Psalms - Book V

Praise the Lord! I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation. 2 The works of the Lord are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them. 3 His work is honorable and glorious, and His righteousness endures forever. 4 He has made His wonderful works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. 5 He has given food to those who fear Him; He will ever be mindful of His covenant. 6 He has declared to His people the power of His works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. 7 The works of His hands are verity and justice; all His precepts are sure. 8 They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness. 9 He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever: Holy and awesome is His name. 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.

1 The Lord said to my Lord,"Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool." 2 The Lord shall send the rod of Your strength out of Zion. Rule in the midst of Your enemies! 3 Your people shall be volunteers in the day of Your power; in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning, you have the dew of Your youth. 4 The Lord has sworn and will not relent, "You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek." 5 The Lord is at Your right hand; He shall execute kings in the day of His wrath. 6 He shall judge among the nations, He shall fill the places with dead bodies, He shall execute the heads of many countries. 7 He shall drink of the brook by the wayside; therefore He shall lift up the head.

Psalm 110 is known as a royal psalm and one of the most directly messianic of all the psalms. Jesus Himself identified David as the writer of this psalm, as the title also indicates. This is one of the most-quoted psalms in the New Testament because of its clear references to the Messiah. In Matthew 22:41-45, Jesus recited the words of this verse and applied them to Himself. Psalm 110:1, 6 look forward to Christ's final and total destruction of the wicked (Rev. 6-9); Psalm 110:2 prophesies of Christ's reign on the earth (Rev. 20:1-7); Psalm 110:3-4 tell of Christ's priestly work for His people (Hebrews 5-8); and Psalm 110:5-6 look forward to the final battle on earth when Christ will overcome the forces of evil (Rev. 19:11-21). The interpretative key to the psalm lies in the identification of "my Lord" in v. 1. Jesus asserted that in v. 1, David was speaking of someone greater than himself. Since no ordinary son of David could be greater than him, "the Lord" of v. 1 refers to the coming Messiah, God's Son. This psalm therefore describes a conversation between God the Father and God the Son (v. 1), in which the Father grants the Son royal and priestly honors. The structure of this psalm is as follows: #1 God's command to the Son to sit at His right hand (v. 1); #2 God's command to the Son to rule in the midst of His enemies (vs. 2, 3); #3 God's appointment of the Son to be a priest forever (v. 4); #4 God's description of the battle the Son must wage to win His kingdom (v. 5).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 110:1 "The Lord said to my Lord,"Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool."" The Lord is the Hebrew name Yahweh and refers to God the Father. According to Jesus' interpretation of the passage (Matt. 22:41; Mark 12:35; Luke 20:41), this is a reference to the Son of God in heaven in the presence of the Father. David himself confesses the Son to be his Lord, that is, his master or sovereign. "Sit at My right hand,": This position of high honor beside the Father was given to the Savior upon His resurrection and ascension (Acts 2:33; 1 Cor. 15:20; Col. 3:1; Heb. 1:13). The Savior's placing His feet on His foes depicts the utter defeat of the enemies of Christ. Paul too describes this complete victory of Jesus (1 Cor. 15:25, 26; Eph. 1:22, 23). Many people refuse to accept Jesus as anything more than a great human teacher or something less than Divine. But the Bible does not allow for that option. Both the Old and New Testaments proclaim the deity of the One who came to save and to reign. Jesus explained that this psalm spoke of the Messiah as greater than David, Israel's greatest king (Mark 12:35-37). Peter used this psalm to show that Jesus, the Messiah, sits at God's right hand and is Lord over all (Acts 2:32-35). You can't straddle the fence, calling Jesus "just a good teacher," because the Bible clearly calls him Lord.

I pray that you would take the privilege of calling Jesus Christ LORD right now. The truth is one day everyone will have know choice but to confess that Jesus Christ is LORD, but right now we can choose not to wait but to demonstrate a life of surrender to the ONE who is worthy to be worshipped in Spirit and in Truth.

Isaiah 45:23 (KJV)

I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

Romans 14:11 (KJV)

For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

Philip. 2:10-11 (KJV)

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; [11] And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Declaring that HE is LORD,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 111:1-10

Psalm 111 is known as a wisdom and praise psalm. The psalm is also called a "hallelujah" psalm. Hallelujah means "Praise the LORD" and expresses the uplifting and optimistic tone of the song. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a determination to praise God in the midst of the congregation (v. 1); #2 a description of the praise of God for His wonderful works towards His people (v. 2); #3 a concluding word tying the nature of true wisdom to the fear of the Lord (v. 10).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 111:9 "He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever: Holy and awesome is His name." The redemption here pictures the rescue by God of the Israelites from Egypt and the future return from captivity in Babylon (see Deut. 7:8; Jeremiah 31:11). Redemption means recovery of something or someone upon payment of a ransom. He sent redemption to His people at the time of the exodus, then later when He brought them back from the captivity in Babylon. He will do it again when He brings the twelve tribes back to the land of Israel prior to His glorious reign. It is all part of His covenant, and it can never fail. His name is holy and awesome, or reverend, and as His name is, so is He! The psalmist also speaks of that which was to come-redemption in the Savior Jesus. All of humanity was being held in slavery by sin, until Jesus paid the price to free us?giving His life as a perfect sacrifice. Before Jesus offered Himself as a sacrifice for sin, people were not permitted into God's presence (the Most Holy Place); now, all believers can freely approach God's throne through prayer and have God in their lives through the Holy Spirit. Redemption refers to the process of paying the price (ransom) to free a slave. Through His own death, Christ freed us from the slavery of sin forever.

I pray that you would be able to acknowledge today that you cannot save yourself, that only God can save you, and that your only way to receive this loving favor is through faith in Christ. Rejoice in this hope: Ephesians 1:7 "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;"

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 112:1-10

Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments. 2 His descendants will be mighty on earth; the generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches will be in his house, and his righteousness endures forever. 4 Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness; He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. 5 A good man deals graciously and lends; He will guide his affairs with discretion. 6 Surely he will never be shaken; the righteous will be in everlasting remembrance. 7 He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. 8 His heart is established; He will not be afraid, until he sees his desire upon his enemies. 9 He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever; His horn will be exalted with honor. 10 The wicked will see it and be grieved; He will gnash his teeth and melt away; the desire of the wicked shall perish.

Psalm 112 is known as a wisdom psalm and it is very similar to psalm 111; together they form a matched pair of acrostic songs. The author of this psalm, as of the preceding, is unknown, and equally with that it is difficult task of discerning the time or the occasion of this psalm. The structure of the psalm is: #1 a determination to praise God (v. 1); #2 the praise of God based on His works with His people (v. 2); #3 the defeat of the wicked (v. 10).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 112:1 "Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who delights greatly in His commandments." "Praise the Lord!" Like Psalm 111 this psalm begins with the Hebrew word hallelujah. It then picks up where Psalm 111 left off. Blessed, a word meaning "one who is manifestly happy," is the same term with which the Book of Psalms begins. The Psalmist declares that many blessings are available to us if we fear the Lord and delight in obeying his commands. If we expect God's blessings, we must revere Him and gladly obey Him. The result is: honor, prosperity, security, freedom from fear (Psalm 112:2-9).

I pray that you would delight greatly in His commandments. 1 John 5:3 "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."

Praising the LORD,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 113:1-9

Praise the Lord! Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord! 2 Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore! 3 From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord's name is to be praised. 4 The Lord is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens. 5 Who is like the Lord our God, who dwells on high, 6 Who humbles Himself to behold the things that are in the heavens and in the earth? 7 He raises the poor out of the dust, and lifts the needy out of the ash heap, 8 That He may seat him with princes- with the princes of His people. 9 He grants the barren woman a home, like a joyful mother of children. Praise the Lord!

Psalm 113 is known as a psalm of praise as it begins and concludes with the words "Praise the Lord!" (In Hebrew, hallelujah). This psalm was traditionally sung at the Passover meal, commemorating Israel's escape from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 11-12). The structure of this psalm is: #1 an exhortation to praise the name of the Lord (vv. 1); #2 a celebration of the magnificent glory and abundant mercy of the Lord (v. 4); #3 illustrations of God's grace (v. 7).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 113:3 "From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord's name is to be praised." The rising of the sun is the east and its going down is the west. In other words from east to west, the Lord's name is to be praised. The name of the Lord refers to the person of God. In biblical times there was a close association between a person's name and his or her identity. The name symbolized the person. Therefore, praising the Lord's name centers your thoughts on God's character. The character of that name is:

HOLY

RIGHTEOUS

GREAT

GLORIOUS

GOOD

PURE

TRUE

HONEST

MIGHTY

ALL POWERFUL

ALL SUFFICIENT

MERCIFUL

COMPASSIONATE

TENDER HEARTED

FULL OF JUDGMENT

FULL OF GRACE

ALL TOGETHER LOVELY AND WORTHY OF PRAISE!!!!

I pray that you would take the time to join the Psalmist in praising the Lord - Halleluiah!!!

Singing His Praises,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 114:1-8

When Israel went out of Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of strange language, 2 Judah became His sanctuary, and Israel His dominion. 3 The sea saw it and fled; Jordan turned back. 4 The mountains skipped like rams, the little hills like lambs. 5 What ails you, O sea, that you fled? O Jordan, that you turned back? 6 O mountains, that you skipped like rams? O little hills, like lambs? 7 Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob, 8 Who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a fountain of waters.

