Pray Confidently - Psalm 86:1-13 - February 1, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Pray Confidently – February 1, 2009

We begin a new series of Bible study entitled “How to pray with power.”

February 1 - “Pray Confidently” - Psalm 86:1-13. This Psalm was written by David.
February 8 – “Pray Persistently” – Matthew 15:21-28; Luke 18:1-8.
February 15 – “Pray in Jesus’ Name” – John 14:12-14; 15:14-16; 16:23-26.
February 22 – “Pray for Others” – John 17:9-19.

What is prayer? To put it simply, prayer is a conversation with GOD. When we communicate with someone there are several elements involved. We need to talk and we need to listen. When we talk, do we know what we are talking about? When we listen, do we listen actively or do we already have our minds made up? We need to comprehend and understand what is being said to us. There are times we do not know what to say or how to say it. This is when the HOLY SPIRIT comes along our side to pray in our behalf or help us to pray.

We need to realize that GOD can speak to us any way HE chooses. Some of the ways HE speaks to us are:

Through HIS Word – The Bible
Through a still small voice or a whisper – The HOLY SPIRIT.
Through circumstances.
Through the church and fellow believers.

When we look at the titles to the lessons for our series of study, it seems that there is a certain prescription for praying to GOD to get what we want. Often believers like to think their prayers get through to GOD over the prayers of other believers. Believers can get a spiritual arrogance, if they are not careful. All believers have access to GOD. However, there are certain rules that govern prayer but it is all about the heart and our relationship to GOD, through CHRIST. The Bible tells us there are certain things in our lives that can block our prayers such as un-confessed sin, not praying according to GOD’S will and husbands not being good to your wife. (1 Peter 3:7: - 7 Husbands, in the same way, live with your wives with understanding of their weaker nature[6] Lit understanding as the weaker vessel yet showing them honor as co-heirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.). When a believer is in relationship with GOD, then he or she is in the will of the FATHER.

David wrote Psalm 86. GOD said David was a man after HIS OWN HEART.

As with any scripture, we can first examine the content and context of what is being written. What was the author saying? What was the message? What was the experience? What was the author’s relationship with GOD or CHRIST? What did the author learn? What is the message to us? In our scripture today, let us first get an idea of David’s relationship with GOD. Our relationship with GOD is vital when we are praying. Where is GOD when we pray?

In the English language we use LORD, Lord and God interchangeably when referring to GOD. Most Bible translations use LORD, Lord and God to denote the specific name the author was using for GOD to communicate a certain attribute or character of GOD. When David wrote Psalm 86 he may have used his reference to LORD, Lord, and God interchangeably but he also may have had a particular attribute or character of GOD in mind. I like to think he used these words on purpose. I think David’s use of these different words for GOD gives us insight into his heart toward GOD. This, in turn, helps believers to see why David had such confidence in GOD’S ability to take care of him. But notice, I used the word “I think” which is my personal viewpoint.

In verses 1-3, David used three (3) different names for GOD. In verse 1 he used the name LORD (All upper case – in the scripture it is upper case L and upper smaller case for ORD) which translates “Yahweh” or “Jehovah” which is the covenant name for GOD meaning “I AM.” David had a covenant relationship with GOD because Israel had a covenant relationship with GOD. GOD made the covenant with Abraham. David was a descendant of Abraham thus the covenant extended to David.

The first thing David references is his covenant relationship to GOD. As believers we have a family relationship with GOD because of our faith in CHRIST. HE gave HIS life to pay the sin debt for us. A person’s acceptance of HIS passion results in his or her spiritual rebirth. Through the miracle of spiritual rebirth, a believer is born into GOD’S family and receives the gift of eternal life. A believer’s relationship with GOD is a bond of love which transcends any covenant because he or she becomes a child of GOD.

When believers pray, they need to understand they can enter into the presence of GOD and call HIM FATHER and he listens. How many of us have been in an important meeting and we get a call from one of our children. What do we do? Most of us take the call. GOD does the same. HE is available to HIS children 24/7. GOD also responds to a sinners prayer for salvation 24/7.

In verse 2 David used the word “Elohim” for God, which has multiple or plural meanings related to creation. Elohim embraces the trinity – The FATHER, SON and HOLY SPIRIT. It also carries the meaning of God being the true, supreme God. GOD created all of the materials things he could see such as the earth, the things upon earth, the sun, moon and stars but most of all GOD created him. Since GOD created him, GOD would take care of him and help him in all circumstances he encountered along life’s journey. David had confidence in GOD.

GOD created us for a purpose. One of my favorite verses is Ephesians 1:4: 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5]

In verse 3, David used the word “Adonai” for Lord (Upper case/lower case), which translates “Master” or “Owner” or “GOD is sovereign.” David ended verse 2 by referring to himself as a servant or a slave of GOD. He continued this thought by referring to GOD as his “Master.” A slave or servant does whatever his or her Master asks. This shows the attitude of David’s heart. David was a willing servant or slave available to obediently serve GOD. His relationship with GOD was such that he trusted GOD completely.

I will underline Lord or the upper case/lower case when it is used in our scripture to help us see which name David was using when he referred to God.

Let’s read Psalm 86:1-5: - GOD’S Character

Lament and Petition
A Davidic prayer.

1 Listen, Lord, and answer me,[1] Ps 4:1; 17:6; 71:2; 102:2 for I am poor and needy. 2 Protect my life, for I am faithful.[2] Ps 37:28; 97:10; 1 Sm 2:9 You are my God; save Your servant who trusts in You. 3 Be gracious to me, Lord, for I call to You all day long.[3] Ps 27:7; 57:1; 119:58 4 Bring joy to Your servant’s life,[4] Ps 90:15; 92:4 since I set my hope on You, Lord.[5] Ps 43:8 5 For You, Lord, are kind and ready to forgive, abundant in faithful love[6] Ex 34:6; Nm 14:18; Neh 9:17 to all who call on You.

First, let us consider why David was writing this Psalm. There are several possibilities but Psalm 86:14 may give us the best clue:

14 God, arrogant people have attacked me; a gang of ruthless men seeks my life.[15] Ps 119:69,85 They have no regard for You.

David was in a situation where his life was in grave danger and he was praying to GOD. These words expressed his earnest prayer when his life was threatened. This Psalm reflects the trust, confidence, understanding and knowledge that David had in GOD based upon his experience with GOD over the years. David trusted GOD and was confident in GOD’S ability to hear him and respond. This is why having an intimate, loving relationship with GOD is vital for all believers.

