January 6, 2009
God HAs got my back
Psalm 4
Kyle Thompson
Central Truth
God is trustworthy and fully aware of my situation.
Key Verse | Psalm 4:8
I will lie down and sleep peacefully, for you, Lord, make me safe and secure. (Psalm 4:8)
Psalm 4
Answer Me When I Call
To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm of David.
1
Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!
You have given me relief when I was in distress.
Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!
2
O men,
1
4:2
Or O men of rank
how long shall my honor be turned into shame?
How long will you love vain words and seek after lies? Selah
3
But know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself;
the LORD hears when I call to him.
4
Be angry,
2
4:4
Or Be agitated
and do not sin;
ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah
5
Offer right sacrifices,
and put your trust in the LORD.
6
There are many who say, “Who will show us some good?
Lift up the light of your face upon us, O LORD!”
7
You have put more joy in my heart
than they have when their grain and wine abound.
8
In peace I will both lie down and sleep;
for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Dive Deeper | Psalm 4
It is so easy for me to be overwhelmed with circumstances and begin to think of all the negative things that can happen. This can lead me to spiral into anxiety and fear.
I am great at running the "what ifs" of all the worst case scenarios. God has used these times to expose ways I am trusting in the things of this world rather than Him. Matthew 6:34 says, “So then, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own." The Bible tells me that when I sense anxiety welling up in me to "not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7).
This takes me back to a right perspective on my circumstances and the ways God uses events in my life to remind me that He loves me and knows all the details of my situation—even when my circumstances are a result of my own foolish choices. As I allow my mind to be redirected and reoriented, I can persevere with James 1:2-4 in mind, which says: "[C]onsider it nothing but joy when you fall into all sorts of trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you will be perfect and complete, not deficient in anything."
Psalm 4 is a great reminder today of the ways God desires that I cry out to Him and trust Him as my refuge and strength. God only knows what all is in store for me in 2009. I am reminded today that He already knows the plans He has for me this year. I am so thankful for the ways He loves me, cares for me, and made provision for me to have a personal relationship with Him through Jesus.
Discussion Questions
1. What are you anxious and worried about today? Read Matthew 6:25-34 as a reminder of God's love and care for you.
2. In what ways are you depending on circumstances for your joy in life? Read John 10:10 as a reminder of where true joy is found.
3. In what ways are you fearful today? Read Psalm 127:1-2 as a reminder of where your protection is.