Psalm 140 - Satan's Weapons, Psalm 141 - Worship the Lord

 

Psalm 140 – Satan’s Weapons

 

Satan fights anyone who is doing the will of God, and David was no exception. You must pray for Christian leaders especially, for they are the targets for the evil one. The enemy has two favorite weapons: poisonous tongues and hidden traps. He slanders God’s leaders (sometimes using the lips of confessed Christians), and he sets traps for them, hoping to trip them up.

David depended upon prayer, God’s promise, and praise. God hates a lying tongue (Prov. 6:17) and will one day judge slanderers. Meanwhile, maintain your character before God and let Him take care of your reputation. So live that when people hear lies about you, they will not believe them.

 

 

Psalm 141 – Worship the Lord

 

David was away from God’s house, but he knew he could worship the Lord even without a priest or an altar. His prayer would be like the incense on the golden altar (Exod. 30:1-10), and the lifting of his hands in praise like the burnt offering on the brazen altar (Ex. 29:38-41). No matter where you are, worship the Lord!

When evil is near you, and evil people tempt you, it is easy to say the wrong thing. It is the heart that needs protection.

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend” (Prov. 27:8); they may hurt, but like oil, they heal. Watch out for the kisses and delicacies of the enemy.

Keep your eyes of faith on the Lord, and He will direct and protect your steps.

David gave himself to the Lord as the evening sacrifice, every part of his being (Rom. 12:1-2). This is the highest kind of worship and the greatest privilege.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 138- David's Troubles, Psalm 139 - God Knows You

 

Psalm 138 – David’s Troubles

 

Walking during trouble helped David to pray and praise the Lord even more. David could not go to the temple, so he worshiped toward the temple and God helped him.

 

His troubles did not hinder his witness. David may have been among the Gentiles when he wrote this Psalm, but he was careful to share the Word and instruct them on singing God’s praises. Trouble can be God’s way to open doors for you to share the gospel.

 

His troubles did not hinder his walk. God revived David and enabled him to defeat his foes. Best of all, God perfected his plan for David and made him a better man (Eph. 2:10).

You may think that your troubles give you an excuse to stop living for the Lord. This psalm says that just the opposite is true!

 

Psalm 139 – God Knows You

 

God knows you personally and intimately, so do not try to fool Him. Be open and honest with God and rest in His love (I John 4:18). His eye is upon you, and you have nothing to fear.

What a comfort to know that God is with you and cares for you! Whether you go up or down, east, or west, He is there (Heb. 13:5) Sinners try to hide from God, but believers hide in God.

God made you, planned your potential, and ordered your days. This is not some kind of blind fatalism that paralyzes you. It is the wise plan of a loving Father who knows what is best for you. Accept what you are as His gift to you, and then use it wisely as your gift to Him. You are unique, God made you that way.

David pondered the thoughts of God and in this way cultivated the presence of God in his life. “You are to meditate on these things” (Phil 4:8)

Take these words to heart; You who love the Lord, hate evil” (Psalm 97:10); Love not the world” (I john 2:15-17).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 136 - His Mercy Endures Forever, Psalm 137 - Spiritual Inventory

 

Psalm 136 – His Mercy Endures Forever

 

You can never say too much about the mercy of God.

God reveals His mercy by giving you a wonderful creation to use and enjoy. He had everything ready for our parents when He made them. It is too bad that many people are such poor stewards of God’s creation gifts. Never take for granted the world you live in.

He reveals His mercy in His care for you, helping you fight your battles and defeat your enemies. Israel was not always faithful to God, but that is where mercy comes in! He was faithful to them.

The God of heaven is caring for you on earth! His mercy endures forever!

 

Psalm 137 – Spiritual Inventory

 

This Psalm can serve as an inventory of your spiritual life today.

 

What makes you cry? The Jews wept as they remembered the past, but they did not weep over their sins. They wept because their sins caught up with them, not because they had sinned.

 

What makes you sing? They lost their song, so they hung up their harps. David had a similar experience (Psalm 32:7) Can you sing praises to God in a difficult place (Acts 16:25)? Can you always praise the Lord?

 

What makes you yearn? What is the ache in your heart? What do you long for more than anything else? Is it in God’s will?

