The previous Psalm highlights the power of God in the deliverance and establishment of Israel as a nation. This Psalm emphasizes Israel's continual sin and God's great grace during this same time. It begins and ends with "Praise the LORD" but in between is the record of the sin and shame of the people and the grace and patience of God. God's patience with His people is a miracle in every generation! ...

As the previous Psalm is a poetic summary of Genesis, so the one before us is a summary of events from Exodus and Numbers. The Psalmist focuses on the miracles and power of God which produced the deliverance of Israel from Egypt and provided provision to the land of promise. He calls on God's people to worship, praise, obey, and seek the LORD. ...

This Psalm begins and ends like the one before it - "Bless the Lord." It has been called a poetic version of Genesis and "creation's chorus." The Psalmist praises God who is the creator and sustainer of all things. He upholds all the forces of the universe that govern the rhythms and seasons of life. ...

One preacher said, "There is too much in this Psalm for a thousand pens to write." Twice at the beginning an four times at the end we are met with its purpose - "Bless the Lord." There are no requests made in this Psalm; it is pure praise. The Psalmist quickly deals with the universal problems of sin, sickness, and death by proclaiming God's forgiveness, healing, and redemption. In nearly every verse we read of God's mercy and fatherly affection for His children. ...

Note well the title and learn its lesson. When your heart is overwhelmed, you may pour out your complaint before the LORD. Cast your cares on Him for He cares for you! In this Psalm, the Psalmist mourns the condition of Jerusalem. But he does not mourn as one without hope. By faith, he envisions a glorious future for generations yet unborn. ...

Some commentators say that this Psalm of David was his vow to God when he took upon him the charge of the Kingdom. It pictures the kind of heart that the king must have if he desires to rule according to the will of God. The same is true for those who would rule well in the Church, in public life, in the home, or over their own heart. ...

This Psalm of joyful praise was originally sung during the sacrificial offerings of thanksgiving in the tabernacle/temple. It was an expression of the joy that overflows a grateful heart. When we think of the goodness of Jesus, shouldn't our praise always be from hearts full of joy and gladness? ...

This Psalm emphasizes the Holiness of God. His holiness is the greatest difference between Himself and fallen man. Isaiah has a similar revelation (Isaiah 6) of the holiness of God and his sinfulness which produces the same humility which we see here. The continual image before us in this Psalm is of an exalted God, always above, and humble worshipers bowed before Him ...

This victorious Psalm is being fulfilled through the outpouring of the Holy Ghost and Spirit-empowered preaching of the Gospel. Its final and full fulfillment will be in the earth reign of Jesus Christ. In that day, there will be an open recognition of His sovereignty and the whole earth will declare that He is LORD and King. ...

The Lord's power and dominion are on full display in this Psalm. It describes four elements of His kingdom: righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne (2), He rules over all the earth with power (1-6), He is victorious over all false gods and religions (7), and the righteous will be joyful in His Kingdom (8-12). Verse 10 is especially striking. Those who claim to love the LORD will be tested by how much they hate evil. ...

This Psalm is a call to worship the Lord. Notice the two sets of triplets: "sing...sing...sing" (1-2) and "give...give...give" (7-8). A singing heart will also be a giving heart. After each triplet, there is a call to witness to the Truth among the heathen. "Declare His glory" (3) and "say among the heathen" (10). The final verse reminds us that the one we worship is coming and He will judge the world with righteousness and truth. ...

True praise and worship is accompanied by hearts that are obedient to the LORD. This psalm is a call to praise the LORD, to sing and be joyful and to heart and obey His voice. Israel's sin and rebellion in the wilderness are put before us as an example. If we ignore the voice of the Holy Spirit, it will result in the hardening of our hearts. We will lose our sensitivity to His voice and His presence. Then our only hope will be punishment severe enough to wake us up. ...

The Psalmist is appealing to God to avenge His people of the crushing oppression inflicted by evil and wicked people. He clearly believes that vengeance belongs to God and we must wait on Him rather than seeking revenge for ourselves. The Psalmist is honest and vulnerable. You see his doubts and struggles. But ultimately, he believes that the LORD is his defense and He will eventually cut the wicked off. ...

The King of kings will forever terminate the open defiance of godless rulers and wicked nations. He reigns! He always has. He always will. ...

This Psalm is a song for the Sabbath day. For the New Testament believer, it is a song of praise for every day because every day is the Lord's day of rest for the child of God filled with His Spirit. Thankfulness and faithfulness are sprinkled throughout. There is a bountiful and blessed future hope for the righteous who are planted in the house of the LORD. ...

