Sunday, May 28, 2017 Sermon Prep for Psalm 16

The world changes, knowledge grows, but the heart of man remains as it has always been. That is why the Psalms becomes increasingly, as life goes on, the mirror and the language of experience, the book which speaks to us, and provides the words for the hours of contrition, of fear, of awe, defeat and victory.”
E. M. BLAIKLOCK Psalms For Living

This coming Sunday, Jackson Randall will start a 12 week summer series from the Psalms, preaching from Psalm 16. Our desire is that this summer will make a lasting impact. And in order to help make that a reality, you will find information here on our website to kick start your mind and heart, pulling you into the psalm to be preached.  There will be resources linked here as well, intended to add to your delight as you prepare. Additionally in future weeks, we are blessed to have Jan Buck briefly unpack the week’s psalm, providing insights that draw us into the text, preparing us to be more fully engaged by what God has for us.

Keep me safe, O God,
I’ve run for dear life to you.
I say to God, “Be my Lord!”
Without you, nothing makes sense.
And these God-chosen lives all around—
what splendid friends they make!
Don’t just go shopping for a god.
Gods are not for sale.
I swear I’ll never treat god-names
like brand-names.
My choice is you, God, first and only.
And now I find I’m your choice!
You set me up with a house and yard.
And then you made me your heir!
The wise counsel God gives when I’m awake
is confirmed by my sleeping heart.
Day and night I’ll stick with God;
I’ve got a good thing going and I’m not letting go.
I’m happy from the inside out,
and from the outside in, I’m firmly formed.
You canceled my ticket to hell—
that’s not my destination!
Now you’ve got my feet on the life path,
all radiant from the shining of your face.
Ever since you took my hand,
I’m on the right way.

As you prepare your heart for this coming Sunday, consider the following questions, and evaluate your life patterns in light of David’s resolve.

1. What phrases highlight the life-giving choices that David has made?

2. Are you content with the “house and yard” that has become your lot (pun-intended) in life, the boundaries that God has laid out for you? If not, why not? Pray about that.

3. David seems to enjoy a non-stop relationship with God. We know that we are on His radar 24/7. What are habits you can develop that will help you to consciously stay connected with Him?

4. Pray for the joy that should be a part of being on this path. Ask for a contented heart. Write out on a piece of paper what God has done for you, and give Him specific thanks.