1 Listen to my words, Lord,
consider my lament.
2 Hear my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you
and wait expectantly.
Describe the real feelings of David as he writes this psalm. What does it mean to you that a "man after God's own heart" expresses himself to God in this way?
4 For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness;
with you, evil people are not welcome.
5 The arrogant cannot stand
in your presence.
You hate all who do wrong;
6 you destroy those who tell lies.
The bloodthirsty and deceitful
you, Lord, detest.
7 But I, by your great love,
can come into your house;
in reverence I bow down
toward your holy temple.
How does David contrast himself with evil people in verses 4-7? Examine the differences expressed by David.
Even though there is no physical "Temple" today, would you be able to honestly claim the intention of David's prayer in verse 7 as your own?
8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness
because of my enemies—
make your way straight before me.
9 Not a word from their mouth can be trusted;
their heart is filled with malice.
Their throat is an open grave;
with their tongues they tell lies.
10 Declare them guilty, O God!
Let their intrigues be their downfall.
Banish them for their many sins,
for they have rebelled against you.
11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread your protection over them,
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
Again David makes an appeal to the Lord by comparing evildoers with those who follow after God. Once more, examine the differences listed in verses 8-11.
How is the phrase "Let their intrigues be their downfall" be a reasonable outcome to request from God?
12 Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous;
you surround them with your favor as with a shield. NIV
Describe how the favor of the Lord is like a shield surrounding righteous people. Who holds the power? Is God's blessing protective in nature only? What responsibility do the righteous people have?
What would God's blessing and favor in your life look like today?
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