This beautifully poetic Psalm expresses the security and safety of those who place their trust fully in God. It is our assurance that He will be our refuge and fortress. The New Testament believer can pray this Psalm and claim its promises anytime we are in spiritual or physical danger. God is our refuge! ...

This Psalm of Moses was probably written during the forty years or wandering in the wilderness. It is on of the oldest pieces of religious poetry. It contrasts the eternal God with mortal man. It is humbling and reminds us of our place in all of time and eternity. This life is so short and if we hope to have any happiness and live with any wisdom, it will begin with fearing and trusting God. ...

This Psalm is a prayer concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the fallen dynasty of David. The Psalmist is trying to make sense of it. He knows that God promised that David's line would remain forever and that his descendants would sit on the throne. As things were, it appeared unlikely to come to pass. Israel was being punished for her sins and the promise seemed to be dead and buried. What the Psalmist doesn't know, even though his recorded prayer prophesies it, is that God would keep Hi...

Often regarded as the saddest of all Psalms, the one before us is the supplication of one who is suffering. The Psalmist's experience is much like that of Job's but we are never told why he is enduring this trial. This Psalm reveals that God occasionally allows times of sadness and despair in a believer's life. We will not fully understand some things until we are with Jesus in heaven. In the meantime, we must trust the God of our salvation. ...

This Psalm is about the privileges of living in Zion which is Jerusalem. It is prophetic in that it speaks of the life that would spring out of Jerusalem to many nations. Physical Zion, Jerusalem, is where the Holy Spirit was first poured out and many nations were there to witness that event (Acts 2). Spiritual Zion, the Church, is made up of those who have become springs of living water and they carry a life-giving Gospel to the nations. ...

In this prayer psalm, David repeats portions and phrases of many previous Psalms. So should our prayers often lean on the truths and promises of Scriptures. The backdrop of this Psalm is probably David's exile during his son's rebellion. He is in a dangerous situation and surrounded by many enemies. He desperately needs God's protection and favor. ...

Like Psalm 80, this is another Psalm of revival and "turning." The Psalmist remembers the former mercies of God when He turned himself away, granting mercy instead of wrath (3). Now he prays that God would "turn us," and "revive us again" (4,6). Notice that God does all the turning! What the Psalmist is praying for is true forgiveness; something that justifies and pardons sin. Forgiveness is a place where the demands of truth can walk hand-in-hand in relationship with mercy. The Psalmist descri...

Here is the longing and hunger of the hearts of those who are true servants of God. More than anything, they long for His presence. Those who long for and live in His presence will experience renewed spiritual strength, answered prayer, and the glory of God. ...

In this prayer for protection, Israel is described as God's "hidden ones." Hidden here does not mean that they secretly belong to God, but that they are covered with God's protection. The enemies of God's people have always joined forces with the object of removing the memory of their name. But those who oppose Christ and His Kingdom may read here of their eternal end. ...

This Psalm serves as a reminder that there is a court higher than then supreme court and every other high court of the world. It is heaven's court and the sovereign God is the Judge. Every judge who hands down unjust decisions favoring the wicked be warned! God will rise up and judge the whole earth. ...

This is a Psalm of what could have been but disobedience would not allow. It begins on a high note of praise to God for deliverance from the cruel slave labor in Egypt but it turns suddenly with the sad words, "But my people would not hearken to my voice" (11). If we are determined to walk our own way, or to follow our own heart, God has determined to let us go. When that happens, the picture of blessing becomes a picture of what could have been (13-16). ...

In this Psalm of intercession, the Psalmist pleads with God for revival and the restoration of His people. Israel is depicted as a vine which God brought out of Egypt and planted. It wasn't long until the vine flourished and spread. However, due to the sin of Israel, the wall of God's protection collapsed leaving the vine open to attacks from the enemy. Three times the Psalmist prays, "Turn us again." This is always the prayer of God's people preceding revival and restoration. ...

This Psalm is a lament for Jerusalem. The Psalmist is pleading with God to forgive Israel and to punish the nations that have destroyed Jerusalem and God's temple. His motivation is the glory of God and the reputation of His name among the heathen (9-13). ...

This Psalm is a parable with the purpose of teaching lessons from the past. It was written to remind Israel of their spiritual failures, unbelief, and unfaithfulness and to contrast that with the amazing grace of God. It lays out the importance of passing these lessons from generation to generation in an effort to avoid repeating past failures. Their forefathers had failed to keep God's covenant and refused to live by His instructions. They forgot all that God had done for them. The Psalmist d...

