“The works of the Lord are great, Studied by all who have pleasure in them.”
Psalms 111:2 NKJV
I am focused on the second half of this verse: “Studied by all who have pleasure in them.” Not everyone studies the Lord’s works, I suppose – but those who take pleasure in them – those who find them awe inspiring, want to understand more of them, and by extension their Creator. I am taking away from here that God created this beautiful world for our enjoyment, but also to bring us closer to Him.
“The Lord has sworn And will not relent, “You are a priest forever According to the order of Melchizedek.””
Psalms 110:4 NKJV
In this Psalm David is prophesying of the coming Messiah. What strikes me is the beginning of the verse, he says “The Lord has sworn and will not relent.” Much is said of the Lord’s patience, which is true, but His promises and His Word endures forever.
“In return for my love they are my accusers, But I give myself to prayer.”
Psalms 109:4 NKJV
David wrote this Psalm asking for justice against some who had done him wrong – probably slandered his name and bore false witness.
I like this verse because essentially he is saying that while he has been good to those who have turned against him, he is turning fully to the Lord in prayer.
“Give us help from trouble, For the help of man is useless. Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.”
Psalms 108:12-13 NKJV
David is acknowledging that God is the reason for victory, not our selves. It is easy to forget sometimes, but it is so true!
“Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, And fills the hungry soul with goodness.”
Psalms 107:8-9 NKJV
Seek the Lord, and He will fill you up – that is what I read here. I am in an empty season, and I know this to be true – the Lord will provide nourishment for my soul if I seek after it!
“Save us, O Lord our God, And gather us from among the Gentiles, To give thanks to Your holy name, To triumph in Your praise.”
Psalms 106:47 NKJV
Of course this is written in the Old Testament time, when Gentiles were essentially everyone who was opposed to Israel. Today I would take this to mean anyone who is not putting Christ first.
Am I beholden to spiritual gentiles, and need to break free? Who or what do I need to trust God for setting me free from – so that I can praise His holy name?!
“Glory in His holy name; Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the Lord! Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore!”
Psalms 105:3-4 NKJV
This chapter is devoted to a retelling of the history of Israel from Jacob to the promised land, but before that there are these verses. What can I say of the Lord having done for me? There are too many blessings to list!
“I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. May my meditation be sweet to Him; I will be glad in the Lord.”
Psalms 104:33-34 NKJV
The meditations of my heart – these are worship as much as anything! What I seek in my soul, this is a form of worship to the Lord. What do I meditate on? What do I expend mental energy on and is it pleasing to Him?
“Bless the Lord, all His works, In all places of His dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul!”
Psalms 103:22 NKJV
All His works are to bless the Holy Name of the Lord. Lest I forget – I am His work. I am fashioned in His hands – in His likeness! I will bless the Name of the Lord forever and ever.
“Hear my prayer, O Lord, And let my cry come to You. Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble; Incline Your ear to me; In the day that I call, answer me speedily.”
Psalms 102:1-2 NKJV
As I write this I am going through my share of worries, and I turn my hope to God that He will not delay his response to me.
