for sin:  transgression (crossing a boundary), iniquity (twisted or perverted), and sin (missing the mark).  What do these words show me about sin? David takes responsibility for his sin, sees his brokenness, and recognizes his sinful nature since birth.  What sins in my life do I need to confess?...

  Psalm 50 is the first of the psalms of Asaph.  Asaph and his sons were worship leaders at the time of David (1 Chronicles 25:1).  The beginning of the psalm sets the stage for God's judgment of His people.  They have offered sacrifices that are not acceptable.  There are even some among the people of God who have lived in wicked disobedience.  In the closing, what God really desires are sacrifices of thanksgiving and righteous living. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 There are seven different names of God used throughout the Psalm, three of them in verse 1 (Mighty One, God, LORD).  The others are Judge (v. 6),  Most High (v. 14), I AM (v. 21), and Eloah which is a rare reference to God (v. 22).  When God is about to judge His people, what is the significance of referencing so many different names of God? When Israel was about to enter the Promised Land, they renewed ...

  Psalm 49 provides wisdom regarding material wealth in light of the eternal perspective.  This psalm is addressed to "all peoples ... both low and high, rich and poor."  No one escapes death, not even the rich who will be unable to take their wealth with them.  While no man is able to pay the priceless ransom for life, the psalmist is confident that God will redeem his soul. We now know that this has been fulfilled through Christ our Redeemer! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4: Why is a psalm teaching about material wealth applicable to ALL peoples, including me? Verses 5-20: What fears do I have related to earthly riches? What can I learn from the wisdom provided in these verses on the biblical perspective of material wealth in light of eternity? The psalmist was confident that God would ransom his soul from the power of the grave and will receive him eternally.  Now that we have an even...

  Psalm 48 praises God in Zion, "the city of the great King."  The citizens of Jerusalem have seen and heard of God's protection against the enemies.  Even the neighboring towns praise Him for His judgments and righteous right hand.  Though Zion has towers, ramparts, and citadels, it is really God who protects and guides His people forever. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 These verses praise God for His protective presence of His people.  In what ways has God protected me? Verses 4-8 The citizens are assured that God will keep their city safe forever because they have seen and heard of God's protection against enemies [NOTE:  Ships of Tarshish were known to be strong ships that could sail long distances ].  How does God's past faithfulness give me assurance for the present and my future? Verses 9-14 It is through God's people that His praises will reach the "ends of the earth...

  Psalm 47 is an invitation to " all peoples" to praise God, because He is King "over all the earth."  It is not a psalm of quiet meditation and prayer.  It is an exuberant celebration of our awesome God and King, with clapping of hands, shouting with "loud songs of joy," and trumpet sounds!  "God sits on His holy throne" and "reigns over all the nations!"  He is worthy of all praise and worship!  Amen!  Amen! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 When gathered with the people of God, what effect does it have to clap, shout with joy, and sing praises loudly together? Verses 2-4 Why is God worthy of our worship? " Selah " pauses the song after verse 4, which recognizes God's sovereign choice and His love.  Take time now to pause and reflect on God choosing us and loving us. Verses 5-9 C.H. Spurgeon says of verse 5, "The words are fully applicable to th...

  Psalm 46 proclaims security in God's protection and help.  " Alamoth " in the title may refer to the sound of high-pitched instruments or voices as referenced in 1 Chronicles 15:20.  This song is structured in three parts ending with " Selah " and having verses 7 and 11 as refrains.  The words of the song declare that God is greater than all that could happen in nature (such as roaring waters or quaking mountains) or among nations (such as wars or upheaval).  In the midst of all this, God's voice breaks through, saying "Be still, and know that I am God."  Amen! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 What does it mean for God to be my "refuge," "strength," and "very present help in trouble"? How does this help me not to fear?  (Note that verse 2 begins with "Therefore") Verses 4-6 The "river ... streams ... in the city of God" (v....