Psalm 114 is known as a praise psalm that celebrates Israel's deliverance from Egypt. There is a light, lively spirit to this song that balances the heavier pacing and stronger theology of the first song of deliverance in Ex. 15. Traditionally speaking, this psalm is recited with Ps. 113 at Passover before the dinner is served. This psalm has three movements: #1 a celebration of Israel's redemption from Egypt (vs. 1, 2); #2 a characterization of Israel's enemies (v. 3); #3 a celebration of the Lord who redeemed Israel (vs. 7, 8).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 114:8 "Who turned the rock into a pool of water, the flint into a fountain of waters. God not only delivered His people from Egypt, He also provided for their needs by bringing water from a rock (Ex. 17; Num. 20). Water was a physical blessing, but also a spiritual symbol of His salvation. This miraculous provision happened twice (Ex. 17:6; Num. 20:11). The people of Israel were completely disheartened by thirst. They complained resentfully and even wished they were back in Egypt. God supernaturally provided a pool of water for them out of a rock, first at Horeb, then at Meribah. Paul tells us that the rock was a type of Christ, struck for us on Calvary and yielding life-giving water to all who come to Him in faith (1 Cor. 10:4) "and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ." The Rock signifies the river that flowed from it and followed the Israelites. That Rock was Christ in the sense that He was the One who provided it and the One it represents, providing living water to His people.

I pray that you would experience that living water today, that is found in Christ Jesus alone.

John 4:10-11 (KJV)

Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. [11] The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?

John 7:38 (KJV)

He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 115:1-18

Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but to Your name give glory, because of Your mercy, because of Your truth. 2 Why should the Gentiles say, "So where is their God?" 3 But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases. 4 Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. 5 They have mouths, but they do not speak; eyes they have, but they do not see; 6 They have ears, but they do not hear; noses they have, but they do not smell; 7 They have hands, but they do not handle; feet they have, but they do not walk; nor do they mutter through their throat. 8 Those who make them are like them; so is everyone who trusts in them. 9 O Israel, trust in the Lord; He is their help and their shield. 10 O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord; He is their help and their shield. 11 You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord; He is their help and their shield. 12 The Lord has been mindful of us; He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. 13 He will bless those who fear the Lord, both small and great. 14 May the Lord give you increase more and more, you and your children. 15 May you be blessed by the Lord, who made heaven and earth. 16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord's; but the earth He has given to the children of men. 17 The dead do not praise the Lord, nor any who go down into silence. 18 But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forevermore. Praise the Lord!

Psalm 115 is known as a psalm of praise for the community. It focuses on the glory of the Lord in the salvation of His people. Several sections of this psalm are used in Ps. 135. This song has five movements: #1 a glorification of the Lord who alone deserves praise (vs. 1, 2); #2 a comparison of the false gods and the true, living God (v. 3); #3 a litany of trust in the Lord (v. 9); (4) a litany of blessing in the Lord (v. 12); (5) a glorification of the Lord (v. 16).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 115:1 "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but to Your name give glory, because of Your mercy, because of Your truth." It is important to note that this Psalm was sung at the Passover, and therefore it bears relationship to the deliverance from Egypt. The burden of it seems to be a prayer that the living God, who had been so glorious at the Red Sea and at the Jordan, should again for His name's sake display the wonders of His power. Not unto us: People have a natural tendency to divert to themselves glory that belongs to God. This verse redirects the glory to its proper focus, the Lord Himself. The psalmist asked that God's name, not the nations, be glorified. Too often we ask God to glorify His name with ours. For example, we may pray for help to do a good job so that our work will be noticed. Or we may ask that we win the game so that we can win the championship. There is nothing wrong with looking good or winning the game; the problem comes when we want to look good no matter what happens to God's reputation in the process. Before you pray, ask yourself, "Who will ultimately get the glory if God answers my prayer?"

I pray that you have opportunity to boast in the LORD today. Give Him the glory due His wonderful name! May we echo the words of the psalmist: But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forevermore. Praise the Lord! (v.18).

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 116:1-19

I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. 2 Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. 3 The pains of death surrounded me, and the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me; I found trouble and sorrow. 4 Then I called upon the name of the Lord: "O Lord, I implore You, deliver my soul!" 5 Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yes, our God is merciful. 6 The Lord preserves the simple; I was brought low, and He saved me. 7 Return to your rest, O my soul, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you. 8 For You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. 9 I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living. 10 I believed, therefore I spoke, "I am greatly afflicted." 11 I said in my haste, "All men are liars." 12 What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me? 13 I will take up the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord. 14 I will pay my vows to the Lord now in the presence of all His people. 15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. 16 O Lord, truly I am Your servant; I am Your servant, the son of Your maidservant; You have loosed my bonds. 17 I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the Lord. 18 I will pay my vows to the Lord now in the presence of all His people, 19 In the courts of the Lord's house, in the midst of you, O Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!

Psalm 116 is known as a messianic psalm. This psalm most likely was recited by Jesus on the night of His arrest, the night He celebrated Passover with His disciples (Luke 22:15). The structure of the psalm is: #1 a declaration of the psalmist's love for the Lord (vs. 1, 2); #2 an experience on the brink of death (vs. 3, 4); #3 praise for God (v. 5); #4 the psalmist's deliverance from death (v. 8); #5 a vow of praise to the Lord (v. 12); #6 a reflection on the psalmist's deliverance (v. 15); #7 payment of his vow of praise to the Lord (vs. 18, 19).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 116:15 "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." The Hebrew word for "precious" is the word yaqar, (yaw-kawr'); It is from the Hebrew 3365 (yaqar); meaning valuable (objective or subjective) :- brightness, clear, costly, excellent, fat, honourable women, precious, reputation. It is clear by this verse that God stays close to us even in death. When someone we love is nearing death, we may become angry and feel abandoned. But believers (saints) are precious to God, and He carefully chooses the time when they will be called into His presence. Let this truth provide comfort when you've lost a loved one. God sees, and each life is valuable to him. In Matthew 10:29-31 we read: "Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. ³⁰ But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. ³¹ Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." In this passage Jesus is saying that God is aware of everything that happens even to sparrows, and you are far more valuable to Him than they are. You are so valuable that God sent His only Son to die for you (John 3:16). Because God places such value on you, you need never fear personal threats, difficult trials, and yes even death.

Because this psalm is known to be a Messianic psalm it is important to bring out one last point. It is true of all saints-their death is precious to our God because it means they are with Him in glory. But it was never more true than in the case of the Lord Jesus. His death was precious to His Father because it provided a righteous basis upon which He could justify you and me (ungodly sinners).

Romans 5:8 (KJV)

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

I pray that you would have a fresh revelation of God's great love towards you today, and knowing that love you would be aware that He is always with you. The fact is, if we can receive the simple truth that "God commendeth his love toward us" while we were yet sinners, how much more should we be able to receive the truth: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 117:1-2

Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples! 2 For His merciful kindness is great toward us, and the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!

Psalm 117 is known as a descriptive psalm of praise. Not only is Psalm 117 the shortest chapter in the Bible, it is also the middle chapter. Paul quotes from this psalm in Romans 15:11 to show that God's salvation is for all people, not just the Jews. It has a simple structure: #1 a call for the nations to praise God (v. 1); #2 recorded reasons for the nations to praise God (v. 2).

What stands out to me this morning is how this psalm gives two reasons for praising God: His merciful kindness that is great toward us, and His faithfulness that endures forever. Merciful kindness, or "loyal love," refers to God's faithfulness to His covenant promises to His people. Truth, refers to God's trustworthiness. The Apostle Paul grasped its significance and quoted verse 1 in Romans 15:11 to show that the Gentile nations share with Israel in the mercy of the Messiah. He came not only to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs but also that "the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy." The Hebrew word for Gentiles means all people except Jews; the word for peoples speaks of smaller groups of people, along ethnic and language lines. The reason the nations are to give praise to God is found in His relationship with Israel. Praise the Lord: The concluding Hallelujah is an appropriate shout of triumph in God's mercy and truth.

I pray that God would give you a fresh revelation of His merciful kindness and truth because with it you will not be able to stop praising the Lord. Halleluiah!

Praising the Lord,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 118:1-29

Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. 2 Let Israel now say, "His mercy endures forever." 3 Let the house of Aaron now say, "His mercy endures forever." 4 Let those who fear the Lord now say, "His mercy endures forever." 5 I called on the Lord in distress; the Lord answered me and set me in a broad place. 6 The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? 7 The Lord is for me among those who help me; therefore I shall see my desire on those who hate me. 8 It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. 9 It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes. 10 All nations surrounded me, but in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. 11 They surrounded me, yes, they surrounded me; but in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. 12 They surrounded me like bees; they were quenched like a fire of thorns; for in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. 13 You pushed me violently, that I might fall, but the Lord helped me. 14 The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation. 15 The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous; the right hand of the Lord does valiantly. 16 The right hand of the Lord is exalted; the right hand of the Lord does valiantly. 17 I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord. 18 The Lord has chastened me severely, but He has not given me over to death. 19 Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will go through them, and I will praise the Lord. 20 This is the gate of the Lord, through which the righteous shall enter. 21 I will praise You, for You have answered me, and have become my salvation. 22 The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. 23 This was the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. 24 This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save now, I pray, O Lord; O Lord, I pray, send now prosperity. 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! We have blessed you from the house of the Lord. 27 God is the Lord, and He has given us light; bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar. 28 You are my God, and I will praise You; You are my God, I will exalt You. 29 Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.

