Central Truth

Sometimes it is not easy to rejoice or to give praise to the Lord, but that does not change the command. A.T.Robertson writes, "It is God's will that we find joy in prayer in Christ Jesus in every condition of life."

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Reflections

This psalm is essentially a psalm of thanksgiving and praise after the battle is over (see Psalm 20 when David is seeking the Lord in time of distress). The noise of strife and the drums of war are stilled (vs. 1-6). It is offered to God, by the people on behalf of their king. The dust of conflict has settled and the foe has been vanquished. It is a national anthem, a coronation hymn and perhaps was sung at the coronation of David. In a prophetic sense it looked forward to the day when the Lord Jesus will return, put down His foes and cause every knee to bow. David praised God for giving him the desire of his heart (vs. 2) and for giving him good things (vs. 3). The reason for deliverance in answer to prayer is that the king trusted in the unfailing love of the Lord and knew that he was secure and could not be shaken.

The outcome of the statement "the king trusts in the Lord" is found in the next passage (vs. 7-12). Because the king trusted in the Lord the congregation knew he would defeat his enemies (vs. 7).

When we trust in God we have permanence and stability. We cannot be shaken from God's favor. Even though his enemies schemed to overthrow the king, they would turn in fear from before him (vs. 12). Thus the congregation vowed to sing and praise the might and power of the Lord, Who alone is to be exalted (vs. 13). This concluding doxology describes the strength, the praise, and the power due the Lord God of heaven.

I know I have personally prayed to God in my times of distress, and He has been there to rescue me too! Today, I'm learning to rejoice and sing praises even in my distress because I have seen the Lord use my pain for His glory and my growth! This has only come about through 7 years in Celebrate Recovery. He is worthy of all our praises - in the good times, and in the "good-for-us times!" REJOICE!

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Discussion Questions

1. Have you found it harder to rejoice in the Lord in the good times, and easier to call upon Him in times of distress? (Please know you are not alone, He is there for forgiveness and will change your attitudes if you let Him.)
2. Are you being a good example to others when "good for us times" are bearing down on your spirit? Are you able to rejoice simply because God is?
3. Are you ready to let God grow you into all you can become? Remember, Celebrate Recovery is available to take your hurts, habits, and hangups and use them for His glory and your good too! Hope you join us on a Monday night!

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