by Donya Dunlap | Oct 6, 2016 | Bible Study, The Spiritual Life
Psalm 6 is the first of seven psalms considered “penitential” and the third psalm in a row to begin with an imperative verb.* In this case, David is afraid for his life and pleads for mercy and healing.
Verses 1-5
In the opening verses, David details his physical state, and it is pitiful. He describes himself as weak, shaking, and in terror. It seems this has been going on for some time and that he is desperate for relief. He asks God “how long” and pleads for rescue. He appeals to God’s desire for worship to spare his life.
There is no remembrance of You in death; who can thank You in Sheol?
Remembering back to my college days, Sheol is that place prior to the cross where souls dwelt after death. It is believed that when Christ died, He descended to Sheol, conquered death, and returned to heaven with the saints in tow. Some believe that Sheol is simply the Old Testament term for the New Testament places referred to as heaven and hell. However, I am inclined to believe the former as it seems more in line with verses on Christ’s death and resurrection. I must confess I have not done sufficient study on the matter to say either way for sure.
Verses 6-7
David expounds upon his physical condition in this stanza. He is weary from the emotional struggle, his tears wet his pillow and bed every night, his eyes are swollen from crying. We’ve all been there. haven’t we?
This tells me:
- God heard all of David’s complaints. Nothing was left out.
- Despite his physical need, David never loses his faith.
- God welcomes our honesty in prayer.
Verses 8-10
The closing verses are especially convicting to me. David is so afraid that he trembles and can’t sleep. And even though nothing had changed outwardly, David believes God hears his prayer and trusts an answer is on its way. What faith! He writes that his enemies will be disgraced. Oh that my prayers would be so faith-filled.
This post is Day 6 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the first post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.
To receive email reminders of new posts, please subscribe. As a thank you, you will receive a free ebook, The Wonder Woman’s Manifesto.
*Taken from notes in The Study Bible for Women: Holman Christian Standard Bible. 2014. Holman Bible Publishers. Nashville, TN.
by Donya Dunlap | Oct 5, 2016 | Bible Study, The Spiritual Life
This is again a Davidic lament opening with a plea to God. As a musician, I love the direction given in the headings of these songs. Psalm 4 is to be sung with stringed instruments and Psalm 5 with flutes. These instructions remind us that the psalms were written in a very different culture and for a purpose.
They also remind us that David was a musician in addition to being the beloved shepherd king. He allowed time for his passions despite his responsibilities, as should we. This is a part of practicing sabbath. Our many gifts were given by God for our enjoyment and the enjoyment of others. God is glorified when we use our abilities, even when it’s not related to our jobs or ministries.
Verses 1-3
David directs his prayer to “my King and my God”—an indication as to what is on his mind. Verse 3 is of great importance. It reads,
At daybreak, Lord, You hear my voice; at daybreak I plead my case to You and watch expectantly.
Before the start of the day, David meets with God. This isn’t a casual prayer over coffee. David comes before God to plead with Him. He isn’t shy in approaching his King. This comes from a close, personal knowledge of who God is and how He views His children. David’s understanding of God is further indicated in the verses to follow which point out God’s holiness and enmity towards sin.
Also, at the end of verse 3, David reveals his attitude in prayer. He “expectantly” waits on God to act. There is no hoping God will act or wishing He might. He asks in faith, nothing wavering.
Verses 4-8
David boldly calls out the sin of his adversaries as a reason for God to destroy them. He feels confident in doing so because of God’s holiness. In contrast, he reminds God of his own faithfulness in worship. He asks God to help him on his journey and lead him in righteousness. His desire is to stay true to God despite the attacks against him.
Verses 9-10
David’s focus again returns to his adversaries. He lists their sins and asks God to punish them. When you break down the verses, it seems almost repetitive. However, there are important details that should not be overlooked.
- Repeating and expounding thoughts are part of the style of Hebrew poetry.
- David keeps nothing back from the Lord. The sins of others and his own transgressions are brought before God. We should emulate this in our prayers as well.
Verses 11-12
David ends the psalm in praise to God for sheltering the righteous. The Lord gives refuge, joy, and favor that protects them like a shield. This is what a good King does for His people. He protects against enemies and allows His people to dwell in security. In response, the people praise His goodness and honor Him with their loyalty.
This post is Day 5 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the first post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.
To receive email reminders of new posts, please subscribe. As a thank you, you will receive a free ebook, The Wonder Woman’s Manifesto.
by Donya Dunlap | Oct 4, 2016 | Bible Study, The Spiritual Life
This chapter is another psalm of lament written by David. The circumstances surrounding this writing are unclear from the passage itself, but it is clear that his character is being maligned—a situation we likely can all attest to experiencing.
