Psalms 90-95

What does it say?

Psalm 90: The Lord is God from everlasting to everlasting. Time does not mean the same to God as it does to man. God sees all of our sins; the life of a man is on average 70 to 80 years, Moses asks God to teach us to number our days and be wise. Moses asks the Lord to have favor on them and be pleased with their work. 

Psalm 91: The one who trust in the Lord has true security. The one who trust in the Lord will not fear death. God will send his angels to guide the ways of him who trusts in the Lord. The Lord says that he who trust Me, I will answer him and let him see My salvation. 

Psalm 92: It is good to sing praises to the Lord. The wicked are aloud to flourish, so that they might be destroyed forever. The one who trusts in the Lord will be exalted to declare that the Lord is righteous. 

Psalm 93: The Lord reigns and He is everlastingly clothed in majesty. The testimonies of the Lord are confirmed and holiness is His house forever. 

Psalm 94: The wicked flourish and the psalmist asks the Lord “how long?” God hears man’s words, He sees what man does and He knows the thoughts of man. The man whom the Lord chastens and teaches is blessed. The psalmist says, “The Lord has been my stronghold, and my God the rock of refuge.” 

Psalm 95: The psalmist says to praise the Lord for He created all and all belongs to Him. The psalmist encourages to kneel and worship the Lord who created us and he warns against unbelief. 

What does it mean?

The life of a man is very short. A thousand years are nothing in the mind of God, yet men on average live for about 70 to 80 years. Sure their are some who live longer but many live shorter. A wise man understands that his life is brief and he will have to answer to God for all that he has said, done and thought while he walked the earth. However, the man who trust in the Lord will be rewarded with exaltation that he does not deserve. We should praise and worship the Lord because He is the Creator and the Owner. The reign of the Lord is everlasting but our lives are brief. The wicked might flourish for a season but it is only for their destruction that God allows it. If you are chastened by God when you sin, you are blessed because if you are not chastened, God has appointed you for eternal destruction. Do not be caught in unbelief but praise God and worship Him. The unbeliever will not enter the rest of God.

What shall I do?

I realize the brevity of my life. We are all hear today and gone tomorrow. In the times that the psalmist wrote, men saw other men die. Today, men do not see death as real. The only time that they see someone die is in fiction, on a movie screen, or in a video game. As a Registered Nurse, working in an intensive care unit for over 20 years, I have seen death a thousand times. Yes, I realize the brevity of my life. I am amazed by unbelief in healthcare but there has always been unbelief in this world. We were created by God and He hears our words, sees what we do and knows our every thought. We will all answer to God. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Justification is a gift, given by the grace of God alone, received through faith alone, in the Son of God Jesus Christ alone, for the glory of God alone, as it is written in Scripture alone. Therefore, I shall have repentance towards God and faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of my sins.

Psalms 86-89

What does it say?

Psalm 86: David says that he is a godly man because he trust in the Lord; he calls upon his name for deliverance and believes that all nations should worship the Lord. God has delivered David from death; therefore, David desires to learn God’s ways. David prays to be delivered from violent men who do not set God before them.

Psalm 87: The Lord loves the city Zion; therefore, he counts the people born there separate than those born elsewhere.

Psalm 88: The psalmist is greatly afflicted and has been calling on the name of the Lord for help out of affliction. Will God preform wonders for the dead and will the dead rise and praise him? The psalmist asks the Lord for reason regarding his affliction. 

Psalm 89: The psalmist vows to sing of the lovingkindness and faithfulness of God because of the Lord’s covenant with David. There is no being in all the universe that compares to the Lord, the heavens praise the wonders of the Lord. There is nothing in all of creation that does not belong to the Lord. It is God who put David on the throne and has given him power to rule and has promised to establish his thrown forever. God will punish David’s sons for violating the Lord’s statutes but God will not break off his lovingkindness, nor deal falsely in his faithfulness; the descendants and throne of David shall endure forever. It appears to the psalmist that God has cast away his covenant because his stronghold is in ruins. The psalmist believes that the life of a man is vanity because it is so brief. He asks. “Where is the lovingkindness and faithfulness of God that he promised David?” The psalmist concludes by praising the Lord. 

What does it mean?

War, famine and disease seem to plague man all the day long. Men suffer and die all of the time. When a man grows old, he is forgotten about when he needs lovingkindness and faithfulness the most. Where is God and what is he doing? Has God forgotten about his promise? It is easy to become despondent during affliction and question the grace and faithfulness of God. However, we must continue to trust in the promise of God throughout our lives. May must continue to call on the name of the Lord our God to save us.

What shall I do?

As a Registered Nurse, especially in the intensive care unit, I see a great amount of loneliness, sorrow, suffering and death. Life is not like a Hallmark movie. There are no happy endings. People suffer at the end of life and then they die. I have pains now that I did not have as a young man. There are things that I enjoyed doing that I can no longer do. I know more than most men what the end of life looks like; therefore, I know what awaits me, if the Lord does not return during my life. However, I shall trust in the grace and faithfulness of God in Jesus Christ all of the days of my life. Jesus has promised to return and raise us from the dead.

Psalms 80-85

What does it say?

Psalm 80: The psalmist begins by honoring God then prays for salvation. He ask for God to shine his face upon them and restore them. He says that God removed a vine from Egypt and planted it in a cleared land but the hedges of the garden have been broken and all who pass by pick the vines fruit. The psalmist returns to his plea for salvation and restoration. 

Psalm 81: The psalmist exhorts Jacob to worship God. Then God speaks and says, “I am the Lord your God, you shall have no other God’s before me.” The people did not listen to God; therefore, he gave them over but if they would listen to his word and walk in his ways God would subdue their enemies. 

Psalm 82: God judges that the rulers are judging unjustly, showing partiality to the wicked. God has given them honor as gods and sonship but they will die like men because of their unrighteousness. 

Psalm 83: The psalmist says that all the nations are conspiring to destroy God’s people. He asks God to do to these nations as he did to others in the past. He prays that God terrify them with wind and fire that they may know that the Lord is the Most High over all the earth.

Psalm 84: The dwelling places of the Lord are lovely and those who dwell in the Lord’s house are blessed. The man whose strength is in the Lord is blessed. The Lord’s favor his so good towards his anointed that he would rather stand at the threshold of the house of God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. 

Psalm 85: The psalmist says that the Lord forgave the iniquity of his people, covering all their sin in the past. However, at present his anger is towards them and he asks how long will the Lord be angry. The psalmist trust that salvation is near to those who fear the Lord.

What does it mean?

When we pray to God we should begin our prayers by honoring his name. We should then remember the commands of the Lord and pray for God’s will. We should realize and confess our sins to God before asking our request for favor. One cannot properly pray to God unless he knows the Lord and the only way to know him is by reading what God did and said in the Scriptures. We should desire to walk in the ways of God because to dwell with God is better than anything in this world. No matter what is going on at present, God will save those who fear him and trust his word.

What shall I do?

God shall have first place in everything. I shall honor his name before making any request and I shall honor his name before men. I shall remember the Lord’s commandments and observe his word. I shall confess my sins and forsake them. I shall trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation from the wrath of God.

Psalms 78-79

What does it say?