Psalm 118 is known as a psalm of praise which declares God's mercy to His people. It is also thought to be the climax of the group of psalms called the Passover psalms or Hallel psalms, after the Hebrew word for praise, hallel. Hallelujah comes from this word. These psalms were probably sung by the Savior on the night before His death. The structure of the poem is: #1 a call for the praise of God in the community of the redeemed (v. 1); #2 a report of confidence in the Lord (v. 5); #3 a report of God's deliverance in a time of trouble (v. 10); #4 the praise of the Lord by the righteous (v. 15); #5 the declaration of the psalmist that he would enter the gate of the city to praise the Lord (v. 19); #6 the picture of the rejected cornerstone (v. 22); #7 the shout of "Hosanna" by the people in praise of God (vs. 25, 26); #8 the continuing determination of the psalmist to bring his praise to the Lord (vs. 27, 28); #9 the renewed call for the praise of God, for He is good (v. 29)!

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 118:22 "The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone." The Lord Jesus is the stone. The builders were the Jewish people, and especially their leaders, who rejected Him at His First Advent. Jesus referred to this verse when He spoke of being rejected by His own people (Matthew 21:42; Mark 12:10-11; Luke 20:17). Although He was rejected, Jesus is now the "capstone," the most important part of the church (Acts 4:11; Ephes. 2:20; 1 Peter 2:6-7). The capstone is the center stone in the top of an arch, holding the whole arch together. Jesus also elaborated on this prophetic verse with the parable of the vineyard owner. In this parable, the rejection included the murder of the owner's son-a reference to God's only Son (Mark 12:1). But even though the Savior was rejected, He was elevated to the right hand of God (Acts 7:56). Only God could do this marvelous and unexpected work. The cross, the symbol of Jesus' rejection, has become the symbol of our salvation.

1 Corinthians 1:18

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."

Hebrews 12:2

"looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

I pray that you would be able to echo the words of the Psalmist as you experience the power of the cross - You are my God, and I will praise You; You are my God, I will exalt You. 29 Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 119:1-176

!r2lovr!a!popdir! Aleph

Blessed are the undefiled in the way, Who walk in the law of the Lord! 2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! 3 They also do no iniquity; they walk in His ways. 4 You have commanded us to keep Your precepts diligently. 5 Oh, that my ways were directed to keep Your statutes! 6 Then I would not be ashamed, when I look into all Your commandments. 7 I will praise You with uprightness of heart, when I learn Your righteous judgments. 8 I will keep Your statutes; Oh, do not forsake me utterly!

!r2lovr!b!popdir! Beth

9 How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. 10 With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! 11 Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. 12 Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes. 13 With my lips I have declared all the judgments of Your mouth. 14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in all riches. 15 I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways. 16 I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.

!r2lovr!g!popdir! Gimel

17 Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live and keep Your word. 18 Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law. 19 I am a stranger in the earth; do not hide Your commandments from me. 20 My soul breaks with longing for Your judgments at all times. 21 You rebuke the proud-the cursed, who stray from Your commandments. 22 Remove from me reproach and contempt, for I have kept Your testimonies. 23 Princes also sit and speak against me, but Your servant meditates on Your statutes. 24 Your testimonies also are my delight and my counselors.

!r2lovr!d!popdir! Daleth

25 My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to Your word. 26 I have declared my ways, and You answered me; teach me Your statutes. 27 Make me understand the way of Your precepts; so shall I meditate on Your wonderful works. 28 My soul melts from heaviness; strengthen me according to Your word. 29 Remove from me the way of lying, and grant me Your law graciously. 30 I have chosen the way of truth; Your judgments I have laid before me. 31 I cling to Your testimonies; O Lord, do not put me to shame! 32 I will run the course of Your commandments, for You shall enlarge my heart.

!r2lovr!h!popdir! He

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes, and I shall keep it to the end. 34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law; indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart. 35 Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in it. 36 Incline my heart to Your testimonies, and not to covetousness. 37 Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way. 38 Establish Your word to Your servant, who is devoted to fearing You. 39 Turn away my reproach which I dread, for Your judgments are good. 40 Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me in Your righteousness.

!r2lovr!w!popdir! Waw

41 Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord- Your salvation according to Your word. 42 So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me, for I trust in Your word. 43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for I have hoped in Your ordinances. 44 So shall I keep Your law continually, forever and ever. 45 And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Your precepts. 46 I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed. 47 And I will delight myself in Your commandments, which I love. 48 My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on Your statutes.

!r2lovr!z!popdir! Zayin

49 Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have caused me to hope. 50 This is my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has given me life. 51 The proud have me in great derision, yet I do not turn aside from Your law. 52 I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord, and have comforted myself. 53 Indignation has taken hold of me because of the wicked, who forsake Your law. 54 Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. 55 I remember Your name in the night, O Lord, and I keep Your law. 56 This has become mine, because I kept Your precepts.

!r2lovr!j!popdir! Heth

57 You are my portion, O Lord; I have said that I would keep Your words. 58 I entreated Your favor with my whole heart; be merciful to me according to Your word. 59 I thought about my ways, and turned my feet to Your testimonies. 60 I made haste, and did not delay to keep Your commandments. 61 The cords of the wicked have bound me, but I have not forgotten Your law. 62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You, because of Your righteous judgments. 63 I am a companion of all who fear You, and of those who keep Your precepts. 64 The earth, O Lord, is full of Your mercy; teach me Your statutes.

!r2lovr!f!popdir! Teth

65 You have dealt well with Your servant, O Lord, according to Your word. 66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe Your commandments. 67 Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word. 68 You are good, and do good; teach me Your statutes. 69 The proud have forged a lie against me, but I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart. 70 Their heart is as fat as grease, but I delight in Your law. 71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes. 72 The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of coins of gold and silver.

!r2lovr!y!popdir! Yod

73 Your hands have made me and fashioned me; give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments. 74 Those who fear You will be glad when they see me, because I have hoped in Your word. 75 I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right, and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me. 76 Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to Your word to Your servant. 77 Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live; for Your law is my delight. 78 Let the proud be ashamed, for they treated me wrongfully with falsehood; but I will meditate on Your precepts. 79 Let those who fear You turn to me, those who know Your testimonies. 80 Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes, that I may not be ashamed.

!r2lovr!!zwj!k!popdir! Kaph

81 My soul faints for Your salvation, but I hope in Your word. 82 My eyes fail from searching Your word, saying, "When will You comfort me?" 83 For I have become like a wineskin in smoke, yet I do not forget Your statutes. 84 How many are the days of Your servant? When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me? 85 The proud have dug pits for me, which is not according to Your law. 86 All Your commandments are faithful; they persecute me wrongfully; help me! 87 They almost made an end of me on earth, but I did not forsake Your precepts. 88 Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, so that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.

!r2lovr!l!popdir! Lamed

89 Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven. 90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations; You established the earth, and it abides. 91 They continue this day according to Your ordinances, for all are Your servants. 92 Unless Your law had been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction. 93 I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have given me life. 94 I am Yours, save me; for I have sought Your precepts. 95 The wicked wait for me to destroy me, but I will consider Your testimonies. 96 I have seen the consummation of all perfection, vut Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

!r2lovr!!zwj!m!popdir! Mem

97 Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day. 98 You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies; for they are ever with me. 99 I have more understanding than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. 100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep Your precepts. 101 I have restrained my feet from every evil way, that I may keep Your word. 102 I have not departed from Your judgments, for You Yourself have taught me. 103 How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! 104 Through Your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.

!r2lovr!!zwj!n!popdir! Nun

105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. 106 I have sworn and confirmed that I will keep Your righteous judgments. 107 I am afflicted very much; revive me, O Lord, according to Your word. 108 Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord, and teach me Your judgments. 109 My life is continually in my hand, yet I do not forget Your law. 110 The wicked have laid a snare for me, yet I have not strayed from Your precepts. 111 Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever, for they are the rejoicing of my heart. 112 I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes forever, to the very end.

!r2lovr!s!popdir! Samek

113 I hate the double-minded, but I love Your law. 114 You are my hiding place and my shield;

I hope in Your word. 115 Depart from me, you evildoers, for I will keep the commandments of my God! 116 Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live; and do not let me be ashamed of my hope. 117 Hold me up, and I shall be safe, and I shall observe Your statutes continually. 118 You reject all those who stray from Your statutes, for their deceit is falsehood. 119 You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross; therefore I love Your testimonies. 120 My flesh trembles for fear of You, and I am afraid of Your judgments.

!r2lovr![!popdir! Ayin

121 I have done justice and righteousness; do not leave me to my oppressors. 122 Be surety for Your servant for good; do not let the proud oppress me. 123 My eyes fail from seeking Your salvation and Your righteous word. 124 Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy, and teach me Your statutes. 125 I am Your servant; give me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies. 126 It is time for You to act, O Lord, for they have regarded Your law as void. 127 Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, yes, than fine gold! 128 Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things I consider to be right; I hate every false way.

!r2lovr!!zwj!p!popdir! Pe

129 Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. 130 The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. 131 I opened my mouth and panted, for I longed for Your commandments. 132 Look upon me and be merciful to me, as Your custom is toward those who love Your name. 133 Direct my steps by Your word, and let no iniquity have dominion over me. 134 Redeem me from the oppression of man, that I may keep Your precepts. 135 Make Your face shine upon Your servant, and teach me Your statutes. 136 Rivers of water run down from my eyes, because men do not keep Your law.

!r2lovr!!zwj!x!popdir! Tsadde

137 Righteous are You, O Lord, and upright are Your judgments. 138 Your testimonies, which You have commanded, are righteous and very faithful. 139 My zeal has consumed me, because my enemies have forgotten Your words. 140 Your word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it. 141 I am small and despised, yet I do not forget Your precepts. 142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your law is truth. 143 Trouble and anguish have overtaken me, yet Your commandments are my delights. 144 The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting; give me understanding, and I shall live.