The Psalmist goes from a sigh to a song and he gives us the key to do the same. The desperation in the first half of this Psalm is palpable. The Psalmist feels abandoned, forgotten, and alone. He is desperate for God's presence but He is nowhere to be found. In a moment of doubt, the Psalmist resigns himself to the fact that this may be his fate; he is abandoned by God. But just then, at his lowest point, he remembers. He recalls all of the wonderful works of god in the past. He begins to name...

Many Psalms are pleas for God's deliverance from enemies. They paint the picture of the scene before God's intervention. This Psalm is a praise to God after the deliverance. It paints the picture of an all-powerful God who has stepped onto the scene and utterly destroyed the enemy. If you are waiting for God's deliverance, know that this is the end of all evil and He is your victory! ...

This Psalm is a praise for the justice of God. We do not see perfect justice in this world today. However, at the time that God has planned, He will bring justice to all evil. The strength of the wicked will be broken and the strength of the righteous will be increased. ...

This Psalm was written at a time of great destruction in Jerusalem. It describes the work of God's enemies (4-8). They have burned the sanctuary and destroyed every place of worship. The Psalmist makes a plea for deliverance and appeals to God's covenant with Israel (1-3, 20, 22). The strongest plea we can make in prayer is to pray the promises of God. These are prayers that he is sure to answer. The physical conditions in Jerusalem then are reflected in the spiritual conditions of many chur...

Like Psalm 34, this Psalm deals with the seeming prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous. The Psalmist admits, I almost slipped in my faith when I thought about this (2-3). But when he went into the sanctuary (the presence of God), God showed him the eternal destiny of the wicked. This revelation put the problem in the perspective of eternity (17-20) and reveals the blessing enjoyed by the righteous which is greater than any suffering (25-28). The Psalmist almost slipped w...

According to its title and final verse (20), this Psalm appears to be a prayer of King David for Solomon’s (his son) future reign as King. However, it is a messianic Psalm describing the millennial reign of Jesus Christ as several of its verses can only fully apply to Him (8, 11, 17). This prayer is an expansion of the New Testament prayer, “Thy Kingdom come.” It is the type of prayer that should arise out of the hears of God’s people who desire to see His glory cover the earth. ...

This Psalm is an expansion of Psalm 70 and it is much more personal. It is a prayer for a quick deliverance from enemies to their confusion and shame. The Psalmist remembers God’s faithfulness and his trust in God from the time he was just a child. He is now facing a new trial in the older years of his life and it feels like the enemy is winning. His faith shines through in the final verses. He declares, “You are going to restore me again” (20-21). And he looks into the future with eyes of fa...

This short Psalm is a prayer for a speedy deliverance from enemies. There are two requests here: come quickly and help me and put my enemies to shame. ...

Along with Psalm 22, this Psalm is the most frequently quoted in the New Testament. The humiliation and rejection of Jesus are clearly seen. Verses 14-20 describe His Gethsemane experience and verse 21 prophesies an event which occurred during His crucifixion. The Psalmist is rejected and alienated because of his righteous zeal for God's Kingdom. He has spoken against sin and pleaded for revival among God's people. For this he suffers at the hands of those who were comfortable with the spiritua...

Here we have the victory parade of a conquering King leading His people from slavery to His sanctuary. It looks back to the exodus from Egypt and journey to Canaan and, mystically, to the work that Jesus did during the time He was buried. He took the keys of death, hell and the grave and led captivity captive. In this Psalm, God is a loving father, a mighty leaders, a helpful support, a merciful friend, and a saving redeemer. ...

This Psalm is Messianic and Millennial in that the contents and requests therein will be fulfilled when Christ returns to reign over all the earth for one thousand years. Waht an incredibly blessed time that will be! God's saints should pray for that day to come. We should also pray that the lost world would come to know Jesus by witnessing His blessing on His people. That blessing is not a material blessing but it is the power and joy of the Holy Ghost in our lives. ...

God's power and works are praised in this Psalm. The grouping of verses before the first "selah" (v4) are a call to fill the earth with the praise of God. Tell everyone of His goodness so that all the earth will praise Him. The group of scriptures before the second "selah" (v7) are an invitation for all to come see the works of God. The church should take note that it is not the works of man which we invite the world to see. If they came to one of our services, would they see the works of Go...