Psalm 78: The psalmist begins to tell of the Lord in a parable. That they should trust in God, keep his commandments  (The Ten Commandments) and teach them to their children. The sons of Ephraim turned back from the enemy in fear because they forgot the works that God did when leading them out of Egypt and in the desert. Despite seeing his works, they did not trust that God would provide for them in the desert. God provided them with manna for bread and qual for meat, but they gathered these in greed and did not thank the Lord, nor believe in his wonderful works. However, when God’s anger rose and he killed some of them, they sought him, but their heart was not steadfast towards him and they did not keep his covenant. They continually rebelled against God despite all the wonderful things that he did for them and seeing with their own eyes his mighty works. God brought the children into the land that he promised the fathers and the generations that followed rebelled against the Lord, so he abandoned the dwelling place at Shiloh and the enemy struck Israel. God awoke as if he had been sleeping and drove back the enemies of Israel; however, he did not choose Ephraim as his dwelling place but chose the tribe of Judah and Mount Zion; God took David his servant out of the sheepfolds to shepherd the people. 

Psalm 79: The nations were allowed to destroy Jerusalem, to defile the temple and scatter the bodies of the people, so that the beast of the earth feed on them. The psalmist prays to the Lord to come to their aide, forgive their sins and return to the neighbors sevenfold what they have done to Judah; after this, the psalmist vows that the people will give thanks to the Lord forever and tell all generations.

What does it mean?

Jesus said to the pharisee Nicodemus, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (Jn 3:3) Unless a man is regenerated by God, he cannot believe in the Lord, nor can he observe the Lord’s commandments. Israel saw with their own eyes the mighty works of God, yet they did not believe in the Lord and did not keep his covenant. The Lord God continually came to their aide and provided for them, demonstrating his slowness to anger and his steadfast love. God will not leave the guilty unpunished; therefore, he gave them over to destruction and their scattered bodies were eaten by beasts. A man might have worldly sorrow because of what his choices have led too and he might even make vows to God if he will deliver him, but he will always return to his sinful ways and unbelief. The ancient Israelites were unregenerate just like their neighbors. For this reason a man must be born again to see the kingdom of God.

What shall I do?

The only thing that I can do is warn of the destruction to come and point people to Jesus Christ for salvation from the penalty of sin. I cannot give anyone a new heart; however, I can pray to the Lord, asking him to change hearts, I can also impart knowledge to others. Therefore, I shall pray that the Lord changes hearts, preach the law (The Ten Commandments) to bring the knowledge of sin and preach faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. 

Psalms 74-77

What does it say?

Psalm 74: The psalmist calls out to the Lord for help because the enemy has destroyed the land and there is no prophet to tell them how long the enemy will prevail. The psalmist knows that the Lord is the all powerful creator. He asks the Lord to not forget them in their affliction. He says that the enemy is actually fighting against God.

Psalm 75: God has said to the boastful, “Do not boast,” and to the wicked, “Do not speak with insolent pride.” The Lord is the one who judges and puts down and exalts. The psalmist trusts that God will abase the proud and lift up the the righteous.

Psalm 76: God is known in Judah and is his name is hallowed in Israel. All should fear God because no man can stand in the presence of God when he becomes angry. God will rise in judgment to save the humble of the earth. If you make a vow to the Lord, fulfill your vow because God is to be feared by the kings of the earth.

Psalm 77: The psalmist believes that when he cries aloud to God that God will hear him. The psalmist wonders if God will withhold his lovingkindness forever but then realizes that God has not change but it is his attitude towards God that has changed. The psalmist then decides that he should recall all that God has done in the past and meditate on his deeds. He recalls that in mighty power he led the people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.  

What does it mean?

We should remember that the Lord God is the creator and judge of the earth. There will be times in our lives that we wonder what God is doing, or for that matter, not doing. During these times we should look to the Scriptures and recall; first, the nature of God, second, the mighty deeds that God did in the past. We must wait on the Lord because God is slow to anger but he will righteously judge the earth. God will abase the proud and wicked, but he will save the humble; therefore, humble yourself and fear the Lord God who has the power to create and to destroy. 

What shall I do?

I confess that I am inpatient and wonder if the the kingdom of God will ever come to the earth. When will we all love one another as we love ourselves? Why is there so much suffering and death? Jesus Christ has suffered and died for our sins. He has risen from the dead; therefore, the enemy is already been defeated but he has not yet sat down on his glorious thrown to judge the earth. Why? What is God waiting for? I do not know; however, I do know that God is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth, and will punish the guilty. (cf. Ex. 34: 6-7) Therefore, I shall fear the Lord and patiently await is return. 

Psalms 70-73

What does it say?

David prays to the Lord for his enemies to be ashamed and turn back. He also prays for those who seek God to be glad and God be magnified. God took the psalmist from his mothers womb and sustained him all of his life. He ask that God not forsake him in his old age. He asks that his enemies be covered with reproach and vows to tell of the righteousness and salvation of God all day long. He asks God to comfort him in his old age. He vows to play the harp and the lyre while singing praises to God. Solomon prays that the kings son be able to judge righteously as God judges. He prays that the righteous flourish and have peace. He asks that all the nations bow before him. He will deliver the needy and have compassion on the poor; therefore, they pray for him all day long. The earth and the city will flourish and all the nations will call him blessed. His prayer is that the whole earth be filled with the glory of the Lord God, the God of Israel. Asaph notices that the wick seem to become rich and die in ease. However, he feels that he has been stricken though he follows the Lord. When he pondered to understand this he was troubled until he perceived their end which will be sudden terrors. He confesses that he had become bitter within at seeing the wicked flourish. In repentance he desires nothing on earth for God is his portion forever. 

What does it mean?

We should magnify the Lord, the God of heaven and earth, no matter what is going on in our lives. We should recognize that it is God who created us and sustains us throughout our lives; therefore, we should worship the Lord and praise his name. We were created in the image of God; therefore, the likeness of the Son of God should be our goal. We should pray for the righteous to flourish and peace be on the earth. Another words, may God’s will be done on the earth as it is in heaven. We should pray for the kingdom of God to come to the earth. When this happens all of the nations on the earth will be glad. However, in this present day the wicked do seem to flourish and oftentimes the righteous are oppressed. The world that we live in can seem backwards and upside down. We should not be jealous of the physical things because the wicked will be cast into hell. We should rejoice no matter what we have on the earth because our portion is with the Lord our God forever.

What shall I do?

I get depressed when I see the wicked flourish and I do not see justice prevail. I understand that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; therefore, none are subjectively righteous but those who have trusted in Jesus Christ have been declared righteous by God. I shall not be jealous of what others on the earth have because I have been justified, as a gift, by the grace of God, through faith in Jesus Christ. My portion is with the Lord in the new heaven and the earth where righteousness and justice will reign forever. I shall pray as the Lord Jesus Christ taught us to pray: Matthew 6:9-13 (NASB)

“Our Father who is in heaven,

Hallowed be Your name.

‘Your kingdom come.

Your will be done,

On earth as it is in heaven.

‘Give us this day our daily bread.

‘And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

‘And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” 

Psalms 66-69

What does it say?