!r2lovr!q!popdir! Qoph

145 I cry out with my whole heart; hear me, O Lord! I will keep Your statutes. 146 I cry out to You; save me, and I will keep Your testimonies. 147 I rise before the dawning of the morning, and cry for help; I hope in Your word. 148 My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word. 149 Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness; O Lord, revive me according to Your justice. 150 They draw near who follow after wickedness; they are far from Your law. 151 You are near, O Lord, and all Your commandments are truth. 152 Concerning Your testimonies, I have known of old that You have founded them forever.

!r2lovr!r!popdir! Resh

153 Consider my affliction and deliver me, for I do not forget Your law. 154 Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Your word. 155 Salvation is far from the wicked, for they do not seek Your statutes. 156 Great are Your tender mercies, O Lord; revive me according to Your judgments. 157 Many are my persecutors and my enemies, yet I do not turn from Your testimonies. 158 I see the treacherous, and am disgusted, because they do not keep Your word. 159 Consider how I love Your precepts; revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness. 160 The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.

!r2lovr!!popdir! Shin

161 Princes persecute me without a cause, but my heart stands in awe of Your word. 162 I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure. 163 I hate and abhor lying, but I love Your law. 164 Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous judgments. 165 Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble. 166 Lord, I hope for Your salvation, and I do Your commandments. 167 My soul keeps Your testimonies, and I love them exceedingly. 168 I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies, for all my ways are before You.

!r2lovr!t!popdir! Tau

169 Let my cry come before You, O Lord; give me understanding according to Your word. 170 Let my supplication come before You; deliver me according to Your word. 171 My lips shall utter praise, for You teach me Your statutes. 172 My tongue shall speak of Your word, for all Your commandments are righteousness. 173 Let Your hand become my help, for I have chosen Your precepts. 174 I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and Your law is my delight. 175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise You; and let Your judgments help me. 176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Your servant, for I do not forget Your commandments.

Psalm 119 is known as a wisdom psalm that celebrates the Word of God. This very lengthy poem is an acrostic: For each of the twenty-two consonants in the Hebrew alphabet, there are eight verses beginning with that letter. Within the psalm, eight words for God's Law occur again and again: law; testimonies; promise; precepts; statutes; commandments; judgments; word. The psalm uses the full meaning of all these words as it elaborates on the application of the Law of God to both daily life and Israel's destiny. The Law is specific and general, directive and restrictive, liberating and opening, gracious and solemn-it is as complex as the Lord who gave it. The Law is never considered a curse; it is always seen as a gift from God. The psalmist cannot stop praising God for His mercy and goodness in providing His people with instructions for living. This is both the longest psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible. Some bible scholars believe it may have been written by Ezra after the temple was rebuilt (Ezra 6:14-15) as a repetitive meditation on the beauty of God's Word and how it helps us stay pure and grow in faith. Almost every verse mentions God's Word. Such repetition was common in the Hebrew culture. People did not have personal copies of the Scriptures to read as we do, so God's people memorized his Word and passed it along orally. The structure of this psalm allowed for easy memorization.

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 119:11 "Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You." Hiding (keeping) God's Word in our hearts is a prevention to sin. This alone should inspire us to memorize Scripture. But memorization alone will not keep us from sin; we must also put God's Word to work in our lives, making it a vital guide for everything we do. As we walk in this grace we will have an ability to Hear, Tear, and Fear. "Hearing" is something that is promised to those who know the Great Shepherd. "Tearing" is something that is done by those who humble themselves before the LORD. And "Fearing" is something that believers possess because they have experienced the awesomeness of God Almighty.

I pray that you would be in remembrance today, that God's Word, the Bible, is the only sure guide you have for living a pure life. May you walk in His Grace today.

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

June 12, 2009

Psalm 120:1-7

1 In my distress I cried to the Lord, And He heard me. 2 Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips and from a deceitful tongue. 3 What shall be given to you, or what shall be done to you, you false tongue? 4 Sharp arrows of the warrior, with coals of the broom tree! 5 Woe is me, that I dwell in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! 6 My soul has dwelt too long with one who hates peace. 7 I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.

Psalm 120 is known as a lament psalm that is more specifically referred to as a "Song of Ascent" or "Pilgrim Psalm". The reason for this title is because it was most likely used by pilgrims making their way to Jerusalem to worship the Lord during the three annual national feasts-Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles (Lev. 23). As pilgrim families made the difficult journey to the holy city for festive worship, they would use these psalms as encouragement along the way. It is also possible that once they arrived in Jerusalem, they would sing these songs again as they drew near the temple, reenacting their journey and affirming God's blessing on their path. The structure of the psalm is: #1 a report of deliverance and a prayer for help (vs. 1, 2); #2 a taunt of the adversary who attacks with lies (vs. 3, 4); #3 a lament concerning life in a hostile environment (v. 5).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 120:2 "Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips and from a deceitful tongue." In the context of these psalms, the lying lips belong to those who attack and assault the believers for their trust in the Lord. The Psalmist is crying out to be delivered. The word in Hebrew is natsal, naw-tsal'; it means to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense. In other words the Psalmist is acknowledging it will need a divine power to save a man from these deadly and deceitful tongues. It has been said that lips are soft; but when they are lying lips they suck away the life of character and are as murderous as razors. The slogan, "Sticks and stones may break your bones but names will never hurt you" is really false. The truth is the "lying lips" and "deceitful tongue" can be more painful and longer lasting than broken bones. The only answer is deliverance! However, here is the good news: this is the reason JESUS came!!!

1 John 3:8 (KJV)

He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

John 10:10 (KJV)

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Romans 10:13 (KJV)

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

I pray that you would experience HIS great deliverance, as the Psalmist did when he prayed: "In my distress I cried to the Lord, and He heard me" (v.1).

Victory in Jesus,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 121:1-8

1 I will lift up my eyes to the hills- From whence comes my help? 2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. 3 He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. 4 Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. 5 The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade at your right hand. 6 The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. 7 The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. 8 The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.

Psalm 121 is known as a psalm of trust. Like the previous chapter, it is referred to as "Pilgrim Psalms" or "Songs of Ascent." It was sung by those who journeyed to the temple for the annual feasts.This song expresses assurance and hope in God's protection day and night. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 an affirmation that help is from God (vs. 1, 2); #2 a word of praise to God, who does not slumber (vs. 3, 4); #3 a word of praise to God who keeps His people (vs. 5, 6); #4 an affirmation that God will protect His people during their journeys (vs. 7, 8).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 121:7-8 "The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. 8 The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore." The word "Preserve" occurs three times in these two verses. They join to declare that no one is as secure as the person who has received the Lord as his only hope. The word in Hebrew is shamar, shaw-mar'; It means to properly hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally to protect, attend to. Here we read the guarantee of ultimate deliverance and protection from all evil. It can be a solid trust that nothing can come into the life of a believer apart from God's permissive will. There are no random circumstances, no purposeless accidents, no fatalistic tragedies. Though He is not the author of sickness, suffering, or death, He overrules and harnesses them for the accomplishment of His purposes. In the meantime His trusting child can know that God is working all things together for good to those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28). It may not always seem so! Sometimes when we are suffering heartbreak, tragedy, disappointment, frustration, and pain, we wonder what good can come out of it. But the following verse (Rom. 8:29) gives the answer: whatever God permits to come into our lives is designed to conform us to the image of His Son. When we see this, it takes the question mark out of our prayers. Our lives are not controlled by impersonal forces such as chance, luck, or fate, but by our wonderful, personal Lord, who is too loving to be unkind and too wise to make mistakes. Finally there is the guarantee of God's hedging over all our movements in time and throughout all eternity. He will keep our going out and our coming in from this time forth and even forevermore.

I pray that you would rest in His care today knowing that "The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. 8 The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore."

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 122:1-9

1 I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go into the house of the Lord." 2 Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem! 3 Jerusalem is built as a city that is compact together, 4 Where the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, to the Testimony of Israel, to give thanks to the name of the Lord. 5 For thrones are set there for judgment, the thrones of the house of David. 6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you. 7 Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces." 8 For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, "Peace be within you." 9 Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek your good.

Psalm 122 is known as a psalm of Zion. This psalm describes the joy of the pilgrims arriving at Jerusalem to worship God. This is one of four songs of ascent attributed to David (also Ps. 124; 131; 133). The structure of the song is as follows: #1 a description of the pilgrim's joy in coming to Jerusalem (vs. 1, 2); #2 a description of the beauty of Jerusalem (v. 3); #3 a prayer for the peace of Jerusalem (v. 6).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 122:6 "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you." Though its name (Jerusalem) means "the city of peace," the name has appeared to be the opposite so far. Few cities have known the strife, the suffering, the bloodshed that this city has. The peace sought in this verse is much more than the mere absence of conflict. It suggests completeness, health, justice, prosperity, and protection. The world cannot provide this peace. Real peace comes from faith in God because He alone embodies all the characteristics of peace. To find peace of mind and peace with others, you must find peace with the "Prince of Peace". Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

I pray that what the godly Jew desired for Jerusalem, we would desire for the church as well. We should endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3)! It is through the peace and prosperity of the church that blessing will flow out to the world. I pray that peace and prosperity will come to those who love the church. Ephesians 5:25 (KJV) "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;" Because Jesus loved the church so should we if we are following in His footsteps.

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 123:1-4

1 Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwell in the heavens. 2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He has mercy on us. 3 Have mercy on us, O Lord, have mercy on us! For we are exceedingly filled with contempt. 4 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorn of those who are at ease, with the contempt of the proud.

