Tag: remember

Psalm 23

The key to this psalm is the first verse and is found in the pronoun “my.” If this is not true of you, then this psalm is not a psalm that you can cling to for it is only for those who call to God as Savior, Shepherd.

Psalm 23

The key to this psalm is the first verse and is found in the pronoun “my.” If this is not true of you, then this psalm is not a psalm that you can cling to for it is only for those who call to God as Savior, Shepherd.

For all the beauty and splendor of this psalm, it is a psalm reminding us that God meets our needs (cf. Philippians 4.19 and Psalm 37.25). These would include meeting the needs of our entire being. He meets my safety and physical needs as-well-as my need for belonging, love, and meaning. He guides me (2-3), He protects me (4), He is with me (4), His loving-kindness is known to me (6), and He gives me victory (5) with purpose (6). The one thing that is not given me that I have to choose is to serve others the same way He has served me (Mark 10.43-45).

The question to answer is this: Whom am I shepherding toward Christ today?

Many authors have poured over these verses and waxed eloquently (i.e., Max Lucado Traveling Light or Philip Keller A Shepherds Look at Psalm 23). I refer the reader to books such as these to explore the depths of this chapter.

1 Chronicles 16.7-43

Special occasions like this will come and go in our lives. We may remember what we did, what God had done, how we praised Him, and how others were drawn to Him during this occasion. But, it is better to write down a word of praise to God for what He has done. When God works in your life, write down what He did, how you felt, how others responded, and whatever else you experienced for the moment. That day will disappear, but your written words will last throughout your life and beyond. This can be your tool to bring others to Christ even after you are gone (23).

1 Chronicles 16.7-43 (Cf. Psalm 96.1-13, Psalm 105.1-15, and Psalm 106.1, 47-48 [see our study of Psalm 96, Psalm 105, Psalm 106])

This chapter is a song of David that has found its way into at least three psalms, as can be seen from the above.

  •  2 Chronicles 16.7-22 is found in Psalm 105.1-15, which is a psalm of thanks for God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. The covenant was central to the faith of the Israelite and, now, to the Christian [research].
  • 2 Chronicles 16.23-33 is found in Psalm 96.1-13, which is a call to the people of the earth to come and worship before God.
  • 2 Chronicles 16.34-36 is found in Psalm 106.1, 47-48, which is a psalm of praise for forgiveness of sin.

 Verses seven and thirty-seven present Asaph, the writer of and musician for many psalms, as the chief musician under David.

God, through David’s (and Ezra) pen, reminds us that God is above all other gods. When those around you proclaim that Christianity is too narrowminded and that there is more than one way to God, show them 1 Chronicles 16.23-30. It is here that God proclaims He is above all other gods, that He alone is worthy of worship, and that all other gods are useless. If this seems intolerant to them, remind them it is the truth. Much like gravity is intolerant of those who want to float, yet it is the truth.

The passage reminds us that God is intending to offer salvation to all mankind, not merely the Israelites (31-32).

Included in the conclusion of the poetic portion of this chapter are three verses representing our prayers: we should thank God (34), ask God for His will to be done (35), and praise Him for whom He is (36).

The conclusion of the passage, verses 37-43, presents a slight problem in that there are two places of worship, Gibeon and Jerusalem. However, this will not always be the case. When the worship is established in Jerusalem, all worship is moved there (by worship I mean the corporate celebrations of God in a public place [research “worship”]).

Verse 41 is interesting in that it reminds us of God’s steadfast love for us in the middle of a narrative. There were specific people who were designated to remind others of this throughout the day. Isn’t this our call as well?

The last verse, 43, is the tie-in to chapter 17. All people went home, but the Lord had no home.

Special occasions like this will come and go in our lives. We may remember what we did, what God had done, how we praised Him, and how others were drawn to Him during this occasion. But, it is better to write down a word of praise to God for what He has done. When God works in your life, write down what He did, how you felt, how others responded, and whatever else you experienced for the moment. That day will disappear, but your written words will last throughout your life and beyond. This can be your tool to bring others to Christ even after you are gone (23).