 

What makes you angry? God had promised to judge Babylon, so they were praying in His will; but the note of anguish is missing. If you love the Lord, you must hate evil (Psalm 97:10; Rom. 12:9) but leave the judgement to the Lord. (Rom. 12:17-21).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 134 - Night Shift, Psalm 135 - Praise the Lord

 

Psalm 134 – Night Shift

 

Have you ever given thanks for the people who work the night shift? Were it not for them, you would have no electricity or water at night, no fire for police protection, or no emergency service at the hospital. While you are asleep, others are serving.

But do the people on the night shift give thanks? Perhaps not. The psalmist admonished the priests in the temple to give thanks as they served God and the people at night. It may have been a lonely ministry, but it was an important ministry.

Your High Priest in heaven intercedes for you day and night. He never grows weary or impatient. Have you told Him you are thankful for His faithful ministry? Are you willing to be like Him and serve others, even on the night shift?

 

Psalm 135 – Praise the Lord

 

Four reasons why the Lord deserves your heartfelt praise:

 

He is the God of salvation. In His grace, He chose you; in His mercy, He made you His special treasure. You belong to Him. He values you and He loves you.

 

He is the God of creation. Which means He provides for you day after day and gives you the things you need. He is in charge of the storms and uses them to accomplish His perfect will.

 

He is the God of history. The Jews prided themselves in the fact that God worked especially on behalf of their nation. He worked for Israel and through Israel to bring about His great plan of salvation.

 

He is the God of celebration. These verses show the greatness of the living God in contrast to the dead idols of the nations. Celebrate the Lord today! Bless His Holy name!

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 132 - The City of David, Psalm 133 -Unity

 

Psalm 132 – The City of David

 

It was a difficult time as the Jews tried to rebuild their temple, their city, and their nation, and their beloved King David had been involved in these endeavors. The returned exiles wanted God to remember His covenant with David and restore their land.

David yearned to build the temple, but the Lord chose his son Solomon instead. However, David provided the plans for the temple (1 Chron, 28:11-19) and much of the wealth needed.

God promised that David’s line would continue on the throne (2 Sam. 7), but now Israel was without a king, in fact, there would be no king until Jesus came, and they would reject Him. One day, He will return and restore David’s throne (Luke 1:30-33)

Jerusalem was in ruins, but it was the City of David and would not be forgotten by the Lord. He would dwell there, bless the people, and give them joy. He would restore power (the horn) and light (the lamp) and make the city a testimony to nations.

When the going is tough, remember those feeble Jews who sacrificed to restore what sin had destroyed. They prepared the way for the Son of God who came to their city and temple and gave His life for the sins of the world.

 

Psalm 133 – Unity

 

It is one thing for a group of people to journey together to Jerusalem for a feast and quite something else for them to live together day after day. Abraham and Lot, Isaac and his family, Jacob and Laban, and Joseph’s brothers remind us that brethren do not always live together in unity.

Unity must come down from above, like the oil running down Aaron’s beard and bathing the twelve jewels on the breastplate (Ex, 29:5-7), or like the dew descending on the mountains, You can manufacture uniformity by manipulating people and exerting pressure, but true unity can only come from God by the Spirit.

Unity is good like the dew and produces fruitfulness. It is pleasant like oil and produces a lovely fragrance. Divisions among God’s people produce opposite results.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 130 - Trust the Mercy of the Lord, Psalm 131 -Put Away Childish Things

 

Psalm 130 – Trust the Mercy of the Lord

 

Trust the mercy of the Lord in the depths. The depths of despair overwhelm you. You are drowning, and all you can do is cry out to God. He hears and He will rescue you.

Trust the mercy of the Lord in the court. You are on trial, facing your sins, and you have no defense. The Judge pays the penalty, and you are forgiven!

Trust the mercy of the Lord in the dark. You are waiting patiently, yet it seems morning will never come. But the sun rises, and God gives you the dawning of a new day!

Trust the mercy of the Lord on the block. You are a slave, bound by your own sins, and you are about to sell yourself to a terrible master. But the Savior comes and purchases you and sets you free!

What a wonderful salvation we have!

 

Psalm 131- Put Away Childish Things

 

Most children naturally resist weaning because they want to continue enjoying the special attention of mother and the security it brings. Children, do not realize that the traumatic experience of weaning is the first step toward maturity and freedom.

From birth to death, life is a series of weanings, and God never takes anything from you without giving you something better. You may cry and try to hold on to the past, but God tenderly leads you toward the future.

