Truth 101 Class

  Deuteronomy 6:10-25 warn Israel against forgetting the LORD after they receive the great cities, houses, cisterns, vineyards, and olive trees in the Promised Land - things they did not build, fill, dig, or plant. They are to fear God and keep His commandments. For the Law teaches how to live as God's covenant people, freed from slavery.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 10-12 What achievements or blessings have I received that I should remember as coming from God rather than from my own efforts? Verses 13-19 NOTE:  The story of Israel testing God at Massah is recorded in Exodus 17:1-7. Jesus quoted verses 13 and 16 when He was tempted by Satan in the wilderness (ref. Matthew 4:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13). Unlike Israel, Jesus did not fall into sin and disobedience.  So, how can I learn from Jesus's example when fighting temptation? Verses 20-25 How would I answer if I were asked to explain the meaning of...

  Deuteronomy 6:1-9 contain the shema (or "hear").  Verses 1-3 exhort Israel to fear the LORD and keep His commandments to ensure their well-being and increase in numbers in the Land, according to the covenant promises. Verses 4-5 declare that there is only one true God, and they were to love Him with their whole being.  Verses 6-9 show that wholehearted obedience comes through teaching and keeping God's word in all of life. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-3 Why is fearing God and keeping His commandments key to well-being and receiving God's promises? Verses 4-5 What does it mean for me to love God with all my heart, soul, and might? Verses 6-9 How do I keep God's word in every part of my life? For music inspired by the Shema, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Shema O Israel" by Timeless Hebrew Tunes: Link

  Deuteronomy 5:22-33 recount how God showed His glory and greatness when He gave the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai (ref. Exodus 20:18-21). God desires that His people would fear Him and keep His commandments. By doing so, His people would live well and long in the land they are about to possess. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verse 22 Why is it important to know that God "added nothing more" to the Ten Commandments given in Exodus 20? Verses 23-27 How should I respond when God shows me His glory and greatness? Verses 28-33 Our society offers many ideas for well-being, but what does God say?

  Deuteronomy 5:1-21 begin the review of the Law with the Ten Commandments. In renewing the covenant, this generation was to hear, learn, and follow carefully the statutes and judgments given at Mt. Sinai (ref. Exodus 20:1-17). The first four commandments focus on relationship with God, while the last six address relationships with others. For the command on keeping the Sabbath holy, Exodus 20:11 emphasizes the day of rest as instituted by God at Creation, while Deuteronomy 5:15 adds that it is a reminder of their freedom from slavery. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-6 Though we are saved by grace and are not under the law, why is it still important for us to HEAR, LEARN, and OBEY the law of the LORD? Verses 7-21 How well am I following the Ten Commandments, which Jesus summarized as Loving God and Loving our Neighbors (Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:28-34; Luke 10:25-37)? For music inspired by the Ten Commandments, ...

  Deuteronomy 4:32-49 lead into the main body of Deuteronomy, where the Law is reviewed in chapters 5-28.  The people are reminded that none can compare with the LORD their God.  As a fitting response , they are encouraged to follow God's Law that it may go well with them in the Promised Land.  Moses leads by example, obeying God's command to set apart cities of refuge in the conquered Transjordan region; though the remaining cities of refuge were to be established after taking possession of the Promised Land (ref. Numbers 35:9-34). The same Law that was given to the first generation is now to be reviewed during this pivotal transition into the Promised Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 32-39 In what ways has God also demonstrated to me that there is "no other besides Him"? Verse 40 How should I respond to the honor of being chosen to be in relationship with a loving and awesome God? Verses 41-4...

  Deuteronomy 4:15-31 warn against idolatry, emphasizing that worship should be directed to the Creator rather than what is created. God delivered His people from the "iron furnace" of Egypt to be His treasured possession. However, due to His zeal for righteousness, they will be driven from the land and destroyed if they forget the covenant. Yet, God remains faithful, offering the hope that they will be able to seek the LORD, turn back to Him, and obey His commandments. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 15-24 These verses are filled with warnings against idolatry.  What modern "idols" do I particularly need to watch myself carefully against? Moses's repetition of his inability to enter the Promised Land may indicate disappointment and regret ( ref. 1:37, 3:26-27, 4:21-22, Numbers 20:1-13 ).  What can I learn from the disappointments and regrets of my past actions? Verses 25-28 Based on Israel...

