Bible Chapter: Psalms 71 & 72

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.
    What should a person do when they face trials and frustrations?  I have observed many who run from God at that time. This is the opposite of what should be done. The Psalmist here says that he has continued to trust in God and keep his faith in Him.  When a person receives Jesus as their Savior they make a personal commitment to the Lord.  It is important to maintain that commitment throughout life, no matter what battles they face.  As people get old and they lose physical strength, the must continue to put their trust in the Lord.  One of the greatest responsibilities is to pass the truths of God to the next generation.
    Psalm 72 is a prayer of King Solomon, asking God for help in his reign.  He asked for God’s righteous judgements and help in treating the poor.  He sought God’s help for the oppressed.  This is an important lesson for all to follow: seek God and His help.  Seek that God’s ways will be the way that people live.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Stick with Jesus in every situation.  Unfortunately, I have observed too many people who, when they face hard times, only give lip service to God. Some even fully walk away from serving Him.  They give up all that God has done in their lives.  They quit. This must never be.  Instead, each one, yes this includes me, must let challenges bring us closer to the Lord to seek His power to carry us through.

3.  How can I help someone?
    How close can you get to God?  That is the question I want to encourage people to ask and then respond.  Whether one is powerful and rich as Solomon was, or if one is poor, the best route in life is to get closer to the Lord.