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Psalm 143

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  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

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  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

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  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 YouTube v

Psalm 140

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  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