  Psalm 45 is a royal wedding song that would have been applicable to any king in the line of David.  The psalmist begins with a preface and ends with a closing filled with joy and celebration.  Verses 2-9 describe the bridegroom, the king, while verses 10-16 address the bride.  Hebrews 1:8-9 quote Psalm 45:6-7, in reference to Jesus.  This reminds us that various Scriptures point to the future wedding feast of the Lamb and that the church is to be the Bride of Christ. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 How might my tongue be "like the pen of a ready scribe" expressing the joy in my heart for my King? Verses 2-9 What are the noteworthy characteristics and blessings of the king highlighted in these verses?  Verses 10-16 What are the beautiful characteristics and anticipated future blessings of the bride highlighted in these verses?   Verse 17 Based on the Hebrews 1 passage, we kn...

  Psalm 44 is a corporate lament over defeat that the people of Israel have suffered at the hands of the enemy.  Verses 1-8 recount how God gave them victory in the past.  However verses 9-22 voice confusion over the present defeat.  Then, verses 23-26 close with a plea for God's deliverance.  This psalm reminds us that when facing present difficulties, it is good to remember God's faithfulness in the past and cling to the hope of God's promises for the future. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-8 As God's deliverance is recounted, verse 8 summarizes this section with boasting in God and giving thanks to His name forever.  What are some of the great things that God has done in my life for which I can give thanks? Verses 9-22 Confusion is reflected in these verses due to defeat and disgrace despite being faithful to the covenant.  What are some trials that we have faced, even though ...

  Psalm 43 is like the last stanza of the song begun in Psalm 42, since it has the same refrain and no subtitle. In verses 1 & 2, the psalmist prays to God about his external and internal struggles, however, by verses 3 & 4, he is able to turn his focus to God's light, truth, and joy.  The refrain closes with hope for the future despite present circumstances. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 Using court language with words like "vindicate" and "defend," the psalmist sees God as both Judge and Advocate.  How is this perspective useful when I am faced with attacks from others? Verse 2 Like the psalmist, there are times when we might ask God "Why?"  What are some of "Why?" questions to which I am currently seeking answers? Verses 3-4 In what ways can God's "light" and "truth" lead and guide me? Verse 5 We can see a spiritual progression from t...

  Psalm 42 is the beginning of Book 2 of the Psalms.  While in Book 1, David most often referred to God as Yahweh or LORD, Book 2 more often refers to God as Elohim .  The subtitle of this psalm is a reminder of God's grace and restoration that the Sons of Korah became worship leaders, despite Korah's rebellion in Numbers 16.  This psalm records the cries of a discouraged soul, longing to worship at the house of God while enemies taunt him asking "Where is your God?" The refrain in verses 5 and 11 summarizes that when our souls are downcast or in turmoil, we can " HOPE in God" and look forward to praising Him again! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What analogies can be made between a thirsty deer needing water and my soul going through a spiritual drought? Verse 3-4 When we feel far away from God's presence or the world is taunting us about God, why is it helpful to remember wo...

  Psalm 41 is the last psalm in Book 1 of the Psalms.  Verse 1 starts with " Blessed " just as Psalm 1:1 does at the beginning of Book 1.  Here, the righteous are those who "consider the poor."  Blessings to the righteous include the LORD's deliverance, protection, sustenance, and restoration.  The psalmist also prays for God's grace and healing as he faces his sins and his enemies.  In John 13:18 Jesus quoted Psalm 40:9, referring to Judas as the one who will inflict a painful wound through the betrayal of friendship.  This psalm and Book 1 closes with a doxology to offer grateful blessings to the LORD forever.  Amen and Amen! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 The "poor" in verse 1 do not just refer to those who are in economic poverty but can more broadly include those in any need, whether physical or spiritual. In what ways can I fulfill the command to love my neighbor by...

  In Psalm 40, David begins by giving thanks and praising God for His innumerable "wondrous deeds," which include hearing his prayers and delivering him from the pit.  Psalm 40:6-8 is quoted in Hebrews 10:5-7, referring to Christ's sacrifice once for all.  We are to praise God and share the good news of deliverance, so that "many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD" (vs 3b)  and all who seek the LORD will rejoice and be glad, saying continually "Great is the LORD!" (vs 16). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 What can help me to be more PATIENT when waiting for the LORD to answer my prayers? How might the image in verse 2 of being lifted from the pit and muddy clay to be set on solid rock give me encouragement when I feel like I have fallen into a pit or am floundering? In verse 3, what are some benefits of taking time to give praise to God for every "new"...