First, we must have faith that GOD exists. Second, we need to have a relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Third, we need to believe HE can do what HE says HE can do. Believing is one thing but putting your faith into action is another. Having an intimate, loving relationship with GOD is vital in living the abundant Christian life. We get to know GOD through relationship. GOD is not in heaven but HE is present with us and is vitally interested and concerned with our spiritual growth and development. GOD’S desire is for believers to be spiritually mature. David knew GOD and the character of GOD through experience which translated into a confident relationship.

GOD was a reality to David. GOD was real and capable of hearing what he had to say and to respond – Listen and answer. David had confidence in GOD to protect him. David tells GOD that he is faithful and reconfirms that his faith is in GOD and no other. David showed confidence and trust in GOD’S ability because his hope was in HIM.

First, we have to believe that GOD exists and that HE can help us.

GOD wants us to be honest with HIM. Our faith, trust or confidence in HIM or HIS ability may be weak. We need to tell HIM. HE already knows it but we need to not hide it. When we are honest with GOD and we have a problem or concern with HIM we need to tell HIM. Doing so gets a barrier into the open so GOD can help us with the problem, concern or barrier.

I think JESUS helps us understand this in Mark 9:17-24:

17 Out of the crowd, one man answered Him, “Teacher, I brought my son to You. He has a spirit that makes him unable to speak. 18 Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. So I asked Your disciples to drive it out, but they couldn’t.” 19 He replied to them, “You unbelieving generation![5] Dt 32:5; Mk 6:6; Php 2:15 How long will I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring him to Me.” 20 So they brought him to Him. When the spirit saw Him, it immediately convulsed the boy. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. 21 “How long has this been happening to him?” Jesus asked his father. “From childhood,” he said. 22 “And many times it has thrown him into fire or water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 Then Jesus said to him, “ ‘If You can?’[6] Other mss add believe [7] Jesus appears to quote the father’s words in v. 22 and then comment on them. Everything is possible to the one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the boy cried out, “I do believe! Help my unbelief.”

Be honest with GOD.

Let’s read Psalm 86:6-10: Be confident that GOD will respond.

6 Lord, hear my prayer; listen to my plea for mercy. 7 I call on You in the day of my distress, for You will answer me.[7] Ps 20:1; 50:15; Gn 35:3 8 Lord, there is no one like You among the gods, and there are no works like Yours.[8] Ex 15:11; Dt 3:24; Isa 45:21 9 All the nations You have made will come and bow down before You, Lord, and will honor Your name.[9] Ps 22:27; 66:4; Zch 14:16 10 For You are great and perform wonders; You alone are God.[10]

David is in a dire situation and needs GOD’S help. He repeats to an extent what he said in verse 1. It is a plea expressing the urgency of the situation but with confidence that GOD will come to his aid.

David not only acknowledged GOD as his Master but he said all nations would honor HIM as their Master. David also acknowledged GOD as creator of everything and that HE created him, therefore, he was confident that GOD would deliver him from the situation he was in.

Verses 8-10 are praises to GOD expressing David’s confidence that in essence, GOD had already delivered him from his situation. David made it perfectly clear his faith was in the true GOD and not some other god. He knew the difference and acknowledged that difference. He did not have any thought that even his ability could get him out of his situation.

Let’s read Psalm 86:11-13:

11 Teach me Your way, Lord, and I will live by Your truth.[11] Ps 26:3; 27:11; Isa 2:3 Give me an undivided mind to fear Your name.[12] Ps 111:9; Dt 28:58; 1 Kg 8:43 12 I will praise You with all my heart, Lord my God, and will honor Your name forever. 13 For Your faithful love for me is great,[13] Ps 57:10; 145:8 and You deliver my life from the depths of • Sheol.[14] Ps 30:3; 49:14–15; Jnh 2:3–6

David again expresses his utmost confidence in GOD, his Master to lead, guide and teach him truth. David acknowledges that his flesh gets in the way and he ask his covenant GOD to help him stay focused upon HIM and not his ability.

David acknowledges GOD as his Master not because of fear but because of GOD’S love for him as his creator. David places utmost confidence in GOD even unto death.
This shows the heart of David and his confidence and trust he has in GOD. All of this did not happen overnight but it was the result of David’s experiential relationship with GOD over the years.

When David went to GOD in prayer he was confident GOD would hear him and respond because he knew GOD as a result of his experience with GOD. Are we that confident in GOD? If not, confess it to GOD and ask him to help your unbelief. Being honest with GOD is the beginning of building a wonderful relationship with HIM.

This should be an exciting study.

Receive New Life - Acts 16:13-34 - January 25, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Receive New Life - January 25, 2009

This is lesson four (4) in our series entitled “Do You Need a Fresh Start?”

Our scripture is Acts 16: 13-34.

Most of us view the beginning of a New Year with hope and confidence that things will be better than the previous year. That is usually based upon our assessment of our physical situation e.g. weight will go down, more exercise, more money, buy some of the things we have been wanting, read the Bible through, make wiser decisions, manage our household better and the list goes on.

Most of us do not take spiritual inventory each year. But it is a good idea. Do we know CHRIST better than we did a year ago? Have we grown spiritually in the last year? What kind of relationship do we have with HIM? These and many more questions come to mind when assessing our spiritual life.

Often we equate growing and maturing with doing more work in our church or other religious organizations, which is good. It is important that we examine our relationship with CHRIST and allow HIM to direct our activities. We need to study HIS Word, pray, learn of HIM, learn to trust HIM and obediently serve HIM. We need to ask HIM to examine our hearts and reveal to us where we are, where HE wants us to be and to reveal the path forward. HE may reveal some barriers in our lives that need to be removed or dealt with before we can move forward spiritually. We may need to settle some grudges we have with others or any number of things.

Our lesson this week focuses upon CHRIST empowering believers to grow in HIM. It is all about CHRIST in us, the hope of glory. CHRIST in us transforms us through the renewing of our minds as we learn of HIM and serve HIM. It is often on-the-job-training. As HE works in our lives HE opens opportunities for us to put our faith and confidence in HIM into action. HE will open our eyes to the opportunity. We need to pray for discernment so we will know the leading of GOD versus the leading of our flesh.