  Deuteronomy 4:1-14 emphasize the importance of obeying God's commands. In the preceding chapters, Moses recounted past events that brought the Israelites to this point.  Now, Moses transitions to exhorting the people to obey and fear God, live in the Promised Land as a testament to their wisdom and understanding under a righteous God, remember His commands, and teach future generations. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-2 In preparation for Israel to "go in and take possession of the land," Moses does not focus on military strategies and tactics of war, but reminds them to obey God's commands.  What does this show me about the primary importance of obeying God? Verses 3-5 The sin and consequences of Baal worship at Beth Peor are recorded in Numbers 25.  What point is taught by recounting this tragic story? Verses 6-8 How are the people of God to be different from those in the world around us? Vers...

  Deuteronomy 3:18-29 recount that even though the Reubenites, Gadites, and Manassites have been given land to possess, they still needed to fight alongside the other tribes in the Promised Land (ref. Numbers 32:6-7). Also, Joshua is given charge and encouragement as the next leader, since Moses is not allowed to enter the Promised Land.  However, Moses is given the opportunity to see the land from the top of Mount Pisgah. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 18-20 How can I support and encourage others in the family of God as they fight their battles? Verses 21-22 In what ways does God fight for me? Verses 23-29 Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land as a consequence of his sin (ref. Deut. 1:37; Num. 20:1-13), but pleads for God to let him "go over and see the good land" (v. 25).  What are some reasons why God might sometimes answer "No" to our prayer requests? Moses mentored Joshua for many ...

  Deuteronomy 3:1-17 recount the defeat of King Og of Bashan. The last few verses describe the allocation of the conquered Transjordan lands to Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.  The victory over Og is also included in Numbers 21:33-35, Deuteronomy 1:4, and Psalm 135:11, while the land allocation is also recorded in Numbers 32. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-11 King Og was a giant (Verse 11 tells us his iron bed was about 13 feet long).  Yet, God told Israel not to fear him in battle.  What are some seemingly "giant" problems in our lives that we do not need to fear, because God can give us victory over them? Verses 12-17 God granted the request of the Reubenites, Gadites, and Manassites to settle in land that was outside of the Promised Land (and is no longer part of Israel today).  What might this show me about my own prayer requests?

  Deuteronomy 2:16-37 continue narrating the Israelites' journey northward.  As with the Edomites and Moabites, they were not to battle the Ammonites (also descendants of Lot).  In contrast, God does give them victory when Sihon the king of Heshbon, with hardened heart, came out against Israel and would not let them pass.  This victory is also included in Numbers 21:21-30, Deuteronomy 1:4, and Psalm 135:11. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 16-23 How would hearing about the Ammonites defeating the Zamzummim and Caphtorim be an encouragement? Verses 24-25 In Genesis 15:16 & 21, God included the land of the Amorites in His Plan told to Abraham.  What do these verses show me about God's Plan? Verses 26-37 God gave complete victory over Sihon and "there was not a city too high" (v. 36).  When are times that I can be assured of victory in my own battles?

  Deuteronomy 2:1-15 recounts the narrative from Numbers 20 toward the end of the 40 year period.  Now that the previous generation has passed, Israel is instructed to move northward through the land of the Edomites and Moabites in preparation for entering the Promised Land.  However, they were not to battle the Edomites or Moabites, who were related descendants of Esau and Lot. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-3 Deuteronomy 1:46 & 2:1 cover about 38 years referred to as "many days."  Now, God instructs them to travel northward in preparation for entering the Promised Land.   What do these verses show me about God's timing? Verses 4-12 How do I determine which battles to fight or avoid?  How has God been with me and provided for me through the "wilderness" experiences in my life (e.g., refer to v.7)? Learning that the Moabites defeated the Emim and the Edomites defeated the Horit...