Weaned children discover who they are and what they can do. They have quiet hearts and no desire to go back to babyhood. They live for the future and watch for the special things that come to children growing up. They learn to obey, for only then can they fully experience all the Father has for them.

As you mature in the Lord, you must “put away childish things” (I Cor. 13:11). When God weans you away from something, do not fret; He has something better to take its place.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

Psalm 128 -God Sends Blessings, 129 -Plowing Afflictions

 

Psalm 128 – God Sends Blessings

 

When you fear the Lord and walk in obedience to His Word, God sends blessings.

God will bring you enjoyment in employment so that your work will be a blessing and not a curse. Your work will be a ministry for the Lord.

 

God will bless you at home, beginning at the heart of the home and touching everybody else around the table. Your home will be a fruitful garden, not an ugly desert.

 

The blessing will then spread to the city and the nation, and it will go from generation to generation.

 

Psalm 129 – Plowing Afflictions

 

Israel’s afflictions are compared to the plowing of a field.

How do we handle our afflictions?

 

First, we accept it from the Lord. If the Lord is allowing people to afflict you, it is happening because He has planned a harvest. Just be sure you plant the right kind of seed. If you plant anger and malice, you will not reap the blessings of the Lord.

 

Second, you trust the Lord to help you. In His own time, He will stop the afflictions and all their efforts will be useless.

 

Third, you wait for the Lord to judge your enemies. He will put them to shame and make them wither like grass on a sod roof. On the other hand, God’s people will hear God’s blessing in their ears and have God’s blessing in their hands.

Plowing times can be productive.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 126 - Work the Harvest, Psalm 127 - Build a Home with Jesus

 

Psalm 126 – Work the Harvest

 

This song probably celebrates Jerusalem’s deliverance from the Assyrian army in the days of Hezekiah (2 Kings 18-19). It happened so quickly that the people thought they were dreaming, and even the other nations had to admit the greatness of God.

But deliverance is just the beginning. God always wants to do something more. He wants to make us rivers of blessing like the dry desert that become rushing torrents in the rainy season. If God sends you “showers of blessing.” Share the blessing with others.

He also wants you to get to work in the harvest. Whether it is plowing the field (Luke 9:62), sowing the seed, or reaping the sheaves, God has a place for you. If you water the seed with your tears, one day rejoice as you bring in the sheaves. This is the formula for a harvest: going, weeping, sowing, reaping.

 

Psalm 127 – Build a Home with Jesus

 

Don’t forget the Lord, Jesus warned, “Without Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). What good is all your working, watching, and waking if the Lord is not with you? Long hours and sleepless nights are a waste apart from the blessing of the Lord. This Psalm is not a plea for idleness, for God expects you to work and watch. But He wants to work in you and to accomplish His will (Phil. 2:12-13).

Don’t neglect your family. What good is a lovely house and a big income if the people in your life are robbed of the joys of a happy home? Children are a gift and a heritage, so appreciate them and guard them. They are like fruit, so lovingly cultivate them. They can be arrows for fighting the Lord’s battles, so keep them polished and sharp and aimed in the right direction. Give yourself to building a home, not just a house, and building for the future, not just the present.

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 123-125 -God is the Master, He is on Your Side, Trust in Him

 

Psalm 123 – God is the Master

 

Throughout their history, the Jews have often had to endure the scorn and contempt of their enemies. The world does not love God’s people. As we make our way on the road that leads to heaven, we run up against the crowd going in the other direction.

If you look at the enemy, you will get discouraged. So, look by faith to the God of the universe who reigns in heaven.

He is the Master, we are the servants, and He tenderly cares for His own. Just be sure your ears are open to whatever orders your Master wants to give you.

Adequate mercy is available to you when your heart is filled with pain. Let God’s words of strength drown out the enemies’ words of scorn.

 

Psalm 124 –The Lord is on Your Side

 

The Lord is on your side when people want to devour you, when circumstances seem to drown you, and when Satan tries to deceive you.

You can usually detect man’s anger, and you can feel it when circumstances overwhelm you. But Satan’s traps might catch you if you are not careful. In His death, resurrection, and ascension, Jesus Christ has not only set you free from the snares, but He has broken the snares and they can never trap you again unless you let them.

You are free as a bird, so use your wings of faith and live in the heavenlies!