The Book of Acts was written by Doctor Luke. Doctor Luke wrote the Book of Luke which was a historical review of the life and ministry of CHRIST. He wrote the historical account for a man named Theophilus. Acts was Doctor Luke’s second account of the actions of the Apostles and the HOLY SPIRIT since CHRIST lived upon earth. The focus of our scripture is on the activity of the Apostle Paul during a missionary journey to Philippi.

Let’s read Acts 16:13-15:

13 On the Sabbath day we went outside the city gate by the river, where we thought there was a place of prayer. We sat down and spoke to the women gathered there. 14 A woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God, was listening. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was spoken by Paul. 15 After she and her household were baptized, she urged us, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.

When the Apostle Paul entered a city to preach the gospel, he normally went to the local synagogue. Philippi may not have had a local synagogue. It is likely that when Paul or someone in his group was inquiring about a synagogue, some of the locals may have told them about a group meeting every Sabbath down by the river. They checked it out and found a group of ladies gathered there. So the Apostle Paul used the opportunity to preach. The fact that Paul and his group would meet with a group of ladies must have impressed them and set a positive tone for the message Paul was about to deliver. Normally Jewish men would not worship with women.

As he preached the gospel, there was a lady named Lydia who was listening intently. Lydia was seeking a relationship with GOD since she and her household gathered on the Sabbath in a special place by the river to worship and pray. She was likely the instigator for bringing the group together. This shows her heart toward GOD.

Again, we see the timing of GOD. Lydia was seeking and Paul had the message. GOD brought them together.

Paul delivered the message GOD had placed upon his heart. It was exactly the message Lydia needed to hear. The LORD knew her heart and gave her an opportunity to receive CHRIST as her SAVIOR. Not only did she receive CHRIST and was baptized but her household accepted CHRIST and was baptized.

Lydia invited Paul and his group to stay with her. She gave an invitation that was hard for Paul to turn down – “If you consider me a believer in the LORD, come stay at my house.” WOW!!! How could Paul decline such an invitation? He didn’t. Paul staying with Lydia gave her and her household an opportunity to ask questions regarding their new relationship with CHRIST.

Lydia was a dealer in purple and was likely a very wealthy woman, who would also help support the spread of the gospel.

Let’s read Acts 16:16-24:

16 Once, as we were on our way to prayer, a slave girl met us who had a spirit of prediction[3] Or a spirit by which she predicted the future and made a large profit for her owners by fortune-telling. 17 As she followed Paul and us she cried out, “These men are the slaves of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you[4] Other mss read us the way of salvation.” 18 And she did this for many days.

But Paul was greatly aggravated, and turning to the spirit, said, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her!” And it came out right away.[5] Lit out this hour 19 When her owners saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities. 20 And bringing them before the chief magistrates, they said, “These men are seriously disturbing our city. They are Jews, 21 and are promoting customs that are not legal for us as Romans to adopt or practice.” 22 Then the mob joined in the attack against them, and the chief magistrates stripped off their clothes and ordered them to be beaten with rods. 23 After they had inflicted many blows on them, they threw them in jail, ordering the jailer to keep them securely guarded. 24 Receiving such an order, he put them into the inner prison and secured their feet in the stocks.

Doctor Luke cites another incident during this mission trip to Philippi. Paul and his group were going back to the place of prayer. This is likely the place by the river, when they encountered a slave girl who was possessed by an evil spirit. She was a fortune-teller. She was good at her trade and made a lot of money for her owners. She was possessed by an evil spirit.

We see from the words Doctor Luke recorded that the evil spirit had revealed to her the truth about Paul and his group. But notice that she is a slave and she refers to Paul and his group as slaves of the Most High GOD. The evil spirit was trying to give the impression that her source of power was the same as Paul’s and his group’s source of power. Satan is always trying to legitimize and draw people into his web of enslavement. The owners of the slave girl allowed her to follow Paul and his group around for many days telling others they represented the Most High GOD. We might think that free publicity would be a benefit to Paul. We are not sure when GOD revealed to Paul that the slave girl was possessed by an evil spirit. She likely had a group following her. GOD wanted to demonstrate that her power and Paul’s and his group’s power did not come from the same source. Paul may have been restrained by the HOLY SPIRIT until the right moment to rebuke the evil spirit and deliver the slave girl from her bondage. Delivering her would be a demonstration of the power of GOD over the power of Satan and all who witnessed it would see GOD’S power manifested through Paul. This definitely dispelled any notion of a tie between the slave girl and Paul’s group.

In Greek, the meaning of “spirit of prediction” is “a python spirit.” The Python was a symbol for the Greek god Apollo. In Greek mythology, Apollo was believed to be able to predict the future. The Greeks considered people who had the ability to predict the future as having the “spirit of the python.” Both Greek and Roman military commanders consulted with someone who was able to see or predict the future. People who had this ability were highly regarded and as we see from our scripture, it brought her owners a lot of money.

GOD’S timing and plan is always perfect. It seems that Paul’s rebuke came abruptly and in a split second. It was the moment GOD chose for her deliverance to take place. Paul rebuked the evil spirit and the slave girl was set free. She had heard the gospel being preached many times and she likely accepted CHRIST when she was freed of the evil spirit. I would think Paul would make sure she at least had the opportunity to be born-again and filled with the HOLY SPIRIT to replace the evil spirit that had left her.

It was vital that she be filled with the HOLY SPIRIT and Paul was aware of that need. Of course the slave girl had to be willing to accept CHRIST into her life. JESUS addressed this subject in HIS teachings in Matthew 12:43:

43 “When an unclean[15] Morally or ceremonially impure spirit comes out of a man, it roams through waterless places looking for rest but doesn’t find any. 44 Then it says, ‘I’ll go back to my house that I came from.’ And when it arrives, it finds [the house]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. vacant, swept, and put in order. 45 Then off it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and settle down there. As a result, that man’s last condition is worse than the first. That’s how it will also be with this evil generation.”

Dealing with the occult is not to be taken lightly. It is real and dangerous. It is always enslaving and controlling. A believer needs discernment to know the difference between a mental disorder and possession by an evil spirit. If you encounter a possessed person, pray and claim the blood of CHRIST. If you are ever led to deliver a person from an evil spirit, bathe the matter in prayer and search the scripture and be armed with the scripture. Always be free of any known sin and active in relationship with the LORD. You should have several spiritually mature believers with you who are praying and a group of spiritually mature believers along with you. Folks, this is dangerous. The following scripture will enlighten you more on this subject.