Verse 1
This psalm reads more like a troubled dream than a prayer. He begins with a bold request,
Answer me when I call, God who vindicates me.
Vindicate is strong word. It is even more vehement in nature considering the recipient of his demands. He forgoes Lord, Father, Shepherd. This speaks of an unabashed confidence in Who he is addressing—”God who vindicates me.” The One who will make sense of all this pain I am going through. The One who will ensure justice is meted out to the deserving. To this One, David pleads for grace and a listening ear.
Verses 2-3
David then addresses those opposing him. He calls them “exalted men” perhaps in status and wealth, or perhaps in pride and exaggerated self worth. He asks how long they will believe a lie and then reminds them that God is on his side.
Verses 4-5
In verse 4, the dialogue changes. David appears to be talking to himself before falling asleep.
Be angry and do not sin; on your bed, reflect in your heart and be still.
His self-direction points his mind away from his emotion and places it on his responsibility. He is not to vindicate himself, but to reflect, offer sacrifices from a pure heart, and trust in the Lord. He is to find rest in God alone. This is a perfect example of preaching to yourself when you would rather have a pity party.
Verse 6
David’s thoughts turn to those around him—possibly the men who travelled with him. There is discouragement in their words.
Who can show us anything good?
David answers by pleading with God to grant favor despite the dark circumstances.
Verses 7-8
As the psalm ends, it appears David’s calm reflection achieved the desired end. He remembers God has placed more joy in his heart than his enemies have in their plenteous harvest celebrations. He is satisfied with this memory—enough to rest in his sleep. I wonder if the old lyrics, “Count your blessings instead of sheep” were inspired by this song from long ago?
David’s trust is in God alone. He knows he is safe in God’s arms…as am I. I must learn to better surrender my fear and focus on my joy so that I too can rest in God’s arms rather than fight them.
This post is Day 4 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the first post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.
To receive email reminders of new posts, please subscribe. As a thank you, you will receive a free ebook, The Wonder Woman’s Manifesto.
by Donya Dunlap | Oct 3, 2016 | Bible Study, The Spiritual Life
This is the first psalm with a known author. The heading tells us that David wrote this while fleeing from his son, Absalom. Imagine holding a newborn in your arms, raising him to be a man, and have him turn against you so violently that he seeks to kill you. I can’t comprehend the grief and conflicting emotions he must have been feeling while writing these lyrics!
Verses 1-2
This song is considered a lament. David begins by crying out to the Lord, bringing his situation before the throne in honest prayer. He quotes those around him who say,
There is no help for him in God.
The situation looks hopeless, but David knows better.
Verses 3-4
The next verses confirm David’s trust in God. God’s protection enables us to see thousands against us and still move through our fear. David writes that God is his shield, glory, and the lifter of his head. What a beautiful picture! The Lord gently cups David’s chin and pulls him to look into His eyes. Eyes that say, “I love you. I am with you. I understand your sorrow I know what it feels like to be rejected. You are not alone!”
God is still doing this today. He lifts up our head in love, begging us to meet His tender gaze. Urging us to cling to Him in our sorrow. Giving peace when we do.
Verses 5-6
Verses 5 and 6 are a testimony of God’s peace in troubled times. When I am worried, I lie awake for hours listening to my anxious thoughts. David did not. David trusted God to help him. Trust that made his sleep sweet.
Perhaps there were nights when David wished he wouldn’t wake from sleep. I can certainly understand the weariness of grief that promotes such thoughts. Perhaps he dreamt of this being the night Absalom murdered him. Either way, God took David’s fear and sustained him for another day. He will do the same for us if we allow Him to take our fears as well.
Verses 7-8
David again calls out for God to rescue him acknowledging that “salvation belongs to the Lord.” He closes the passage seeking God’s blessing on the righteous.
We often read blessing and think wealth. I don’t believe David did. I believe the salvation and the blessing are linked. We are blessed when we develop an intimate relationship with God. His presence is our security. His salvation in times of distress is connected to the peace derived from His presence. He does deliver those who love Him from their enemies, but not often immediately. We must learn, as David did, to trust Him in the trial.
This post is Day 3 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the first post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.
To receive email reminders of new posts, please subscribe. As a thank you, you will receive a free ebook, The Wonder Woman’s Manifesto.
by Donya Dunlap | Oct 2, 2016 | Bible Study, The Spiritual Life
As the introduction to the book of Psalms continues, we see the scope of the writer widen. While Psalm 1 focused on the personal level, Psalm 2 takes a global approach.
Verses 1-3
The psalmist begins with a question,
Why do the nations rebel and the peoples plot in vain?