 

Psalm 125 -Trusting the Lord

 

Trusting the Lord means security and stability. Built on Mount Zion and surrounded by mountains, Jerusalem was an impregnable fortress. The Jews felt safe when they arrived there after their dangerous journey. As a citizen of heaven, you are safe in the Lord’s care.

Trusting the Lord also means sovereignty, bowing down to the God who holds the scepter. Wickedness in our world is a temptation even to the righteous, so submit to Him.

Security is found in trusting in the Lord. When you walk by faith, you avoid the dangerous detours that lead you away from the path of righteousness. God has made you safe that you might be submitted, and your submission should lead you to separated living: “Faith without works is dead.” James 2:20.

 

Psalm 120-122 _ God Gives Endurance

 

Psalm 120 – God gives Endurance

 

Only God can deliver you from lies and their destructive power, and only God can judge the liars. Just be sure you are “valiant for the truth” in your own life (Jer. 9:3).

God did not change the Psalmist’s circumstances; he had to remain among the people who hated him and lied about him. But God gave him the endurance he needed to be faithful under pressure. God can easily change your circumstances, but He needs your help if He is to change you. Before God gives deliverance, He first must give endurance.

 

Psalm 121 – God of the Hills and Valleys

 

The God who made the hills is the God who gives you help. He is the God of the hills and the valleys (I kings 20:23-30) and His help is available to all who will call upon Him.

The pilgrims traveled together for fellowship and safety because the roads were dangerous. The dangers today are just as great, if not greater. But God goes before you and stays awake to guide you and guard your path. He is next to you and over you and He will safely take you to Zion.

 

Psalm 122 – Pray for Jerusalem

 

We can easily travel to a place of worship today, but the ancient Jews had to walk a long distance. Yet they were happy to go to God’s house.

The people loved Jerusalem! It was a holy place because the temple was there, an honored place because David’s throne was there, and a happy place because the tribes were there to celebrate the greatness and goodness of God.

There can be no peace in our world until the Prince of Peace rules His people and there is peace in Jerusalem.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

 

Psalm 119:153ff - God's Word, Part 4

 

Psalm 119:153ff – God’s Word, Part 4

 

1.    One of the most difficult things in the life of faith is to be accused by Satan and ungodly people. “Plead my cause.” Prayed the Psalmist and God defended him. When the enemy accuses you, let the Word of God assure you (Zech. 3), for the Word is truth. If Satan tries to drag you into His court, read Romans 8:31-39.

 

2.     Knowing the Word of God and obeying it will bring joy to your heart, the kind of joy you would have if you found a buried treasure or inherited a fortune. If material wealth is your goal, God’s Word will not be a joy to you; but if you love the Word more than money, you will have eternal spiritual treasures. Along with joy you will experience love, peace, and hope – treasure money cannot buy.

 

3.    If you put the Word of God first in your life, you will have something to sing about. Spontaneously, you will find yourself singing God’s Word and turning statutes into songs. When your heart delights in God’s law, your lips must declare God’s praise (matt.12:34). After all, you talk about the things you love. When God’s Word fills your heart, the right words will come out of your mouth. (Col.3:16; 4:6).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 119:105-153 - God's Word, Part 3

 

Psalm 119:105 – 153-59 – God’s Word – Part 3

 

1.    God’s Word can be your light in a dark world to keep you from the traps and detours of the enemy. God gives you a light you need a step at a time. If you want more light, you must obey what He says, then more light will come (John7:17). God sends the light into your heart and gives you the wisdom you need.

2.     Double minded people are unstable people (James 1:8), and unstable people eventually fall. If you put God’s Word first in your life, it will hold you up and will not fall (2 Peter 3:17-18). Cultivate a holy fear of the Lord and His Word and you will not be ashamed of your hope.

3.    God’s Word will assure you and enable you when you feel the oppression of the enemy. God’s people are aliens in enemy territory, and only the Word can protect them from the lies of the oppressor. But you must accept all that God’s Word says about all things; if you love the truth, you must also hate the false.

4.     When you live by the Word of God, your life becomes wonderful because the Word of God is wonderful. The Spirit shows you wonderful things in the Word and enables you to meditate on His wonderful works. God transforms your mind and enables you to escape the dull conformity of the world (Rom.12:1-2). His light shines within you and His face shines upon you, so that you become a light in a dark world.