Acts 19:11-20:

11 Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, 12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. 13 Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, "We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches." 14 Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. 15 And the evil spirit answered and said, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?" 16 Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. 17 This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 18 And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. 19 Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. 20 So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

It is vital that all believers stay away from anything of the occult – fortune-telling, fortune-tellers, horoscopes, tarot cards, reading of tea leaves, reading of the palm, séance, medians and any other activity to foresee the future or contact the dead. Believers must trust and rely upon GOD and HIS guidance through life’s circumstances. Sadly many believers dabble in the things of the occult. My advice to anyone dabbling in the occult is to stop, confess it, ask GOD to forgive them and repent. Notice what the people did in verses18-19. Repent means to turn around and go in the opposite direction. Put it behind you. It is not harmless but enslaving.

Serving GOD is not always a bed of roses. GOD’S timing is always perfect. GOD knows the hearts of all people. HE needed to get Paul and Silas to the next person to receive salvation. So the slave owners had Paul and Silas arrested. They were stripped of their clothes, beaten with rods and thrown into jail. When the magistrates ordered the jailer to make sure they were securely guarded, he put them into the inner cell and in stocks. They were as secure as they could be from a human point-of-view. But GOD had a plan.

Let’s read Acts 16:25-34:

25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the jail were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 When the jailer woke up and saw the doors of the prison open, he drew his sword and was going to kill himself, since he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul called out in a loud voice, “Don’t harm yourself, because all of us are here!” 29 Then the jailer[6] Lit Then he called for lights, rushed in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he escorted them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the message of the Lord to him along with everyone in his house. 33 He took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds. Right away he and all his family were baptized. 34 He brought them up into his house, set a meal before them, and rejoiced because he had believed God with his entire household.

[Just as side note: Guess where Paul and Silas went after they left the jailers house?

We find the answer in Acts 16:40:

40 After leaving the jail, they came to Lydia’s house where they saw and encouraged the brothers, and departed.]

Can you imagine after all you had done in the name of the LORD and treated the way Paul and Silas had been treated that a believer would be singing? It shows the trust Paul and Silas had in GOD. GOD is sovereign and they trusted HIM completely.

Again we see GOD’S timing. HE sends an earthquake. The most secure place the jailer had was now open. It was dark and the jailer knew that his prisoners had escaped. After all the jail was wide open. He was about to take his own life because he knew that he was in real trouble. Paul called out to him and told him not to harm himself because they were all there. The jailer quickly called for a light. How did the jailer spell relief? What do I need to do to have what you have? The jailer knew these men were different. The jailer had been listening to Paul and Silas singing. It likely kept him awake but at least he knew they were still secure in their cell. The jailer was likely used to hearing the inmates curse but he knew that what Paul and Silas had been singing they also practiced.

Paul gives him a simple plan of salvation. Not only was the jailer saved but also his household. He washed the wounds of Paul and Silas and all were baptized. Then they all went up to the jailers house and sat down for a meal. It was likely a time Paul used to tell them about their new relationship with CHRIST and what they needed to do to grow in the LORD.

Salvation is a free gift and is available to all who will receive it.

If you have never prayed to receive CHRIST, what a wonderful way to begin this New Year by asking CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life.

If you are already a Christian, are you living the abundant Christian life in fellowship and in relationship with CHRIST? If not, why not? Pray and ask GOD to reveal to you any barriers preventing this and to help you restore your joy, fellowship and relationship. It is all about getting to know HIM, not just knowing about HIM.

Show Fresh Respect - Genesis 4:1-16, 25-26 - January 18, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Show Fresh Respect – January 18, 2009

This is lesson three (3) in our Bible study entitled “Do You Need a Fresh Start?”

Our scripture is Genesis 4:1-16, 25-26.

This lesson focuses upon the importance and preciousness of life. We began our series of study on January 4 with Psalm 19. David wrote of the glory of GOD and everywhere a person looks he or she is reminded of the handiwork of GOD. To me the greatest handiwork of GOD is the human body. It is the very body each of us live in every moment of every day. It is wonderfully made and extremely intricate. We can eat food and it is converted into energy that keeps our body functioning. We can see, hear, smell, taste and feel. Each of these senses is extremely complex but we do not have to understand how they work to use them and enjoy them. Just think you are living a miracle of GOD’S handiwork. When we were conceived we grew in our mother’s body and breathed embryonic fluid until we were birthed. We went from breathing fluid to breathing air in a matter of seconds.

Life is wonderful and sacred. Yet many of us take life for granted. We read in the newspapers and hear through the media of all the lives that are taken each day. Our society has rationalized that the life conceived in a mother’s womb is not a person until it is born. But if that life is left to grow, mature and be born it is a living person.

I know some reading this study may have had an abortion and may feel the guilt of having an abortion. When we confess the wrongs we have done in life and ask GOD to forgive us, HE does. That is why CHRIST came into the world. HE shed HIS blood to cleanse us of all sin when we acknowledge HIM as our SAVIOR. HIS blood saves us from eternal death and washes away all sin and keeps all believers whiter than snow for all eternity. Our scripture deals with taking a life. This is the first murder and it came at the hands of a family member of the first family.

Let’s read Genesis 4:1-2:

1 Adam knew his wife Eve intimately, and she conceived and gave birth to Cain. She said, “I have had a male child with the Lord’s help.”[1] Lit the Lord 2 Then she also gave birth to his brother Abel. Now Abel became a shepherd of a flock, but Cain cultivated the land.

These verses give us a quick summary of the first family. Adam and Eve’s firstborn is a son who they named Cain meaning “I have acquired” or “I have made” and their second child is a son who they named Able meaning “breath”.

The scripture fast forwards and we learn that Cain was a farmer and Abel raised sheep.

Let’s read Genesis 4: 3-8:

3 In the course of time Cain presented some of the land’s produce as an offering to the Lord.[2] Ex 23:19; 34:26; Neh 10:35 4 And Abel also presented [an offering]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. —some of the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions. The Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but He did not have regard for Cain and his offering. Cain was furious, and he was downcast.[3] Lit and his face fell 6 Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you furious? And why are you downcast?[4] Lit why has your face fallen 7 If you do right, won’t you be accepted? But if you do not do right, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must master it.” 8 Cain said to his brother Abel, “Let’s go out to the field.”[5] Sam, LXX, Syr, Vg; MT omits Let’s go out to the field And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him.