Praise God, because of his power, your enemies will obey you even from a rebellious heart. God is all powerful; therefore, the rebellious should not exalt themselves. God has refined his chosen with fire and water; now they are in a place of abundance and should fulfill their vows made while in distress. The psalmist invites all who fear God to hear what God has done for him. May all of the nations of the earth fear God, praise God, be glad and sing for joy. May the wicked perish before God and may the righteous rejoice. God is a father to the fatherless and a judge for widows. God provides for the poor. God protects his sheep, covering them with wings of silver and gold. The Lord will dwell on his chosen mountain forever. God is our deliverance and our salvation, he will shatter the head of his enemies. The king has proceed into the sanctuary and God is glorified. Kings will come to the temple to bring gifts to God. The psalmist exhorts the kingdoms of the earth to sing praises to the Lord. The psalmist calls out to God for salvation. The Lord God knows everything about the psalmist, which includes his folly and wrongs. The psalmist ask God to deliver him from his enemies. The psalmist evokes the lovingkindness of God to save him. There is no one on the earth to comfort him; they give him bitterness for his hunger and for his thirst a sour drink. The psalmist prays that those who increase his pain be blotted out of the book of life. When God saves him, the psalmist vows to magnify God with thanksgiving. The psalmist trust that God will save Zion and he praises God. 

What does it mean?

There is no mistrust among the righteous. The righteous are not righteous because they do no wrong but are are righteous by association. The Lord God is their righteousness. The righteous trust in the salvation of the Lord even while in diversity. The Lord God uses diversity to cleanse the righteous. The wicked see this as an opportunity to add pain to pain; however, their end will be destruction and the one who trust in God will be saved. God is a righteous judge. He knows what everyman has done. He will judge the earth righteously but his lovingkindness is for those who trust in him to save them. Trust in God, for salvation is of the Lord to all who call on the name of the Lord to save them.

What shall I do?

Salvation is of the Lord; therefore, I shall trust in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to save me from all of my enemies. I shall praise God in thanksgiving. I shall honor God and exalt the Lord Jesus Christ among the nations.

Psalms 58-65

What does it say?

The wicked begin speaking lies from birth and their words are like venom. David asks God to shatter the teeth in the mouths of the wicked. The righteous will rejoice when God judges the wicked. The wicked scoff and do not believe that God sees the things that they do. David prays for God to destroy the wicked in wrath. The wicked are like dogs who growl and search for food at night, but David will praise God because God is his strength and his stronghold. God made the people feel hardship but David trusts that God loves and will deliver his people. All of the nations belong to God. It appears that God has rejected them but David trusts in God’s deliverance. David has trusted in God; therefore, he asks to dwell in God’s tent forever. David knows that God has heard his vows and trusts that God will prolong his life, that he may fulfill his vows. David trust in God alone to save him. The wicked thrust down and delight in falsehood. David trusts only in God and encourages the people to trust God. Do not trust in the things you have or don’t have. Power and lovingkindness belong to God. David has seen the lovingkindness of God; therefore, he thirsts for God alone. When David lies down at night he meditates on God. Those who seek his life and lie will be destroyed. David prays for deliverance from secret enemies. God knows what is in their heart; therefore, David trusts God to destroy his secret enemies. Blessed is he whom God chooses to bring near. God is in control of his creation. And God takes care of his creation. 

What does it mean?

Trust alone in the power, knowledge, understanding and wisdom of God. The wicked walk the earth killing and lying. God knows what is in the heart and mind of everyone. God chooses whom he will bring close to him. He whom God chooses is blessed indeed. He who has seen the lovingkindness of God, loves God; therefore, nothing on earth will satisfy him. He does not trust in riches or anything else. He trust only in God to save him. He understands that God sees everything; therefore, he trust that God has his back. God will destroy the wicked but his lovingkindness is given to those whom God chooses. If you are chosen by God you will love and adore him.

What shall I do?

I have seen the lovingkindness of God. He has chosen me, a sinner, as his child. I have seen the lovingkindness of God. He has drawn me to himself in Jesus Christ. Therefore, I shall meditate on God when I lie down and when I get up. I shall not trust in the things that I have, nor what I don’t have, but I will trust in God alone to deliver me from sin and death. “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (Jn 3:16) 

Psalms 51-57

What does it say?

David prays for God to forgive him, for all sin is against God. He knows that he is by nature a sinner and ask that God hide his face from his sin. He asks God to cleanse him of his sin and create in him a new heart that teaches transgressors God’s ways, so that others may be converted to God. David knows that no sacrifice that he could offer would please God, but God is pleased with repentance. David asks for the Lord to build up the walls of Jerusalem. Man boast in his evil and is a worker of deceit. The man who does not trust in God but trust in his riches with evil desire will be torn down and taken away. However, David trust in the lovingkindness of God forever. The fool says in his heart that there is no God and there is no one who does good. David prays for salvation for Israel that they may turn to God and be glad. Violent ungodly men sought the life of David. However, he believes that God will rescue him from his foes. David will give thanksgiving sacrifices to the Lord for deliverance. David is distracted because of the voice of the enemy. David would like to run away if he could. David ask the Lord to confuse the enemy. David could bear it if the enemy was not a former friend. The enemy is a murder and a liar. David trust that God will destroy the men of bloodshed and deceit. Evil men twist the words of David and trample upon him. David trust that God will deliver him from death and keep him from stumbling. David trust that God will be gracious towards him; therefore, his soul takes refuge in God. The sons of men are seeking the life of David. David believes that he will sing of the lovingkindness and truth of God among the peoples. 

What does it mean?

There are none righteous...There are none who do Good. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The foolish man says in his heart that there is no God. Everyone is accountable to God for the things that we think, say and do. Every single person on the earth was born a sinner. We do not become sinners. We sin because we are sinners. We must know that all sin is against God, confess our sins to God with a contrite heart and ask for his forgiveness. We must ask him to transform us and give us a true heart. When a man comes to understand who God is and what he has done; then he will desire to become a new creation. The man of God knows that all men are sinners. He teaches sinners the ways of God and hopes for their salvation; however, he knows that there will be many who reject the word of God and continue in sin. The way of sin is destruction and the way of God is life.

What shall I do?

I have and shall repent of my sins and put my faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of all my sin. I shall trust in God to save me from evil men. I shall tell of the grace and truth of God among the peoples of the earth. I cannot make anyone believe but I can tell all of Jesus Christ. I shall use the law to bring the knowledge of sin; thereby, close the self-righteous mouth. I shall preach the gospel in hopes that those who are convicted by the law will repent and put their faith in Jesus Christ. I shall not worry about the enemies threats but shall trust in the Lord to save me.

Psalms 46-50

What does it say?

God is our strength and our refuge; therefore, we should not fear what happens on the earth. There is a river that makes glad the city of God. God will make wars to cease on the earth. God is to feared for he is in control. All people shall praise God for he is the King of all the earth. The Lord is great and should be greatly praised, in the city of God. God will establish his city forever. Take a look around the city of God and tell it to the next generation. The psalmist speaks wisdom to the rich and poor together. No man should boast in his riches because no man has the means to redeem his brother from death. Even though a man sees that all other men and beasts die, he gives no thought to his own death. The psalmist calls such a man a fool because like sheep, they are appointed for death but the psalmist trusts the Lord to redeem him from death. Do not fear the rich because like the beast, the rich will also perish. God will judge all of the earth and his judgement will be like a devouring fire. All sacrifice should be from a heart of thanksgiving because God owns everything and needs nothing; he rescues and we honor him. The wicked hate discipline and cast the words of God behind them; the wicked approve of those who steal, commit adultery and lie against their neighbor. The man who honors God with a thanksgiving sacrifice and observes his commandments; that man shall see the salvation of God.

What does it mean?