This Psalm is a Psalm of praise for the harvest. The spiritual harvest is compared to the natural harvest. Beneath it all is the idea that God is the source of provision for our salvation. ...

The overall message of this Psalm is that all of the plans and efforts of the workers of evil, and Satan himself, will fail. Even if it seems like evil is on the verge of success, suddenly God will shoot at them with an arrow. Suddenly God will destroy and defeat all evil! God avenges the righteous and His people need not concern themselves with the arts of self-defense. ...

This Psalm describes a man's intense longing for God which can only be satisfied by personal relationship with Him. Being in communion with God was David's all encompassing desire. God was the only goal! This Psalm should cause us to pause and ask, Do I really have His presence in my daily life? Or are my days filled with secular pursuits and worldly entertainment? Is my relationship with Him confined to a certain space or time or is it a continual fellowship? ...

In times of great trouble, the believer should always turn to God as our refuge and salvation. We wait on Him because there is no other help! No trouble or suffering will shake my confidence in Him. Two small words in this Psalm express our absolute confidence in God: only and all. He ONLY is my rock (v1). My soul, wait thou ONLY upon God (v5). Trust in Him at ALL times (v8). ...

When David's heart was overwhelmed, he prayed to be taken to the Rock which he could not climb on his own. It was a place of protection that was greater than him in every way. That Rock is Jesus Christ. It is in Him that we find safety and protection form the evil that surrounds us. When your heart is overwhelmed, go to the Rock! ...

David confesses that God's people suffered defeat because God withdrew His help when His people sinned. In like manner, New Testament believers experience spiritual defeat in our churches, families, and personal lives because God's Spirit has been offended by our sin and conformity to the world around us. We must turn to God, confess our sin, and dedicate ourselves entirely to Him. "God's holiness demands our righteousness, and what His holiness demands, His grace and power supplies!" ...

This is another Psalm depicting a time when David was fleeing Saul. This time, Saul had sent murderous men to watch the house where David was and to kill him when they had opportunity. As the Psalm progresses we see crafty enemies, a cry for deliverance, a compassionate Defender, and a continuous song. The faith of David is revealed in the last four verses. He knows these murderous men will begin hunting him in the evening and continue throughout the night. Nevertheless, he declares that he w...

This Psalm is a prayer for the punishment of the wicked. New Testament believers should desire and pray for the removal of all evil and for the establishment of the Kingdom of God. At the same time, our hearts should be moved with compassion for the lost and every effort should be made for the salvation of every soul with the knowledge that the prayer of this Psalm will be answered and every wicked soul punished. ...

This Psalm serves as a reminder to any faced with dark circumstances that David found God's glory in a cave! He was being hunted like a dog, but he take a praise break in a cave. God's glory is greater than our circumstances. His mercy and truth with prevail. And if David can praise him and find his glory while hiding for his life in a cave, then certainly I can find His glory in the middle of my mess! ...

When David ran from Saul, he found himself hiding among enemies (Philistines). It was here that he wrote this song for the fearful and distressed. He taught us what to do with fear. When we are afraid, we should trust in God. Trust turns our fears to faith. One of the greatest promises we can know when we are surrounded by enemies is, "God is for me" (v.9). ...

The backdrop of this Psalm of David is the rebellion of his son and betrayal of his friend. It is a low moment of life when friends and family become enemies. In the betraying friend described in verses 12-14, it is hard not to see Judas. Jesus was also hurt by a friend. David's betrayer (Ahithophel) and Judas both hanged themselves. Whatever your present trial, call upon God (v.16), pray continually (v.17), and cast your burden upon Him (v.22). He will sustain you! In the New Testament, Pet...

David is fleeing from Saul and hiding in the woods like a hunted animal. The people of the region sent word to Saul of David's hiding place. It must have felt like the whole world was against him. That was the occasion of this prayer which calls on God for salvation (v.1) and declares, "God is my helper!" (v.4). ...

This Psalm is nearly identical to Psalm 14. It makes me curious to know if there is any reason other than emphasis. Perhaps it has to do with placement? These two Psalms teach the foolishness of denying that there is a God. There cannot be right living where there is not right believing. Principles based on the belief that there is not God will always lead to destructive practices. ...

If the last Psalm demonstrates the penitence of David, this one reveals the presumption of Doeg. He is the "thou" of this short Psalm. Doeg had plotted for his own advancement, deceived King Saul, and assassinated 85 ministers as well as other innocent men, women, and children. David has a message for those who sin so presumptively: God will destroy you! ...