  Deuteronomy 1:19-46 recounts the story told in Numbers 13-14 when the Israelites refused to go in and take possession the Promised Land because of their fears and unbelief.  Also recorded is the resulting judgment that none except Caleb and Joshua would enter the Land.  When Israel tried to enter after realizing their sin, they were defeated because God was no longer in their midst in battle. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 19-33 How can I overcome fears that prevent me from receiving God's promises or fulfilling His purposes in my life? Verses 34-40 What can God's people learn from the previous generation's failure to follow Him? Verses 41-46 Why is God's presence and timing so important? For music inspired by the story in this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Giants in the Land" by Vision Worship:  Link

  Deuteronomy 1:1-18 provides the setting of the Book of Deuteronomy: WHO :  Moses is speaking to all Israel (v. 1). WHERE :  They are in the wilderness of Moab on the east side of the Jordan river across from the Promised Land (vv. 1-2). WHEN :  It is 40 years after their delivery from slavery in Egypt (v. 3). WHAT :  Moses reviews God's commandments and explains the law (vv.3-5). WHY :  They are now once again about to "go in and take possession" of the Promised Land (vv. 6-8).  Verses 9-18 recount their leadership structure ( ref. Exodus 18 and Numbers 11:16-25 ), which is particularly important as Moses will no longer be leading them into the Promised Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-8 The Israelites are being given a second chance to claim the Promised Land, forty years later.  What are some second chances that I am grateful to God for in my life? God gave Israel rela...

  Deuteronomy literally means second law .  This book provides a review of the Law and concludes the Pentateuch (i.e., the first five books of the Bible:  Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy).  It is also a book of transitions with God speaking through Moses to teach His People what He wants them to know, as they transition from 40 years of wandering in the wilderness to finally entering the Promised Land. Moses is now 120 years old.  He has been the leader of the Israelites in the wilderness ever since they were delivered from slavery in Egypt.  However, he will not be entering the Promised Land, so Deuteronomy essentially records his farewell speeches as he transitions leadership to Joshua.  A common outline for the Book of Deuteronomy is structured around three speeches of Moses: I.  Introduction (1:1-5) II. First Speech (1:6-4:43) - Historical Review III. Second Speech (4:44-28:68) - Covenant Stipulations IV. Third Speech (29:...

  The Book of Psalms is a beloved collection of 150 psalms grouped into five books:  Book I (1-41), II (42-72), III (73-89), IV (90-106), and V (107-150).  Some have considered parallels between these and the Pentateuch (i.e., Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy): Book I begins the psalms and introduces the overall theme of wisdom literature that the righteous are blessed but the wicked will receive judgment.  God is typically referred to as the Covenant LORD . Book II focuses on deliverance , particularly God's deliverance of David from his enemies.  God is often referred to as Elohim, Almighty God . Book III includes psalms of community worship and laments.  Many of these psalms are written by Levitical worship leaders such as Asaph or the Sons of Korah. Book IV starts with a psalm of Moses and includes some historical psalms.  Several of these psalms also show the depravity of man. Book V focuses on God's Word (e.g., Psalm 11...

  Psalm 150 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!" This psalm uses the word "praise" thirteen times, which is a fitting way to end the Book of Psalms. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 What do these verses show us about WHERE, WHY, and HOW God should be praised, as well as WHO should praise Him? Now at the end of the Book of Psalms, what do I praise God for the most? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Let Everything that has Breath" by Matt Redman:  Link

  Psalm 149 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  This psalm is likely a victory song of praise from God's People to their King for deliverance but also judgment against their enemies. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 God's people are called to praise Him no matter where we are, together in assembly (v. 1) as well as alone in our beds (v. 5).  What do these verses teach us about praising the LORD? The last part of verse 4 may be translated "crowns the humble with victory," "adorns the afflicted with salvation," "beautifies the meek with salvation," "glorifies the lowly with salvation," or "exalts the oppressed by delivering them."  C.H. Spurgeon says that each "gives a new shade of meaning, well worthy...