  Psalm 39 is written by David for the Chief Musician.  Jeduthun, in the subtitle, was a Levite as seen in 1 Chronicles 9:16 and was likely a worship leader.  In this psalm, David vows to be silent through what he is suffering.  Yet when he could no longer stay silent, he cries out in prayer to the LORD.  He asks for perspective in light of how fleeting life is, and through his reflections, he recognizes that his hope should really be in the eternal God.  He sees that his suffering is due to the LORD's discipline and rebuke for sin.  Since this world is not his home, his closing prayer is that his relationship with God will be restored before he departs from this world for his home in heaven. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 As he was going through suffering, David was afraid he might say something he shouldn't; so, he chose not to say anything at all, bad or good.  Why is ...

  Psalm 38 is another one of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143).  David is in agony as he is convicted by his own sin and senses God's displeasure.  Sin has devastating effects in every aspect of life (e.g., spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, and relational).  The closing prayer is that the LORD will not forsake, but will instead save and deliver.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What should be my perspective of sins in my life, especially when I recognize God's righteous anger against sin and His displeasure? Verses 3-20 What devastating effects can sin have in my life? The psalmist refers to God as "LORD" ( Yahweh - covenant LORD), "Lord" ( Adonai - Master), and "God" ( Elohim - mighty God) (e.g., in verses 15 and 21-22).  When dealing with our sins, why is it beneficial to consider the characteristics of God emphasized by these various references?...

  Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm, carrying the theme of the righteous versus the wicked.  It is generally arranged in an acrostic using the letters of the Hebrew alphabet at the beginning of each sentence.  King David is older as he writes this psalm (vs 25), and he uses proverbs to teach wisdom based on his observations and experiences.  Rather than fret or be envious because of evildoers, the righteous can trust in the LORD, delight in the LORD, commit their way to the LORD, and be still before the LORD.  Ultimately, the wicked will be cut off and perish, but the LORD is a refuge and stronghold for the righteous in time of trouble. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 To fret is to worry, become vexed, or get all worked up.  Why do I NOT need to fret or be envious? Verses 3-7 Rather than worry or envy, what do these verses say I should do instead? As I am trusting in the LORD (vs 3), what ...

  Psalm 36 carries the common theme in Wisdom literature of the contrast between wickedness and righteousness.  At the center of the psalm is a focus on the steadfast love of the LORD that "extends to the heavens" and is immeasurable.  God's love, faithfulness, righteousness, and justice affects all creation.  He provides protection and abundant blessing; for He is the "fountain of life" and the light.  The psalm closes in prayer in response to the lovingkindness of God contrasted with the wickedness of man. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 What do these verses tell us about the sinful nature of man?  (For example, verse 4 says that the wicked person "plots trouble while on his bed," indicating that they are continually plotting evil, not resting even when it is time to sleep) The Apostle Paul quotes Psalm 36:1b in Romans 3:18 as he describes the depravity of mankind, leading to...

  Psalm 35 is one of the Imprecatory Psalms (7, 35, 55, 58, 59, 69, 79, 109, 137, 139), praying for God's judgment and justice.  The psalm begins with David asking God to be his advocate against accusers and to be his deliverer against attacks from enemies.  Judgment against the wicked is a common theme in wisdom literature, reminding us of God's ultimate justice.  Our appropriate response is to rejoice and to praise the LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 In verse 1, contend , plead , argue or strive are legal terms.  What does it mean for me that Jesus is my Advocate against Satan the Accuser in a court where God is Judge? These verses pray for God not only to defend (i.e. " take hold of shield and buckler ") but also to take the offensive (i.e. " draw the spear and javelin ").  What battles am I fighting in which I need to remember that I don't have to fight them alone? Ve...