5.     No matter how zealous we may be for God’s truth, we must also have His righteousness if we are going to succeed. The Word helps us practice righteousness in a sinful world. There is no substitute for integrity, which comes from loving the Word and obeying it.

6.     The Word of God helps us to pray in the will of God. The Word of God and prayer must never be separated (Acts 6:4); if they are, we will get out of balance. The better we know the Word, the more effectively we will pray, and the more effectively we pray, the better we will learn the Word.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

Psalm 119: 57-104 - Love the Word of God, cont.

 

Psalm 119:57- 104 – Love the Word of God, cont.

 

1.    God’s Word brings friends worth having. If you walk with the wicked, they will bind you, but if you walk with God’s people, they will help you to enjoy life and liberty. People who love the Word of God will be glad to see you and will turn to you and help you.

2.    The Word of God can encourage you in times of affliction. What life does to you depends upon what life finds in you. If the Word is in your mind and heart, affliction can bring out the best in you. If not, it may bring out the worst in you. The school of suffering never graduates any students, so ask God to teach you the lessons He wants you to learn.

3.    God’s Word is a how-to-do-it manual for making life work successfully. God made you and knows best how you should manage your life. The Word tells you how to use your body and mind, how to handle your time and your money, and how to make the right decisions. Obeying it can keep you from getting into trouble and hurting yourself and others.  Do not wait until “all else fails” before you read the instructions! It may be too late!

4.    The Word of God will help you get victory over your enemies. When your eyes are failing and your soul is fainting, the Word will give you strength and comfort. When it looks like the end has come, God’s Word helps you make a new beginning. Your worst enemy is on the inside, so let the Word work in your heart.

5.     If you trust God’s Word, you will have a solid foundation in a world that offers no stability, The Word of God is settled, nothing can change it or destroy it. (Mt. 24:35). God is faithful and His Word can be trusted. The same Word that created the world and runs the world will also govern your life and make it secure.

6.    Those who love God’s Word and obey it develop a practical wisdom for guiding their lives. It is dangerous to learn from your enemies, and both your teachers and your elderly friends may not know what you need to know. Learn all you can from every good source, but let God, not man, be your teacher. (John 14:26; 16:13-15).

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Psalm 119:1-56 Love the Word of God.

 

Psalm 119:1-56 – Love the Word of God

 

Most of these verses are either prayers for God’s help or affirmations of the writer’s faith in God’s truth despite his difficulties. Meditating on this Psalm ought to make you love and treasure the Word of God more and obey it more willingly.

Knowing and obeying God’s Word will bring blessings to your life. But if God is to bless you, you must sincerely seek the Lord and not just study the Bible. It is not facts in the head but truth in the heart that makes you grow in the Lord.

1.    God’s Word can keep you clean. You must heed God’s Word and hide God’s Word in your heart. You must also rejoice in God’s Word, delight in it, and meditate on it. Meditation is to your inner person what digestion is to your body.

2.    God’s Word will guide you in your life. You are a stranger on the earth and you need a “road map” to help you know the way. That road map is the Bible. Ask God to open your eyes to the Word and keep your eyes on the way. Let your Bible be your trusted counselor.

3.    God’s Word brings you the blessing of life because it has life, imparts life, and nourishes life. (1 Pet. 2:1-3). God’s Word can revive and strengthen you, even when you are in the dust. Nine times the writer prayed for new life from the Lord. No need to stay in the dust when there is life for you in the Word of God.

4.    God’s Word gives you real values. How tragic that so many people waste time, energy, and money on things that amount to little or nothing. (Isa. 55:2). When your heart covets, your eyes will see, and then you will make wrong decisions. That is what happened to Lot. (Gen. 13).

5.    God’s Word gives you freedom if you love and obey His word. His Word is truth, and the truth sets you free (John 8:32). Disobedience may seem like freedom, but it is really bondage (2 Pet. 2:19). When you obey God’s Word, you enjoy freedom because His Word is “the law of liberty” Law and liberty are not the enemies; they are coworkers in your life in building character and bringing joy.

6.    God’s Word brings comfort to your life if you will let it. When the days are difficult and the nights are long, remember God’s promises and God’s name, and He will comfort you.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Psalm 117 - Be A Blessing, Psalm 118 - Sing Praises

 

Psalm 117 – Be A Blessing

 

God called Israel to be a blessing to all the nations of the world (Gen12:1-3), just as He has called the church to take the gospel to the whole world (Matt.28:18-20).