Psalm 123 is known as a lament psalm. This brief psalm has two sections #1 an affirmation that the people's eyes are fixed on the Lord (vs. 1, 2); #2 a petition for the Lord to direct His attention to His people (vs. 3, 4).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 123:1 "Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwell in the heavens." With eyes turned up to the heavens for some sight of divine mercy, the captives plead with the Lord to end their long, dark night of persecution. The psalmist lifts his eyes to God, waiting and watching for God to send His mercy. The more he waited, the more he cried out to God because he knew that the evil and proud offered no help?they had only contempt for God. The Psalmist is declaring that true servants fix their eyes on their masters; similarly, our eyes should be fixed on God. The more we look to the Lord, the more we become like Him (2 Cor. 3:18). Not being distracted by the other things of this life causes us to win in the race of life (Heb. 12:1-3) "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls."

I pray that as the Psalmist pour out this compelling prayer to the One who is their only refuge and security in a world of anti-Semitism, we too would pray that God would show mercy in this Anti-Christ spirit that is prevailing in our present culture.

Looking unto Jesus,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 124:1-8

1 "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side," let Israel now say- 2 "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, 3 Then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us; 4 Then the waters would have overwhelmed us, the stream would have gone over our soul; 5 Then the swollen waters would have gone over our soul." 6 Blessed be the Lord, who has not given us as prey to their teeth. 7 Our soul has escaped as a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Psalm 124 is known as a psalm of praise. It is one of four songs of ascent attributed to David (see also Ps. 122; 131; 133). This psalm was likely designed to be read aloud as an antiphonal response. The structure of the psalm is: #1 a call for the people to confess God's deliverance (v. 1); #2 a blessing on the Lord for His deliverance (v. 6).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 124:2-3 2 "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, 3 Then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us; Probably no people have had as many narrow escapes as the Jews. According to all natural laws, they should have been extinct long ago. When you think of the sieges, the massacres, the gas chambers, the ovens, the bombs, it is a miracle they have survived. But survive they did-and that for one compelling reason-the Lord was on their side. The Lord who was on our side amplifies the meaning of the divine name of God (Ex. 3:14, 15). The wording of the Hebrew text is even more dramatic: "The Lord was for us." The priests may have spoken the words "let Israel now say" as encouragement for the people to rehearse aloud their nation's experience. The Psalmist reminds us that the LORD is on our side and if God be for us who can be against us. With God, there is always a way out because He is the Creator of all that exists. No problem is beyond His ability to solve; no circumstance is too difficult for Him. We can turn to the Creator for help in our time of need, for He is on our side. God will provide a way out; we need only trust Him and look for it. We are reminded in 1 Corinthians 10:13 "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." In a culture filled with moral depravity and sin-inducing pressures, Paul gave strong encouragement to the Corinthians about temptation. He said: (1) wrong desires and temptations happen to everyone, so don't feel you've been singled out; (2) others have resisted temptation, and so can you; (3) any temptation can be resisted because God is on your side and by Him you are given a way of escape.

I pray that you would experience God's favor today. May you know the power of His love to keep and protect you from all of the enemy's plots.

John 10:10 (KJV)

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 125:1-5

1 Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever. 2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forever. 3 For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest on the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous reach out their hands to iniquity. 4 Do good, O Lord, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts. 5 As for such as turn aside to their crooked ways, the Lord shall lead them away with the workers of iniquity. Peace be upon Israel!

Psalm 125 is known as a psalm of trust and a song of Zion. The song (called a "song of ascents) was song by those who journeyed to the temple for the annual feasts. This psalm is one of the "steps" along the journey. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a celebration of God's protection of the righteous (vs. 1, 2); #2 a declaration that the power of the wicked cannot endure (v. 3); #3 a prayer for the upright (v. 4); #4 a curse on the wicked and a call for the peace of Israel (v. 5).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 125:1 "Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever" Jerusalem is built on one of seven mountain peaks in the region. The mountains provide some protection for the city, since any invading army would have to march through difficult and dangerous mountain paths. Yet the city's true protection comes from the Lord. The psalmist says that Mount Zion ... abides forever. As far as the earthly city is concerned, this must be understood as the way it appeared to believers at that time. We know from the New Testament that the earth will some day be destroyed by fire (see 2 Pet. 3:7, 10, 12). However, we ourselves use similar expressions. We speak of the everlasting hills and the eternal city. The important point is that although the physical Mt. Zion will one day be destroyed, the believer in Christ, who trust in the LORD, will never perish. Because he is positionally in Christ, he is safe forever. So the Lord Himself forms a protective ring around His children "from this time forth and forever." This is the hedge which Satan spoke of as encircling Job. Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? (Job 1:10). This means, of course, that nothing can reach those who trust in the Lord, except by the permissive will of God.

I pray that you would see today that this psalm gives the formula for peace, both for Israel and everyone else. It is found through trust in the Lord Jesus. May you trust HIM with all of your heart:

Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Psalm 118:8-9 (KJV)

It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. [9] It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes.

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 126:1-6

A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon.

1 When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, we were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them." 3 The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad. 4 Bring back our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the South. 5 Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

Psalm 126 is known as a song of Zion. It is the seventh song of ascent and the distinctive element of this song is that it comes from the time of the restoration of Jerusalem following the Babylonian captivity. The mood of this psalm is one of sweet joy following the sorrows of long separation. The structure of the psalm is: #1 a description of the return from captivity (v. 1); #2 a prayer for God to complete the process of return (v. 4); #3 a comparison of the return from captivity to a long-delayed harvest (vs. 5, 6).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 126:5-6 "Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. 6 He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."

The people of Judah had gone to Babylon in tears. Yet their sorrow reaped tremendous rewards; the Lord came to the rescue of His humbled people:

Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit"

Isa. 66:2 "For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist," Says the Lord. "But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word."

Matt. 5:4 "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."

Our tears can be seeds that will grow into a harvest of joy because God is able to bring good out of tragedy. When burdened by sorrow, know that your times of grief will end and that you will again find joy. We must be patient as we wait. God's great harvest of joy is coming!

The principle applies also, of course, in the spiritual realm. Those who live sacrificially for the spread of the gospel may endure present hardship, but what is that compared to the joy of seeing souls saved and in heaven worshiping the Lamb of God forever and forever? It is true also in the matter of soul winning. Someone has wisely prayed:

Let me look on the crowd as my Savior did,

Till my eyes with tears grow dim.

Let me view with pity the wandering sheep

And love them for love of Him.

-Author unknown

I pray that you would be so filled with His love today that you can't help but share the good news with someone in need.

Isaiah 61:1-3

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; ² To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, ³ To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified."

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 127:1-5

1 Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. 2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep. 3 Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth. 5 Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.

Psalm 127 is known as a wisdom psalm and it is attributed to Solomon. Many have supposed that it was written by David near the close of his life, and was designed to be a guide to Solomon, his successor, in regard to the principles which should govern him in his reign. There is nothing, however, in the title in the Hebrew which would indicate that it was composed by David. Either way however, the psalm gives wise counsel. The structure of the psalm is: #1 an exhortation about the vanity of an endeavor in which the Lord is not active (vs. 1, 2); #2 a celebration of the value of an endeavor in which the Lord is glorified (v. 3).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 127:1 "Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain" With the words unless the Lord builds, the psalmist suggests that life lived apart from God is not worth living, a view that this psalm shares with the Book of Ecclesiastes (Another indicator that Solomon wrote this psalm). Even building a house is useless if the Lord is not in the process. There are two ways to build a house. One is to move ahead with plans based on one's own knowledge, skill and financial resources, then ask God's blessing on the completed structure. The other is to wait until the Lord has given distinctive guidance, then move ahead in mindful dependence on Him. In the first case, the project never rises above flesh and blood. In the second, there is the thrill of seeing God working through the miraculous provision of needed supplies, through the marvelous timing and sequence of events, and through the confirmation of circumstances that would never happen according to the laws of chance. It makes all the difference in the world to be building with God. Don't make the mistake of leaving God out of your life?if you do, all your accomplishments will be futile. Make God your highest priority, and let Him do the building.

I pray that the Holy Spirit will be your constant companion and guide.

John 16:13 (KJV)

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 128:1-6

1 Blessed is every one who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. 2 When you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. 3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the very heart of your house, your children like olive plants all around your table. 4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the Lord. 5 The Lord bless you out of Zion, and may you see the good of Jerusalem all the days of your life. 6 Yes, may you see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel!

Psalm 128 is known as a psalm of wisdom and a psalm of Zion. Like Ps. 127, this song addresses God's blessings in the home and family. The feasts of ancient Israel were family affairs. As families made their way to the holy city for the annual festivals, they would encounter other families and mutually celebrate the goodness of God in their lives. Psalm 128 is the ninth song of ascent. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a blessing on the righteous (v. 1); #2 a description of the blessing (v. 2); #3 a prayer for the blessing (v. 5); #4 a blessing on the community (v. 6).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 128:1 "Blessed is every one who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways." The word blessed describes the happiness of those who fear the Lord by trust in God and doing His will. The fear of God is an attitude of respect, a response of reverence and wonder. It is the only appropriate response to our Creator and Redeemer. The psalmist is making it clear that a good family life is a reward of those who fear the Lord and walking in His ways. In other words the believer who really enjoys life to the maximum is the one who acknowledges the Lord in every area of life and who walks in practical obedience to the Word of God. I am reminded of the words in Proverbs 3:5-10

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

[7] Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. [8] It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. [9] Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: [10] So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

I pray that you would experience all the blessings that come from the fear of the Lord. May you know love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, and temperance.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 129:1-8

1 "Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth," let Israel now say- 2 "Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth; yet they have not prevailed against me. 3 The plowers plowed on my back; they made their furrows long." 4 The Lord is righteous; He has cut in pieces the cords of the wicked. 5 Let all those who hate Zion be put to shame and turned back. 6 Let them be as the grass on the housetops, which withers before it grows up, 7 With which the reaper does not fill his hand, nor he who binds sheaves, his arms. 8 Neither let those who pass by them say, "The blessing of the Lord be upon you; we bless you in the name of the Lord!"

