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 author expect to pay the price (redeem = buy back) for all their sins?

RESPOND: What might a watchman experience as he works the night shift? What might he fear? After years of night watches, is he as vigilant as he once was? In this psalm there is mercy, perseverance, forgiveness and hope. Ask God to strengthen you where you are weakest, through the power of his Holy Spirit who is given to all who trust in Jesus. (Romans 5:5)

PSALM 130

¹ Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord;
² Lord, hear my voice. Let your ears be attentive to my cry for mercy.

³ If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?
⁴ But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.

⁵ I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.
⁶ I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning,
    more than watchmen wait for the morning.

⁷ Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love
    and with him is full redemption.
⁸ He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.