  Psalm 148 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  This praise psalm begins and ends with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!" This psalm is a call to all creation in heaven and earth to join in praising our Creator, Sustainer and LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 These verses are a call to "Praise the LORD from the heavens " (v.1).  Why is God worthy of praise? Verses 7-14  These verses are a call to "Praise the LORD f rom the earth " (v. 7).  Why should God's people especially praise Him?  If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "All Creatures of Our God and King" by Sovereign Grace Music:  Link [NOTE:  This hymn was originally written by St. Francis of Assisi with inspiration from Psalm 148 (and Psalm 145) and translated into English ...

  Psalm 147 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  This praise psalm begins and ends with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  It may be postexilic, written after the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem.  God's People are to praise the One who cares, the Almighty Creator, and the LORD who has given us His Word that we might know Him. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 What are some of the reasons why we are to praise the LORD? Verses 7-11 The LORD, who has power over all creation, "is pleased with those who fear Him" (v. 11). How can I live a life that is pleasing to the LORD? Verses 12-20 God's people have been blessed by God like no other (v. 20). What special blessings and privileges have I received from the LORD?  If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube vide...

  Psalm 146 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  This praise psalm begins and ends with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  This psalm also illustrates why we should place our hope in the LORD rather than in mortal men. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What do these verses show me about praise? Verses 3-10 What can I learn through the contrast being made between earthly princes (vv. 3-4) and the God who made heaven and earth (vv.5-10)? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Praise the Lord" (Psalm 146) by Natalie Grant and Laura Story:  Link

  Psalm 145 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145).  This psalm is essentially written in an acrostic in the original language, with each verse beginning with a letter from the Hebrew alphabet.  On the whole, this is a praise psalm exalting God for His greatness, glory, goodness, grace, and giving. Throughout, God's Name is blessed and His wondrous works are proclaimed. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-21 In what ways does this psalm inspire me to extol, bless, and praise God for: Who He Is? What He Has Done? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "How Great" (Psalm 145) by Sovereign Grace Music:  Link

  Psalm 144 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). It is also considered a royal psalm with similarities to Psalm 18 and 2 Samuel 22 in language and praise for God's deliverance.  This psalm closes with prayers for God's blessings to his people.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 In what ways does God train and prepare us for battle, both physical and spiritual? Verses 3-8 How does recognizing our own limitations in contrast to God's power impact our perspective when fighting battles against the Enemy? Verses 9-15 What victories and blessings has God brought to my life? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: Psalm 144 by Ian White:  Link

  Psalm 143 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). It is also a Penitential Psalm (Psalm 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, & 143).  As David prays to the LORD, he recognizes his own unrighteousness.  Yet, he appeals to God's faithfulness, righteousness, and steadfast love for deliverance from his enemies and preservation of his life.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 In these verses, we are reminded that the LORD answers our prayers not because of our own righteousness but because of His faithfulness and righteousness.  How might this reminder affect how we approach God in prayer? Verses 3-6 When we feel crushed, dark, faint, or appalled, how can remembering God's faithfulness be like water fo a thirsty soul? Verses 7-12 There are many prayers in these verses ( e.g., "answer me quickly," "hide not your face," "let me hear," "show me the way," "d...

  Psalm 142 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). This is a cave psalm (like Psalm 57), likely when David was fleeing from Saul and hid in a cave when his life was in danger. Thus, this is a prayer, crying out to the LORD for deliverance. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What are some troubles that drive me to cry out to the LORD? Verses 3-7 When we feel overwhelmed, afraid, and alone, how is God our refuge, portion, deliverer? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 142" by Calvary Westlake:  Link

  Psalm 141 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145).  Prayer is offered to the LORD, likened to incense and the evening sacrifice.  The references to voice (v.1), hands (v.2), mouth/lips (v.3), heart (v.4), head (v.5), and eyes (v.8) indicate that every part of our being are to be included in our worship offerings. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 In what ways might knowing that my prayers can be considered offerings to the LORD change my prayer life? Verses 3-7 The psalmist prayed that God would guard his mouth, heart, and actions.  From what temptations do I need to pray for protection? Why is it better to experience discipline and rebuke from the righteous than to eat the "delicacies" of the wicked? Verses 8-10 How has God protected me and kept me safe against attacks of evildoers? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a ...