  Psalm 34 is also an acrostic, similar to Psalm 25, with each verse beginning with a letter in the Hebrew alphabet. The historical background of this psalm is narrated in 1 Samuel 21:10-15, when David pretended to be insane in order to escape from Abimelech at Gath.  In this psalm, David praises God, particularly for His deliverance.  We are encouraged to "taste and see that the LORD is good" (vs 8). Also consistent with wisdom literature, we are to fear the LORD and the live the life of the righteous, in contrast to the wicked. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 What do these verses show me about praising, boasting in, magnifying, and exalting the LORD? (e.g. take into consideration the words like "continually," "humble," and "together") Verses 4-7 What do these verses show me about the LORD when I am facing troubles? These verses use various pronouns (e.g., I, me, their, ...

  Psalm 33 is a call to give praise and thanksgiving to the LORD.  Reasons to praise Him include His character, His power as Creator, His plans, and His watchful eye.  May the trust and hope of every generation be upon the LORD, as we "sing to Him a new song!" Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3: When we sing a "new song" to the LORD, it is not so much that the song is new, but that we continually have new reasons for singing praise to Him!  What do I praise God for today? Verses 4-19: Why does the righteousness and truth of God's character and His word inspire praise? (vs. 4-5) Why is the Creator worthy of awe?  (vs. 6-9) Why does knowing that God's plans endure forever bring blessing? (vs 10-12) Why is it praiseworthy that God sees all and watches over those who fear Him? Verses 20-22: Because God is so worthy of praise and thanksgiving, how should we respond? If you would like to medi...

  Psalm 32 is another one of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143).  David begins by acknowledging that blessed are those whose transgressions, sins, and iniquities are forgiven, covered, and not counted.  He recounts physically wasting away until he has confessed his transgressions and received forgiveness.  We are assured that God is our hiding place, protector, and deliverer, so that we should not be like a stubborn horse or mule that needs curbing.  This psalm closes with a reminder of the contrast between the wicked and the righteous; in that while the wicked are full of sorrows, the righteous can be glad in the LORD, rejoice, and shout for joy! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 Three common words for sin used in verses 1-2 & 5 are transgression (i.e. rebellion or crossing a line), sin (i.e. failure or falling short of God's will), and iniquity (i.e. crooked or per...

  " Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, 'Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!' And having said this he breathed his last ." (Luke 23:46).  Psalm 31:5 includes Christ's last words on the cross.  However, Psalm 31 may also apply to anyone who has ever felt abandoned, alone, attacked, or physically wasting away with grief.  Prayers expressing trust (vv. 1-8 and 14-18) surround the central prayer of distress over the death schemes of the enemies (vv. 9-13). Then, the psalm closes with blessings offered to the LORD, who hears the cries of faithful ones who wait for Him (vv. 19-24). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 How does God's "righteousness deliver me" from shame? In what ways has the LORD been a "rock of refuge" and "strong fortress" for me? Verse 5 Take time in prayer, to surrender all to the LORD and to give thanks for redemption throug...

  Whether David wrote Psalm 30 to dedicate his own palace dwelling (2 Samuel 5:11-12), the tabernacle when he brought the ark of the LORD back to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:17), or the temple yet to be built (1 Chronicles 21:1-22:6); this psalm begins and ends with praise.  However, it also includes many contrasts, such as pit vs life, moment vs lifetime, weeping vs joy, night vs morning, prosperity vs favor, mourning vs dancing, and sackcloth vs gladness.  These reflect the HOPE of the truth found in Scripture that " this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison " (2 Corinthians 4:17). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 Just as God has delivered David from physical death, He has lifted us up from spiritual death.  Give God praise for His help, healing, and restoration. Verses 4-5 These verses encourage all the saints to join in singing praise an...

  This psalm is a call to give glory and worship to the Almighty God of all creation.  Using the imagery of a thunderstorm that sweeps through the region, the psalmist describes the strong and powerful "voice of the LORD."  We are reminded that even in the never before and never again seen power of the Flood, God still "sits enthroned," just as He will do so "forever."  This same all-powerful God is the One who gives His people strength, and blesses us with Shalom!  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 These two verses are likely addressed to the angels or heavenly beings; but because the LORD is worthy of all worship,  take time now to to "ascribe to the LORD the glory [and worship] due His name!" Verses 3-9 Reflect on the "voice of the LORD" in creation, revelation, and nature.  What have we learned about God through His "voice"? What effect does it have ...