God is all powerful, all knowing and all good. God needs nothing from us but he expects to be thanked and obeyed. God should be feared and not what happens on the earth. Are earth quakes, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, famines and disease scary? They are but not when compared to the awesome power of God. Do not think that God does not care if we disobey his commandments and do not think that he is like us. Just because he is silent, does not mean that he approves of your disobedience to his commandments. God expects to be thanked for all that he has given us and he expects men to observe his commandments. If we trust in him, he will save us from death. No matter how rich and powerful a man thinks he is; he cannot save himself from death. God promises salvation to those who love and honor God. 

What shall I do?

It is interesting that I should read these passages this morning because I was thinking of this very subject last night. I do not offer to God livestock as a thanksgiving sacrifice. For one, I do not have livestock but I do have a body and a mind. The apostle Paul wrote that the Romans should present their bodies, a living and holy sacrifice, which is service to God, and they should not be conformed to this world, but should be transformed by the renewing of their minds to what is expectable to God. (Rom 12:1-2) Therefore, I shall give thanksgiving to God through service and I shall observe all that Christ commanded. 

Psalms 40-45

What does it say?

Psalm 40: The psalmist trust that the Lord will help and deliver him because he is needy and the Lord is good.

Psalm 41: The one who considers the helpless is blessed and the Lord will deliver him when he is in trouble; however, the psalmist believes that he is in trouble and waits to be delivered by the Lord.

Psalm 42: The psalmist is thirsting for God while troubled in exile away from the house of God.

Psalm 43: The psalmist prays and hopes in God to deliver him from deceitful and unjust men.

Psalm 44: The psalmist recalls the greatness of God; deliverance in the former days but laments the present, they are troubled by their enemies and it seems that God does not come to their aid, so the he calls to God for help.

Psalm 45: The king is glorious and his bride is beautiful; celebrate the marriage of the king and his bride.

What does it mean?

It often feels like God is not listening, that he has a deaf ear regarding our cries for help. We can recall how God was good in the past. We can read in the Scriptures of the great things that God did and we can also see the great revivals that have occurred in church history but what of today. Where is God and what is he waiting for? Even though we may feel that God is not listening, or seeing, all is not lost. The Almighty is on his thrown and he knows everything that occurs on the earth and he is working all things together for good. The future will not be like the former days because there will be a marriage feast. The Son of God, the King, who is God incarnate will marry his bride. On that day we will have a great celebration. 

What shall I do?

I confess that I sometimes wonder if God is listening. I pray for the salvation of my children but they continue unchanged. The world around me becomes stranger and stranger with every passing day. Three days a week, I work in the ICU and 4 days a week I am at home. While at work, I wear a mask all day long. I feel so isolated and lonely. I recall the former days when we would fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ but now we watch on a computer screen. Our worship leader sings songs and our pastor preaches a sermon. I am not one to interact with people online or on the phone. I long for community where everyone loves the other and we all interact with each other. I confess that I long for the former days and lament today. I feel as though I am in exile. I shall trust in God: Father and Son and Holy Spirit; the Lord God is all powerful, all knowing, and all good. I trust that he is working all things together for good. A is day coming in which the people of God will celebrate together a marriage feast. I shall wait for the Lord!

Psalms 36-39

What does it say?

Psalm 36: Men are wicked and God is abounding in lovingkindness. The psalmist asks the Lord to continue in his lovingkindness towards him and all who know the Lord.

Psalm 37: The wicked may flourish for a season but their end is in death; however, the righteous shall live forever; their salvation is from the Lord, in whom they take refuge.

Psalm 38: The psalmist, trusting in the lovingkindness of the Lord; confesses his sin to the Lord and asks the Lord to grant him salvation from his enemies. 

Psalm 39: The psalmist is in anguish because he knows that life is brief and he has sinned against the almighty; therefore, he asks the Lord to deliver him from all of his transgressions.

What does it mean?

There are two people on the earth: the righteous and the wicked; yet, all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. What makes a person righteous? No one walking in the flesh is righteous, so it is not in works. There are no self-righteous people on the earth. The righteous are those who repent and trust in the lovingkindness of the Lord. The wicked are those who turn from the Lord and continue in sin. The wicked may flourish during this life but it is the one who repents and trust in the lovingkindness of God who will live forever. It is good for the people of God to be in anguish over sin because anguish leads them to repentance.

What shall I do?

I shall confess all of my sin to the Lord and trust in the finished work of Jesus Christ to save me from death. 

Psalms 32-35

What does it say?

Psalm 32: Do not keep silent about personal sin but confess your sin to the Lord; the Lord is abounding in lovingkindness towards those who confess sin and trust in the Lord for forgiveness.

Psalm 33: Thank the Lord and give him credit for all that you have because all comes from God. Do not fear the created things or trust in their power; fear the Lord alone and trust in the Lord alone for help.

Psalm 34: The psalmist gives glory to the Lord for delivering him from the wicked by teaching others to seek the Lord. No one who takes refuge in the Lord will be condemned. 

Psalm 35: The psalmist prays to the Lord for rescue from enemies, vowing to declare the Lord’s righteousness and praise him all day long.

What does it mean?

We should confess all of our sin to the Lord because he is kind. He will forgive the sins of those who humble themselves and come to him in repentance. The Lord God created everything; therefore, we should not fear anything created but fear the creator alone, thanking him for all that he has given us. The Lord is our helper. The Lord hears the cries of the afflicted who call upon his name for deliverance. We should glorify God on the earth by telling other people what the Lord has done for us. The Lord has forgiven our sin, he provides for our needs, and keeps us from condemnation.

What shall I do?

I shall not harbor sin but confess all of my sin to the Lord; trusting the Lord to forgive all of my sin. The Lord is righteous and just to forgive my sin in Jesus Christ. (1 Jn 1:9) I shall give thanks to the Lord for all that he has done and praise his holy name before men. I shall tell others the good things that the Lord has done for me. I shall point others to seek the Lord for forgiveness of sins and rescue from enemies. 

Psalms 26-31

What does it say?

Psalm 26: The psalmist ask the Lord to save him from the way of sinners and death because his way is God’s way.

Psalm 27: The psalmist loves and trust the Lord despite all that may be going wrong in the world; he trusts that the Lord will never leave him nor forsake him. 

Psalm 28: The psalmist prayer is for the Lord to hear him and help him because his way is not like the wicked; therefore, he trust that the Lord has already helped him and he exults in the Lord.

Psalm 29: The psalmist exhorts the sons of God to give the voice of the Lord credit for everything.

Psalm 30: The psalmist gives thanks to the Lord for saving him from death; he says that the Lord’s anger is for a moment but his favor is for a lifetime.

Psalm 31: The psalmist has lost strength because of his iniquity and is a reproach because of his enemies; however, he trusts in the Lord’s lovingkindness (grace) to save him from his enemies.

What does it mean?

There is one way that men should walk and that way is the Lord’s. God does not hear the man who does not walk in the Lord’s way. When a man turns to follow the Lord, God hears him and helps him in his distress. The best place to be is in the house of the Lord forever. Walking in this world is wearisome and we carry many burdens but the Lord’s burden is light and his way is straight; therefore, we should follow the Lord.

What shall I do?