One last application, do you regularly attend corporate worship? Are you involved with the corporate worship at your church? Are you using your gifts for God’s purpose, glory, and honor (Ephesians 4.11-16)?

1 Chronicles 15.1-16.6

When God is worshiped in the manner God commands, we are most blest and He is most glorified.

1 Chronicles 15.1-16.5 (see our study of 2 Samuel 6)

The first twenty-four verses of this chapter are not found in 2 Samuel 6. It may have been added to show what David did in the establishment of the religious center in Jerusalem. He realized he did it wrong (see 2 Samuel 6 and our previous study in 1 Chronicles 13). These verses highlight the extent David went to in order to do things correctly. He surrounds himself with Levites and, particularly, Kohathites (120 of them). This chapter ends with Michal despising David. Chapter 15, verse 25, through the next chapter, the first five verses, are contained in the single chapter of 2 Samuel 6. The phrase that is missing is how David responded to Michal as is found in 2 Samuel 6.

When God is worshiped in the manner God commands, we are most blest and He is most glorified.

Psalm 107

This psalm is calling all mankind to live in gratitude for what God has done. Look around at your life; what is God doing? If you say nothing, you don’t know God too well. He is always at work (John 5.16-18). It is the glory of man to find what He is doing and join Him in His activities. Notice His work and praise Him for it.

Psalm 107

This chapter, due to verses 2-3, has been interpreted as post-exilic that is when the Israelites were returning from the Babylonian Captivity. However, since all four directions are being referred to, it seems more appropriate to read this as the psalmist calling people from all directions of the earth to praise God.

Psalm 106 (see our study) retells the stories of God’s work in the Israelites in terms of discipline. Psalm 105 (see our study-research) details God’s blessing on the people. Both of these psalms refer to incidents found in the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible. Psalm 107 refers to incidents of God’s deliverance outside of the Pentateuch narrative. It appears that the incidents are not historical for the writer but current events.

The structure of this psalm is provided in the refrain given in verses 1, 8, 15, 21, and 31. Each of these verses calls us to thank God for what He has done. It is marked by the Hebrew word “chesed” (חסד), which translates “loving-kindness.” This word will be studied at a later time and placed in this website. What follows these verses are a reason for gratitude or a command to continue to praise Him. This is also seen in the refrain of the people’s cry to God in verses 6, 13, 19, and 28.

Therefore, we can outline this psalm as follows:

  • Verses 1-3-Introduction for all the people of God to thank God.
  • Verses 4-9-Instructions for travelers to thank God for what He has done
  • Verses 10-16-Instructions for prisoners to thank God for what He has done
  • Verses 17-22-Instructions for those suffering to thank God for what He has done

A quick note on these verses, some use this paragraph to present God’s healing in the Bible of physical infirmities proclaiming that God heals all diseases (Spirit filled life study Bible [Ps 107:1]). However, this passage speaks of sickness due to sin, such as David’s in Psalm 32 and Psalm 51, not sickness in general. Although I do believe that God does heal, I do not believe this passage can be used as a proof-text.

  • Verses 23-32-Instructions for sailors to thank God for what He has done
  • Verses 33-43-Instructions for farmers to thank God for what He has done

The last refrain does not follow the pattern of the previous four causing some to wonder if it belongs in this psalm or should be one alone.

This psalm is calling all mankind to live in gratitude for what God has done. Look around at your life; what is God doing? If you say nothing, you don’t know God too well. He is always at work (John 5.16-18). It is the glory of man to find what He is doing and join Him in His activities. Notice His work and praise Him for it.

Psalm 106

In each case of the remembering, Moses or another leader pleads on behalf of the people for God to forgive them. They stand in the gap for those who have rebelled (Ezekiel 22.30). We are called to do the same thing (Galatians 6.1-3 and Matthew 18.15-17).