  Psalm 140 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). It is a prayer for deliverance from the traps of evil and violent men, as well as for judgment upon them. It closes with trust in the LORD and thanksgiving to Him for justice. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 Verse 3 is quoted in Romans 3:13 to indicate that all have been guilty of poisonous tongues.  In what ways can words be harmful? Verses 4-5 How can we be protected from the traps of the Enemy? Verses 6-8 What can we pray for when faced with poisonous words and evil traps? Verses 9-11 What is the contrast being made between the "head" of the enemies (v.9) versus my "head" (v. 7) in the day of battle? Verses 12-13 What do I "KNOW" about the LORD that gives me confidence in the battles that I face? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "D...

  Psalm 139 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145).  It is also one of the Imprecatory Psalms (7, 35, 55, 58, 59, 69, 79, 109, 137, 139), mainly because of verses 19-22. Since this psalm highlights God's omniscience and omnipresence, it can be comforting for the righteous but dreadful for the wicked. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 How do I feel about God knowing everything about me, including all my thoughts, actions, and words? Verses 7-12 What do these verses teach me about God's presence? Verses 13-16 What is my response to knowing that "I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (v. 14) and that in God's "book were written ... the days that were formed for me" (v. 16)? Verses 17-24 When God searches my heart, what does He find? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Hold Me Fast" (Psa...

  Psalm 138 is part of this last set of psalms attributed to David (138-145).  In the previous psalm those in exile could not sing praise, but this psalm is filled with thanksgiving. The LORD is worshipped for who He is, the words of His mouth, and what He does. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 C.H. Spurgeon says, "We need a broken heart to mourn our own sins, but a whole heart to praise the Lord's perfections."  What helps me to give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart ? Verses 4-6 One day, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).  What are some of the reasons why the Lord is worthy of our worship? Verse 7 This psalm of thanksgiving is offered "in the midst of trouble."  Why am I able to praise God even when facing difficulties? Verse 8 This verse is similar to what is said in Philippians 1:6, "For I am confident of this very ...

  Psalm 137 is one of the Imprecatory Psalms (7, 35, 55, 58, 59, 69, 79, 109, 137, 139). It begins as a lament mourning the time of captivity in Babylon (vv.1-3) but continues into vows to not forget the joys of Zion (vv.4-5).  It then closes with imprecatory prayers for God's judgment and vengeance against the Edomites and Babylonians (vv.7-9). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 As the people of God, what are some losses we mourn and ridicules we face in this world? Verses 4-6 How can I find joy in the midst of trials? Verses 7-9 The Edomites were descendants of Esau and thus relatives of the children of Jacob or Israel.  Yet, they supported the Babylonians instead in the destruction of Jerusalem.  What do these verses teach us about how to pray when faced with betrayal and wickedness? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Ps...

  Psalm 136 is also a "Great Hallel" song of antiphonal praise, giving thanks to God because "his steadfast love endures forever!"  It includes similar themes as Psalm 135 praising God for His wondrous works of creation, deliverance, and provision. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-9 In what ways has the "God of gods" and "Lord of lords" been GOOD? How has God displayed His wondrous works to me? Verses 10-22 In what ways has God delivered me and fulfilled His promises? Verse 16 praises God for His leading through the wilderness.  What wilderness experiences has God led me through? Verses 23-26 In what ways has God remembered me, freed me, and provided for me? The word hesed is multifaceted and can be translated mercy, steadfast love, lovingkindness, or covenant love.  What encouragement does it give us to know that God's hesed "endures forever"? If you would ...

