Experiencing God's Strength Through Trust

Text: Psalm 18
15 January 2006

(I) THE NEED FOR STRENGTH

“He delivered me from my strong enemy, from those who hated me,
for they were too strong for me.
They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the Lord was my support.”
Psalm 18:17-18

1. In the face of many enemies

2. In the face of many strong enemies

3. In the face of calamity

4. Where human strength is insufficient and unequal to the task

(II) THE SEARCH FOR STRENGTH

“I will call upon the LORD who is worthy to be praised…” Psalm 18:3
“In my distress I called upon the LORD and cried out to my God;
He heard my voice from His temple, and my cry came before Him, even to His ears.” Psalm 18:6

1. Through knowledge of God

2. Through prayer

3. Motivated by sheer need

(III) THE STRENGTH THAT GOD GIVES

“I will love You, O LORD, my strength.
The LORD is my Rock, and my Fortress, and my Deliverer;
My God, my Strength in whom I will trust; my Shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:1-2
“The LORD was my support” Psalm 18:18b
“It is God who arms me with strength…” Psalm 18:32a,
“You have armed me for the battle…” Psalm 18:38

1. Strength through Trust in God

2. Strength through Support

3. Strength through Application of Provision

4. Strength equal to the task and more

(IV) APPROPRIATE RESPONSES TO GOD FOR STRENGTH

“I will love You, O LORD, my strength” Psalm 18:1
“Therefore I will give thanks to You, O LORD, among the Gentiles,
and sing praises to Your Name.” Psalm 18:49

1. A Deep Love for the Lord

2. A Determination to give thanks

3. A further Determination to sing praises to God’s name