Psalm 106

This is considered the first of the Hallelujah Psalms because it begins and ends with hallelujah (הלליה), which is “Praise the Lord.”

The key to this passage and the other historical psalms is to remember. In Psalm 105, remember because of the great things God has done; in Psalm 106, it is remembering that bad things we have done and turn from them. This psalm is a rehearsal of those things Israel did in rebellion to the good things God had done for them. Before we start pointing the finger, we need to remember that we do the same today. Think of God’s grace and forgiveness; then, ponder the things that we have done that abuse that grace and forgiveness. Paul summed it up in Romans 6 with an emphasis on our not sinning because of God’s grace.

Verses 1-3-The psalmist begins with praise and will end with praise as-well. He is calling us to observe what we have done and to pursue justice instead.

Verses 4-5-These verses are likened to Luke 23.42 where the repentant thief asks Jesus to remember him when He enters His kingdom.

Now we arrive at the reason for the repentance and petition.

Remember

  • Verse 6-He wants us to remember that we are as capable of committing these sins as those who actually committed them.
  • Verses 7-12-Red Sea Rebellion (Exodus 14)
  • Verses 13-15-Complaints in the Desert (Numbers 11)-They forgot; they did not remember.
  • Verses 16-18-Dathan and Abiram, the Rebels (Numbers 16)
  • Verses 19-23-The Golden Calf (Exodus 32)
  • Verses 24-27-The Evil Report of the Spies (Numbers 13-14)
  • Verses 28-31-Sin with People of Moab (Numbers 25)
  • Verses 32-33-Trouble at Meribah (Numbers 20.1-13)
  • Verses 34-39-In Canaan—Nothing Ever Changes (see the studies on the book of Joshua)
  • Verses 40-46-The Times of the Judges (see the studies on the book of Judges)

Verse 47-This is a call to national repentance and a call to give God the glory due His name.

Verse 48-This doxology is what began the psalm. Whatever our lot in life, we need to remember to praise the Lord.

In each case of the remembering, Moses or another leader pleads on behalf of the people for God to forgive them. They stand in the gap for those who have rebelled (Ezekiel 22.30). We are called to do the same thing (Galatians 6.1-3 and Matthew 18.15-17).

1 Chronicles 12

1 Chronicles 12 (cf. 1 Samuel 22, 27, 29, 30)

Our studies in 1 Samuel (22, 27, 29, and 30) covered the material found in the first twenty-two verses of 1 Chronicles 12. So, refer to them for now (more on this chapter will come in the future).

This chapter details the tribes that were loyal to David. Notice in verses 29-30 that some were still loyal to Saul. It was not a clean transition to the throne for David. Looking at verses 38-40, we can see the celebrations that occurred when David was finally proclaimed king over all Israel.

For further insight into these verses refer to these previous studies:

Probably the greatest contrast gathered from these verses is how David and Saul gained followers. When these verses are read, we see that David attracted followers. They were drawn to him. Saul had to draft men into his army (1 Samuel 14.52). Our character and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives attract others to our ministry. What is your character like? How is the Holy Spirit working in you today?

Look over this chapter again. Focus on these verses: 2, 8, 15, 16-18, 32, 33, and 38. What did you notice about these people who were attracted to David? Would you meet these qualifications? Jesus calls each one of us to His service. Does He attract you? Are you qualified for service or has sin stained you for this season? Are you skilled? Yes. The Holy Spirit has gifted you. Are you trained?  Second Timothy 2.15 requires us to do this work. Are you fearless? Again, 2 Timothy 1.7 proclaims that God has given us a spirit that should be fearless. Are you loyal? This is your decision. Will you follow Him regardless of the command? Will you follow His Word and His leaders and help others to do the same? Do you see what is going on around you and desire to change things for God? This is the list. How do you match-up? The good news is that God can qualify you as you surrender to His Word, His will, and His way.