I used to get out-of-sorts about this story thinking how unfair GOD was to find Abel’s offering more acceptable than Cain’s offering. But we have to look at the attitude of each brother’s heart toward GOD. Produce was an acceptable offering as well as the offering of an animal. But notice that Cain presented some of his produce whereas Abel presented the firstborn from his flock, the best. The attitude of each giver is important to GOD. GOD looks upon the heart when a person gives an offering to HIM. It is important to GOD that we give out of love, respect, a willing heart, honor and worship to HIM. It is all about the attitude of our heart. 2 Corinthians 9:7: 7 Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not out of regret or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Hebrews 11:4 also gives us information how GOD looked upon Abel’s offering:

4 By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain[5] Gn 4:3–5 [did]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . By this he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through this.

Notice the word “offering”. Abel offered an offering that would not be reproduced. Once the animal was offered or sacrificed that was it and Abel had to depend upon GOD to replace what was offered to increase his sheep fold. This reveals that Abel depended upon GOD to take care of him and willingly gave the best to GOD. It was a matter of the hearts of both Cain and Abel.

GOD knew Cain’s heart and confronted Cain about his attitude and what he was harboring inside. GOD knew what was coming but HE did not stop it. GOD gives every person, including believers, the right to choose. When we choose we are also accountable for the choice we make. GOD knew the heart of Cain. GOD tried to engage Cain in a conversation regarding his innermost thoughts and feelings toward GOD and his brother. That was Cain’s opportunity to tell GOD that he was really mad at HIM. GOD already knew it but gave Cain the opportunity to confess it which could have opened the opportunity for healing. GOD told Cain that if he changed his attitude and did right, GOD would accept his offering or else the jealousy crouching in Cain’s heart would result in sin.

GOD gave Cain an opportunity to confess his innermost thoughts and feelings. It was an opportunity for Cain to master his feelings toward his brother and GOD. Cain had the opportunity to be the big brother that takes responsibility and be willing to obey GOD. GOD urged Cain to “do right”. Instead Cain took matters into his own hands. Cain’s flesh solved the problem and concluded that eliminating Able would make his offering acceptable to GOD. Cain eliminated the competition. Jealousy blinds us and leads us to do things we will likely regret. Jealousy will consume a person and rob him or her of the joy of living. For a believer, it robs him or her of the joy of the LORD in his or her life. Believers can become very jealous of fellow believers and especially when the LORD works in their friends lives in a mighty way. If that happens in your life, you need to ask the LORD to show you your heart. Such feelings reveal the fact that you are out of fellowship and relationship with GOD and both need to be restored.

When Cain took action against Able, he was striking out at GOD.

Believers often get angry with GOD and want to hurt HIM by taking their anger out on others. When believers have these inner feelings, it is wise for them to ask GOD to show them their heart. They may need to seek Christian counsel to deal with their feelings.

This is why we must seek to have and maintain an intimate, loving relationship with GOD. We must die to self and allow GOD to direct our lives. When the flesh rules it means trouble. GOD did not overrule Cain’s right to choose, neither does HE overrule ours. But we are responsible for our decisions and the consequences for our decisions.

Based upon this scripture we know that GOD and Cain communicated with each other. Believers also communicate with GOD and have the right to choose. Do we depend upon GOD, WHO tells believers, “Vengeance is Mine says the LORD.” or do we depend upon ourselves?

When GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT, reveals our heart, do we take it seriously and seek to do something about what is revealed? GOD could be offering us an opportunity to “do right” before we do something “wrong” and not only violating GOD’S desire for our lives but also man’s law and having to suffer the consequences.

Let’s read Genesis 4: 9-12:

9 Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” “I don’t know,” he replied. “Am I my brother’s guardian?” 10 Then He said, “What have you done? Your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground! 11 So now you are cursed [with alienation]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. from the ground that opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood you have shed.[6] Lit blood from your hand 12 If you work the land, it will never again give you its yield. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth.”[7] Dt 28:16–18; Isa 26:21

GOD knew that Cain had killed Able. But GOD asked Cain “Where is your brother Abel?” GOD knew the answer but HE gave Cain an opportunity to confess and ask for forgiveness. Cain’s answer revealed that his heart had not changed. Cain first lied, “I don’t know,” then he gave, what seems to me a smart-alecky reply, “Am I my brother’s keeper or guardian?” Sin compounds itself. Cain sinned by murdering Abel and then lied to cover it up. It revealed that Cain did not know GOD as being omnipresent or omniscient. Nothing is hidden from GOD, not even our innermost thoughts. GOD already knows all there is to know about us so do not try to hide anything.

GOD let him know that HE knew everything. Cain may have thought GOD would have protected Able since Able seemed to be more favored by GOD. Cain prided himself in raising products from the ground and the very thing he prided himself in and apparently loved to do, GOD took away. Cain’s action resulted in Abel’s blood being absorbed by the ground he loved to cultivate. Cain did not want to cultivate a relationship with GOD or his brother, Abel.

GOD told Cain that he would be a restless wanderer and if he tried to work the land, it would never produce a crop for him. That means he would have to depend upon other farmers for his produce. There is no mention of what he would do for meat. Does that mean Cain would raise animals? We do not know but it would not surprise me if Cain became a shepherd. It would be a constant reminder of his sin.

Let’s read Genesis 4: 13-16, 25-26:

13 But Cain answered the Lord, “My punishment[8] Or sin is too great to bear! 14 Since You are banishing me today from the soil, and I must hide myself from Your presence and become a restless wanderer on the earth, whoever finds me will kill me.”[9] Nm 35:26–27 15 Then the Lord replied to him, “In that case,[10] LXX, Syr, Vg read Not so! whoever kills Cain will suffer vengeance seven times over.”[11] Or suffer severely And He placed a mark[12] Ex 9:4; Rv 13:16–17 on Cain so that whoever found him would not kill him. 16 Then Cain went out from the Lord’s presence and lived in the land of Nod, east of Eden.
25 Adam knew his wife intimately again, and she gave birth to a son and named him Seth, for [she said,]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. “God has given[14] The Hb word translated given sounds like the name Seth. me another child in place of Abel, since Cain killed him.” 26 A son was born to Seth also, and he named him Enosh. At that time people began to call on the name of[15] Or to worship, or to proclaim or invoke the name of the Lord.

Cain still thought GOD was being unfair to him. He did not repent.

