Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Bible Chapter: Psalms 117 & 118

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Psalm 117 is the shortest song with only two verses. But, it has an eternal impact. It is an encouragement for all nations praise the Lord. The love of the Lord and the faithfulness of the Lord endure forever. We are encouraged to praise the Lord.
    In Psalm 118 the writer uses repetition to emphasize various themes. We are told that God’s love endures forever and are encouraged to say it as a reminder of this truth. We are also reminded that the Lord is with me and that it is better to take refuge in the Lord than anything human. Even when we are surrounded we know we have God’s help because the Lord is our strength and song. We are also reminded rejoice in the day that the Lord gives us.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Jesus referenced Psalm 118:22 when he talked about the stone that the builders rejected. We find this in Luke 20:17 NKJV “Then He looked at them and said, "What then is this that is written: 'The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone'?”
    In talking about Jesus, Peter also quoted it.
Acts 4:11 NKJV “This is the 'stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.' ”
    This passage from this Psalm, along with the references in the New Testament, give hope and assurance for putting my trust in Jesus. There are so many prophecies that were fulfilled in Jesus. 2,000 years ago people rejected Him, and people still reject Him. But His track record has proven that people can put their faith and trust in Him and He will never abandon them.

3.  How can I help someone?
    It doesn’t matter where a person lives, God is open to receive their praise. Jesus never came to win a popularity contest. Even though countless people reject him, those who receive Him find the life that He promised.