Week 5: Psalm 57-72

Happy Day after the 4th of July!  Anyone a little tired today?  I’m guessing most of us got up this morning a little worn out after a good (but long) day of fun followed by a fabulous (but late) night of fireworks.  So let’s grab some coffee (seriously!) and dive right into it.

PSALM 57-72

In case you’re looking at those numbers and your coffee hasn’t kicked in yet, yes this is more than we normally read – this week’s got 16 chapters.  But if you’re averaging 2 chapters/day, just tack one more on a couple times and you’ll be set.  

If you haven’t been keeping up with the reading, don’t worry about it!  Just jump in!    Again, God can use His word to speak specifically into our lives, and He doesn’t mind where you begin.

1.  Key Themes for Chapters 57-72.  

Prayer.  The Psalms is such a unique gathering of scripture.  Most books in the Bible tell a story or give instruction.  The Psalms are filled with people praying.  Chapter after chapter, the psalmists are pouring out their hearts before the Lord, telling Him of their burdens, confessing their sin, praising Him for His unfailing love.

Protection.  Psalm 59 begins with a plea: “Deliver me from my enemies, O God; protect me from those who rise up against me.  Deliver me from evil doers and save me from bloodthirsty men.”   David and the other psalmists are often found desperate before the Lord, asking for protection.  They are also not afraid to ask the Lord to go after their enemies:  “Pour out your wrath on them, let your fierce anger overtake them.”  Psalm 69:24   At one time or another, haven’t we all wished for God’s justice to prevail?  Yes, yes, I know we must have grace, but I so appreciate their honest hearts.

Confidence.  Psalm 62 has been a favorite of mine for years:  “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress;  I will never be shaken.”  Also in Psalm 66: “Come and see what God has done, how awesome His works in man’s behalf!”  He is our confidence, He has done great things and He alone is our Rock.

2.  Questions to Ponder As You Read

• How do the psalmists pour out their hearts to God?
• How do the chapters show a transition from fear to hope?
• What do these chapters reveal about God’s character?

3.  Reflection

As you walk through your week, what concerns, anxieties or burdens do you have?   Make a list of them, either mentally or on a piece of paper.  What is your next step in trusting God with this?  You and I can talk about being confident in the Lord ’til the cows come home, but at some point we each have to ask, “Do I really believe He has my back on this one?”

Write Psalm 62:1-2 on a piece of paper.  Put it up where you will see it often this week.  I just wrote mine on a 3×5 card and put it by my computer screen.  Reflect on it this week and see how God speaks to you.

4.  Challenge

Pray more this week.  Whether it’s on your knees, doing the dishes or driving the kids, be intentional about talking to God.

• Talk to Him about what’s on your heart.  
• Confess your sin.  (And receive His forgiveness.)  
• Tell Him how desperate you are for His hand to move.  
• Ask Him for opportunities to share your faith with others (caution, don’t do this one unless you mean it, because He will!).
• Praise Him for His incredible goodness in our lives and in the lives of those we love!

Big heaps of blessings on you as you continue in His Word – have a great week!