Unrepentant sin drives a person from the presence of GOD. Cain said he had to hide from the presence of GOD. Cain still did not get it. GOD is everywhere. The attitude of our heart can block us from fellowship and relationship with GOD. It can also open the flood gates of joy when we seek GOD’S forgiveness and our desire is for our relationship to be restored.

Cain was now very concerned with his own mortality. He wanted GOD to protect him. He was worried about people killing him. GOD showed him mercy and placed a mark on him to identify him and forbade anyone from killing him. GOD let it be known that should anyone kill Cain he or she would suffer the vengeance of GOD seven fold. Cain left the presence of GOD and went to the land of Nod, east of Eden.

Many wonder what mark GOD placed on Cain. I have heard many speculations but none seem plausible to repeat. We do not know but the offspring of Cain seem to follow a life of crime. Cain’s descendants are covered in verses 17-24.

We need to note that the mark GOD gave Cain was given to him to protect him. Cain had committed an awful act but GOD still showed him mercy. This in turn shows us the heart of GOD.

Adam and Eve had another son who they named Seth. Eve looked upon Seth as a gift from GOD to replace Abel. But those who have lost a child know that another child, although a blessing, will never replace the child that has gone to be with the LORD. CHRIST gives us the joy of knowing that one day we will be united with our loved ones when we enter heaven.

The last part of verse 26 reveals that the people began to call upon the LORD which means they began to worship GOD. Did the people see GOD in a new light when HE dealt with Cain, the first family’s firstborn? GOD does not have favorites. Sin is sin. If CHRIST had sinned then HE would have been dealt with by HIS FATHER. HE would not have been the perfect sacrifice for the sins of mankind.

Genesis 5:4 tells us that Adam and Eve had more children:

4 Adam lived 800 years after the birth of Seth, and he fathered sons and daughters. 5 So Adam’s life lasted 930 years; then he died.

Keep in mind that GOD loves children. JESUS said in Matthew 19:13-15:

13 Then children were brought to Him so He might put His hands on them and pray. But the disciples rebuked them. 14 Then Jesus said, “Leave the children alone, and don’t try to keep them from coming to Me, because the kingdom of heaven is made up of people like this.”[5] Lit heaven is of such ones 15 After putting His hands on them, He went on from there.

Life is precious and sacred from conception until we die naturally. Life is a gift and every person must respect life. GOD’S Word allows us to defend ourselves and protect our family.

Just think how wonderfully made the human body is. We all live in a miracle upon earth. This is why I call our bodies our earth suits. It is the only thing that gets us around earth and ties us to earth. When a believer experiences the miracle of rebirth, GOD has chosen for them to remain on earth to be HIS witness and to obediently serve HIM. When our earth suits die our spirits go immediately to be with GOD, until CHRIST returns to earth the second time. At that time all believers will receive their glorified bodies for eternity.

Discover Fresh Hope - Psalm 42 and 43 - January 11, 2008

Sunday School Lesson - Discover Fresh Hope – January 11, 2008

This is lesson two (2) in our series “Do You Need A Fresh Start?”

Our scripture is Psalm 42:1-43:5. This Psalm was not written by David but the sons of Korah. Bible scholars are not sure who Korah was but speculate that he may have been a person who came into prominence during David’s life time and could have been in exile from Jerusalem. However, this psalm captures the heart of a believer’s struggle in finding comfort in GOD when circumstances surrounding him or her are difficult. Also, Bible scholars believe at one time Psalm 42 and 43 were one (1) Psalm.

It is not known if the writer was in exile far from the temple in Jerusalem. But it is clear that the writer felt estranged from the worship of GOD and was struggling with doubts and fears. It is important to know that even among these circumstances he was seeking spiritual renewal. There are a lot of unknowns about this scripture but it does highlight the importance of looking to GOD during difficult times.

Depression is an awful illness. But today there are some medications that will help some people cope with depression. People get depressed over many things. In this economic situation many people are experiencing depression. How people handle their depression often determines the end result of their circumstances. Some people shrink and do nothing, some seek comfort in alcohol, illegal drugs but others seek ways to change their circumstance. Some may have to do things they have never done before such as apply for unemployment, food stamps or accept a job earning much less money than they ever have or doing a job they would have never dreamed they would ever have to do.

Some depressed people seek GOD’S help but if GOD seems to elude them, it compounds their struggle. In our lesson we will see the psalmist’s struggle to find comfort in GOD.

Let’s read Psalm 42:1-5:

Longing for God
For the choir director. A • Maskil of the sons of Korah.[1] 1 Ch 9:19

1 As a deer longs for streams of water, so I long for You, God. 2 I thirst for God, the living God. When can I come and appear before God?[2] Ps 84:7; Ex 23:17 3 My tears have been my food day and night, while all day long people say to me, “Where is your God?” 4 I remember this as I pour out my heart: how I walked with many, leading the festive procession to the house of God, with joyful and thankful shouts. 5 Why am I so depressed? Why this turmoil within me? Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God.

These verses capture the desire of the psalmist’s heart to have a spiritual renewal with GOD. In the Old Testament, the presence of GOD was considered to be in the temple and in the Holy of Holies. Specifically, HIS presence was tied to the Ark of the Covenant. It seems that the psalmist is focused on a certain place to worship GOD and restore their relationship. As we read the words he penned, we can feel his earnest desire to have this relationship restored.

It humbles me to think how blessed Christians are to have the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT and never have to go to a certain place to worship GOD. We simply enter our own sanctuary and cry “FATHER, I need YOU.” No matter what circumstance a believer is in, GOD is always there with him or her. CHRIST promises that “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

Hebrews 13:5-6:

5 Your life should be free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.[3] Dt 31:6 6 Therefore, we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?[4] Ps 118:6

GOD does not say that believers will not have times they may feel alone or abandoned much like JESUS did as HE hung on the cross. JESUS felt like HIS FATHER had abandoned HIM when HE cried out as recorded in Matthew 27:46 “46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?" that is, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?". That brief moment was the moment when HE had to decide whether or not to take matters into HIS own hands or trust the FATHER. Circumstances can be used to test us to the limit and reveal our hearts or limit of our faith and trust in GOD.

We see in our scripture verses the heart of the psalmist and his longing to restore his relationship with GOD. He relates his quest to find GOD to a deer searching for water during a severe drought. The deer’s thirst is unbearable and searches in vain for a sip of water but cannot find any. The psalmist was searching for GOD and couldn’t find HIM. His only moisture and food is from his tears because his quest to find GOD is so intense, he refuses to stop searching. This reveals the attitude of the psalmist’s heart. During this troubling period others would chide him regarding his relationship with GOD. This was an overwhelming situation until the psalmist recalled the time when he was in relationship with GOD and felt the presence of GOD in his life. This remembrance brought him hope.