Psalm 129 is known as a lament and also a section proclaiming trust in the Lord. This is the tenth song of ascent. Its structure is as follows: #1 a rehearsal of the afflictions of Israel (v. 1); #2 an affirmation of the victory of God (v. 4); #3 a condemnation of the wicked who have afflicted Israel (v. 5).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 129:2 "Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth; yet they have not prevailed against me." We know from studying Israel's history that the Jews were persecuted from their earliest days, but never destroyed completely. Their oppression in Egypt, for example, was an unforgettable chapter of the suffering in the nation's youth. Yet the enemy never succeeded in exterminating the Jews. God's people were always delivered from captivity. Their survival has been one of the great miracles of history. There has always been a remnant and because of God's great love and compassion there will always be (Romans 11:5). The same is true of the church. Christians have faced times of severe persecution, but the church has never been destroyed. As Jesus said to Peter, "On this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it" (Matthew 16:18). When you face persecution and discrimination, take courage:

2 Cor. 6:4 (KJV)

But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

1 Thes. 3:3 (KJV)

That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

2 Tim. 4:5 (KJV)

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

And know that the church will never be destroyed.

Ephesians 3:21 (KJV)

Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

In Hope,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 130:1-8

1 Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord; 2 Lord, hear my voice! Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. 3 If You, Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? 4 But there is forgiveness with You, that You may be feared. 5 I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope. 6 My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning- yes, more than those who watch for the morning. 7 O Israel, hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is abundant redemption. 8 And He shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

Psalm 130 is known as a psalm of repentance. In the depths of distress, the psalmist cried out to God. The language of the psalm seems to be that of an individual; but most interpreters suppose that it is an individual speaking in the name of the nation, and representing its cry for mercy. This psalm is the eleventh song of ascent. The structure is as follows: #1 a call for God's mercy (v.1); #2 a recognition of God's forgiveness (vs. 3, 4); #3 an expectation of God's forgiveness (vs. 5, 6); #4 a call for God's mercy on all (vs. 7, 8).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 130:3-4 "If You, Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? 4 But there is forgiveness with You, that You may be feared." We are reminded in this psalm that if the Lord should mark iniquities, in the sense of keeping an itemized account and making each of us pay for them, then the situation would be positively hopeless. But we can be eternally grateful that there is a way in which sins can be forgiven. God does not mark or keep count of our sins. Through the sacrificial system and ultimately in the provision of Jesus Christ, God dismissed His people's sins altogether. Micah 7:19 reminds us: "He will again have compassion on us, and will subdue our iniquities. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea." In other words He does not keep track-as an accountant would-of their sins. However it is also important to note that the grace of God, in His provision for forgiveness, is not to be taken lightly: What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? ² Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? (Rom. 6:1, 2). The truth is, the forgiven sinner realizes the magnitude of God's grace, remains grateful for Jesus' sacrifice for sins, and lives in the fear or awe of God (Psalm 128).

I pray that you would take time to thank the LORD for all HIS provision for your life. We can be eternally thankful for what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross.

Col. 1:20 (KJV)

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Col. 2:14 (KJV)

Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

Christ's death provided a way for every nation and tribe to come to God. His provision on the cross has taken away the sin that keeps us from having a right relationship with our Creator. We can have peace with God and be reconciled to Him by accepting Christ, who died in our place. Is there a distance between you and the Creator? Be reconciled to God. Come to him through Christ. Cry out like the Psalmist: Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord; 2 Lord, hear my voice! Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 131:1-3

1 Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty. Neither do I concern myself with great matters, nor with things too profound for me. 2 Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. 3 O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time forth and forever.

Psalm 131 is known as a trust psalm and is one of four songs of ascent attributed to David (also Ps. 122; 124; 133). The structure of the poem is as follows: #1 a statement of humility (v. 1); #2 a portrait of trust (v. 2); #3 a call for hope (v. 3).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 131:1 "Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty. Neither do I concern myself with great matters, nor with things too profound for me." In this verse David presents himself with genuine humility. He recognized his limitations and was not ashamed to say, "I don't know." He was content to know what he could know and leave the mysteries with God. In other words, he did not occupy himself with things that were too great and too profound for him. Rather, he gave God credit for understanding things that he could never understand. One definition of humility is that it is a delicate balance between self-abasement and arrogant pride. From the life of David we know that he was not always able to keep this balance. But it was his desire, and at times-by God's grace-a reality in his life. Pride can result from overvaluing ourselves and undervaluing others. It leads to restlessness because it makes us dissatisfied with what we have and concerned about what everyone else is doing. It keeps us always hungering for more attention and adoration. By contrast, humility puts others first and allows us to be content with God's leading in our lives. Such contentment gives us security so that we no longer have to prove ourselves to others. Let humility and trust affect your perspective and give you the strength and freedom to serve God and others liberally.

I pray that you would walk humbly before "Our Father who art in heaven, hollowed it be [His] thy name".

Proverbs 18:12 (KJV)

Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

1 Peter 5:5 (KJV)

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 132:1-18

1 Lord, remember David and all his afflictions; 2 How he swore to the Lord, and vowed to the Mighty One of Jacob: 3 "Surely I will not go into the chamber of my house, or go up to the comfort of my bed; 4 I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, 5 Until I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob." 6 Behold, we heard of it in Ephrathah; we found it in the fields of the woods. 7 Let us go into His tabernacle; let us worship at His footstool. 8 Arise, O Lord, to Your resting place, You and the ark of Your strength. 9 Let Your priests be clothed with righteousness, and let Your saints shout for joy. 10 For Your servant David's sake, do not turn away the face of Your Anointed. 11 The Lord has sworn in truth to David; He will not turn from it: "I will set upon your throne the fruit of your body. 12 If your sons will keep My covenant and My testimony which I shall teach them, their sons also shall sit upon your throne forevermore." 13 For the Lord has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place: 14 "This is My resting place forever; here I will dwell, for I have desired it. 15 I will abundantly bless her provision; I will satisfy her poor with bread. 16 I will also clothe her priests with salvation, and her saints shall shout aloud for joy. 17 There I will make the horn of David grow; I will prepare a lamp for My Anointed. 18 His enemies I will clothe with shame, but upon Himself His crown shall flourish."

Psalm 132 is known as a royal psalm. This song reflect in poetry God's covenant with David (2 Sam. 7), in which He promised David a royal house - a promise that would be fulfilled in the coming of the Messiah. Psalm 132 is the longest of the songs of ascent and is sometimes classified as a messianic psalm. Its structure is as follows: #1 a call for God to remember His covenant with David (v. 1); #2 the expectation of the fulfillment of the promise (v. 6); #3 a prayer for God's kingdom to come (v. 10); #4 a recitation of the promise yet to be fulfilled (v. 11, 12); #5 an elaboration of God's covenant with David (v. 13).

The verses that stands out to me today are Psalm 132:4-5 "I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, Until I find a place for the Lord, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob." The verses refer to David's desire to build the temple. When David became king, he built a beautiful palace, but he was troubled that the ark of the covenant, the symbol of God's presence among his people (Exodus 25:10-22), remained in a tent (2 Samuel 6:17; 2 Samuel 7:1-17). This so bothered David that he couldn't sleep until he corrected the situation. He began to lay the plans for the temple to house the ark. (Eventually the temple was built by his son, Solomon.) We must live so close to God that we become restless until God's will is accomplished through us. Also, like David, we cannot find rest until God's presence dwells with us.

I pray that the scripture would remind you today to do the will of God from the heart. I pray that you would be desirous to accomplish the will of God in your life, so as to please your creator. Live for His pleasure and you will never lack fulfillment.

Ephesians 6:6

"Not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,"

Revelation 4:11

"You are worthy, O Lord,To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created."

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 133:1-3

1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. 3 It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing- life forevermore.

Psalm 133 is known as a psalm of unity. It is one of four songs of ascent attributed to David (see Ps. 122; 124; 131). With its emphasis on the unity of the believers, this psalm anticipates Jesus' prayer in John 17. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a portrait of the beauty of unity (v. 1); #2 the blessing of unity (vs. 2, 3).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" David stated that unity is pleasant and precious. The phrase "Good and how pleasant" may be rephrased as "great delight" or "good pleasure." There is a sense of peaceful wonder in these words describing the unity of God's people. Unity among brethren is a beautiful sight to behold. However, living in unity does not mean that we will agree on everything; there will be many opinions just as there are many notes in a musical chord. But we must agree on our purpose in life?to work together to Glorify God. Our outward expression of unity will reflect our inward unity of purpose. On matters of fundamental importance it is important that we agree. On subordinate matters there is liberty for differing viewpoints. In all things there should be a spirit of love. The real enemies of unity are jealousy, gossip, backbiting, censoriousness and lovelessness.

We know that Jesus prayed in John 17 for his disciples, including those of us who follow him today. He prayed that God would keep his chosen believers safe from Satan's power, setting them apart and making them pure and holy, uniting them through his truth.I pray that you would experience the unity that God intended.

John 17:20-26 (KJV)

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; [21] That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. [22] And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: [23] I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. [24] Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. [25] O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. [26] And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 134:1-3

For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.

1 Behold, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who by night stand in the house of the Lord! 2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord. 3 The Lord who made heaven and earth bless you from Zion!

Psalm 134 is known as a psalm of praise. This psalm concludes the songs of ascent and was likely read as a responsive poem of praise (see also Ps. 118; 121; 124; 129; 135; 136). The structure of this brief psalm is as follows: #1 the blessing of the priests by the people (vs. 1, 2); #2 the blessing of the people by the priests (v. 3).