1 Chronicles 9

This opening verse should be a warning to all who read. When we allow our hearts to turn from the Word, will, and way of God we are unfaithful to Him. Our unfaithfulness may not lead to physical captivity, but our hearts, minds, and wallets can become captive to the world system we are told to stay away from (1 John).

1 Chronicles 9 (Ezra 2.43, 79, Ezra 8.20, and Nehemiah 7.73)

This opening verse should be a warning to all who read. When we allow our hearts to turn from the Word, will, and way of God we are unfaithful to Him. Our unfaithfulness may not lead to physical captivity, but our hearts, minds, and wallets can become captive to the world system we are told to stay away from (1 John).

As can be seen by the passages listed above, this chapter details those who returned from the Babylonian Exile. The first to return (9.2) are the laymen, priests, Levites, and temple servants. This last group of people is called the Nethinim in the Hebrew text. These people were a group of temple servants (see references above) who helped the Levites with the menial chores in the Temple. The moniker Nethinim means “those who are given.” In the cross-references above, read in context, the Nethinim have Gentile names. This has led many to hold that these were non-Israelites. However, having a non-Israelite serving in the Temple has caused some to disregard that view. The names given could have been given to the foreign-born Israelite merely because they were in a foreign land (think of the four in the book of Daniel whose names were changed).

When this chapter is completed, the legitimacy of the Israelite nation from Creation to the moment of return from Exile is given. This is the nation that belongs in the Promised Land. Be thankful that your genealogy only needs to include Jesus as your Savior for you to inherit and claim legitimacy as one who is possessed by the King of the Promised Land.

The books of the Bible are divided into chapters by men. This is one case where I would have chosen a different point of separation. First Chronicles 9.35 could have been 1 Chronicles 10.1. This is because this portion of the book deals with the material in chapter ten that of King Saul. The closing of 1 Chronicles 9 presents the linage of King Saul (35-44). The ending of this chapter sets the stage for chapters ten and following. However, I do see that it is attached to chapter nine because it is a genealogy.

Psalm 92

As you grow, what fruit do others see in you? How is this evidenced in church?

Psalm 92

This is a psalm written specifically for the Sabbath, so says the inscription. As the psalm is read, we see that God is lifted high (1-4), God has judged the wicked (5-9), God gives mercy to those who follow Him (10-11), and mercy will continue throughout eternity (12-15). It anticipates the coming ultimate day of rest when the eternal Sabbath rest is ushered in (Hebrews 4.9-11).

Verses 1-4-A call to worship is given by this unknown author. He calls us to declare perpetually the greatness of God. It requires effort to do this, and it requires skill to do this. If we notice the worship given on the Sabbath Day requires us to do more than merely walk in, sit down, sing, give, and walk out. We are called to involve ourselves actively during this time (and all times).

Verses 5-9-God is contrasted with the creation in these verses. He is above all and He is eternal. Creation is simple and brief. Who is like Him? He knows the wicked and disciplines them (this is in contrast to those who follow Him in the next stanza).

Verses 10-11-In the present, God blesses us with His presence, which is the ultimate blessing.

Verses 12-15-In the days to come, He will continue steadfastly with those who pursue Him. In old age, there is new life, a flourishing life, a fruitful life, and a life that show others who He is. The palm tree represents long life and the cedar represents strength. In Song of Solomon 7.7-8 a palm tree describes a beautiful girl.

As you grow, what fruit do others see in you? How is this evidenced in church?

Later a study of the Sabbath for the Christian will be posted.

Psalm 88

Think of your darkest time, did you quit praying? Remember to focus on Him not on the circumstances.