One of my favorite preachers used to say, “You have to practice in the dark what you have learned in the light.” Dark times will come into all of our lives and these dark times can overwhelm believers. During the storms of life, we need an anchor to hold us securely. That anchor often can be the remembrance of the days when we knew the presence of CHRIST in us and felt secure in HIM.

The remembrance of the psalmist’s former relationship with GOD gives him hope to hang onto and the knowledge that his security was still in GOD. GOD was still GOD regardless of how he felt or the circumstance he was in.

All believers have these moments in their lives. GOD understands our anguish and feeling of helplessness. The question becomes who do we look to for strength and comfort during these dark times? Do we look to the world and embrace solutions the flesh has to offer or do we trust GOD? I must quickly add that trusting GOD during these times does not necessarily mean that a person is idle and does nothing. The psalmist was actively pursuing a renewed relationship with GOD. We need to continue to pray and seek HIS guidance. We need to focus upon restoring our relationship with HIM as we continue to function in life. We need to look to the times in our lives when we knew the presence of GOD in our lives.

Let’s read Psalm 42:6-11:

6 I[3] Some Hb mss, LXX, Syr; other Hb mss read Him, the salvation of His presence. 6 My God, I am deeply depressed; therefore I remember You from the land of Jordan and the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep calls to deep in the roar of Your waterfalls; all Your breakers and Your billows have swept over me.[4] Jnh 2:3 8 The Lord will send His faithful love by day; His song will be with me in the night— a prayer to the God of my life. 9 I will say to God, my rock,[5] Ps 18:2; 31:3 “Why have You forgotten me? Why must I go about in sorrow because of the enemy’s oppression?” 10 My adversaries taunt me, as if crushing my bones, while all day long they say to me, “Where is your God?” 11 Why am I so depressed? Why this turmoil within me? Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God.

The psalmist was depressed but even in this state, he was recalling the things that gave him confidence in GOD. He was calling out the names of the places that reminded him of the promises of GOD – the Promised Land. GOD had delivered the Israelites from Egyptian slavery and brought them to the Promised Land. GOD had manifested Himself mightily during their journey to the Promised Land and in occupying that land. These were anchors to him during these troubling times.
There are times believers have to remind themselves of the promises and provisions of GOD. Again, believers must practice in the dark what they have learned in the light.
In verse 7, the psalmist attributes what is happening to him as coming from the hand of GOD. He used the word “Your”. But even though he attributes what is happening to him is from GOD, he looks to GOD as his deliverer and his rock. He looks to GOD as his solid rock of protection and refuge.

The psalmist believes that GOD has forgotten him during this time when his enemies have oppressed him, crushed him and poked fun at him because of his continued reliance upon GOD.

Then the psalmist ends with verse 11 as he did with verse 5. Why should any of this depress him or cause turmoil within him because his hope was in GOD. He acknowledged GOD as his Savior and GOD and he praised HIM.

The psalmist is verbalizing the turmoil he feels as he encounters life’s circumstances. They seem to overwhelm him and he is depressed. He reminds himself of the anchors of GOD’S presence and he clings to the hope and faith that he has in GOD. This is exactly what we have to do during dark times. It is okay to talk to GOD and express our deepest concerns we have with HIM. Verbalizing our innermost thoughts is good. When we internalize and hold in our concerns regarding GOD, often, we are headed for spiritual trouble. We need to verbalize or write our concerns regarding GOD and go over them with GOD. When we have the right relationship with GOD, we do not try to hide any ill feelings or questions or things we do not understand. When we express our true feelings to GOD, it opens the possibility of producing a deeper relationship. We must look to GOD to provide the answers. When we record our true feelings, we can look back and see how GOD responded and met our needs during times of despair.

When my wife and I went through the workbook “Experiencing God” written by Dr. Blackaby, I told GOD I was going to be dead honest with HIM in expressing some of the areas I had problems with HIM. I did and it has been one of the most freeing spiritual experiences in my journey with CHRIST. During this time of spiritual honesty, solutions did not necessarily come immediately but once I expressed my concerns or hang-ups with GOD, it opened the opportunity for us to work on solving them. I had to be open to HIS instruction to help me understand the solution. In pursuit of the relationship with HIM, the answers and understanding to the questions or problems were revealed.

I encourage all believers to be honest with GOD and tell HIM the problems they have with HIM. Until you open up and reveal your concerns, notions or hang-ups you have with GOD, you cannot continue to grow spiritually and mature as a believer. They are barriers to spiritual growth and development.

It is all about relationship; your relationship with GOD through CHRIST. GOD’S Word is your anchor along with the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT. Seek to really know HIM through a loving, intimate relationship. That means yielding your well to HIM and allowing HIM to guide your life. To allow HIM to guide your life means you must trust HIM and have confidence in HIM to do so. That is why you must get to really know HIM and not to just know about HIM.

Let’s read Psalm 43:1-5:

1 Vindicate me, God, and defend my cause against an ungodly nation; rescue me from the deceitful and unjust man. 2 For You are the God of my refuge. Why have You rejected me? Why must I go about in sorrow because of the enemy’s oppression? 3 Send Your light and Your truth; let them lead me. Let them bring me to Your holy mountain, to Your dwelling place. 4 Then I will come to the altar of God, to God, my greatest joy. I will praise You with the lyre, God, my God. 5 Why am I so depressed? Why this turmoil within me? Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God.

As mentioned earlier, Bible scholars think that originally Psalm 43 was part of Psalm 42. They believe that originally Psalm 42 was a three (3) stanza writing therefore Psalm 43:1-5 is the third stanza of this writing.

Notice that verse 5 ends the same as verses 5 and 11 in Psalm 42.

The psalmist, to me, seems to be talking to himself – “Why do I need to go around in turmoil and depressed when I know GOD is my deliverer. Have I done anything that has caused YOU to reject me?” He is asking GOD to reveal any sin that he has done that has resulted in all that is happening to him. That is a legitimate question. We need to ask GOD to examine our lives and reveal any wrong in our lives. This is necessary because there may be something in our lives that is a barrier to our relationship with GOD. GOD gets our attention in many different ways. Sometimes there is nothing wrong but GOD is allowing us to be tested to allow us to see our heart and true relationship with HIM as revealed through circumstances. It is no fun but rewarding when we get through that period in our journey.