  Many verses in Psalm 135 are similar to other passages of Scripture, such as Psalm 135:15-20 and Psalm 115:4-11. Woven together, Psalm 135 is a "Great Hallel" song, praising the LORD for who He is and what He has done! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 What do we learn about PRAISE from these verses? Verses 5-7 In what ways is the LORD great and thus worthy of praise? Verses 8-14 What are some of the things the LORD has done in my life that are worthy of praise? Verses 15-21 What worthless idols might sometimes pull us away from praising the LORD who is worthy? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Come and Praise" (Psalm 135) by Cardiphonia Music:  Link

  Psalm 134 is the last in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 134 is a psalm of blessing opening with a call to bless the LORD and closing with a priestly blessing. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 These verses are a call to worship.  Take time now to bless the LORD and offer to Him the praise He deserves. Verse 3 Because of the blessings we have received from the Maker of heaven and earth, how can we be a blessing to others?  If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following are links to YouTube videos: "Psalm 134" by ScriptureSongs: Link "Behold Bless Ye the Lord" by Maranatha!:  Link

  Psalm 133 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 133 is a psalm of David. It depicts spiritual (anointing oil) and material (dew of Mt. Hermon) blessings from the LORD when His people dwell in unity. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 What are some examples of blessings when God's people dwell in unity? What can be done to help make peace when faced with disharmony or conflict? What are some of the strengths of unity in diversity within the body of Christ? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Unity" (Psalm 133) by Tom Mottershead: Link

  Psalm 132 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 132 is a prayer for the LORD to remember David's vow to find a dwelling place for Him, which led to bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. It is also a prayer for the LORD to fulfill His covenant with David and bless His anointed. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-9 David vowed to not even sleep until he could find a dwelling place for the LORD and eventually brought the Ark to rest in Zion. Today, Christ dwells in our hearts (Ephesians 3:17) and our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).  What kind of dwelling place am I providing for God in my body and heart? Verses 10-18 What can we look forward to when Christ the Anointed One reigns in Zion, His resting place forever? If you would like to m...

  Psalm 131 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 131 is also a psalm of David.  This psalm encourages God's people to hope in the LORD with a humble heart and quiet soul. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 Why is it important to have a humble heart and quiet soul in God's presence? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 131" by Sons of Korah:  Link

  Psalm 130 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 130 is also one of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143). The psalmist cries out for mercy and forgiveness, waiting in hope for the LORD's redemption. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-8 What do we learn about the LORD's mercy and redemption in these verses? Take time now to pray, in the presence of our Holy God, for forgiveness of iniquities and to give thanks for salvation and hope through Jesus Christ. If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "I Will Wait For You" (Psalm 130) by Shane & Shane:  Link

  Psalm 129 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 129 describes God's deliverance of His People from the wicked.  It also offers an imprecatory prayer that their enemies be put to shame, wither, not be productive, and not receive blessings from the LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 What afflictions has God freed me from by cutting the ropes of the wicked? Verses 5-8 What can happen to the wicked who hate God? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Up From My Youth" (Psalm 129) by Cardiphonia Music:  Link

  Psalm 128 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 128 continues with topics from the previous psalm, with blessings to those who fear the LORD and walk in His ways.  The blessings extend to their families and communities. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 In what ways are those who fear the LORD and walk in His ways blessed? Verses 5-6 How are individual blessings connected to community blessings? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Blessed Are Those Who Fear The Lord" (Psalm 128) by Francesca LaRosa: Link

  Psalm 127 is in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 127 is "Of Solomon" and conveys the wisdom that man's effort apart from the LORD is vain.  This psalm also shows how God blesses His beloved, and particularly their families. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 In what ways are my efforts vain when made apart from the LORD? In contrast, how does God bless the homes, churches, communities, and families of those He loves? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "The Lord Will Fight For Us" (Psalm 127) by Cathedral Church of the Advent:  Link