I shall follow the way of the Lord Jesus Christ. I know that Jesus Christ is the way and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father but through him. (Jn 14:6) Therefore, I shall follow the Lord Jesus Christ because at the end of his path is the house of God. This is where I shall rest forever. I shall rest from this weary world in the house of the Lord our God forever. I shall exult in Jesus Christ because he is the word of God through whom all things where made that where made. (Jn 1:3)

Psalms 21-25

What does it say?

Psalm 21: The Lord granted the king his hearts desire; eternal life and a crown of glory. The king trust in the Lord and the right hand of God will thrust out all who hate the Lord. 

Psalm 22: The psalmist feels forsaken by God because he cries by day and night and there is no reprieve from his anguish. He believes that he is a worm and not a man, for he is despised by the people who sneer at him who trust in the Lord. Despite all of this, he trust in the Lord. The enemy has surrounded him, taken his clothing, pierced his hands and feet but they did not break his bones. Despite all of this, his trust is in the Lord. The Lord hears the prayers of the afflicted who call on his name to save them. The families of the nations will come to feast and worship before him who is the Lord.

Psalm 23: The Lord is the psalmist’s shepherd. The psalmist does not fear death because he believes that he will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Psalm 24: The Lord created the earth; therefore, the earth belongs to the Lord and whatever he declares to be right is right. The Lord of hosts (God) is the king of glory who walks triumphantly through the gates of splendor. 

Psalm 25: The psalmist trust in the Lord and asks that his enemies not be exalted over him. He ask the Lord to guide him in truth and forgive his sins. He trust that the Lord pardons and instructs the humble. The Lord makes known his covenant to those who fear him. He asks the Lord to protect him from his enemies, pardon his sin and redeem Israel from troubles. 

What does it mean?

Those who are humble and fear the Lord, God helps. God is gracious to the humble and astute to the proud. Even when all seems lost and the enemy surrounds, our trust should remain steadfast in the Lord because God will rescue those who fear him. All may seem lost but we who trust in the Lord will live in the house of the Lord forever and be crowned with glory. The enemy may surround us but we must stay steadfast in devotion to following the Lord, observing all that he commanded because the earth is his. We must continue to call on the name of the Lord to deliver us from our enemies, to guide us, confess our sins, ask the Lord to forgive us and glorify his name before the nations all the days of our lives. We will enter through the gates of splendor into the house of God if we trust the Lord. 

What shall I do?

I shall trust the Lord Jesus Christ to save me from all of my enemies, to guide me on the straight and narrow path, and to forgive my sins. No matter how bad things might be, I shall trust that God is always on the thrown and he hears my cries for help. I shall remember that the Lord is gracious to the humble and astute to the proud. Therefore, I shall be humble and not proud. I shall fear the Lord Jesus Christ and observe all that he commanded. 

Psalms 17-20

What does it say?

Psalm 17: David prays to the Lord to save him from his enemies, those who do not love the Lord, whose portion is in this life alone: however, David believes that he will see the face of God and will be satisfied with the likeness of God when he awakes.

Psalm 18: The Lord is stronger than the enemy and is a shield for all who take refuge in him but God is astute with the crooked. 

Psalm 19: When a man looks up to the heavens he should know that God is glorious but it is the law of the Lord that is perfect for restoring a soul.

Psalm 20: David prayer for Israel is that the Lord will answer them in their times of need and that they will boast in nothing but the Lord.

What does it mean?

There are two people in this world: Those who trust in the Lord and those who do not. Those who follow the word of God and those who do not. Those who seek only for their billy and those who seek the will of God. Those who take refuge in God and those who trust in a multitude of things to protect them. There are two revelations: There is the general revelation. The general revelation is available to everyone. Everyone, whether living in the jungles of South American Ecuador or on the plains of North America can see the stars in the night sky and the sun during the day.  This general revelation should cause all to know that God is glorious. However, it is the special revelation which is the Scriptures that converts the soul. It is the special revelation that tells us about the nature of God and what he expects from us. The Lord listens to the prayers of those who trust in him alone and observe all that he commands.

What shall I do?

I shall not trust in the things that I have but trust alone in the Lord. I have been given a set of masks to wear while working in the Intensive Care Unit. These are things to protect me from contracting disease and protect others from disease if I am carrier of disease. I should use these things as prescribed but ultimately it is the Lord who will protect me. It is the Lord who created me and gave me an immune system. It is the Lord who fights disease, and if I should die because of disease, it is the promise of the Lord that I shall see his face and be transformed into his likeness at the resurrection. I shall observe the creation and glory in God for what he has created and I shall read the word of the Lord, observing what he has commands.

Psalms 9-16

What does it say?

Psalm 9: David thanks the Lord for the Justice of God.

Psalm 10: The psalmist prays for the Lord to come to the aide of those who trust him and overthrow the wicked who oppress them.

Psalm 11: The righteous take refuge in the Lord and the Lord knows their hearts.

Psalm 12: The Lord is a helper against the treacherous.

Psalm 13: The righteous man prays for the Lords help in times of trouble and trusts that help will come in long-suffering. 

Psalm 14: It is foolish to not believe in God; unbelief begets sin and faith begets patients.

Psalm 15: The citizen of the city of God loves his neighbor.

Psalm 16: The Lord is our portion now and yet to come.

What does it mean?

The man who loves the Lord also loves his neighbor. When the wicked seem to prevail, he prays to the Lord for deliverance, and trust the Lord for deliverance. Deliverance from the wicked and death will come in time; therefore, he must continue to faithfully call on the name of the Lord in prayer for deliverance. They enemy will not prevail even in death because the man who trust in the Lord and loves his neighbors will be delivered from death.

What shall I do?

Can I thank the Lord for his justice? Yes I can. The Lord will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. (Ex 34:7) The greatest demonstration of this attribute was at the cross. The apostle Paul said, “This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” (Rom 3:25-26) I shall call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to save me from my enemies. I shall patiently wait for deliverance. The Lord is my prevision now and in eternal life.

Psalms 1-8

What does it say?

Psalm 1: The righteous delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night. The wicked will perish and be driven away. 

Psalm 2: The nations desire to destroy the Lord’s anointed. The Lord laughs at their threats. The Lord comforts his anointed King and calls him his Son. The Lord warns the nations to worship him and do homage to the Son, that he not become angry and they perish. The Sons wrath may soon be kindled but those who take refuge in him are blessed. 

Psalm 3: The adversaries of David tell him that their is no deliverance for him in God. He calls to on the name of the Lord and he answers him. While resting the Lord sustains him. David prays for the Lord’s salvation.

Psalm 4: David calls on the name of the Lord in prayer. The wicked love what is worthless but God sets apart the godly man for himself. Fear God and do not sin, offer to him sacrifices of righteousness. David trust that the Lord will protect him. 

Psalm 5: David cries to the Lord for help. The Lord hates all who do iniquity, speak falsehood and shed blood but David believes that he will enter God’s house by his lovingkindness. David ask the Lord to lead him and make God’s way straight before him and asks that the wicked fall by their own devices. Let all who take refuge in the Lord be glad for the Lord surrounds him with favor. 

Psalm 6: David prays for the lovingkindness of the Lord and not his wrath. He prays for the Lord to return and rescue his soul from death. David has become weary of his adversaries. David trust that the Lord hears his cries and will deliver him from the enemy. 

Psalm 7: David says that if the Lord does not defend him, he will be dragged away. David says that if he is unjust, let him be destroyed by the enemy. David ask for the Lord to pore out wrath on the wicked. The wicked will perish if they do not repent. David will sing praises to the Lord most high. 

