Psalms 119 - 8.2.23
Scripture
Psalms 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Observation
Psalm 119 is a poem with a repeated theme – meditating/memorizing/delighting in God’s law/word and allowing it to transform us.
Application
As I read this psalm, I began to notice the promise of the many benefits we reap when we take the time to meditate on God’s word and hide it in our hearts.
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law (understanding)
Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors (guidance)
Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart
I gave an account of my ways and you answered me
My soul is weary with sorrow – strengthen me according to your word
For you have broadened my understanding
There I find my delight
Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.
Then I can answer anyone who taunts me
I have put my hope in your laws
I will walk about in freedom
I will not be put to shame
I find comfort in them
Prayer
Thank you for the reminder today of the importance of meditating on and memorizing your word. As we spend time in your word, we are transformed more and more into your image. It is our sword in times of battle, our comfort in times of sorrow/need, our guidance, and our delight.
Verse 59: I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes.
- Debbie Dunn
Psalm 118 - 8.1.23
Scripture:
Psalm 118: 28-29
You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
Observation:
“Psalm 118 does not name an author in its title, but there’s reason to believe it was King David, the sweet Psalmist of Israel.” (enduringword.com)
In verses 5-7, the Psalmist used praise as a way to help him when hard pressed, fearful and being surrounded by enemies. Even when circumstances were not good, he gave thanks for who God was…for His unchanging character. (Check out Pastor Levi’s sermon on “Yahweh” if you missed it: https://youtu.be/KvVwxBJCoUU)
The Psalmist is giving thanks to the Lord for His love and goodness; for being with him, for being his helper, strength, protection, defender and salvation; and for all the mighty things He has done! “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His love endures forever,” opens and closes this Psalm.
Application:
What are some aspects of God’s character that we can be grateful for today? Write them down.
I’ve noticed that when I take time to give thanks to the Lord and write down what I’m thankful for in my journal, it shifts my focus off of myself and the problems of the day. I suddenly feel peace and rest.
No matter what we are facing in life, there’s always a reason to praise the Lord. (Hmm…reminds me of the worship song, “Reason to Praise” https://youtu.be/3vipAKUKcEE)
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I pray that I would give You thanks in ALL circumstances as Your Word says (1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18). Help me to always remember Your love, goodness and character when faced with things outside of my control. Amen.
Here’s an old school worship song based on this Psalm. https://youtu.be/gUH_NzfRmbs
-Michelle Gaddi
Psalm 117 - 7.31.23
Scripture
Psalms 117:1-2 NLT
“Praise the Lord, all you nations. Praise him, all you people of the earth. For his unfailing love for us is powerful; the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. Praise the Lord!”
Observation
This is the shortest written psalm in the Bible. It’s just 2 verses. They are short, and to the point. Yet these verses are impactful. It calls for EVERYONE, (Jewish and Gentiles/Non-Jewish alike), to give their praises to God because of God’s faithfulness and His unfailing love for us.
Application
Start your day off right by giving God your praise. After all, He deserves it!
I like to start off my prayer times with God by giving Him my praise and thanksgiving. It helps to change my mindset from one that may be fearful and anxious about the day, to a mindset of gratefulness and praise. I’m reminded of all the times God has gotten me through difficult situations. So why would He stop now? I’m reminded of His unfailing love for me, even though I may be stubborn and disobedient to Him. I have a God who loves me unconditionally. What’s not to praise?!
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.”-Psalms 150:6
Prayer
Father God, You are holy and righteous and are deserving of my praise. Your grace and love surround me anew each day! You are so patient and kind with someone who can be stubborn like me. Yet, You see past my faults and count me as holy and righteous because of my faith in Jesus. I am humbled by Your love. May everything I do today bring You glory, honor and praise, so others around me can too join in and give You praise. In Jesus name I pray, Amen. 🙏🏽
-Moses Gaddi