Of all the Psalms of repentance, this is the most well-known. David had committed adultery and had an innocent man killed. The Prophet, Nathan, pointed his finger at David revealing that his sin was not hidden from God. This passionate plea for mercy would follow. This prayer which passes through David's lips has poured from the hearts of many contrite sinners. His prayer of repentance has become our model and textbook on the subject. David's appeal for forgiveness is not based on the good he ...

This Psalm was written by Asaph the Levite. Responsible for the execution of the outward rituals of sacrifice, he was there and observed the people as they went through the routines of atoning for their sins. He notices that even though their actions were the same, their hearts and attitudes were not. Asaph describes in this Psalm the difference between true and false religion. False religion trusts in the rituals with no inward change. True religion trusts in God and the rituals of their relig...

The poverty of worldly wealth is that it cannot buy redemption. There is no help for those who put their trust in possessions. In the end, they must surrender all they own and go to the grave as poor as the beasts of the field. God's children, on the other hand, whether rich or poor by worldly standards, are most prosperous because the grave cannot rob them of their greatest possession, that which possess them. Christ has purchased for them that which cannot be bought with silver or gold. He p...

Like the one before it, this Psalm is prophetic in its description of the millennial reign of Christ on the earth. The one before focuses on the King; this one focuses on His capital city, Mount Zion, commonly called Jerusalem. ...

This prophetic Psalm points to the powerful reign of Jesus as King over all the earth which will take place after the tribulation and last for 1,000 years. All people and nations will be submitted to Him and His rule. ...

There is a bold confidence that comes through every line of this Psalm. It is bursting with truths and promises. It is divided into three parts, each ending with that curious word of the Psalms: Selah. We see the Power of God (1-3), the Presence of God (4-7), and the Peace of God (8-11). ...

This "Song of Loves" describes the marriage of a king. We see him arrayed in splendor and majesty. He has conquered every enemy and his kingdom and throne are established. We see also the king's bride in all of her beauty. This Psalm is pointing us to the joining together of the King of Kings and His Bride, Christ and the Church. ...

An Appeal to God for Deliverance The Psalmist reviews past victories and proclaims that they did not come by the arm of the flesh, but by the hand of God. It is God’s hand which now seems to be missing. It has been replaced by the hand of the enemy and God’s people are suffering. Paul quotes verse 22 in Romans 8 to teach the Church that God’s people will suffer and be persecuted in this world. But even if we don’t see God’s hand, we know that final victory is ours through Him. Even when I d...

This Psalm is clearly connected to the one before it as the final verses of each are the same. David probably wrote this while in exile during Absalom’s rebellion. He was cut off from the tabernacle and wanted desperately to be there. ...

This Psalm is for anyone going through a trial that leaves you feeling separated from God’s presence. For any who have tasted that living water, a season of spiritual dryness can feel like a vast desert. Encourage yourself. Talk to yourself like the Psalmist did. Speak faith. Put your hope in God. You will be in His presence again! God often teaches us the value of His mercies by causing us to feel the want of them. Thirst teaches us the value of water and hunger the value of food. So spiritua...

In a monarchy, it is always big news when the king is sick. Uncertainty grips the kingdom. If no one sees the king’s face, rumors quickly take his place. This seems to be the setting of this Psalm. David was sick and his enemies seized their opportunity to sew seeds of doubt in the kingdom. David begins with a description of God’s compassion and care for the poor, sick, and needy. He then describes the treatment he is receiving, not just from his enemies, but from those who he considered to b...

This song is varied in the notes that is plays but it strikes three dominant chords in a particular progression: penitence (sorrow) for sin, pardon of sin, and power over sin. The chords must always be played in that order. The psalmist understood that the sacrifices and rituals required by the law were inadequate by themselves to save. They are no substitute for obedience from the heart. Furthermore, the only power to over from the heart is to have God’s law written in our hearts. ...

Continuing the theme of Psalm 38, the Psalmist desires to know how long he will live and how long he will continue to suffer Divine chastisement. He prays to be in favor with God again before he passes from this life (12-13). We all would do well to consider how brief our lives on this earth are (4-6). Will we spend our days building a successful and comfortable life in this world or will we walk as pilgrims longing for Heaven and home? ...

