Heart of a Psalmist - Worshipping Christ Through The Psalms

of any kind. By contrast, the psalmist experiences the joyful emotions of living in the constant favor and love of God.

“The suffering you sent was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your principles.” (71)

C. S. Lewis observes in his book; The Problem of Pain: ‘ … pain insists on being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains; it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.’ 14 The psalmist has reacted positively to the pain and suffering and turned his heart to obedience.

“Your law is more valuable to me than millions in gold or silver!” (72)

This is one of the verses referring to the psalmist’s access to vast amounts of wealth. David gave an extravagant offering of 112 tons of gold and 262 tons of refined silver to build the temple in Jerusalem and then challenged the nation: “Now then, who will follow my example? Who is willing to give offering to the Lord today?”(1 Chron. 29:5) His generosity showed that he valued God more than riches.

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“You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands.” (73)

We were created to thrive on the nutrients of the soul that are found in his commands: “…real life comes by feeding on every word of the Lord.” (Deut. 8:3) ‘It is impossible that God should forsake man, who is His creature, and deny to him that which makes him truly happy, the understanding and knowl- edge of His word.’ 15

“May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word.” (74)

Those who place their hope in the promises of God refresh others who are also seeking to please him. “Pursue faith and love and peace, and enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.” (2 Tim. 2:22) The Christian faith is designed to thrive as we live in communion with other believers.

“I know, O Lord, that your decisions are fair; you disciplined me because I needed it.” (75)

There is a difference between punishment and discipline. Christ took the penalty for our sins upon himself at the crucifixion but we experience the loving, corrective discipline of the Spirit as we grow in the life of grace. “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening–it is painful! But afterward there will be a quiet harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” (Heb. 12:11) We must embrace God’s discipline and learn the lessons of faith that it brings.

“Now let your unfailing love comfort me, just as you promised me, your servant.” (76)

After experiencing the discipline in the previous verse he turns child-like to the comforting assur- ance of his Father’s love. He refers to himself as God’s servant 13 different times in the psalm, even the last verse of the song ends with this thought. We are reminded by Jesus that being a servant is a high honor: “Anyone who wants to be the first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.” (Mrk. 9:35) We are friends of God and servants to each other.

“Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your law is my delight.” (77)

Having just experienced the severity of God he asks for his “tender mercies” to restore his life. Dis- cipline without mercy is punishment and continued harshness deflates the soul. The softest touch of God breathes new hope and causes the heart to soar with love for the word.

“Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me; meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments.” (78)

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