The verses that stands out to me today are Psalm 134:1-2 "Behold, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who by night stand in the house of the Lord! 2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord."

These verses in the Psalmist day were about a very small group?the Levites who served as temple watchmen ("you servants of the LORD who minister by night"). Singing this psalm the worshipers would ascend to the hill, where the temple sits, and see the watchmen who protect it day and night. They saw the watchmen's work as an act of praise to God, done reverently and with great responsibly. The idea behind this blessing was that the people who had come to worship at the temple were getting ready to go home. They had come for a great festival but had to return to their regular work and routine. However, the priests remained at the holy temple. It was their continuing worship of the Lord that allowed God's blessing to continue on the nation as a whole. Lift up your hands: One of the standard postures for prayer in biblical times was to stand with hands stretched out toward heaven (1 Tim. 2:8) "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."

I pray that you would make your ministry or your responsibility in the Body of Christ an act of praise by doing it with reverence to God. Honor Him by the quality of your work and the attitude of service you bring to it: ".bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord."

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 135:1-21

Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O you servants of the Lord! 2 You who stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God, 3 Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praises to His name, for it is pleasant. 4 For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure. 5 For I know that the Lord is great, and our Lord is above all gods. 6 Whatever the Lord pleases He does, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deep places. 7 He causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He makes lightning for the rain; He brings the wind out of His treasuries. 8 He destroyed the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast. 9 He sent signs and wonders into the midst of you, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh and all his servants. 10 He defeated many nations and slew mighty kings- 11 Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan- 12 And gave their land as a heritage, a heritage to Israel His people. 13 Your name, O Lord, endures forever, your fame, O Lord, throughout all generations. 14 For the Lord will judge His people, and He will have compassion on His servants. 15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. 16 They have mouths, but they do not speak; eyes they have, but they do not see; 17 They have ears, but they do not hear; nor is there any breath in their mouths. 18 Those who make them are like them; so is everyone who trusts in them. 19 Bless the Lord, O house of Israel! Bless the Lord, O house of Aaron! 20 Bless the Lord, O house of Levi! You who fear the Lord, bless the Lord! 21 Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, who dwells in Jerusalem! Praise the Lord!

Psalm 135 is known as a psalm of praise. The psalm presents God's powerful hand during the Exodus and contains a report on the uselessness of idols. The beginning and ending of this psalm are written in the pattern of liturgical praise. The structure is as follows: #1 a call for the priests to bless the name of the Lord (v. 1); #2 praise for the Lord who alone is the great and active God (v. 5); #3 praise for the Lord's saving deeds (v. 8); #4 praise for the Lord's saving name (vs. 13, 14); #5 contempt for the ineffective and powerless gods of the nations (v. 15); #6 a call for the people to bless the name of the Lord (v. 19).

The verses that stands out to me today are Psalm 135:15-18 "The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. 16 They have mouths, but they do not speak; eyes they have, but they do not see; 17 They have ears, but they do not hear; nor is there any breath in their mouths. 18 Those who make them are like them; so is everyone who trusts in them." The design of these verses is to arm the people of God against idolatry and all false worship, by showing what sort of gods they were that the heathen worshipped. They are silver and gold, therefore perishable. They are created by man, therefore inferior to man. They are dumb, blind, deaf and lifeless. And sad to say, those who make them are like them-spiritually blind, deaf, dumb and dead. The Psalmist is declaring that those who worshiped idols were as blind and insensitive as the idols themselves. They couldn't see or hear what God had to say. In subtle ways we become like the idols we worship. The truth is if the true God is your God, you will become more like Him as you worship Him. What do you value? What are your goals? What takes priority in your life? Choose carefully because you will take on the characteristics of whatever you worship. I am reminded of the words of Apostle Paul to the Colossians. He gave the church strategies on how to live for God day by day:

Colossians 3:12-17

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. 14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

I pray that you would stay away from idols and worship the One and only true God. The more you worship the One and only true God you will #1 imitate Christ's compassionate, forgiving attitude (Col. 3:12-13); #2 you will let love guide your life (Col. 3:14); #3 you will let the peace of Christ rule in your heart (Col. 3:15); #4 you will always be thankful (Col. 3:15); #5 you will keep God's Word in you at all times (Col. 3:16); #6 you will live as Jesus Christ's representative (Col. 3:17).

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 136:1-26

Psalm 136 is known as a psalm of praise. The worship leader, perhaps a priest, would read the first part of each verse. The people would then respond with their praise centering on the mercy of God: "For His mercy endures forever." This psalm, known as the "Great Hallel," was often recited in the temple as the Passover lambs were being slain. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a call for the people to praise the Lord (v. 1); #2 praise for the Lord who is the great Creator (v. 4); #3 praise for the Lord who is the great Deliverer (v. 10); #4 praise for the Lord who remembers His people forever (v. 23); #5 a concluding call for the people to praise the Lord (v. 26).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 136:1 "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." "Oh, Give thanks" means to give public acknowledgment; it is one of the principal words for praise in the Psalms. Mercy, which may also be translated "loyal love," is the most significant term used in the Psalms to describe the character of God. His mercy is "forever"; it is part of His eternal character. Repeated throughout this psalm is the phrase, "His love endures forever." This psalm may have been a responsive reading, with the congregation saying these words in unison after each sentence. The repetition made this important lesson sink in. God's love includes aspects of love, kindness, mercy, and faithfulness. We never have to worry that God will run out of love because it flows from a well that will never run dry.

I pray that you would take time to give thanks because it is GOOD and because you have so much to be thankful for.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 137:1-9

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion. 2 We hung our harps upon the willows in the midst of it. 3 For there those who carried us away captive asked of us a song, and those who plundered us requested mirth, saying, "Sing us one of the songs of Zion!" 4 How shall we sing the Lord's song in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill! 6 If I do not remember you, let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth- if I do not exalt Jerusalem above my chief joy. 7 Remember, O Lord, against the sons of Edom the day of Jerusalem, who said, "Raze it, raze it, to its very foundation!" 8 O daughter of Babylon, who are to be destroyed, happy the one who repays you as you have served us! 9 Happy the one who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock!

Psalm 137 is known as a song of Zion. Although no author is named, the psalm clearly shares with the Book of Lamentations the despair of those who suffered the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 b.c. This troubling psalm is one of deeply felt emotion. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 weeping in Babylon at the memory of the destruction of Zion (v. 1); #2 longing for Jerusalem and the restoration of song in praise of God (v. 4); #3 desiring judgment against Edom and Babylon for their destruction of Jerusalem (v. 7).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 137:5-6 "If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill! 6 If I do not remember you, let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth- if I do not exalt Jerusalem above my chief joy." It is difficult for the modern reader to appreciate the love for Zion among the people of Old Testament faith. As we observe regularly in the Psalms, this love was not just for a place but for its function in their lives. It was in Jerusalem that the temple had been built. It was in Jerusalem that the men of Israel would gather to celebrate the different feasts every year. The place was holy because of God's presence there (Psalm 2:6). A similar statement can be made today for the Christian. "If I forget [the cross] let my right hand forget its." The cross reminds you and me of the love and forgiveness that was shown us. May we remember Jerusalem and be forever grateful for the cross.

Galatians 6:14 (KJV)

But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

Ephes. 2:16 (KJV)

And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

Philip. 2:8 (KJV)

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Col. 1:20 (KJV)

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Col. 2:14 (KJV)

Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

Hebrews 12:2 (KJV)

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

I pray that you would be in remembrance of all that God has provided for you through our Lord Jesus Christ. Remember! Remember! Remember! Continue to meditate of God's Word. Life, joy, peace and purpose all flow from knowing God's love.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 138:1-8

A Psalm Of David.

1 I will praise You with my whole heart; Before the gods I will sing praises to You. 2 I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; for You have magnified Your word above all Your name. 3 In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul. 4 All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O Lord, when they hear the words of Your mouth. 5 Yes, they shall sing of the ways of the Lord, for great is the glory of the Lord. 6 Though the Lord is on high, yet He regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar. 7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. 8 The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Psalm 138 is known as a psalm of praise attributed to David. The occasion on which this psalm was composed cannot now be determined. It was evidently written in view of trouble (vs. 3, 7) and it expresses confidence that God would intervene in the future as he had done in the past; and it is, therefore, adapted to inspire confidence and hope in all who are called to pass through similar trials. Its structure is as follows: #1 a declaration of praise to God because of an overwhelming answer to the prayer of the king (v. 1); #2 a prophetic vision of a future time in which all kings of the earth will join in the praise of God (v. 4); #3 a determination to continually trust in God (vs. 7, 8).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 138:7-8 "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. 8 The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands." In these two verses David is well aware that new troubles will confront him. He has confidence that God, who has blessed him in the experience of this psalm, will continue to bless his path. It is a beautiful picture-David is surrounded by all kinds of foes, all kinds of hazards, all kinds of distresses, yet the Lord enables him to walk safely through them as if they didn't exist. With justified confidence, David affirms, "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me." The same Hebrew verb is translated "perform" in Psalm 57:2. The point of the word is that God acts on behalf of His servants. It is the same confidence that Paul expressed in Philippians 1:6, "Being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus."