The Burden of Suffering for Willful Sin David prays for God to withdraw the Divine chastisement He is experiencing as a consequence of his willful sin. He emphasizes two consequences of committing sin willfully after experiencing God’s mercy. First is Divine anger and judgement. There is a loss of fellowship with God’s presence. Second is mental anguish and physical pain or sickness. The weight of guilt for someone who has experience mercy and purity of fellowship with God can be so great as ...

This Psalm addresses the riddle of the seeming prosperity of the wicked and the adversity of the righteous. The answer is to see beyond present circumstances, looking by faith to a future when evil will cease and the righteous will inherit the earth. We are admonished to: fret not, trust in the LORD, do good, delight in the LORD, commit our way to Him, rest in the LORD, wait for Him, cease from anger, and forsake wrath. In a little while, there will be no more wickedness. ...

The foolishness, self-deception, and self-destruction of wickedness and sin (1-4) is contrasted with the blessing and pleasures of being in right relationship with the LORD (5-10). You choose. ...

A Plea for Judgement of the Wicked David prayed that God would punish, and even destroy, the wicked. While David had specific enemies in mind, New Testament believers should pray for God to judge evil in general while we pray for the salvation of every person. With this in mind, read this Psalm with the prayer Jesus taught His disciples in mind. One line from the LORD’s prayer summarizes the contents of this Psalm. When we pray, “Thy Kingdom come,” we are praying what David prayed in this Psa...

A Psalm of Trust David called on God when he was in a very dangerous and difficult circumstance in the presence of his enemies. This Psalm is a result of that moment. David invites others to praise God with him. His admonishment in this Psalm is to fear the LORD. There is no want to those who fear Him because He will supply all their need. God is always looking out to protect those that fear Him. His people will face difficult and trying circumstances (like the one David faced) but God will de...

This is a Psalm of praise to the LORD who provides, protects, and delivers. From the beginning we are invited to praise; and we are told how. Praise with instruments and singing (music). Sing new songs. Play skillfully. Make it loud! We are also told why. His Word is true and we can trust everything He does. He created and He controls the world by His Word. His Word is greater than the words of the most powerful leaders and nations of the world. He sees everything and watches over those who fe...

This is a Psalm of repentance. True joy is only found in the forgiveness of our sins. When God forgives, He pardons the sin, covers the sin, and removes the guild of sin (the legal guilt and the feeling of guilt). When we have unconfessed sin, it troubles our mind and can even cause physical sickness. But when we confess, the burden in lifted. God promises to instruct the forgiven believer and leaned him in the way that he should go. ...

This Psalm is a lament expressing distress because of enemies, illness, and loneliness. It expresses the cry of all believer's hearts who are suffering because of illness, trouble, or oppression from the world and enemies of righteousness. The confession of faith in troubling times is found in verse 15 -- "my times are in your hands." Jeremiah quoted this psalm to express his sorrow and fear (Jer.6:25) and Jesus quoted it from the cross (Luke 23:46). Take it with you to prayer in the worst o...

This Psalm shows us the power of gratitude. David sings a song of thanksgiving for all that God has done. He remembers and he doesn't fail to be grateful. Remember. And give thanks. The power of gratitude is what happens when it is activated in the low moments of life. Gratitude can take the weeping of the night and turn into the joy of the morning. Gratitude can turn our mourning into dancing. Anyone can be thankful when things are good. The power of gratitude is the change it brings in you w...

Glory belongs to God! The psalmist implores us to give God the glory that is due His name. He demonstrates how that all of creation glorifies God. All of creation is obedient to His voice (His Word). In all creation, only man robs God of the glory that belongs to Him alone. Is my life glorifying God? Or am I busy building my personal resume of glory? ...

David prays for God's help, making it clear that without it, he will surely die. His trust is obviously in God and not at all in himself. He prays for the wicked to be taken away to reap the consequences of their wickedness. This short Psalm ends in praise, signifying God's answer to David's prayer. ...

Faith is the antidote for fear. David expresses total confidence in God. After all, when the Omnipotent is your strength and salvation, who should make you afraid? The greatest desire of David's heart is seen here as well. More than anything he longs for the presence of God. He seeks the face of God with singleness of purpose. One thing. It becomes the driving purpose of His life. What is your "one thing?" The proof is not in what we say, but what we seek. ...

David displays a confidence in God's judgement which is based on trust in God's justice and his own integrity. This is the confidence of obedience! We learn from this Psalm that David's happiness does not come from any association with the world, but from being in the "house" and "congregation" of the LORD where God's presence is. In His presence there is fullness of joy! ...