Essentially, this Psalm is world history wrapped in 12 verses. Nations and peoples plot against God’s anointed. They build concentration camps, detonate bombs, pass legislations. They set a course and make their plans all in an attempt to make themselves the ultimate authority in place of the God who governs all nations.
Verses 4-6
What does God do? Verse 4 says He laughs and ridicules them. He speaks in His anger, His tone sending shock waves of terror through the lands.
I have consecrated my King on Zion, My holy mountain.
All the treaties in the world are nothing in the face of God’s plan for the nations.
Verses 7-9
Verse 7 is quite interesting. It is almost as if we are getting a glimpse at God the Father determining roles for the Trinity. As the Son, Christ receives the nations as His inheritance. He prophecies that Christ will break the nations with a rod of iron like pottery. The words sound familiar because they are echoed in Revelation 2:27, 12:15, and 19:15. They are also included in the famous Handel’s Messiah, which reminds us every holiday season of God’s unfathomable, sacrificial plan to redeem the nations.
Verses 10-12
The psalm concludes with a word of warning similar to the one Psalm 1 began with. The psalmist urges the kings of the earth to submit and pay homage to the Son. He promises that all who take refuge in the Son will be happy.
From a modern perspective, we humans look at the world around us and fear. We are afraid for our lives and the lives of our children. We feel the existence of our country weigh in the balance of the national election. All the while God is laughing.
We should vote, and we should do so from the place of Christian values. We should fight against corruption in government and we should support and defend Israel. But in the end, The Lord will be our King. His throne, the holy hill of Zion.
Whom shall I fear? The God of angel armies is always by my side.
– Whom Shall I Fear lyrics by Chris Tomlin
This post is Day 2 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the previous post, Psalm 1: The Wise and the Wicked, click here. The introduction to the series can be found here.
To receive email reminders of new posts, please subscribe. As a thank you, you will receive a free ebook, The Wonder Woman’s Manifesto.
by Donya Dunlap | Oct 1, 2016 | Bible Study, The Spiritual Life
Psalm 1 and 2 can be considered a unit that introduce the five books of the psalter.* Psalm 1 is considered a wisdom psalm and contrasts the wise and wicked and how God views each of them.
Verses 1-3
The psalmist begins this well known passage with an exclamation that also serves as a warning.
How happy is the man who does not follow the advice of the wicked or take the path of sinners or join a group of mockers!
If you, like me, shudder at the lack of commas in that sentence, keep in mind that these passages were written to be sung. If you are using an ESV, HCSB, or similar translation, you will note the line divisions making it easier to follow the ancient poetry.
Essentially, the psalmist is telling you what your mother did all those years ago. Be careful of the company you keep! It is good for a man to not seek advice or spend time with wicked men. And of all the wicked, avoid especially the “scoffers” or “mockers”—those who ridicule to feel a sense of superiority over others.
In contrast, a wise man’s delight, joy, happiness, will come from reading and meditating on God’s Word. In this habit he will grow strong, rooted, and stable.
Verses 4-5
These verses describe the wicked using a word picture that would have been very familiar to the ancient Hebrew reader. He describes the wicked as chaff, the dry husk that is separated from the wheat after harvest. The chaff is blown away in the wind as it has no substance to keep it grounded as the wheat does. What an accurate picture of culture, even for today!
Verses 4 and 5 reveal a knowledge of the end times when the wicked are divided from the righteous at the judgment. Jesus used a similar analogy in Matthew 13:24-30, the parable of the wheat and the tares.
Verse 6
The psalm concludes with the reminder that God is still in control, overseeing the righteous and judging the wicked. One thing comes to mind in this reading—the idea that we are to be in the world and not of the world as Jesus described the disciples to be in John 17:14-15.
The wicked in this passage are influencers. The foolish seek advice from them rather than turning to God’s Word or godly counsel. The foolish are not discerning. In such ways even the righteous can be drawn into the snare of the wicked. We must take care to use God’s truth as the measuring rod against which all knowledge is compared.
The wise person who is a student of God’s Word is grounded in truth. He is fruitful and does not wither in trying times. The wise man is also an influencer. He will not be uprooted by foolish philosophies or changes int he culture around him. He is unmoveable due to the stablizing influx of God’s Word. His unwavering faith is a testimony to all who see him. His life shines brightly of God’s glory, illuminating the darkness around him.
This post is Day 1 of the 31 Days of Journaling through the Psalms series. If you would like to read the previous post, 4 Reasons Why You Should Be Journaling Your Devotions, click here.
To receive email reminders of new posts, please subscribe. As a thank you, you will receive a free ebook, The Wonder Woman’s Manifesto.
*Taken from notes in The Study Bible for Women: Holman Christian Standard Bible. 2014. Holman Bible Publishers. Nashville, TN.