 

The nations are worshiping false gods, so what do we tell them about the true God? That His mercy is great, and His truth is enduring. What He does is merciful and what He says is dependable.

 

God blesses you so that you might be a blessing to others, not only the people you see every day but people you will never see until you get to heaven. We need to be helping the peoples of the world learn about Jesus.

 

Psalm 118 – Sing Praises

 

The Jewish people sing Psalms 113 and 118 at Passover, so this is one of the songs that Jesus sang before He went to the Garden to pray (Mt. 26:30).  If you knew you were going to be executed unjustly, would you be able to sing praises to the Lord?

 

The crowds shouted as Jesus rode into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday (Mt. 21:9), and Jesus quoted verses 22 – 23 In His debate with the religious leaders (Mt. 21:33-46).

 

The name of the Lord and the hand of the Lord can give you the victory you need. When you are hemmed in by the enemy cry out to God and He will put you into “a broad place”. He will open the gates for you and give you new freedom.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

Psalm 115 - Who is Your God? Psalm 116 -Death is Precious to the Lord

 

Psalm 115 – Who is Your God?

 

Gentiles visiting Jerusalem would notice the absence of idols. Back home, they could point to their god and introduce you to the craftsman who made them. Is your God in heaven, ruling over all?  Are you trusting something less than God?

 

Be careful! You become like the god you worship. The living God can see you, hear your prayers, walk with you, and help you. He can speak to you from His word.

 

He has blessed you; have you blessed Him? He has given you promises; do you trust Him? He is the living God; does your life glorify him?

 

Psalm 116 –  Death is Precious to the Lord

 

The psalmist almost died, possibly because people lied to him. But when he cried out to the Lord, the Lord saved him. The death of a believer is precious to the Lord; He will not permit it to be merely an accident. This does not mean that God enjoys the death of one of His own. Rather, it means that He values His own so much that He makes death an appointment, it is a part of a loving plan. (Psalm 31:15; 139:16).

 

He was surrounded by the pains of death and was worried about his future, but the Lord gave him rest.

 

Praise is the logical response when God has answered a prayer and seen you through your difficulties.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

Psalm 113 - Servants of the Lord, Psalm 114 - God's Purpose

 

Psalm 113 – “Servants of the Lord”

 

“Servants of the Lord” includes all of God’s people, for those who have trusted Him surely would want to live for Him.

When we worship, it is always a time to praise the Lord. Make every breath a hymn of worship.

His name should be praised from east to west, all day long, no matter where we are. If you find yourself in a place where you cannot praise the Lord, maybe you do not belong there.

We worship because of who God is and what God does. The better you know God, the more you will worship Him. The more you experience His grace in daily life, the more praise you will bring to Him.

If you have a problem praising the Lord from sunup to sundown, what will you do for all eternity?

 

Psalm 114 – God’s Purpose

 

This beautiful poem celebrates the exodus of Israel from Egypt. The sea, the river, the mountains, and the hills all made way for the people of God as they marched in triumph. Even the rocks became Israel’s servants and gave them water to drink.

God brings us out, takes us through, and leads us over. When you are following Him, no obstacle can keep you from the goal He has set for you, except your sin and unbelief.

When you are in the will of God, all of creation works for you to accomplish God’s purpose. You are God’s sanctuary (I Cor. 6:19-20), let Him have dominion in your life.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

Psalm 111- Love, Learn, and Live Truth, Psalm 112 - Fear the Lord

 

Psalm 111- Love, Learn, and Live Truth

 

The lower you bow before the Lord, the more He will instruct you. Go right to the source!

Whether it is science or history, you are examining God’s works in the world. His works are great and glorious, revealing His power and wisdom. To see the creation but ignore the Creator is to move into idolatry and sin.

The Word of God and the book of nature do not contradict each other, for the same author wrote them. The theories of scholars, come and go, but God’s Word standards forever.

The search for the truth is not simply an academic endeavor of the mind; it must involve your whole person. If you are willing to do God’s truth, He will teach you (Jon 7:17).

All truth is God’s truth. If you love truth, learn truth, and live truth, the truth will set you free (John 8:31-31).

 

Psalm 112 – Fear The Lord

 

“Blessed is the man who fears the Lord,” “He will not be afraid.” When you fear the Lord, you need not fear anything else. The fear of God is the fear that conquers fear.