This Psalm is a template prayer for forgiveness, guidance, and protection. Take it to prayer with you when you need to know the way and understand His will for your life. It teaches that to know His way we must: •Desire to be led in the ways of righteousness. •Humbly submit to God. •Commit to Godly living. •Forsake all sin. •Endure adversity, suffering, and delay. ...

Once we have come to know Christ as our Savior and our Shepherd, we will come to know Him as Sovereign if we will but yield ourselves fully to Him. This is a description of the King of Glory resurrected and reigning. He has total victory. His glory is so great that the gates need to be widened to allow the fullness of His glory to come in. The truth is, we are the gates. Our surrender and submission to His glory allows His presence to come in. With His presence, we gain the victory. As Savior ...

After seeing Christ as Savior (22), we see Him as Shepherd (23). The Shepherd boy, David, sees the LORD as his shepherd. It is very personal to him. And it is true for everyone who belongs to Him today. The Lord is MY Shepherd. He loves and cares for me. He provides for all my needs and brings me safely through all of life's mountains and valleys. If Psalm 22 is what He did for me, this Psalm is what He is doing for me. In Psalm 22, He used a cross. In this Psalm, He uses the crook of the she...

This Psalm and the next two are Messianic Psalms. They give us a three-fold view of Christ as Savior (22), Shepherd (23), and Sovereign (24). We see in the what the LORD has done, what He is doing, and what He will do. This Psalm is a cry of anguish which any suffering soul can identify with. However, its greater application is in Jesus Christ. It is called the Psalm of the cross because Jesus quoted from the first verse in the final hours of His Passion. By quoting this verse, Jesus was also ...

As Psalm 20 is the anthem of God's army marching into battle, so this Psalm is a song of praise after the battle. The King has victory over all of his enemies because he trusted in the LORD. David was writing about the victories that the LORD had given him but, as with all of the Psalms, the larger application of this royal triumph is related to David's greater Son, Jesus Christ, the King of Kings. For believers, this Psalm can be applied to our spiritual warfare. We don't wrestle with flesh a...

This Psalm has been called a “National Anthem” for the kingdom of God. It is a declaration that our King is with us a He will save us. Pray this psalm when you are engaged in spiritual warfare. Take it with you into every battle. It will teach you how to fight. Some trust in chariots (man made things), and some in horses (God made things): but we will remember the name of the LORD our God (the Maker of all things). Let the King hear us when we call! ...

This Psalm lays before us the three revelations which point a man to God. First is the revelation of creation (v 1-6). The heavens and all of creation declare His glory. Paul would later say that the invisible things of God, His eternal power and Godhead, are clearly seen by the things made in creation (Romans 1:20). It is the revelation of creation. Everyone has the opportunity to see it. No one has an excuse. Second is the revelation of His Word (v 7-11). This is a revelation to any who woul...

This psalm is one of the most beautiful and poetic in our English language. It is full of promises for the child of God. In a time of great trouble, David’s recalls who/what his God is. He is a rock (safety & security). He is my fortress (a place of refuge and provision). He is my deliverer (a living protector). He is my buckler (a shield protecting me from danger). He is the horn of my salvation (victorious power to save me). He is my high tower (a safe place to lift me high above life’s d...

David prays for God to deliver him from the wicked. He prayed for deliverance from wicked people who wanted to destroy him. We pray for deliverance from the wickedness of our world. David’s plea for God to hear his prayer was founded not only on the mercy and grace of God but also on his own obedience to God (v.1-5). He was sure God would hear him and help him because of the direction of his heart. Such is the blessing of obedience. It brings great assurance. When my life is full of sin, it ca...

This is a Messianic Psalm. The ultimate fulfillment of this prophetic psalm is in Jesus. It predicts His death, burial, and resurrection. The great news of this Psalm is that we will have the same outcome (fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore) by our obedience to the Gospel. The Gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. My obedience to to the Gospel is repentance, baptism is Jesus’ name, and being filled with the Holy Spirit. ...

What kind of person enjoys an intimate relationship with God? This psalm tells us. A person who is blameless and does what is right. A person who always speaks truth and refuses to gossip. A person who despises sin and honors the people of God. A person who keeps there promises even when it costs them dearly. A person who gives expecting nothing in return. A person who wouldn’t lie if you paid them a million dollars. I was out at “blameless.” Jesus is the only one to fulfill this description e...

The fool lives as if there is no God (1). A tidal wave of sin follows a denial of God (2-3). People who stand for Truth become the target of ridicule and persecution (4). Terror will grip the heart of the wicked because no matter how they try to stop God’s people, they will not prevail (5-6). Salvation is come out of Zion — Jesus is His name (v7)! ...

