29 July 2007

I meditate on all Your works

I meditate on all Your works
Text: Psalm 143

Series:
"Come, behold the works of the LORD"

Message Notes

(I) DIFFICULTIES IN LIFE

1. Persecution

“For the enemy has persecuted my soul…” Psalm 143:3a

2. Depth of problem

“…He has crushed my life to the ground;
He has made me dwell in darkness,
Like those who have long been dead”
Psalm 143:3b

(II) DEADLY DANGER

1. Spirit overwhelmed

“Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me…” Psalm 143:4a

2. Distress experienced

“…My heart within me is distressed.” Psalm 143:4b

(III) DELIVERANCE SOUGHT

1. Physical deliverance

“Deliver me, O LORD, from my enemies;
In You I take shelter.”
Psalm 143:9

2. Spiritual Renewal

“Revive me, O LORD, for Your name’s sake!
For Your righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.”
Psalm 143:11

(IV) DRAWING MUCH ENCOURAGEMENT FROM MEDITATING ON THE WORKS OF GOD

“I remember the days of old;
I meditate on all Your works;
I muse on the work of Your hands.”
Psalm 143:5

1. Obvious practice of meditation

a) Remembering

b) Meditating

c) Musing

2. Drawing vital encouragement from meditating on the works of God

a) With reference to prayer

“Hear my prayer, O LORD;
Give ear to my supplications!…”
Psalm 143:1a

b) With reference to Deep insights

“…In Your faithfulness answer me, And in Your righteousness.
Do not enter into judgment with Your servant,
For in Your sight no one living is righteous.”
Psalm 143:1-2

c) With reference to a deeper exercise of Trust

“Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning,
For in You do I trust…”
Psalm 143:8a

d) With reference to the pursuit of a greater knowledge of God’s will

“Teach me to do Your will
For You are my God;
Your Spirit is good.
Lead me in the land of uprightness.”
Psalm 143:10