REFLECT: When immediate circumstances were dire and dangerous, how does the psalmist describe the confidence he finds in his relationship with God? In humility, the psalmist prays for many ways to maintain that relationship, ending with perseverance. Which of these requests voices a desire of...
REFLECT: Based on the six actions and four restraints that define the person invited into God’s presence, who is able to dwell with God? (Psalm 14:2-3). Jesus, The Righteous One, opened the way to have peace with God and gives us the Holy Spirit to be our strength and guide in daily...
REFLECT: What emotions grew within the psalmist as he interacted with God? Look for at least five areas of life where the psalmist recognized receiving God’s blessing. As you seek to trust God daily, how can you see God’s blessing in your life? Where do you need his help to...
REFLECT Jerusalem was the gathering place for all of Israel’s distinct tribes to be united in worship. What was the psalmist’s outlook about gathering with others in God’s family? Even though they lived in different parts of the land, what did they hold in...
REFLECT: In this week’s message, John defined hope as “the sure expectation that God will fulfill his promises”. Compare verses 1-2 with verses 5-6. How does the author’s outlook change when his focus shifts from an earthly perspective to a heavenly one? Who did the...
REFLECT: While a good leader for the nation, King David (the author of this psalm) endured times of violent conflict, family discord and personal failure. How did David’s view of God knit the good together with the challenges? How was his focus similar to Paul’s from Philippians...
REFLECT God’s people are not always protected from troubles in this world. Look for at least three difficulties when God sustains those who trust him. What do God’s gifts look like? How has God given you strength in the midst of challenges? RESPOND David, the author of this...
reflect: Israel’s King David was an old man when he wrote this, reflecting on God’s presence in his life. How would David compare his power and abilities to God’s? Why does David believe that God helped him? respond: David was a godly leader and a courageous warrior, but even...
reflect: What gives David confidence that he will make it through this tough time? What are the reasons for his confidence in God? respond: What are the fears, troubles and heartbreaks in your life? Bring them to God trusting that he will hear and answer you; that he is good, caring and...