Psalm 88

This is the last psalm written by a Korahite. This particular Korahite was Heman the Ezrahite. He is either the grandson of Samuel (1 Chronicles 6.33, 1 Chronicles 15.16-22, 1 Chronicles 25.5) who served in solitude leading to the nation rejecting his father and wanting king Saul (cf. the studies from 1 Samuel 3, 1 Samuel 8.1–9, and 1 Samuel 10.23–25). Or, he is from the tribe of Judah and served under Solomon (I Kings 4.29-34). It is believed that he was stricken with leprosy. Either one serves well as their lives fit the psalm: rejected because of sin or rejected because of leprosy. For this post, the grandson of Samuel is chosen as the best fit for the author in that he is a Korahite and a musician in David’s service.

It is written either to a known tune or to an instrument meant for gloom (Mahalath Leannoth). It is a contemplative song used for reflecting on the state of the nation or an individual (Maskil).

This dirge is presented in four stanzas: Heman’s plea (1-2), Heman’s wrestle with death (3-7), Heman’s wrestle with God (8-10), Heman’s continuation with God (11-12), Heman’s plea (13-18).

Verses 1-2-Although this psalm is dark and without written hope, the ray of hope evidence in this and the closing stanza is the knowledge to go to God. Heman turns to God despite what is going on around him. As this psalm is read, we naturally think of the opening chapters of Job where he proclaims: “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (Job 13.15).

Verses 3-7-In these verses, Heman gives testimony that it is God who has placed him in this situation. Whether it was by sin or sickness, God allowed Heman’s circumstances to overcome him like a flood. This is the sovereignty of God.

Selah-When we are faced with situations that are overwhelming us, do we acknowledge God’s presence and power?

Verses 8-10-Although verses 8-12 belong together, Heman chose to ask us to pause at the end of verse ten, so we will divide these verses in two parts. He has been rejected by those around him either because of sin or because of sickness (leprosy). He feels as though he is about to die. Yet, he still calls to God each day.

Selah-How tired of calling out to God do we get? Are we exasperated by the delay or the “no” we receive from God in our prayer? Some day I will post a study on prayer; until then, remain persistent. He does incline His ear toward us (1-2).

Verses 11-12-Heman reminds God that the dead do not praise Him. We need to remember to state God’s Word as part of our prayers.

Verses 13-18-No matter the depth of anguish he is experiencing, Heman returns to God and recognizes His hand in all things. He is never given a reprieve from his pain; thus, this psalm is considered the darkest in all 150 chapters of this book.

Think of your darkest time, did you quit praying? Remember to focus on Him not on the circumstances.

Psalm 81

As your desire to live a victorious life increases, you will want to obey God. If we do not submit to His authority, we will be defeated. It is only in giving our all to Him that we have victory in this life.

Psalm 81

This is another Psalm written to be played on the Gittith and is written by Asaph. Although this psalm appears to have been written with Passover terms, it has historically been linked with the Feast of Tabernacles (Leviticus 23.33-44). It appears so due to the reference of the blowing of the trumpet at the new moon festival, thus linking it with harvest.

This psalm calls the people to worship at the Feast (1-5), then God pronounces judgement on them for not being obedient to His word (6-16).

Verses 1-5-We are to enter into corporate worship with all we have whether that worship is seen in giving, singing, activity, work, or whatever. When we worship, God speaks.

Verses 6-7-God calls the people to remember Meribah. But, which one? The one at the beginning of the Exodus (Exodus 17.6-7) or at the end (Numbers 20.2-13)? This is the point of the Selah. Moses was obedient at the first and disobedient in the last. Because of his obedience, God blessed the nation. Because of his disobedience, God disciplined him.

Selah-Which do you choose? Pause and consider this: Today did you choose disobedience or obedience?

Verses 8-10-God calls the people to remember what He has done for them. In remembering they should only worship Him.

Verses 11-16-However, God states, they did not submit to God. God gave them over to their sin (Romans 1.18-32). He then tells them of the victory that is theirs if and when they obey.

As your desire to live a victorious life increases, you will want to obey God. If we do not submit to His authority, we will be defeated. It is only in giving our all to Him that we have victory in this life.