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Psalm 117

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  Psalm 117 is part of the Egyptian Hallel series (psalms 113-118). This is the shortest psalm. It is a call for all nations and peoples to praise the LORD for His steadfast love and faithfulness. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 This verse is referenced in Romans 15:8-13. How does the New Testament passage enhance our understanding of Psalm 117:1? Verse 2  Of all God's attributes, why might this psalm of praise emphasize God's covenant love and faithfulness? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following are links to YouTube videos: "Laudate Dominum" (Psalm 117) by Mozart:  Link "Psalm 117 Song Word for Word" by Zac Fitzsimmons:  Link

Psalm 116

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Psalm 116 is part of the Egyptian Hallel series (psalms 113-118). While this praise series corporately celebrates God's deliverance of all Israel from slavery in Egypt, this psalm is also an individual thanksgiving and praise for deliverance of the psalmist's soul from death. Because God has heard his cries, he vows to call upon the name of the LORD for as long as he lives. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-11 The psalmist declares his love for the LORD because of what He has done ( e.g., heard cries and delivered ) and because of who He is ( e.g., gracious, righteous, merciful, etc .).  Why do I love the LORD? Verses 12-19 What can I offer to the LORD for His goodness to me? (For example, consider what it means to " lift up the cup of salvation, " " call on the name of the LORD, " " pay my vows to the LORD ", or " offer...the sacrifice of thanksgiving. ") If you woul

Psalm 115

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  Psalm 115 is part of the Egyptian Hallel series (psalms 113-118), typically sung during the Passover Feast to celebrate deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This psalm may be intended to be sung antiphonally with verses 1-8, 12-13, & 16-18 by the people and verses 9-11 & 14-18 by the priests. All glory is to be given to our sovereign God who is greater than the worthless idols of the world.  God's people can trust Him for His help, protection, and blessings. God is to be praised "from this time forth and forevermore." Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 When might I have sought glory for myself instead of giving all glory to God? Verses 2-3 How can we point those around us to our sovereign heavenly God? Verses 4-8 These verses show that those who worship idols become like them, unable to speak, see, hear, smell, feel, walk, or make a sound. In what ways might the idols in my life get in the way o

Psalm 114

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  Psalm 114 is part of the Egyptian Hallel series (psalms 113-118), typically sung during the Passover Feast to celebrate deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This psalm calls all creation to tremble in reverent fear before the Lord. It is He who parted the Red Sea and the Jordan, shook Mount Sinai, and brought forth water from the rock in the wilderness. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 These verses say that among God's people is where He dwells in holiness (" His sanctuary ") and reigns (" His dominion ").  In what ways am I set apart for God's Kingdom? Verses 3-6 These verses describe the parting of the Red Sea and the Jordan River at the beginning and end of Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, as well as their time at Mount Sinai. What wondrous things has God done in our lives to demonstrate His awesome presence? Verse 7 The psalmist calls all the earth to fear the