This applies to fears about your family, and your finances and even fear of the dark. If you dread making decisions, the Lord will help you. When you fear the Lord, you need not fear bad news because you know He is in control of all things. (Rom. 8:28).

You need not be afraid to give because God will use your gifts and reward you. And do not be alarmed at your enemies, God will take care of them as well.

Isaiah proclaimed “The Lord of hosts…Let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread.” Isaiah 8:13)

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

 

Psalm 109 - God Deals with our Enemies, Psalm 110 - King and High Priest

 

Psalm 109 – God Deals with our Enemies

 

When people have lied about you, spoken hatefully to you, and rewarded you evil for good, you would benefit from reading this psalm. When your heart is wounded within and there is no way to set the record straight, take it to the Lord an tell Him how you feel.

David asked God to judge the man who lied about him and also to judge the man’s children. He even asks that the man’s ancestors’ sins come up before God in judgment, and that the liar reap what he has sown.

When you feel that way give the Lord the opportunity to heal your wounded heart (Psalm 147:3). No matter how God deals with your enemies, be sure you praise Him. And remember, He is long-suffering with sinners – including us. The best way to get rid of an enemy is to leave him or her with the Lord.

 

Psalm 110 – King and High Priest

 

Read Matt. 22:41-46 and Acts 2:32-36.

Jesus focused on the real issue when He asked, “If Messiah is David’s Son, how can Messiah be David’s Lord?” there is only one answer: Messiah must come as a man through the family of David. Messiah is both eternal God and man, divine and human. He is seated in the place of glory and authority.

This is a picture of victory over Messiah’s enemies. The final victory has not yet been won, but He still rules in the midst of His enemies.

Melchizedek (Genesis 14) and Jesus Christ are the only king-priests God has accepted. As King, Jesus can deal with the circumstances around you; as Priest, He can help with the feelings and weaknesses within you.

A day of wrath is coming when the Lord Jesus will deal with His enemies once and for all (Rev. 19:11-20:15). He will be victorious and His head lifted up in exaltation.

If you know Him as God’s Son and your High Priest, obey Him as your King, and seek to win others before He comes as Judge.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

 

Psalm 107- Be Thankful, Psalm 108 - A Steadfast Heart

 

Psalm 107 – Be Thankful

 

How easy it is to take God’s mercy for granted! Ingratitude seems to be natural to the sinful human heart. (Rom. 1:21ff).

Being lost in the wilderness without food or drink would be a frightful experience. God not only saved the Israelites but led them to the safety of the city. Did they take time to thank Him?

The prisoners were in prison because they had rebelled against God’s will, so they deserved to suffer. But when they cried out to God, He heard them and set them free. Did they take time to thank Him?

We move from the prison to the hospital where people were dying because of their foolish way of life. God mercifully healed them. Did they take time to thank Him?

Dangers on the water usually exceed danger on the land, for where can you go for help in the middle of a violent storm. You can only look up, which is what they did, and the Lord rescued them. He calmed the storm, and He brought them to their desired destination (John 6:15-21).

Only God can send the rain that turns the wilderness into a garden, and only God can make the cattle multiply We eat and are full, but do we thank the Lord for giving us food. (Deut. 6:10-13)? Be wise and understand the loving kindness of the Lord.

 

Psalm 108 – A Steadfast Heart

 

A steadfast heart is a singing heart because confidence in God gives you something to sing about. David arose early in the morning to sing to the Lord. Worship is good preparation for warfare.

God heard the voice of David, and then David listened to the voice of God. It was a word of assurance as the king went out to battle: “All nations are mine, and I can do with them as I please.”

God leads us into the battle, helps us capture the enemy’s strongholds, and gives us the victory. It was true for David, and it is true for us today.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

 

Psalm 105 -"Here am I, Send Me", Psalm 106 - Consider God's Goodness

 

Psalm 105 – “Here am I, Send Me”

 

When you read the history of Israel, you are encouraged by God’s mighty and marvelous deeds for His needy people. (Rom. 15:4) You want to praise Him, rejoice in Him, seek Him, and tell others about Him.

God bound Himself by an oath to only one nation, Israel. He gave His promise to Abraham and then reaffirmed it to his descendants. The covenant was their assurance that they would inherit the land. God’s new covenant people have the assurance that their future inheritance is secure (Matt. 26:26-29).