I pray that you would be filled with confidence today knowing that God will be faithful to complete the work that He has started in you. Remember, Jesus is as close as the mention of His name and

Romans 8:28 (KJV)

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 139:1-24

1 O Lord, You have searched me and known me. 2 You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. 3 You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. 4 For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, You know it altogether. 5 You have hedged me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain it. 7 Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. 9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10 Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall on me," even the night shall be light about me; 12 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You. 13 For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. 14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. 17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! 18 If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; when I awake, I am still with You. 19 Oh, that You would slay the wicked, O God! Depart from me, therefore, you bloodthirsty men. 20 For they speak against You wickedly; Your enemies take Your name in vain. 21 Do I not hate them, O Lord, who hate You? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? 22 I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies. 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; 24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139 is known as a mixture of wisdom and praise. The psalmist describes the attributes of the Lord not as abstract qualities, but as active qualities by which He relates Himself to His people. The structure of the psalm is: #1 a description of God's intimate knowledge of His servant (v. 1); #2 a celebration of God's presence with David (v. 7); #3 a celebration of God's creation of David from the moment of conception (v. 13); #4 a declaration that God's thoughts toward David are innumerable (vs. 17, 18); #5 a prayer for the punishment of God's enemies (v. 19); #6 a prayer that God might search and lead David (vs. 23, 24).

The verses that stand out to me today are Psalm 139:1-4 "O Lord, You have searched me and known me. 2 You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. 3 You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. 4 For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, You know it altogether." The Psalmist is reminding us that He has searched us and known us! Words and deeds, thoughts and motives, He knows us inside out. He knows when we sit down to relax and when we rise up to engage in the varied activities of life. He can tell what we are thinking, and even anticipates our thoughts. In other words, God is active to search and test His servants. He knows our motives, desires, and words before they are expressed. In short, He knows His servants completely. Sometimes we don't let people get to know us completely because we are afraid they will discover something about us that they won't like. But God already knows everything about us, even to the number of hairs on our heads (Matthew 10:30), and still He accepts and loves us. I know this is true because Romans 5:8 say's "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." If God loved you and me when we were rebels, He can surely strengthen us, now that we love Him in return.

I pray that you would know that God is with you through every situation, in every trial?protecting, loving, guiding. He knows and loves you completely.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 140:1-13

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.

1 Deliver me, O Lord, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, 2 Who plan evil things in their hearts; they continually gather together for war. 3 They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips. special rtab Selah 4 Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have purposed to make my steps stumble. 5 The proud have hidden a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set traps for me. special rtab Selah 6 I said to the Lord: "You are my God; hear the voice of my supplications, O Lord. 7 O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle. 8 Do not grant, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; do not further his wicked scheme, lest they be exalted. special rtab Selah 9 "As for the head of those who surround me, let the evil of their lips cover them; 10 Let burning coals fall upon them; let them be cast into the fire, into deep pits, that they rise not up again. 11 Let not a slanderer be established in the earth; let evil hunt the violent man to overthrow him." 12 I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor. 13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to Your name; the upright shall dwell in Your presence.

Psalm 140 is known as a lament psalm and is ascribed to David. He is particularly concerned with the wicked, wanting the judgment of the Lord to come upon them. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a petition that David be delivered from the wicked (v. 1); #2 a petition that David be kept from the wicked (vs. 4, 5); #3 a confession of trust in the Lord (v. 6); #4 a prayer for the punishment of the wicked (v. 9); #5 a declaration that the Lord will deliver the afflicted (vs. 12, 13).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 140:12 "I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor." It is clear from this verse that the cause of the poor and the afflicted is of special interest to the Lord. He promises to uphold and comfort them. In other words, there is always someone on their side?the Lord will stand by them and ultimately bring about justice. Whatever happens, David knows that justice will prevail-that the Lord is on the side of the afflicted and the poor. This should be a comfort for us all. No matter what our situation may be, the Lord is with us. But this truth should also call us to responsibility. We need to love what God loves, we need to defend what God is defending. As God's people, we are required to defend the rights of the powerless. This is a declaration of independence!

Rejoicing in God's Freedom,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 141:1-10

A Contemplation Of David. A Prayer When He Was in the Cave.

1 Lord, I cry out to You; make haste to me! Give ear to my voice when I cry out to You. 2 Let my prayer be set before You as incense, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. 3 Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips. 4 Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, to practice wicked works with men who work iniquity; and do not let me eat of their delicacies. 5 Let the righteous strike me; it shall be a kindness. And let him rebuke me; it shall be as excellent oil; let my head not refuse it. For still my prayer is against the deeds of the wicked. 6 Their judges are overthrown by the sides of the cliff, and they hear my words, for they are sweet. 7 Our bones are scattered at the mouth of the grave, as when one plows and breaks up the earth. 8 But my eyes are upon You, O God the Lord; in You I take refuge; do not leave my soul destitute. 9 Keep me from the snares they have laid for me, and from the traps of the workers of iniquity. 10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I escape safely.

Psalm 141 is known as a psalm of lament that is ascribed to David. In this case no particular event is cited as the cause for David's distress. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 an introductory cry to the Lord (vs. 1, 2); #2 a prayer for a guard over David's mouth (vs. 3, 4); #3 an acceptance of righteous rebuke (v. 5a); #4 a vision of the punishment of the wicked (v. 5b); #5 a statement of confidence in the Lord (v. 8).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 141:3 "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips." David asks for a guard to be stationed at his mouth to prevent the escape of any wrong word, to keep the door of his lips from speech that would not be honoring to the Lord. In other words he wisely asked God to help keep him from speaking evil?sometimes even as he underwent persecution. Simply put this is a prayer for wisdom, for restraining evil language, and for knowing the correct words to speak. Jesus himself was silent before his accusers (Matthew 26:63). Knowing the power of the tongue, we would do well to ask God to guard what we say so that our words will bring honor to his name. In the New Testament James wrote that "the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts" (James 3:5). Also in Luke 6:45 Jesus reminds us that our speech and actions reveal the true underlying beliefs, attitudes, and motivations. The good impressions we try to make cannot last if our hearts are deceptive. What is in your heart will come out in your speech and behavior.

I pray that you would join the Psalmist prayer when he prayed: "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips."

Blessings,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 142:1-7

1 I cry out to the Lord with my voice; with my voice to the Lord I make my supplication. 2 I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble. 3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk they have secretly set a snare for me. 4 Look on my right hand and see, for there is no one who acknowledges me; refuge has failed me; no one cares for my soul. 5 I cried out to You, O Lord: I said, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. 6 Attend to my cry, for I am brought very low; deliver me from my persecutors, for they are stronger than I. 7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise Your name; the righteous shall surround me, for You shall deal bountifully with me."

Psalm 142 is known as a lament psalm that is attributed to David. The term "When He Was in the Cave" may refer to one of two occasions on which David hid from King Saul in a cave. One occurred in En Gedi (Ps. 57; 1 Sam. 24); the other at Adullam (1 Sam. 22:1, 2). These may have seemed like prisons to him because of the confinement. The second may well be the setting for this psalm of deep anguish. This was a time in David's life when it appeared that he was totally alone. In fact, he began to doubt whether even God was truly for him. But as the testimony indicates, David turned to the Lord in prayer. The structure of the psalm is: #1 David's cry for help from the cave of his despair (vs. 1, 2); #2 David's lament of distress that no one was on his side (vs. 3, 4); #3 David's confession of trust and petition for deliverance (vs. 5, 6); #4 David's vow of praise when God delivered him (v. 7).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 142:5 "I cried out to You, O Lord: I said, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living." In the midst of his pain and distress, David makes his confession "You are my refuge". This is an unfailing refuge and a blessed portion in the land of the living. Simply put David is asking the Lord to come to his rescue quickly because he is at the end of his rope. Have you ever felt that no one cared what happened to you? David had good reason to feel that way, and he wrote, "I cry to you, O LORD." Through prayer we can pull out of our despair and be reminded that God cares for us deeply. When man has failed you and you have know one else to turn to, do what David did: "I cried out to You, O Lord: I said, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living."

Rejoicing in HOPE,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 143:1-12

1 Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications! In Your faithfulness answer me, and in Your righteousness. 2 Do not enter into judgment with Your servant, for in Your sight no one living is righteous. 3 For the enemy has persecuted my soul; he has crushed my life to the ground; he has made me dwell in darkness, like those who have long been dead. 4 Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is distressed. 5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands. 6 I spread out my hands to You; my soul longs for You like a thirsty land. special rtab Selah 7 Answer me speedily, O Lord; my spirit fails! Do not hide Your face from me, lest I be like those who go down into the pit. 8 Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for in You do I trust; cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You. 9 Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies; in You I take shelter. 10 Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness. 11 Revive me, O Lord, for Your name's sake! For Your righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble. 12 In Your mercy cut off my enemies, and destroy all those who afflict my soul; for I am Your servant.

Psalm 143 is known as a lament psalm that is ascribed to David. In the Septuagint version, and the Latin Vulgate, it is said to have been written "when Absalom his son persecuted him." Whatever the setting it is a psalm written in trouble; and, in a world like this, there will be always many hearts that can fully sympathize with the feelings which are expressed in it. The structure of the psalm is as follows: #1 a presentation of great personal distress (v. 1); #2 a longing for former days of delight (vs. 5, 6); #3 prayers for deliverance (v. 7).

The verse that stands out to me today is Psalm 143:7 "Answer me speedily, O Lord; my spirit fails! Do not hide Your face from me, lest I be like those who go down into the pit." In this verse we can see David was losing hope, caught in paralyzing fear and deep depression. Without a renewed sense of God's presence, described by the words, Your face, David believes that he is as good as dead. At times, we can all feel trapped and caught in despair so that we feel we are unable to pull ourselves out. At those times, we can come to the Lord and, like David, express our true feelings. Then he will help us as we remember his works (Psalm 143:5), reach out to him in prayer (Psalm 143:6), trust him (Psalm 143:8), and decide to do his will (Psalm 143:10).

I pray that you would experience the favor of God in your life today. May HE answer your prayer by revealing HIS mercy.

Love in Christ,

Alan J. Schrader

Psalm 144:1-15