Psalm 8: The Lord’s name is majestic in all the earth. David looks at the created things in is awe that God would put man in charge of his creation.

What does it mean?

The Psalms begin by contrasting the righteous and the wicked and this theme continues throughout these eight Psalms. The righteous love the Lord God, his word, and they trust in him for guidance and deliverance from their enemies. The wicked hate God, his word and do not trust in the Lord. David understands that everything comes from the Lord. That if he is to be delivered from his enemies he is to be delivered by God. The enemy is very strong but the Lord is stronger. It is the lovingkindness of God that delivers those who trust in him. God counts them righteous because of their love for him, his law, and their trust in his name. We should look at the created universe and be in awe at how powerful God is and should be amazed that God would give us any authority.

What shall I do?

I shall mediate on the word of God. Jesus first coming was the grace of God but his second coming will mean destruction for all who hate him. I must observe all that he commanded because this demonstrates that I love him. (Jn 14:15) Those who love God, love the Son of God. (Jn 8:42) Those who hate God, hate the Son and all who follow him. (Jn 15:18, 23) I shall expect opposition from the world. I shall trust that the Lord will deliver me from my enemies. I shall call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to save me from my enemies and the greatest enemy is sin. I am the wicked man, but I trust, through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ I will be saved. The Lord God loves those who love him and his Son and trust in him. I shall put all of my trust in the only begotten Son of God, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

Job 40-42

What does it say?

After hearing the Lord speak Job said, “I am insignificant; what can I reply to you?” God wants to know if Job will really annul his judgment in order to justify himself because that would require Job’s condemnation of God. God says that he made Job and the Behemoth. The Behemoth as a very large and very strong creature. The Behemoth is the first of the ways of God. The sea creature Leviathan is so strong that no man can capture it and the Leviathan was made by God. God created everything and everything created belongs to God. There is no creature that the Leviathan fears. Job confesses that he did not really know God and spoke what he did not understand. Job is repentant towards God and attentive to hear the word of God. The Lord was displeased with the way Job’s friends spoke; therefore, the Lord commanded them to make sin offerings and piece offerings to God through Job. After Job’s intercession for his friends, the Lord restored all of the fortunes of Job two fold. Job died an old man and full of days. 

What does it mean?

What can a man say to God? God created everything and everything belongs to God. I belong to God, for the Lord our God created me. The greatest and most powerful creatures on the earth and in the sea were created by God. This means that God is more powerful than the most powerful things in creation. I cannot think of anything in the solar system larger and more powerful than the sun; yet, God created the sun and the sun belongs to God. The earth looks like a speck next to the sun and I am not even a speck on the earth. I am insignificant; what can I say to God? The answer is nothing. I must confess my sin and repent. I need atonement and an intercessor to draw near to God.

What Shall I do?

I shall not complain about whatever the Lord gives me. The Lord is God and I am a man. I am writing this on Easter morning just before sunrise. The sun is about to rise on the first day of the week. Today we remember the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. On that morning, about 2000 years ago, Mary Magdalene came early to the tomb, while it was still dark, and saw the stone already taken away from the tomb. (Jn 20:1) This insignificant woman looked into the holy of holies and saw two angles in white sitting, one at the head and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had been lying. (Jn 20:11-12) The Lord revealed himself to her in the garden, near the tomb, bodily risen from the dead. She was the first to be commissioned by the Lord. Jesus said, “Go to my brethren and say to them, I ascend to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God.” (Jn 20:17) I am insignificant, yet the Lord has revealed himself to me in his word. The Lord himself became flesh in the person of Jesus Christ and atoned for my sins on the cross. Now he lives to make intercession for me, so that I can draw near to God. (Heb 7:25) My life does not belong to me but to the Lord; he created me and he redeemed me by his blood through faith. I belong to the Lord; therefore, I shall learn to observe all that he commands. (Mt 28:16-20)

Job 38-39

What does it say?

God speaks to Job and asks, who is this who speaks without knowledge? God asks Job, have you ever commanded the morning. God speaks to Job about all the wonders of the earth and the sea and the heavens. God asks Job, do you understand these and do you have the power to command them? God asks Job, do you understand all of the creatures of the earth? The examples given are the mountain goat giving birth, the wild donkey foraging, the wild ox, the ostriches laying her eggs on the ground, the might of the horse, the soaring hawk, and the eagle who nests on cliffs. For each of these God asks Job, do you have the power to command them and do you see what these are doing all of the time? 

What does it mean?

It means that God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-present and man is not. The theological terms for these three are: Omnipotence, Omniscience, and Omnipresence. Man is not omnipotent, we have power to do things but our power is limited. Man is not omniscient, we have knowledge but even the most brilliant scientist’s knowledge is fractional. Man is not omnipresent, we can only be in one place at a time. Our eyes can only see what what is before us, our ears can only hear what is near us, and we can only touch as far as our arm reaches. We have power, knowledge, and presences but we are limited. We are made in the image of God but we are not God.

What shall I do?

I shall worship the Lord. The Lord is God. I shall not think because I have power, knowledge and presence that I should advise God. God has all-power, all-knowledge and is present everywhere. No man can question God or stand before him. The Lord is the almighty one! He created heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them. (Acts 4:24) I shall ask the Lord for strength because I am weak. I shall ask the Lord for understanding because I am ignorant and cannot see. The Lord is our God and he is all-powerful, all-knowing, all-present, and all-good. I know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. (Rom 8:28) God has given us this knowledge about his nature in his written word the Bible. I shall trust the word of the Lord!

Job 35-37

What does it say?

Elihu reproved Jobs thinking, saying that God is so much higher than you. The Lord God is so high that you cannot comprehend him. The Lord God is so high that your sins cannot hurt him, nor can your righteousness help him. Elihu says that God is mighty, but does not despise any. God reproves some that they may repent, but the godless in heart lay up anger and do not repent. Men should exalt the work of God for he is a mighty teacher of men. Elihu describes the sovereignty of God over all that he has created. God causes the lightening, the thunder, the snow and the rain to fall. God is the back of every storm. The storm does whatever the Lord commands. God uses storms for both correction and lovingkindness. Men are not able to do the mighty things of God. The Lord God does not regard man who is wise at heart; therefore, men should fear him.

What does it mean?

We cannot hurt God nor can we help God. The Lord God does not need us to accomplish anything. The Lord is almighty! The Lord God loves his children; therefore, he corrects us. God uses his creation to correct us. We should not be angered by the reproving hand of God but should repent and learn from his correction because he is our good teacher. We should be exalting God for what he does on the earth and for his reproving our sin. The things that seem bad are actually for good even though we do not understand. We should not be wise at heart but fear the Lord because he is the mighty one. 

What shall I do?

Just this morning I was lamenting the things happening on the earth because of this COVID-19 virus. So many people sick, so many people out of work, so many people isolated and churches are not meeting together. I do not understand what God is doing, but I do know the he is the sovereign of the storm. God is in control of his creation. Whether this storm is for correction, or for his world, or for lovingkindness, he is causing it to happen. (Job 37:13) I shall exalt God for what he is doing on the earth. I do not understand, but I do know that it is for good, because I know that the Lord our God is good.

Job 32-34

What does it say?

Elihu in anger rebuked Job because he justified himself before God; also his three friends because they found no answer, yet they condemned Job. Elihu claims to speak for God. Elihu Vindicates God’s Justice. 