God sent Joseph to Egypt to preserve Jacob’s family so they could become a nation. He sent Moses to Egypt to deliver His people. He sent Aaron to assist Moses and serve as high priest for a sinful people. God always has a man or woman ready to send when a job must be done. He wants to hear you say, “here am I, send me.” (Isa. 6:8).

 

Psalm 106 –  Consider God’s Goodness

 

Considering God’s goodness to Israel, you would have expected the nation to submit to Him and serve Him gratefully.  Instead they sinned and had to be disciplined many times.

God delivered Israel from Egypt, but they soon forgot His mercy and ignored His counsel. He gave them manna, and they craved meat. They criticized their leaders. They worshiped a golden idol and would have been destroyed had Moses not interceded for them.

They came to the border of the Promised Land and refused to go in. While wandering in the wilderness, they compromised with the heathen nations. Their stubborn attitude even made Moses sin. Once in the land, they compromised with the wicked nations, and God had to chasten them repeatedly.

Were it not for His covenant, God would have destroyed them. But He forgave them and allowed them to have many new beginnings. Finally He had to disperse them among the Gentiles.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

Psalm 103 - Forgiveness and Renewal, Psalm 104 - God's Creation

 

Psalm 103- Forgiveness and Renewal

 

Forgiveness is like healing when you are sick (1 Pet. 2:24), relief when you are burdened (Lev. 16:20-23), and reconciliation when you have hurt someone. All of this comes because Jesus died for your sins on the cross and you have trusted Him.

God redeemed the nation from bondage and from difficulties they faced on their journey to Canaan. He frees us that He might be our Master and care for us forever. When He crowns us, He transforms slaves into kings (Rom. 5:17).

Man is frail and temporary, but believers enjoy “eternal youth” and spiritual renewal. David compares it to the eagle that looks old but still soars upward with new strength.

We belong to the King who rules over everything. The angels praise Him!

 

Psalm 104 – God’s Creation

 

How easy it is to take for granted the world that God created! We see the blemishes but not the blessings, and we forget what kind of world God gave us.

It is a place of greatness, not the greatness of man, but the greatness of God. Only a great and wise God could make this kind of world.

It is a place of goodness. He provides life, water; food and homes for man and beast and also the birds, and He sees to it that they are cared for. Everything in creation is God’s gift to us to enjoy ( I Tim 6:17).

It is a place of gladness. God rejoices over creation, and we should be “glad in the Lord”. Creation is a window through which we see God, not a mirror in which we see ourselves; and the more we see Him, the happier we should be. Only this will make us good stewards of God’s creation.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

 

Psalm 101 - Our Influence, Psalm 102 Look by Faith to the Lord.

 

Psalm 101 – Our Influence

 

“I will” nine times and “shall” six times. David wanted a perfect (blameless) heart, not a perverse (twisted) heart or a proud heart. To be “perfect” before the Lord does not mean to be sinless, it means to be sincere and without pretense. John called it “walking in the light” (I John 1:5-10).

David wanted justice in the land and the city, just as we do today. But civic righteousness must begin in the heart and in the home. We need honest people enforcing just laws, but we also need godly people living holy lives, starting at home.

We must be careful what we look at and listen to and with whom we fellowship. In a world full of illusion, we must avoid lies and must walk in God’s wisdom. Unlike David, we do not have authority to execute judgment on the wicked. But if our hearts and homes are what God wants them to be, our influence will be felt in the city and the nation.

 

Psalm 102 – Look By Faith to the Lord

 

God enjoys endless years, but we endure shortened days, troubled days, days that disappear like smoke, grass, and a shadow. We sit alone like birds in a desert and dying patients in a hospital.

Looking to yourself and your feelings will only make things worse. Look by faith to the Lord. Things will be different when you look from yourself to God.

If you know Jesus Christ by faith, you possess eternal life (I John 5:11-13). So, living in a world of death and decay need not be a threat to you because you will live forever with the Lord. (I Thess. 4:13-18).

As you grow older, you may find yourself resisting change. Loved ones move away to die, your body weakens, the world changes, and it is easy to become bitter and afraid. But God does not change. (Heb 13:508), and He is your guide and Friend to the very end.

The temporary things will change, but the things eternal will last (2 Cor. 4:11-18).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah