When I read this chapter I can feel the confidence that David has in God, after all, it was the Lord Almighty that saw him through so many trials and brought him victory. With a heart of thanksgiving, David casts one eye back on his life to see where God had mercifully saved him and rejoices about it. And yet at the same time, the spirit of prophecy works through him to cast the other eye firmly into the future and gaze upon the figure of Jesus Christ.
For just a moment David catches a glimpse of the promise that will save not only him but all of mankind. He did not know how or who exactly but he knew that God's word is true and he trusted that truth to hold firm. David had confidence in God then, so we should have even more confidence in the Almighty today! After all, Jesus in you IS the victory!
This chapter is held together by the bookends of "prayer" and "praise". When I read the first two verses I immediately thought of the prayer of Jesus in John 17:9,20; as He prayed for, first the disciples and then for the church. When we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and then hold onto that promise with all our might, nothing can snatch us out of our Father's hands, all because "THE" King prayed. Now all we need to do is praise Him for all He has done for us, and let hell know who has the Victory!
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? ( 1 Cor 15:55 )
Robert MacPhee Jr
Thursday
Psalm 20
We are so blessed. We are so blessed to know the Lord. To know his name. To know the truth and to be able to walk with the master. The love of the Father is so great and he hears us when we call. He knows every desire, every hurt, every need and every thought. He is the good shepherd. His strength is perfect.
There is no other way. There is no other truth. There is no other life. O how blessed we are. I'm thankful this morning to be apart of this truth and I never want to take it for granted. Take time today and remember the love of the father. Remember how he takes care of the sparrow. Remember how he has blessed you over the years. Blessed your family, your friends, and your church and even if today you feel like your "going through it" remember Psalms 20:7.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Jesus!
Chase Potter
There is no other way. There is no other truth. There is no other life. O how blessed we are. I'm thankful this morning to be apart of this truth and I never want to take it for granted. Take time today and remember the love of the father. Remember how he takes care of the sparrow. Remember how he has blessed you over the years. Blessed your family, your friends, and your church and even if today you feel like your "going through it" remember Psalms 20:7.
Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Jesus!
Chase Potter
Psalm 19
Chapter 19 of Psalms starts out telling us how the heavens declare God's glory and the work of His hands, and displaying His knowledge. There is no speech or language that does not hear their voices. Their words stretch to the ends of the world. This shows me that no man will not hear the praises of the Lord and all that He has done for us.
We are told that the Lord's law is perfect reviving the soul and that His statutes are trustworthy making what is wise, simple. His precepts bring joy to the heart, His commands are radiant and bring light to the eyes, and that He is all together righteous. This lifts me up knowing that God is all these things, and so much more, just knowing that He is everywhere and He doesn't walk in time but time walks in His will, and that He isn't subject to fate, but yet fate and destiny is decided by my God, the God I trust, the God that is my rock and my redeemer.
This poem lifts up my spirits, and is amazing to read, and it warns us of our sins. God knows that we have an imperfect perception of sin, and that we know not of all the sin's that we commit. But in this psalm it lets us know that our hidden sins are forgiven, and that we must stay away from willful sins. It tells us to keep our servant also from willful sins: may they not rule over me. then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression.
Ending that chapter with O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer truly is what God is to me and I know that I can lay all my doubts, fears, and concerns on Him that He will be my rock in the storm and my redeemer when I stumble.
Bro. Denver Birchfield
We are told that the Lord's law is perfect reviving the soul and that His statutes are trustworthy making what is wise, simple. His precepts bring joy to the heart, His commands are radiant and bring light to the eyes, and that He is all together righteous. This lifts me up knowing that God is all these things, and so much more, just knowing that He is everywhere and He doesn't walk in time but time walks in His will, and that He isn't subject to fate, but yet fate and destiny is decided by my God, the God I trust, the God that is my rock and my redeemer.
This poem lifts up my spirits, and is amazing to read, and it warns us of our sins. God knows that we have an imperfect perception of sin, and that we know not of all the sin's that we commit. But in this psalm it lets us know that our hidden sins are forgiven, and that we must stay away from willful sins. It tells us to keep our servant also from willful sins: may they not rule over me. then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression.
Ending that chapter with O Lord, my Rock, and my Redeemer truly is what God is to me and I know that I can lay all my doubts, fears, and concerns on Him that He will be my rock in the storm and my redeemer when I stumble.
Bro. Denver Birchfield
Psalm 18
Being chased by your enemies, like David experienced? By Saul? The Cush? Maybe even your own son?
In this Psalm, I relate in a personal way. As I am sure we probably all can.
First in verses 1-3, The way it starts off, is the same way I start my prayer and my praise, I can’t think of a better way. I love you, O Lord, my strength. He is my rock, my shield. He is worthy of all my praise. I draw my strength from him.
Verses 4-5&6
Many times I have been in a situation and couldn’t see my way out, completely overwhelmed by circumstances where I had no control. But having the confidence in knowing the Lord hears me when I cry out for help, that he will deliver me, gives me a sense of peace. The Lord has delivered me so many times. Thank you, Lord!
Verses 7-15.
When we rely on God, any “situation” or “enemy” we are dealing with, will tremble at God’s Might and Power. How wonderfully David describes God here, I can just imagine in my mind’s eye the incredible way God uses his Strength to overcome what comes against us! The earth trembled and quaked, and the foundations of the mountains shook; they trembled because he was angry. The Lord thundered from heaven; the voice of the Most High resounded.
Verses 16-19
What a great way to describe just how God does rescue me(us), when faced or confronted with something to big for me to deal with! Out of his love, He will intervene. He rescued me from my powerful enemy from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. … he rescued me because he delighted in me.
Verses 20-24
Here David states why God has delivered him, from this we should take note how we must conduct and model ourselves and our lives. The Lord will “deal” with us according to our actions, and the way we live. And knowing the great reward that is before us is truly worth it all! The Lord has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
Verses 25-29
These verses show me that through faith, humility and purity- God rewards us! That having faith I know he will turn my darkness into light. With faith, and His help all things are possible! You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.
Verses 30-45
In these verses, David reiterates the way God strengthens and enables him. I too, know with God on my side I can accomplish anything, overcome any situation. It may not happen today, but as long I keep my faith, continue to seek him, I can overcome. I pursued my enemies and overtook them…You armed me with strength for battle; you made my adversaries bow at my feet.
Verses 46-50
As David did in the beginning of this Psalm exalting and praising God, He ends it with Praise. Every day we should begin our day Praising God and end it with Exaltation to Him. Thanking God for the victory in which we in Him. Not just to ourselves, but to everyone we know. The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God my Savior! Therefore I will praise you among the nations, O Lord; I will sing praises to your name.
Larry Birchfield
In this Psalm, I relate in a personal way. As I am sure we probably all can.
First in verses 1-3, The way it starts off, is the same way I start my prayer and my praise, I can’t think of a better way. I love you, O Lord, my strength. He is my rock, my shield. He is worthy of all my praise. I draw my strength from him.
Verses 4-5&6
Many times I have been in a situation and couldn’t see my way out, completely overwhelmed by circumstances where I had no control. But having the confidence in knowing the Lord hears me when I cry out for help, that he will deliver me, gives me a sense of peace. The Lord has delivered me so many times. Thank you, Lord!
Verses 7-15.
When we rely on God, any “situation” or “enemy” we are dealing with, will tremble at God’s Might and Power. How wonderfully David describes God here, I can just imagine in my mind’s eye the incredible way God uses his Strength to overcome what comes against us! The earth trembled and quaked, and the foundations of the mountains shook; they trembled because he was angry. The Lord thundered from heaven; the voice of the Most High resounded.
Verses 16-19
What a great way to describe just how God does rescue me(us), when faced or confronted with something to big for me to deal with! Out of his love, He will intervene. He rescued me from my powerful enemy from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. … he rescued me because he delighted in me.
Verses 20-24
Here David states why God has delivered him, from this we should take note how we must conduct and model ourselves and our lives. The Lord will “deal” with us according to our actions, and the way we live. And knowing the great reward that is before us is truly worth it all! The Lord has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.
Verses 25-29
These verses show me that through faith, humility and purity- God rewards us! That having faith I know he will turn my darkness into light. With faith, and His help all things are possible! You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.
Verses 30-45
In these verses, David reiterates the way God strengthens and enables him. I too, know with God on my side I can accomplish anything, overcome any situation. It may not happen today, but as long I keep my faith, continue to seek him, I can overcome. I pursued my enemies and overtook them…You armed me with strength for battle; you made my adversaries bow at my feet.
Verses 46-50
As David did in the beginning of this Psalm exalting and praising God, He ends it with Praise. Every day we should begin our day Praising God and end it with Exaltation to Him. Thanking God for the victory in which we in Him. Not just to ourselves, but to everyone we know. The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God my Savior! Therefore I will praise you among the nations, O Lord; I will sing praises to your name.
Larry Birchfield
Psalm 17
Even though David was known for slaying his ten's of thousands, he still called upon the Lord to defeat his enemies. Chapter, after chapter he asks God to confound, scatter, and even slay those that would seek to do him harm.
David was a strong and valiant warrior in his own right, but he knew his limitations. He knew God was with him - verse 6 says "I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear my speech". He had already reminded God, "Thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing". Surely David's confidence would occasionally waiver when he was facing defeat, but he knew he was the apple of God's eye. Verse 8 says "Keep me as the apple of the eye"- not make me.
We as REAL Men should always know where we stand in God's sight! David rarely spoke of the here after, but verse 15 shows us exactly how David viewed himself after death. "As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness".
This should be the ultimate goal of all REAL Men.
Bro. Morrison
David was a strong and valiant warrior in his own right, but he knew his limitations. He knew God was with him - verse 6 says "I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear my speech". He had already reminded God, "Thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing". Surely David's confidence would occasionally waiver when he was facing defeat, but he knew he was the apple of God's eye. Verse 8 says "Keep me as the apple of the eye"- not make me.
We as REAL Men should always know where we stand in God's sight! David rarely spoke of the here after, but verse 15 shows us exactly how David viewed himself after death. "As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness".
This should be the ultimate goal of all REAL Men.
Bro. Morrison
Psalm 16
When David wrote this chapter he was doing three things. He was acknowledging that without God, he was nothing. He was putting that nail in a sure place by proclaiming that he would serve the only living God. He was declaring his right to cry, Abba Father,0 and claim his eternal heritage in the promise of Jesus Christ.
I did not choose Psalm 16 as a take away, brother Joe assigned it. In other words it fell to me. I did not choose brother Russo's message for him this past Sunday as he talked about the anchor of truth, it simply fell to me. As we all stood around the altar at the end of that wonderful service, I held that line that has mercifully fallen to me in my hand and was filled with the same realization that David had. I am not worthy to hold onto that line in this most pleasant of places but I am determined to never let it go.
For the past few days I have tried to do justice to the feelings I have about this chapter, and all that God has done for me my entire life, but words fail me. As I sat on my couch reading through the Bible, an old hymn book that is sitting on our coffee table caught my eye.. Without really knowing why, I started to flip through the pages. Suddenly a song that I have never heard caught my eye. It paints a picture of the way I feel about the church I love and the heritage that I am now a part of.
The Family Of God
I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God. I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood! Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod, for I'm part of the family, the family of God. ( I like verse two the best )
From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King, no longer an outcast, a new song I sing, from rags unto riches, from the weak to the strong, I'm not worthy to be here, But Praise God I Belong!!
Robert MacPhee Jr
I did not choose Psalm 16 as a take away, brother Joe assigned it. In other words it fell to me. I did not choose brother Russo's message for him this past Sunday as he talked about the anchor of truth, it simply fell to me. As we all stood around the altar at the end of that wonderful service, I held that line that has mercifully fallen to me in my hand and was filled with the same realization that David had. I am not worthy to hold onto that line in this most pleasant of places but I am determined to never let it go.
For the past few days I have tried to do justice to the feelings I have about this chapter, and all that God has done for me my entire life, but words fail me. As I sat on my couch reading through the Bible, an old hymn book that is sitting on our coffee table caught my eye.. Without really knowing why, I started to flip through the pages. Suddenly a song that I have never heard caught my eye. It paints a picture of the way I feel about the church I love and the heritage that I am now a part of.
The Family Of God
I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God. I've been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood! Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod, for I'm part of the family, the family of God. ( I like verse two the best )
From the door of an orphanage to the house of the King, no longer an outcast, a new song I sing, from rags unto riches, from the weak to the strong, I'm not worthy to be here, But Praise God I Belong!!
Robert MacPhee Jr
Psalm 15
What a wonderful promise of safety and security in God!
The commission of Micah 6:8:
“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”
…lines up beautifully with Psalm 15.
2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
5 He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent.
These are all the answer to the questions found in verse 1:
1 Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
It’s not easy in our present world with all the junk that’s going on to stand. But if we hold to the word, doctrine, prayer and the Holy Ghost, He will see us through. Walking right, talking right, staying faithful and obedient will pay off and the reward will be greater than we can ever imagine.
The end of verse 5 tells us: He that doeth these things shall never be moved. Don’t be moved, be REAL MEN.
Tim Jacobs
The commission of Micah 6:8:
“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”
…lines up beautifully with Psalm 15.
2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
4 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
5 He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent.
These are all the answer to the questions found in verse 1:
1 Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
It’s not easy in our present world with all the junk that’s going on to stand. But if we hold to the word, doctrine, prayer and the Holy Ghost, He will see us through. Walking right, talking right, staying faithful and obedient will pay off and the reward will be greater than we can ever imagine.
The end of verse 5 tells us: He that doeth these things shall never be moved. Don’t be moved, be REAL MEN.
Tim Jacobs
Psalm 14
Verse 1 starts out - The fool hath said in his heart “there is no God.” Wow, what a strong statement.
In this chapter we see that the men of that day had turned from God, and were following after their own evil desires and lusts. There was no knowledge of God because they did not seek Him for guidance. They had become corrupt in their thinking, and looked at those that were followers of God as poor and unlearned.
When I look at our world today I see a people that are saying that very thing by their self centered lifestyles and actions, “there is no God”. They lean to their own knowledge, and do whatever it takes to get them the things they desire in this life. They say that everything is relative, and that there are no absolutes, (which in itself is an absolute), so you should do whatever you want.
The media makes fun of Christians, (at breakfast, lunch and dinner), considering us as poor and unlearned. This is due to their ignorance of Truth, and the lack of a relationship with Jesus Christ. They do not understand that we Christians are the richest people on this earth, and lead the most wonderful lifestyle known to mankind.
Let us continue to be REAL Men that have a daily walk with Jesus Christ trusting in Him to lead us, (Proverbs 3:5,6 - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart ; and lean not unto thine own understanding In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths), lest we too fall into the trap of the fool.
Blessed of God,
Billy Potter
In this chapter we see that the men of that day had turned from God, and were following after their own evil desires and lusts. There was no knowledge of God because they did not seek Him for guidance. They had become corrupt in their thinking, and looked at those that were followers of God as poor and unlearned.
When I look at our world today I see a people that are saying that very thing by their self centered lifestyles and actions, “there is no God”. They lean to their own knowledge, and do whatever it takes to get them the things they desire in this life. They say that everything is relative, and that there are no absolutes, (which in itself is an absolute), so you should do whatever you want.
The media makes fun of Christians, (at breakfast, lunch and dinner), considering us as poor and unlearned. This is due to their ignorance of Truth, and the lack of a relationship with Jesus Christ. They do not understand that we Christians are the richest people on this earth, and lead the most wonderful lifestyle known to mankind.
Let us continue to be REAL Men that have a daily walk with Jesus Christ trusting in Him to lead us, (Proverbs 3:5,6 - Trust in the Lord with all thine heart ; and lean not unto thine own understanding In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths), lest we too fall into the trap of the fool.
Blessed of God,
Billy Potter
Psalm 13
Feelings, Foes, and Faith…..Lamentation, Prayer, and Rejoicing!
David in all likelihood wrote this psalm in a dark period of his life. Although he had been promised the throne, Saul was pursing him to take his life. He first deals with his feelings in verse 1 and 2. He is in a state of lament as he feels God is distant and not at all concerned with his situation. Men, how often do we find ourselves in David’s shoes, feeling alone and distant from the Lord as we struggle with what seems to be the trials of a lifetime? We must not deny our feelings and pretend that everything is going well, and there is no sin in asking, "How long?" But at the same time, we must realize how deceptive our feelings are and that God is greater than our hearts and can lift us above the emotional storms of life.
David then transitions to a moment of prayer and request from the Lord as he focuses on his foes. His prayer to God first was to be considered as he felt the Lord was not looking on him and his situation. Second, his prayer was that God hear his words and send him some encouragement as he believed that he had be abandoned and that his prayers accomplished nothing! Men, have we all not been in this place at one time or another in our lives? I know I have! Thirdly, David prays for the Lord to give light to his eyes, that he could receive not only spiritual enlightenment, but also physical and emotional vitality and strength. In his prayer, he lastly asks the Lord to prevent his enemy and adversary from gloating over his sunken state. For the glory of God, he prayed that his enemies would not be able to claim victory, for it was God who appointed him to be king in the first place. If God has given us a promise, we must be like David, and understand it is not about us. We should pray that God’s glory would be the result of the outcome of our trial.
Finally, David centers his attention on the joy from Lord. He transitions from fear to faith, and from questioning to claiming God’s promises. While David’s feelings and emotions had been on a roller coaster, God was still on the throne and in control! His great character had not changed. David realized that God’s love was all that he needed because it never fails. We as God’s people never live on explanations; we live on promises, and those promises are as unchanging as the character of God. Even though David’s circumstances did not immediately change, the Lord changed him. That occurred when David stopped looking at his feelings and his foes, and by faith started looking to the Lord. None of us are exempt from lamentation, but if we pray and seek the Lord, we will no doubt be led to a place of joy only found in Him. Let’s be REAL Men like David, and encourage ourselves in the Lord when the storms of life begin to blow in our direction!
Dwight Chandler
David in all likelihood wrote this psalm in a dark period of his life. Although he had been promised the throne, Saul was pursing him to take his life. He first deals with his feelings in verse 1 and 2. He is in a state of lament as he feels God is distant and not at all concerned with his situation. Men, how often do we find ourselves in David’s shoes, feeling alone and distant from the Lord as we struggle with what seems to be the trials of a lifetime? We must not deny our feelings and pretend that everything is going well, and there is no sin in asking, "How long?" But at the same time, we must realize how deceptive our feelings are and that God is greater than our hearts and can lift us above the emotional storms of life.
David then transitions to a moment of prayer and request from the Lord as he focuses on his foes. His prayer to God first was to be considered as he felt the Lord was not looking on him and his situation. Second, his prayer was that God hear his words and send him some encouragement as he believed that he had be abandoned and that his prayers accomplished nothing! Men, have we all not been in this place at one time or another in our lives? I know I have! Thirdly, David prays for the Lord to give light to his eyes, that he could receive not only spiritual enlightenment, but also physical and emotional vitality and strength. In his prayer, he lastly asks the Lord to prevent his enemy and adversary from gloating over his sunken state. For the glory of God, he prayed that his enemies would not be able to claim victory, for it was God who appointed him to be king in the first place. If God has given us a promise, we must be like David, and understand it is not about us. We should pray that God’s glory would be the result of the outcome of our trial.
Finally, David centers his attention on the joy from Lord. He transitions from fear to faith, and from questioning to claiming God’s promises. While David’s feelings and emotions had been on a roller coaster, God was still on the throne and in control! His great character had not changed. David realized that God’s love was all that he needed because it never fails. We as God’s people never live on explanations; we live on promises, and those promises are as unchanging as the character of God. Even though David’s circumstances did not immediately change, the Lord changed him. That occurred when David stopped looking at his feelings and his foes, and by faith started looking to the Lord. None of us are exempt from lamentation, but if we pray and seek the Lord, we will no doubt be led to a place of joy only found in Him. Let’s be REAL Men like David, and encourage ourselves in the Lord when the storms of life begin to blow in our direction!
Dwight Chandler
Psalm 12
Sheminith: in the titles of Psalms 6 and 12, has been explained as "bass," complementary to Alamoth. Almoth as: musical term, unknown in meaning, although some have guessed "soprano," connecting it with a word for "maidens." It occurs in First Chronicles and in the title of Psalm 46.
So as we look at this particular instruction of King David regarding this Psalm we should look at it as coming for men. That is because I don’t know of any women that sing bass. So with that in mind look at the first two words of this chapter:
Help, LORD.
If anyone should know how to call on the Lord for help it should be the REAL Men. The fallacy of this world trying to tell boys, and men that they should be self sufficient is a lie. We know where all lies come from.
Verse 2 talks about flattery and speaking proud things. It is said that “Flattery is the sign where duplicity is the host.” Meaning that to one’s face, one thing is said; but to the back, a different type of statement is made. Verse 3 The LORD shall cut them all off.
So what are we to do then? The promises of the Lord are yea, and amen.
Look at verses 6,7: “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation forever.”
Prov 24:16 “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief. “
So if we are tried in the furnace seven times, or if we fall seven times, we have promises that He shall preserve us. He also tells us that if we fall seven times, we can still rise up again. So now let us allow the Lord to try us in the furnace in order for Him to preserve us.
David DeTar
So as we look at this particular instruction of King David regarding this Psalm we should look at it as coming for men. That is because I don’t know of any women that sing bass. So with that in mind look at the first two words of this chapter:
Help, LORD.
If anyone should know how to call on the Lord for help it should be the REAL Men. The fallacy of this world trying to tell boys, and men that they should be self sufficient is a lie. We know where all lies come from.
Verse 2 talks about flattery and speaking proud things. It is said that “Flattery is the sign where duplicity is the host.” Meaning that to one’s face, one thing is said; but to the back, a different type of statement is made. Verse 3 The LORD shall cut them all off.
So what are we to do then? The promises of the Lord are yea, and amen.
Look at verses 6,7: “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation forever.”
Prov 24:16 “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief. “
So if we are tried in the furnace seven times, or if we fall seven times, we have promises that He shall preserve us. He also tells us that if we fall seven times, we can still rise up again. So now let us allow the Lord to try us in the furnace in order for Him to preserve us.
David DeTar
Psalm 11
What a beautiful message is relayed to us again, the Lord knows where we are, and what we are about. He knows the thoughts, and intent of our heart.
V 5 The Lord trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.
V7 For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
Men, be Real, and be righteous through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. He knows where you are, and he cares. Blessed be the name of the Lord, Jesus. He has a plan for each, and every one of you, and if we will do our best to seek, and do his will, he will see us through.
Ralph Cain
V 5 The Lord trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.
V7 For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
Men, be Real, and be righteous through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. He knows where you are, and he cares. Blessed be the name of the Lord, Jesus. He has a plan for each, and every one of you, and if we will do our best to seek, and do his will, he will see us through.
Ralph Cain
Psalm 10
When I read this Psalm, it talks about how bad the wicked are, and how they hurt you, and bring you down. Then it talks about how God hears the afflicted, and how he will help you and put down the wicked; it really means a lot.
When you think of God, and who he is, you realize that God doesn't have to hear our needs, but rather he chooses to because of his love for us. The One that made something out of nothing actually listens to our needs; the King of Kings actually hears you, and I just think that that is so awesome. So every need you have, just have faith because the one who hears your need is the King of Kings.
Marshall McGee
When you think of God, and who he is, you realize that God doesn't have to hear our needs, but rather he chooses to because of his love for us. The One that made something out of nothing actually listens to our needs; the King of Kings actually hears you, and I just think that that is so awesome. So every need you have, just have faith because the one who hears your need is the King of Kings.
Marshall McGee
Psalm 9
How great is our God! In the ninth psalm I was ministered to by the Name. “I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High” (v2) “they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee” (v10)
We know in the Hebrew culture a name was of great significance. It was your identity. When Isaac names his son Jacob, He put on him the identity of a supplantor, a little rotten scoundrel if you will... no wonder the Lord blessed him with a new name. When we fully understand and know His name we understand all that He is in our lives.
Daniel 11:32 says “but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits” When we live rejoicing not in our circumstances or situations, but in who He is we will be strong. When we learn to step out in faith believing not in our own abilities but rather in His we will do great exploits.
Walk today in victory. Rejoice in who He is and live like He is fighting your battles and ensuring ultimate victory in the Holy Ghost. “Be strong in the Lord and in His might power” (Eph 6:12)
Jason Ouellette
We know in the Hebrew culture a name was of great significance. It was your identity. When Isaac names his son Jacob, He put on him the identity of a supplantor, a little rotten scoundrel if you will... no wonder the Lord blessed him with a new name. When we fully understand and know His name we understand all that He is in our lives.
Daniel 11:32 says “but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits” When we live rejoicing not in our circumstances or situations, but in who He is we will be strong. When we learn to step out in faith believing not in our own abilities but rather in His we will do great exploits.
Walk today in victory. Rejoice in who He is and live like He is fighting your battles and ensuring ultimate victory in the Holy Ghost. “Be strong in the Lord and in His might power” (Eph 6:12)
Jason Ouellette
Psalm 8
I can just imagine the psalmist having some time all to himself as his mind begins to dwell on God. With his pen in hand and his heart full of praise, Psalm 8 is born:
1: O LORD, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.
3: When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
4: What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
5: For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.
9: O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!
When we think of how big He is and how small we are, this should be our praise. There should never be anything in our lives that causes us to put ourselves above the majesty of God. He loves us in spite of our sinful nature. He visits with us unlike anything else in all of creation. We are so blessed with the possibility of having the indwelling of His spirit—something the angels can never experience. We must always remember that: He must increase, I must decrease.
Tim Jacobs
1: O LORD, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.
3: When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;
4: What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?
5: For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.
9: O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!
When we think of how big He is and how small we are, this should be our praise. There should never be anything in our lives that causes us to put ourselves above the majesty of God. He loves us in spite of our sinful nature. He visits with us unlike anything else in all of creation. We are so blessed with the possibility of having the indwelling of His spirit—something the angels can never experience. We must always remember that: He must increase, I must decrease.
Tim Jacobs
Psalm 7
Psalms 7 was possibly written while Shimei was cursing David in 2 Samuel 16: 6-8. It is an example of how we should react and respond when we feel that we have been wronged. Ask God, “search me and show me if I have done any wrong.”
If we have then let us accept what has been dealt to us as David in verses 3-5. If we have not done anything wrong, then let God be the judge and let His will be done (verses 8-16).
This is a poignant reminder not to attempt to take matters into our own hands but turn them over to God and let Him handle the situation.
“Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.”
Romans 12:19
Randal Sheppard
If we have then let us accept what has been dealt to us as David in verses 3-5. If we have not done anything wrong, then let God be the judge and let His will be done (verses 8-16).
This is a poignant reminder not to attempt to take matters into our own hands but turn them over to God and let Him handle the situation.
“Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.”
Romans 12:19
Randal Sheppard
Psalm 6
Ps 6:1-7 David's Complaints
To the chief musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, a Psalm sung of David.
1 O Lord, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. 2 Have mercy upon me, O Lord; for I am weak: O Lord, heal me; for my bones are vexed. 3 My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O Lord, how long? 4 Return, O Lord, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake. 5 For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks? 6 I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears. 7 Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.
These verses speak of a heart truly humbled under humbling providences, of a broken and contrite spirit under great afflictions, sent on purpose to awaken conscience and mortify corruption. Those people who heap up wrath who cry not when God binds them; but those who are getting ready for mercy who, under God's rebukes, sow in tears, as David does here.
Ps 6:8-10
Confidence in God
8 Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping. 9 The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer. 10 Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly.
What a sudden change is here for the better! He that was groaning, and weeping, and giving up all for gone (v. 6, 7), here he looks and speaks very pleasantly. Having made his requests known to God, and lodged his case with him, he is very confident the issues will be good and his sorrow is turned into joy.
Real men learn to make their requests known to God and rest not on personal accomplishments – Good or Bad. They learn to trust in Gods great mercy, which is fresh every day.
Bro Luis Morga
To the chief musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, a Psalm sung of David.
1 O Lord, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. 2 Have mercy upon me, O Lord; for I am weak: O Lord, heal me; for my bones are vexed. 3 My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O Lord, how long? 4 Return, O Lord, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake. 5 For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks? 6 I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears. 7 Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies.
These verses speak of a heart truly humbled under humbling providences, of a broken and contrite spirit under great afflictions, sent on purpose to awaken conscience and mortify corruption. Those people who heap up wrath who cry not when God binds them; but those who are getting ready for mercy who, under God's rebukes, sow in tears, as David does here.
Ps 6:8-10
Confidence in God
8 Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping. 9 The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer. 10 Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly.
What a sudden change is here for the better! He that was groaning, and weeping, and giving up all for gone (v. 6, 7), here he looks and speaks very pleasantly. Having made his requests known to God, and lodged his case with him, he is very confident the issues will be good and his sorrow is turned into joy.
Real men learn to make their requests known to God and rest not on personal accomplishments – Good or Bad. They learn to trust in Gods great mercy, which is fresh every day.
Bro Luis Morga
Wednesday
Psalm 5
The God who “hears” our prayer and meditation!
2 Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray.
3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
7 But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple.
David realized the importance of morning prayer and meditation. Prayer and meditation is a time of positioning ourselves in a proper relationship with our God and King. Notice in this chapter that David made note of what God likes and what God dislikes. In our prayer and meditation we are to position ourselves into God’s plan for the day that we are facing. God does have a plan and direction for our daily walk with him.
1 Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation.
Notice that David used the words “my voice shalt thou hear in the morning”. Prayer often is us doing all the talking and not giving God a chance to “speak” to us. Direction is received by someone besides “me” doing the talking. David asked that God would consider his meditation. Meditation is important in our “noise polluted” world. We have so many electronic devices at our disposal that it is difficult to find a “quiet” time to meditate. I was very blessed to be raised on a farm where in the corn field there was just me and the Lord.
Men, let us position ourselves in a right relationship with our God and listen for His direction for our daily lives. God knows the end from the beginning!
Bob Gougler
2 Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray.
3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
7 But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple.
David realized the importance of morning prayer and meditation. Prayer and meditation is a time of positioning ourselves in a proper relationship with our God and King. Notice in this chapter that David made note of what God likes and what God dislikes. In our prayer and meditation we are to position ourselves into God’s plan for the day that we are facing. God does have a plan and direction for our daily walk with him.
1 Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation.
Notice that David used the words “my voice shalt thou hear in the morning”. Prayer often is us doing all the talking and not giving God a chance to “speak” to us. Direction is received by someone besides “me” doing the talking. David asked that God would consider his meditation. Meditation is important in our “noise polluted” world. We have so many electronic devices at our disposal that it is difficult to find a “quiet” time to meditate. I was very blessed to be raised on a farm where in the corn field there was just me and the Lord.
Men, let us position ourselves in a right relationship with our God and listen for His direction for our daily lives. God knows the end from the beginning!
Bob Gougler
Psalm 4
Psalm 4 verses 3 –5 exhort us to live Godly lives, that He may set us apart and hear our prayers, to meditate on the Lord, offer righteous sacrifice and to trust in the Lord.
Righteous sacrifice in our time means something different than it did in King David’s time. The ancient sacrificial offering was to be perfect. I imagine it was watched closely to ensure nothing would injure or contaminate the offering. Though we no longer offer lambs for atonement, we still offer righteous sacrifices. Romans 12 exhorts, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Our righteous sacrifices are a pure mind, a clean heart, and trusting in the Lord.
Offering perfect sacrifice is not done accidentally. It is done intentionally and on purpose. Let us zealously guard our minds, our hearts and our trust, just as the men of old guarded their offering. We must strive to offer, each day, a life in which He is magnified.
Just as Christ lived His life, not for Himself, but for us, we do not live our lives for ourselves. We are examples. Merriam-Webster defines example as “one that serves as a pattern to be imitated.” We live our lives so that others may see what Christ looks like with flesh. We have to guard our righteous sacrifice so that our children will know how to keep their sacrifice acceptable. We MUST live our lives intentionally and on purpose so that those following us can see the cross.
Keith G. Mathews
Righteous sacrifice in our time means something different than it did in King David’s time. The ancient sacrificial offering was to be perfect. I imagine it was watched closely to ensure nothing would injure or contaminate the offering. Though we no longer offer lambs for atonement, we still offer righteous sacrifices. Romans 12 exhorts, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Our righteous sacrifices are a pure mind, a clean heart, and trusting in the Lord.
Offering perfect sacrifice is not done accidentally. It is done intentionally and on purpose. Let us zealously guard our minds, our hearts and our trust, just as the men of old guarded their offering. We must strive to offer, each day, a life in which He is magnified.
Just as Christ lived His life, not for Himself, but for us, we do not live our lives for ourselves. We are examples. Merriam-Webster defines example as “one that serves as a pattern to be imitated.” We live our lives so that others may see what Christ looks like with flesh. We have to guard our righteous sacrifice so that our children will know how to keep their sacrifice acceptable. We MUST live our lives intentionally and on purpose so that those following us can see the cross.
Keith G. Mathews
Psalm 3
This to me is one of the most uplifting passages to read. In the midst of one of the lowest times in King David’s life, he managed to have comfort and rest through the Shield of his life. His very own people had risen against him, turning their hearts to a rebellious Absalom, who sought to take the kingdom from his father’s hands.
So David fled to a road of nowhere, aimlessly walking as he wept and mourned. But through all this mourning he began to remember of the times past, when it seemed he was cornered in on all sides awaiting his death, until the Shield of his life stepped in to defy all odds. And so he began to cry out to God, to hear His voice from Mount of Olives, speaking peace into his life. Even though an army had come against him, it was the Lord who had granted him rest for the night.
My brothers, know this, in the hardest times of your life, when the enemy has you surrounded on all sides, your Shield is waiting for a cry to sound out from those who put their trust in Him. And he will come to you and grant you the peace that you have so fervently sought after. Then is the time that you will say, “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about..” No, but the Lord will deliver you, bringing rest into your hearts, smiting the enemy who has rose against you.
Mike Creel
So David fled to a road of nowhere, aimlessly walking as he wept and mourned. But through all this mourning he began to remember of the times past, when it seemed he was cornered in on all sides awaiting his death, until the Shield of his life stepped in to defy all odds. And so he began to cry out to God, to hear His voice from Mount of Olives, speaking peace into his life. Even though an army had come against him, it was the Lord who had granted him rest for the night.
My brothers, know this, in the hardest times of your life, when the enemy has you surrounded on all sides, your Shield is waiting for a cry to sound out from those who put their trust in Him. And he will come to you and grant you the peace that you have so fervently sought after. Then is the time that you will say, “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about..” No, but the Lord will deliver you, bringing rest into your hearts, smiting the enemy who has rose against you.
Mike Creel
Psalm 2
If we were to summarize this Psalm it would be best summarized as "The Psalm of Messiah the Prince." David gives us a duo-fold character of the Messiah and the King here, both in a literal and an allegorical sense. This Psalm is best divided into four parts verses 1-3 the Nations raging, 4-6 The Lord condemns them, 7-9 The Son proclaims the decree, and 10-12 advice is given to kings to yield in obedience to the Lord's anointed. But verse 4 says "He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision. Derision: (noun) - ridicule; mockery: But the summary of the whole matter is wrapped up in the last three verses.
10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.
11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. Serve the LORD, what greater opportunity do we have then to testify and serve him in our day to day life. Then Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.
• Trust-faith that believes to such an extent that the outward conduct is governed by implicit confidence and dependence on the goodness of God
• Integrity uprightness, virtue, honesty
These are two key words that I carry the definitions in my Bible all of the time. Trust when it seems to go against all common sense. Integrity is a word that when properly applied gives a greater weight to its proper owner.
Our Messiah, or Lord, is the one who will judge us in our thoughts and attitudes and actions. So as Real Men let us comply with what David wrote here, "Blessed are all they that put their trust in him."
David A. De Tar
10 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.
11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. Serve the LORD, what greater opportunity do we have then to testify and serve him in our day to day life. Then Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.
• Trust-faith that believes to such an extent that the outward conduct is governed by implicit confidence and dependence on the goodness of God
• Integrity uprightness, virtue, honesty
These are two key words that I carry the definitions in my Bible all of the time. Trust when it seems to go against all common sense. Integrity is a word that when properly applied gives a greater weight to its proper owner.
Our Messiah, or Lord, is the one who will judge us in our thoughts and attitudes and actions. So as Real Men let us comply with what David wrote here, "Blessed are all they that put their trust in him."
David A. De Tar
Psalm 1
To start with, please let me reminisce a little. The fondest things that I remember about my dad, was his love for good preaching, and early morning prayer. Waking up early myself and hearing him praying always touched me at a young age. One cold wintry day we had killed hogs and I was outside by myself cooking the pork rinds when my dad walked out to where I was and started talking about the Lord and the first chapter he learned to quote. I soon learned to quote it myself and it has stuck with me for many years, the first chapter of Psalms. I will paraphrase. Happy is the man that does not take counsel of the wicked people, nor associates with sinners, nor sits with those that find fault with everybody.
But he is joyful that he has the word of God to guide him, and he studies and follows the teachings of the word of God. He shall be like a tree that was planted in a special place and had plenty of nourishment and water, who does not shed his fruit early, his leaf shall not either, and whatsoever he sets his heart to do will be prosperous. The ungodly are not so (happy and prosperous) but are like the chaff that is blown about with each and every small wind that comes their way.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment and nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous, and will not hear "Well done my good and faithful servant". For the Lord knows all about those who have kept his commandments and done what is pleasing in his sight, and we shall be with him forever, but the way of the ungodly shall perish, away from God forever.
Ralph Cain
But he is joyful that he has the word of God to guide him, and he studies and follows the teachings of the word of God. He shall be like a tree that was planted in a special place and had plenty of nourishment and water, who does not shed his fruit early, his leaf shall not either, and whatsoever he sets his heart to do will be prosperous. The ungodly are not so (happy and prosperous) but are like the chaff that is blown about with each and every small wind that comes their way.
Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment and nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous, and will not hear "Well done my good and faithful servant". For the Lord knows all about those who have kept his commandments and done what is pleasing in his sight, and we shall be with him forever, but the way of the ungodly shall perish, away from God forever.
Ralph Cain
Malachi 4
The Day of the Lord
This is the last chapter in the Old Testament and one of the shortest.
But to me is one of the most powerful. Depending on which side of
the fence you are on, it could be the best or worst day of your life.
God cuts straight to the heart for the evildoer in verse 1. “Surely
the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and
every evildoer will be stumble, and that day that is coming will set
them on fire." says the Lord Almighty.
And for the righteous He says in verse 2. But for you who revere my
name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.
And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.
Now if that doesn't spur you to stay strong and finish the race, I
don't know what will. What a Day of Celebration that will be for the
children of God!
Stay REAL brothers,
Rick VanderZanden
This is the last chapter in the Old Testament and one of the shortest.
But to me is one of the most powerful. Depending on which side of
the fence you are on, it could be the best or worst day of your life.
God cuts straight to the heart for the evildoer in verse 1. “Surely
the day is coming; it will burn like a furnace. All the arrogant and
every evildoer will be stumble, and that day that is coming will set
them on fire." says the Lord Almighty.
And for the righteous He says in verse 2. But for you who revere my
name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.
And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.
Now if that doesn't spur you to stay strong and finish the race, I
don't know what will. What a Day of Celebration that will be for the
children of God!
Stay REAL brothers,
Rick VanderZanden
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