The psalmist asks GOD to send HIS light among the darkness he is experiencing. GOD’S light reveals truth and dispels error. GOD’S light shows us the path as we journey the treacherous path of life. These words reveal the heart of the psalmist, that even though he is experiencing darkness, he looks to GOD for guidance. He wants to be restored to full relationship with GOD and worship GOD as he remembers their relationship before this dark time came into his life.

The psalmist ends again with his trust, confidence and hope in GOD.
I can tell you it is easier to write about this looking back to the dark times in my life rather than when I was experiencing the dark times.

GOD is our refuge and our strength. GOD allows HIS children to experience dark times to strengthen their relationship with HIM and to learn of HIM. Some of us are more hardheaded than others and GOD has to deal with us differently to give us the opportunity to have a deeper relationship with HIM. HE will never abandon HIS children and HE will not give them a serpent when they ask for a fish.

GOD’S desire is for all HIS children to be spiritually mature. Believers have to remember that GOD did not create us for time but for eternity. Earth is the proving ground for what is yet to come. What is yet to come is for all eternity whereas life upon earth is temporary.

I know of many Christians that keep a journal of their spiritual journey. This is something you may want to consider for this New Year.

Gain Fresh Perspective - Psalm 19:1-14 - January 4, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Gain Fresh Perspective – January 1, 2009

This is our first bible study of the New Year. Our overall theme is “Do you need a fresh start?” Our scripture for this month is:

Psalm 19:1-14 (Gain Fresh Perspective), Psalms 42:1-43:5 (Discover Fresh Hope), Genesis 4:1-16, 25-26 (Show Fresh Respect), Acts 16:13-18, 25-34 (Receive New Life)

Our scripture, Psalm 19:1-14, was written by David. GOD said that David was a man after HIS own heart. David expressed his innermost thoughts relating GOD to the things he observed on earth and in the heavens to his confidence in GOD the creator and universally in control of all things. David had an intimate relationship with GOD and he expressed what he had learned about GOD through this relationship.

Every believer can also write what he or she has learned and is learning about GOD. Think about your relationship to GOD and what you would write about your relationship with HIM through CHRIST. First, we have to be born-again in our spirit, and then as we allow GOD to reveal Himself to us, we get to know HIM and not just know about HIM.

Do you want a fresh perspective about GOD? Then talk to HIM through prayer and seek to know HIM through HIS Word and obedience. Respond as GOD gives you the opportunity to serve HIM. HE gives us on-the-job training. HE always equips HIS children for the service HE asks of them. When you allow GOD, HE will teach you and reveal Himself to you during this coming year. Seek to know HIM more in 2009. When you get to the end of this year, ask yourself if you know GOD more.

Let’s read Psalm 19:1-6:

The Witness of Creation and Scripture
For the choir director. A Davidic psalm.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky[1] Or expanse [2] Gn 1:6–8; Dn 12:3 proclaims the work of His hands. 2 Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge.[3] Or Day to day pours out speech, and night to night communicates knowledge 3 There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard. 4 Their message[4] LXX, Sym, Syr, Vg; MT reads line has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the inhabited world.[5] Rm 10:18 In the heavens[6] Lit In them He has pitched a tent for the sun. 5 It is like a groom coming from the[7] Lit his bridal chamber; it rejoices like an athlete running a course. 6 It rises from one end of the heavens and circles[8] Lit its circuit is to their other end; nothing is hidden from its heat.

In the early days Christians sung some of the Psalms in the worship service.

As already mentioned David looked around him and saw the handiwork of GOD. He looked at the order of the universe, the things in the universe and upon earth and he knew that GOD is the creator and power that keeps it running. All a person has to do is look around him or her and he or she should be drawn to GOD.

David saw GOD reflected in all he observed in the heavens and especially in the rising of the sun each day. GOD’S handiwork is revealed 24/7 and calls all people to HIM.

Do you see the handiwork of GOD reflected in the heavens, upon earth and especially in the dawn of each new day?

Let’s read Psalm 19:7-11:
7 The instruction of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the • testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise. 8 The precepts of the Lord are right, making the heart glad; the commandment of the Lord is radiant, making the eyes light up.[9] 1 Sm 14:27–29 9 The • fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are reliable and altogether righteous. 10 They are more desirable than gold— than an abundance of pure gold; and sweeter than honey— than honey dripping from the comb. 11 In addition, Your servant is warned by them; there is great reward in keeping them.

When David considered the commands of GOD, he saw the good that they produced. He did not see them as drudgery. GOD’S ordinances are dependable, pure, reliable and righteous. They are better than gold and sweeter than honey. The value of gold is what a person applies to it, the material things it will purchase and the comfort it brings by having it. But there is always the worry that it can be taken away. However, obeying GOD’S Word is active and creates value within each person that observes HIS commands and instructions. What GOD reveals within can never be taken away. It grows in value as a person continues to observe them.

As we begin a new year, where is our value? Is it in the material things we have or in our relationship with CHRIST? Which will be the most valuable in eternity? This is not to say we should not manage that which GOD has entrusted to us but the greatest investment is how we manage the time we spend getting to know GOD through CHRIST.

Let’s read Psalm 19:12-14:
12 Who perceives his unintentional sins? Cleanse me from my hidden faults. 13 Moreover, keep Your servant from willful sins; do not let them rule over me. Then I will be innocent, and cleansed from blatant rebellion. 14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.

David’s desire was to be pure. David would have enjoyed being a Christian knowing that CHRIST paid the price for past, present and future sins. David did not want to leave any possibility for not being clean before GOD so he asked GOD to cleanse him from any sin he wasn’t aware of. He wanted his walk and talk to be in harmony.

Is it our desire for our walk and our talk to be in harmony? As we look forward into 2009 will our walk be in step with our talk? Only the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT can provide the power to help a believer’s walk to be consistent with their talk. This is why believers must have the relationship with CHRIST. A believer can try to live a consistent Christian life in his or her strength but it is impossible and will drive you to distraction. Abiding in CHRIST through a loving, intimate relationship is the key to living the consistent Christian life.

As believers begin a new year they have the benefit of looking back and evaluating their spiritual growth. Ask the LORD to reveal to you any barrier that prevents you from growing spiritually.