What does it mean?

Elihu kept quite until the three elder friends of Job rested their case. They condemned Job a sinner without answering his arguments. The Scripture says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom 3:23) I know that all men have sinned but I cannot judge someone without giving evidence. Elihu says that Job’s friends condemned him a sinner without law. It is as though Job was on trial. These three men condemned him without law. What would you think if you heard that a man was walking down the street in tattered clothing; the police arrested him and the judge sentences him to a prison? Wouldn’t you want to know his crime and the evidence that he broke the law? The law needs to be stated, and evidence for breaking that law must be given before the accused is condemned to prison. Elihu declares the justice of God with evidence.

What shall I do?

I shall not judge, so that I will not be judged. I do not want someone judging me without evidence; therefore, I shall not judge another without evidence. (Mt 7:1-2) It isn’t that I shall never judge, but I shall not judge based on appearances. If I do judge, I shall make a righteous judgment according to the law. (Jn 7:24) In order for a man to understand his need for the atonement of Jesus Christ, I shall give him the law of God, so that he may judge himself righteously.

Job 29-31

What does it say?

Job’s past was glorious. When Job walked in the market place men stood before him and their mouths were hushed. However, Jobs present state is humiliating. Job is taunted by fools. Job calls out to God for help but he does not answer or come to his aide. Job asserts his integrity. Job believes that he should be judged righteously. Job believes that if he has done wrong he should be punished but asserts that he has lived righteously. Job speaks of the commandments while stating what he has done and what he has not done. 

What does it mean?

It is often the case that we honor our past and lament the present. Job’s past was glorious and his present state is humiliating; however, Job is not really humble because he boast in self-righteousness. 

What should I do?

I remember having a young wife who adored me and children who looked up to me. Our children have grown and no longer listen to my word; however, my wife remains at my side. We often remember the past together and lament the present. Neither of our children have married and given us grandchildren. We look at others who have had weddings for their children and are now enjoying grandchildren. We wonder why we cannot have the same. The past was not as glorious as we remember and the present is not as bad as we make it out to be. The Lord God has blessed us far beyond what we deserve. In fact, we deserve death and eternal punishment for our sins committed against God. Therefore, we should fall to the ground and worship the Lord saying, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb,

And naked I shall return there.

The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away.

Blessed be the name of the LORD.” (Job 1:21) 

Job 24-28

What does it say?

Job says that God seems to ignore wrongs. Bildad says that man is inferior. Job rebukes Bildad for his unkind words. Job speaks of the greatness of God. Job holds fast to his personal righteousness. Job says that God will crush the wicked. Job says that a man can find riches on the earth; however, wisdom and understanding are harder for a man to find, nor can he buy them with the riches of the earth. The fear of the Lord is wisdom and to depart from evil is understanding. 

What does it mean?

When we survey the earth it appears that God ignores wrongs. How can anyone deny this unless he his blind. There is a great deal of wickedness on the earth and many of the wicked live rich productive lives. Is God unjust? Job holds that God is just. The wicked seek after riches but wisdom is better than riches. All of Job’s riches were taken from him but Job has something worth far more than riches. Job has wisdom and understanding. Jesus said, “Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Mt 10:28) Job has an understanding of justice beyond the grave. 

What shall I do?

I shall repent and put my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of my sins. I know that God has the power to destroy my body and soul in hell. I know that it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment. (Heb 9:27) I know that I am guilty of breaking God’s law: I have put many things before God. I have worshiped idols. I have used God’s name in vain. I have forgotten the Sabbath. I have dishonored my father and mother. I have hated my brother and lusted for my neighbors wife. I have stolen and lied. I have coveted what belongs to my neighbor. If I come to the judgment seat of God without the perfect substitute, I would be destroyed, because I deserve death and hell. But thanks be to God for his gracious gift; he is just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. (Rom 3:21-26)

Job 21-23

What does it say?

Job says that one man dies full of strength, being at ease, and satisfied; while another man dies with a bitter soul, never tasting good things in life. Eliphaz accuses Job of great wickedness and exhorts him to yield to God, listen to his word, and be restored. Job longs to speak with God and present his case before him, that he may be justified, yet Job knows that the Lord does what he desires; therefore, he is terrified of him.

What does it mean?

To this point in the dialogue, the friends of Job have implied that Job is wicked, but now Eliphaz outwardly accuses Job of wickedness. The only evidence that he has that job is wicked is that Job has been crushed by God. Eliphaz’s logic is based on a faulty premise. The premise being that God gives good things to the righteous man and bad things to the wicked. However, Job knows that this is not the way of things in this world. What a man receives in this world is not based on personal righteousness or unrighteousness. One man may receive good things in life and another may receive bad things and it is not based on whether they are good or bad. Job understands that the Lord deals with each man has his soul desires, he appoints some a life of ease and to others a life of labor. 

What shall I do?

I have read a great deal about personal evangelism and have studied many methods. Some methods actually employ the faulty premise that unrighteousness leads to a bad life and righteousness leads to a good life. The three circles method uses this logic and it is very faulty. One of the problems with the method is that you have to wait for someone to be in despair before you can talk with them about forgiveness in Christ. The only true way, is what Ray Comfort of Living Waters ministries calls, the Way of the Master. When a man is self righteous (rich young ruler, Lk 18:18-25) you give him law and when a man is humble (blind Bartimaeus, Lk 18:35-43) you give him grace; between these two stories is the gospel. (Lk 18:26-34)

Job 17-20

What does it say?

Job says that he has become a byword for the people and men spit at him as if he were dirt. Bildad believes that only the wicked man receives the bad things that Job has received. Job feels insulted that his friends believe that he has done wrong. Job says that everything and everyone is against him, will not his friends at least have pity for him. Job believes that God is just, therefore, he will redeem him and when he does his friends should be afraid of judgment. Zophar says that the triumph of the wicked is short for God gives the wicked bitterness. 

What does it mean?

In this present world justice is often not the case. A wicked man lives a rich productive life and a God fearing man has nothing to eat. Job believes that there is no justice on the earth but in the end God will be just. Bildad and Zophar believe in what is called retribution theology. What goes around comes around. So, who is correct? Bildad and Zophar are like ivory tower theologians. Their knowledge about justice does not fit with the actual world. There is a great deal of injustice in this present world. Job did not deserve to loose his health and wealth, nor did not deserve the ridicule of his friends and neighbors; yet, this is what he has been given. However, Job understands that in the end God will always do what is right and justice will be done. We may not see justice in this lifetime but the judgment of God is coming to the earth.

What shall I do?

I shall put my faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of my sins and observe all that Jesus Christ commanded. The kingdom of God is already and not yet. Jesus Christ has already been given all authority in heaven and on earth but he has not yet sat down on his glorious throne to judge the earth. Therefore, there is injustice on the earth. Yesterday I took care of three patients: an elderly woman with bilateral pneumonia, a young man with an injury caused by chronic illness, and a man who had coronary artery bypass surgery. Why should these people suffer while others do not. The woman lived a long life before becoming ill, but what about the young man? Why did she live a long life without illness, yet this young man had illness from childhood. One of the the excuses that people use for turning against God is the bad things that happen in their life. Yet, the Scriptures make no promises of good on the earth. However, the Scriptures do promise of judgment to come; “and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left...These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (Mt 25:33, 46) 

Job 14-16

What does it say?