  As David begins Psalm 28, he is once again in a dark place.  In other psalms, he has talked about God's hiddenness; and here, he feels God's silence, as he asks God not to be deaf to his prayers. Maybe David felt this way because he was weighed down by his own sin.  We see that he pleas for mercy, contemplates the actions and fate of the wicked, and talks about not wanting to "go down to the pit" nor to be dragged "off with the wicked."   However, toward the end of this prayer, David gains perspective, and recognizes that the LORD indeed hears and answers.  So David is able to close in praise and thanksgiving, for God is his strength, shield, refuge, and shepherd. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 Whenever I have felt like God is silent and not answering my prayers, what might be some of the reasons I felt that way, in spite of the truth that God does hear and answer? Just as David ...

  In Psalm 27, David is unafraid, because of his confidence in the LORD; and especially in God's protection from all his enemies.  The greatest place of security and shelter is in the presence of the LORD.  David seeks "to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD" (vs. 4), to see His face (vs 8), and to walk in His ways (vs 11).  Because of the "goodness of the LORD" (vs 13), the people of God are encouraged to "wait for the LORD" (vs 14), and to be strong and courageous. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 What are my fears?   How does knowing that the LORD is my light, my salvation, and the stronghold of my life, help me not to be afraid? Verses 2-3 When I consider the troubles that encamp around me, what can help give me confidence in the LORD? Verses 4-10 Take time in prayer and quiet reflection to seek God's face, "to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD," and to rejoice that H...

  In Psalm 26, David asks God to vindicate him, and to examine, prove, and test his integrity.  His confidence is in the redemption and grace of God (v. 11), through the cleansing at the altar (v. 6), which ultimately points to the shed blood of the Lamb of God.  The theme from Psalm 1, of the righteous contrasted with the wicked, is seen throughout this psalm.  Also, similar to Psalms 15 and 25, David reflects on entering the presence of the LORD (v. 8).  Overall, similar to Psalm 7, David appeals to God as Judge; and his trust in the LORD enables him to "stand on level ground" (v. 12) without slipping or wavering (v. 1). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 Take time for self-examination and self-reflection, to see if there are areas in which I may not have "walked in my integrity" nor in God's truth and faithfulness. When you are ready, pray for God's vindication, examination, testing,...

  Psalm 25 is an acrostic, with each verse beginning with a letter in the Hebrew alphabet, generally in order.  In this psalm, as C.H. Spurgeon says, we see the very heart of "the man after God's own heart," lifting up his soul in trust to the LORD, and pouring out his heart to God in prayer about his enemies, need for guidance, transgressions, repentance, and troubles. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:  Verses 1-3: As "I lift up my soul" to the LORD, what deep parts of my life am I prompted to pray for? Verses 4-5: In what areas of my life do I need the LORD to "teach me [His] paths" and to "lead me in [His] truth"? Verses 6-15: What transgressions do I need to pray for God to forgive or "remember not"?  Or in what temptations do I need to pray for God to "pluck my feet out of the net"? Verses 16-18: Pray for all those who are feeling "lonely and afflicte...

  Psalm 24 declares that the fullness of the earth and everyone who dwells in it belongs to the Creator.  In wonder, the psalmist states that a worshiper who has "clean hands and a pure heart," through righteousness received from the God of his salvation, is given the privilege to enter the LORD's presence and seek His face!  The personifications of the gates and doors opening for the King of glory only add to the grand image of welcoming the victorious King! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2: How should viewing everything as ultimately belonging to the LORD be lived out in my life? The Apostle Paul quotes Psalm 24:1 in 1 Corinthians 10:26, and then says "So, ... whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (vs 10:31).  Thus, what additional insights does the 1 Corinthians 10:23-33 passage provide? Verses 3-6:  Similar to what was asked in Psalm 15, who are those given the privilege of ent...