psalms – Be Still…

Psalm 77 – Seek the LORD

Read Psalm 77

If you’re a fan, like me, of “The Chosen” television series about the life of Jesus and his followers, then you may remember this psalm from the last episode of Season 3. The depiction of Asaph presenting this psalm to King David was masterfully woven into the episode. I wanted to share some of my reflections on this psalm with you, as well as a few “spoilers” to connections seen in that final episode of the season.

Having just read the Book of Job together here on the blog makes this psalm even more powerful, doesn’t it? The psalmist is crying out to God from his despair much like I imagine Job did. As you read this psalm, imagine there is an acapella choir chanting eerily in the distance. At each “interlude” there is a break in the words for those voices to swell in lament and reverence to God. Continue reading “Psalm 77 – Seek the LORD”

1 Chronicles 10:1-14 – Unfaithful Saul

Read 1 Chronicles 10:1-14

The story of Israel’s kings begins with Saul. You’ll recall the genealogies ended with reference to Saul’s family. But right before that the Chronicler had been speaking about those returning from Exile. To get our “bearings,” so to speak, this reading goes back many generations from the time of those returning from exile.

There’s a lot more to Saul’s story that can be read in 1 Samuel. The Chronicler glosses over Saul’s life, but in terms of lineage, we’ve been told Saul was descended from the tribe of Benjamin, Jacob’s youngest son.

In this passage, we see Saul under attack by the Philistines. This rivalry had been ongoing but now turns deadly for Israel’s leadership. The Israel people find themselves without a king or an heir to the throne. How did God let this happen?

Nehemiah 12:1-26 – Worship

Read Nehemiah 12:1-26

Up to now, we have been seeing how Nehemiah is shaping up the returnees, so they don’t fall out of God’s good graces again. Here are more lists supporting the people in charge of renewing the people and keeping them properly focused.

Let’s focus on verse 24. It says, “These were the family leaders of the Levites: Hashabiah, Sherebiah, Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, and other associates, who stood opposite them during the ceremonies of praise and thanksgiving, one section responding to the other, as commanded by David, the man of God.” It appears Nehemiah is prescribing a worship format, fashioned after King David’s command.

Psalm 136 – Give Thanks

Read Psalm 136

This is one of my favorite psalms to read responsively. His faithful love endures forever. What a promise! Forever is a long time, and knowing we are loved by God forever is an incredible honor and blessing. If you are struggling today, use it as a comfort! You are loved.

This psalm elicits joy for the reader. Anytime we are reminded of the mighty God we serve. He is a God active among his people.

Verse 23 stands out to me today. “He remembered us in our weakness.” When we are weak, our God is still strong. He is still in control. We can call on him and rely on his strength.

But what else stands out to me is we need to GIVE THANKS! We need to have a grateful heart that overflows with gratitude to God. Many times we look at our own accomplishments and fail to give thanks to the creator who blessed us for that task.

The psalmist remembers what God has done for his people to help him feel the gratitude. We can do that, too. Think of all the times you have felt rescue from God. Maybe it was an escape out of a dangerous situation, or the ability to overcome a temptation, or clarity when you were making a decision. God is active and working in our lives, behind the scenes, and we need to call him out and give him thanks!

Let’s pray. Father it’s sometimes hard to feel like giving thanks even though I know you more than deserve my gratitude. For loving me without end is in and of itself means for celebration and thanksgiving. Cleanse my heart today of this heaviness and release me from these chains. Restore my joy so that I can be my best for you. May your glory radiate from me again. I trust you. I give you thanks! In Jesus’ name. Amen.