Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15
I pause my study of Numbers to take a short detour to accommodate my Friday morning men's Bible study where this AM we focused on Psalm 116:12-19. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: In vv1-11, the unidentified psalmist praises God for many of His attributes: how He hears our cries, protects and provides refuge during times of struggle, He is gracious, righteous, and merciful, He preserves and saves, He offers rest, He provides bountifully, and how He saves - eternally. V15 and the preceding v13 require careful thought and upon reflection my read is that God sees us as precious - even in death - as this points to the coming Messiah Jesus Christ who is saving a place for us in Heaven (see John 14:2-3).
- What do we learn from the text about people?: For those that believe in Him and know the attributes described by the psalmist, it is a natural response to worship and praise Him. We will not only praise Him, we will do so publicly (vv14, 18, 19). We will serve Him (v16). We will thank Him and call on Him to be in fellowship with Him (v17).
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Claim the promise that God is good and He saves! Follow the example of the psalmist who praises and worships His name. Proclaim God's great name publicly for all the world to hear!
My Prayer: Father God, You ARE an awesome God, worthy of all praise, honor and glory. You save! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
