OT Fire Starters – Day 215: Psalms 68-69
READ: Psalms 68-69
THINK: How much hardship, suffering and grief would you be willing to endure for the right purpose? Serving God is more than just a good and noble cause. It’s the meaning of life itself. It points to the fact that life on earth isn’t all there is. In fact, this brief time simply prepares us for eternity. The psalm writer understood that and was willing to put up with rejection, shame and isolation because of his passionate enthusiasm for worshiping God and serving His purposes. He realized that earthly suffering cannot compare to heavenly reward.
RESPOND: What does Psalm 68 celebrate, and what part can we have in this celebration? (See 68:1-35 note.) According to 68:5-6, who does God protect, support and defend, and what does this reveal about God’s character? (See 68:5 note.) In what way does Psalm 68 portray the Lord as a victorious King? (See 68:18 note.) How often does God carry our burdens (68:19), and what does this mean to you? In what ways does God save and rescue people from death (68:20)? What kind of person and situation does Psalm 69 describe? (See 69:1-36 note.) Why was this person suffering? (See 69:1-36 note, subpoint 1.) How do the sufferings described in Psalm 69 relate to what Jesus endured for us? (See 69:1-4 note.) What example and hope does this provide for you? In what way does the psalm writer show unselfish character and concern for others above himself (69:6)? Why is the psalm writer willing to endure persecution and rejection, and how is this an example to you? (See 69:9 note.) What was this person’s response to persecution (69:13ff)? Why does the psalm writer pray for God’s judgment on his enemies rather than trying to deliver judgment himself (69:22ff)? What’s remarkable about the praise in this situation (69:30ff)?
PRAY: Praise the Lord as a victorious King. Thank Him for the privilege of suffering for His sake and for giving you strength through suffering. Thank Jesus for what He endured to purchase your forgiveness and for carrying your burdens when you bring them to Him.
ACT: Do something practical to help and show God’s love to a widow, someone without a father or someone who is disadvantaged in some way.