The Psalms – Week 6

SERMONS

Aug 14

Psalms are prayers that have been prayed by the people of God for millennia, and as such, we ought to continue in that tradition. One of the most unique aspects of being human is our ability to use tools. And “prayers are tools.” But there’s one important clarification: “Prayers are not tools for doing or getting [as we’re used to in our Western culture], but for being and becoming… At the center of the whole enterprise of being human, prayers are the primary technology. Prayers are tools that that God uses to work his will in our bodies and souls. Prayers are tools that we use to collaborate in his work with us.” (Eugene Peterson — ‘Answering God’).

“Believers feel the pain of the world’s contempt (verses 3–4). How do we keep from either adopting its views or becoming resentful and withdrawn? We must lift our eyes to God (verse 1). This is more than simply to “take a look.” It denotes a steady, reflective, adoring gaze (verses 1 and 2) filled with longing and desire (Matthew 6:23; cf. Joshua 7:21). The psalmist focuses both his attention and the yearnings of his heart on God in prayer (verse 2). He became like a domestic servant, trained to respond to every indication of his master’s will (verse 2). In short, the psalmist overcomes all distractions and makes knowing God experientially and serving God obediently the main business of his life. Pray this psalm daily until God shows you his mercy.” (Keller, Timothy. The Songs of Jesus) Check out the sermon below.