Job says that life is short and death leaves a man unaware of anything happening on the earth. Eliphaz accuses Job of boasting with empty words. He says that Job’s wisdom is without understanding or knowledge. Eliphaz said that it is the corrupt and godless ones who have a difficult life, their end is destruction. Job calls his friends sorry comforters. If he was in their place he could choose to tear down as they are doing or he could choose to build up. Job says that he was at ease and God has shattered him and set him up as a target for ridicule. Job trust that in the end, God will be his advocate. Job desires to plead with God before the end of his days, as a man pleads with his neighbor. 

What does it mean?

Despite all that has happened to Job, even while understanding that God either caused or allowed him to suffer, he trusts that God will be his advocate and witness. Job is left without hope of anything on the earth. All of Job’s positions, servants and children were taken from him. His flesh is covered with painful boils that itch day and night. His friends who should be there to comfort him scoff at him. Words really do matter. The things that one man says to another man can either build up or tear down.

What shall I do?

Lately, except my wife, I have no contact with friends or family. I am either at work in the intensive care unit or at home with my wife because of this social distancing (quarantine) set up by our government. I am somewhat of an introverted person, but even for me, it is to much. I do, however, have much contact with the sick. Their families are restricted from the hospital, so, nurses are all that they see. My words to them must be encouraging. I need to build up and not tear down. These patients are suffering, and like me, they are isolated from family and friends, but I have the Lord and my wife. I need to be their comforter and advocate this day and everyday that I am with them.

Job 11-13

What does it say?

Zophar rebukes Job that he should confess his sin to God for the Lord knows all. Job responds that God is sovereign over all. Job says that God builds up and tears down. The Lord is all powerful, so, everything occurs by his decree. The Lord makes men powerful and tears them down. Job says that his friends accusations him and their words about God are like dust or ashes that blow away. Job trust that he will be vindicated by God. Job believes that God counts him as his enemy but does not understand the reason. 

What does it mean?

We should not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment. (Jn 7:24) Zophar judged Job according to appearance and used what he knows about God to rebuke Job. Zophar is correct to say that God sees all sin. There is nothing hidden from God, even our thoughts and desires are not hidden from the Lord. (Dan 2:22) Zophar understands this, but he does not know that Job’s loosing positions, loved ones, and physical sufferings are not because of iniquity on Job’s part. Job acknowledges the sovereignty of God more than Zophar. Job understands that God builds up and tears down but does not understand why God has torn him down. Job assumes that the Lord counts him as an enemy but trust that in the end God will always do what is right. We should be very careful to make quick judgments.

What shall I do?

I shall refrain from judging according to appearances. It is often assumed in healthcare that lifestyle is the cause of disease. This is often true but not always true. I will often hear that such and such a patient is non-compliant. Meaning that they do not follow doctors orders or the recommended guidelines for managing their chronic illness. However, when a judgment is made that so and so is non-compliant, does anyone consider the reason. If we do not know the reason we cannot judge righteously. It takes time and effort to judge righteously. Judging according to appearances takes no effort. I shall be very careful when judging other people. I need to know more than what I see. Also, I shall trust that the Lord God will always do the right thing. I may not understand why bad things happen but I must trust the Lord for he is good.

Job 8-10

What does it say?

Bildad says that God rewards the good but punishes all who sin against him; therefore, Job and his sons must have sinned against God because the Lord would not reject a man of integrity. Job answers, there is no arbitrator between man and God. The Lord is all powerful; therefore, man cannot dispute against the Lord. Job believes that he is innocent but if God holds him guilty there is no disputing the Lord. Job does not understand why God has dealt this blow to his life. Job says that God knitted him together and granted him life and lovingkindness, so why did God bring him forth from his mothers womb. Was it to give him despair?

What does it mean?

Men often believe that things should be black and white. Bildad’s statement is true. Bildad believes that God rewards good behavior and punishes bad behavior. However, when I survey the earth I find many of the rich and famous acting very badly. I see the poor acting badly as well, so, it cannot be as black and what as Bildad makes things out to be. Job believes that there is more to the matter. The Lord is all powerful; therefore, God can do whatever he wants to do. Job also knows that God is just; therefore, he wants to know why he has placed such adversary on him. If God will not answer, may he at least have mercy and take his eyes off of him for his remaining days.

What shall I do?

I have spent a great deal of time reading what men have to say about God’s nature but we have to true sources: creation and the scriptures.

Psalms 19:1

The heavens are telling of the glory of God;

And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.

I shall observe creation and I shall read the scriptures because these are what has been given to man to know God. I know that there is injustice on the earth. I know that through Moses God has given his law to man. I know that grace and truth came to man through Jesus Christ. (Jn 1:17) I know that we are not promised a problem free life on the earth; (Jn 16:2) however, I know that God has promised eternal life for all who believe in the Son. (Jn 3:16)

Job 5-7

What does it say?

Eliphaz continues his discourse saying that God is just; he believes that if Job would just turn to the Lord, confessing and forsaking his sin, the Lord will restore him. Job answers, saying, that his friends or no comfort, he has no pleasure in life, he desires death rather than what he has been given. Job upholds his righteousness, saying, “Show me were I have erred.” To Job, life seems futile. Man labors all of his days then dies. Job finds no comfort, if he lies down to sleep he is tormented with dreams. Job questions why would God be concerned about him. Job wants to know what he has done to offended God. 

What does it mean?

Job’s friend Eliphaz believes that God is just and he is correct in saying so but does not understand that Job’s suffering is not because Job has personally sinned. Eliphaz does not know that God allowed Satan to take Job’s wealth and health. It is easy for men to fall into despair when the world around us crumbles. What hope is there in life when there is no pleasure. God is just but he allows evil. Why? God only knows. When counseling our neighbor, who is in despair, we should not assume that God is punishing them. The Lord is a just God who allows evil to exist in this present world. Innocent people suffer horribly in the world that we live in and people who hate God live wealthy and healthy all of the days of their lives. Is there injustice with God? Job does not curse God or say that he is unjust but he questions why God is against him and wants to know what he has done wrong. Job does not know that neither is the case. We should trust that our present suffering has a Divine purpose, even though we cannot understand that purpose now. We must trust the Lord!

What shall I do?

This may seem insignificant to some but I assure you that it is a big deal to me. In one month I will celebrate my 52nd birthday. At the age of 5, I began running with my dad. I cannot recall a week of my life that I haven’t gone for a run outdoors. Six weeks ago, the plantar fascia in my right foot ruptured. I was placed in an orthopedic boot and told that I couldn’t run for 6 weeks. I have been depressed these past 6 weeks. Running is my respite. When I feel sad or angry, I go for a run and all seems better when I return. I do a great deal of meditating while running. I have preached many a sermon to myself during a 1 1/2 hour run. Job could not get away from his problems even in sleep. The one thing that gives me respite from this world was taken away. Should I think it is because God is against me or because I have done something wrong? We live in a fallen world in which bad things happen. We have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God; therefore, there are no good people when we compare ourselves to the holy standard of God’s law. However, God declares all who are in Jesus Christ righteous. Why should those whom God declared righteous suffer? Some are imprisoned and some beaten for Christ. Why is this allowed? I shall trust the Lord our God, that he is causing all things to work together for good. (Rom 8:28) I may never know the reason for certain sufferings but I shall trust the word of the Lord that he is good.