How long? How long will this pain last? How long will I suffer? How long will this hurt go on? This feeling of being forsaken by God may occur at times of sickness, financial need, or personal loss. It may involve family, work, or church. When this happens we should pray for the Holy Spirit to give us the assurance that we will yet rejoice in God’s salvation. When God delays, it does not mean we are forsaken. A hidden face is not the same as a forgetful heart. This Psalm shows us how to go...

This Psalm describes a time when it seems as if Godly men are disappearing and nowhere to be found. Wicked men will exalt human reason above God’s Word. But God’s Words are pure words. When they are tried in the fire, they will prevail and prove valuable to those who live by them. When God’s people are surrounded by the evils of a society that has rejected God’s Words for man’s ways, they should know that they will be protected by the power of God. Just as God has preserved His Word, so will He...

This Psalm is so encouraging to the believer! God is my refuge! That means I don’t run away when the going gets tough and I don’t compromise when Biblical truth, principles, and morality are under attack. I remain committed to righteousness even if the moral and spiritual foundations are destroyed in society. After all, God doesn’t run. He is still in the temple on His throne (v4)! ...

If you have ever looked at the world around you and wondered why God is so far away, this Psalm is for you. •It begins with a question. “Why are you so far from this place?” (V1) •Following is a description of the wicked and a world in which injustice and evil run rampant. (V2-11) •Finally, the promise that God hears, sees, and acts. (V12-18) When evil and injustice run rampant and God seems to be far away, His people must pray that He will stop evil and suffering. He will hear our prayer and ...

This Psalm is a praise to God for deliverance. In spite of the apparent success of evil in the world, God’s people can rest assured that the Lord will one day vindicate those who persevere against all who would destroy their faith in God. Truth will triumph over all evil and injustice! Verse 10 is a beautiful promise for all who know His name and put their trust in Him. Verse 18 is a promise to the needy and afflicted among God’s people. He will not forsake them. ...

This psalm is often quoted to show man’s unique position in creation. Isn’t it amazing how much the all-powerful God cares for each of us! This is true, but it is only in Jesus that all of the truths of this psalm are fulfilled. God is above all—the creator of all things. What is man? Man is nothing. But the God-man, Jesus Christ, is crowned with glory over all creation: earth, sea, and sky. ...

When we are wronged or unjustly accused, when we are surrounded by evil and injustice in the world, we can rest assured that God will judge the righteous and the unrighteous. When they call good evil and they call evil good, remember that His judgement is righteous and his justice is sure. ...

This is one of the psalms of sorrow for sin (32, 38, 51, 130, 143). This is the psalm of the fearful, worried, anxious, doubting, and depressed. We all experience times when we feel separated from the presence of God. In his suffering, the Psalmist desire was for God’s presence. It is what he wanted more than anything. He prayed with confidence that the Lord heard him and would answer his prayer. So can you! ...

A morning prayer. The first place I will look today is UP. I look to you. You are my strength and my help. I don’t trust in myself. I don’t trust in this world. I trust in you! Lead me in righteousness today. Evil is present all around me. This world flatters with its lips before it consumes your soul. I rejoice today because my trust is in you. I have confidence in the victory that you have given me! ...

This evening Psalm reveals the kind of person who can confidently know they will be heard by God when they are troubled. They have a personal relationship with Him (v. 5, 8). They don’t just know about Him; they know Him and He knows them. They have a strong desire for God’s help (v 1, 3, 6). They don’t hesitate to call on Him. They pray. They ask. They live a godly life (v 3-5). They always endeavor to please God. ...

I am surrounded by my enemies. But God is my shield. I trust Him more than I fear the enemy. He hears me when I call on Him. I can sleep with no fear because He is watching over me. It doesn’t matter how many gather against me because God is greater than all my enemies. He will give me victory over them all. Salvation belongs to God and I belong to Him. What a blessing! ...

The people and rulers of this world are against God (v. 1-3). God laughs at their rebellion because He has all power (v. 4-6). The promised Son of God will reign as King (v. 7-9). If you are wise, you will take refuge in the Son before the day of judgement (v. 10-12). ...

There are only two categories with God: the godly and the ungodly. The path of the godly is a path of blessing because it is marked by separation from the ways of the world and unto the ways of God. Its end is strength and prosperity. The path of the ungodly is fraught with peril and in the end they perish. ...