May 16, 2023
Today and Thursday we will be reading from the book of Psalms. Today we look at chapters 2-3, 12-13, 28, & 55.
Psalm 3 –
David uses the word many to describe the nations that turned against him. Worse than the people being a threat David did not want to lose the guidance of the Lord. Shield was a common term for God’s protection first revealed to Abraham. Loss of sleep is overcome from fear by relating to the Lord. In verse 8 the phrase about salvation is David’s answer to the mockery of verse 2.
Psalm 4 –
This is sometimes referred to as an evening prayer due to the references in verses 4 – 8. Worthlessness and falsehood are Old Testament terms describing idols. The satisfaction we receive from material possessions never comes close to what God can provide for us.
Psalm 12 –
Godly men cease to be Godly when they engage in conversation that is ungodly. Disrespect for authority and self-will lead to excesses and unaccountable behavior resulting in oppression to others. Seven indicates complete or full.
Chapter 13 –
The feeling of being forgotten is expressed in this Psalm. No matter how depressed the beginning of the Psalm is David ends it with a song of praise.
Psalm 28 –
David is asking to be distinguished from those who disregard God and practice evil. The Rock is a symbol of God, emphasizing His protection and shelter. He has heard is most likely a statement of faith, for praise often has the element of faith in it. What David has experienced is available to all people.
Psalm 55 –
The desire to run from problems is a common trait of most people. One of the greatest of hurts is the betrayal of a close spiritual companion. Jesus had such an experience in Mark 14:18-20. Evil man’s fate is sealed by his animosity toward God and their stubborn refusal to repent.
Asbury United Methodist Church 