Psalm 146 & 147 - Day 1072 (link to reading)
Scripture: Psalm 146 & 147 Commentary (enduringword.com): Psalm 146 begins a series of five final songs in the Book of Psalms, and the five are known as the Hallelujah Psalms. “In the earlier psalms, we have studied the writers’ griefs, shames, sins, doubts, and fears. We have witnessed the people of God in their defeats and victories, their ups and downs in life. We have encountered rebellious words and struggling faith. All this is behind us now. In these final psalms every word is praise.” (James Montgomery Boice) “Hallelujah is a compound word made up of two Hebrew words: hallel (an imperative verb meaning ‘praise’) and jah (a contraction of the name for God, Jehovah). So hallelujah means ‘Praise the Lord (or Jehovah).’” (Boice) Application: It is good to give thanks and praise. Research confirms the benefits of expressing your appreciation and gratitude for others. Prayer: Hallelujah...
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Psalm 144 & 145 - Day 1071 (link to reading)
Scripture: Psalm 145 Commentary (enduringword.com): This psalm is titled A Praise of David. Though Psalm 17 and Psalm 86 were also called A Prayer of David, this is the only one titled A Praise of David, and it is a high point of praise. “Psalm 145 is indeed a monumental praise psalm, a fit summary of all David had learned about God during a long lifetime of following hard after the Almighty.” (James Montgomery Boice) “In Jewish practice this psalm was recited twice in the morning and once in the evening service. The Talmud commends all who repeat it three times a day as having a share in the world to come.” (Willem VanGemeren) Application: God is worthy of our praise, regardless of our circumstances or feelings. Prayer: Praise be the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost... Ecclesiastes 12 - Day 1070 (link to reading)
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 12 Commentary (thewarehouse.blog): The final chapter of Ecclesiastes calls for people to remember God. The tone is depressing, however, Solomon is commended at the end as the narrator breaks into the scene. We first heard from this frame narrator in chapter 1. He writes that Solomon was a professional and diligent man who took care of his business. He sought truth and focused on making it applicable and relevant. The conclusion is that “everything is futile.” Outside of the simple pleasures of life (which are explored in this chapter) and God Himself, there is nothing else there. You can’t make meaning of this life without God. Application: Everyone is searching for Jesus but in all the wrong places. Everyone is trying to fill the God-shaped void in their hearts, but only Jesus can satisfy our longing. Prayer: Lord, show us Your face... Ecclesiastes 11 - Day 1069 (link to reading)
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 11 Commentary (thewarehouse.blog): As Solomon advised to cast our bread upon the water – this sums up the whole risk and opportunity aspect. Carpe Diem – seize the day – is a thought that speaks into this. With opportunity on whatever level – there is always an aspect of risk. But it is also a call to a great adventure in the unknown of how things will turn. He is obviously speaking toward the things of this world. But turning these things thoughts on their head – this same aspect or thought translates with our faith in Jesus. Simply consider how when a person has come to know Jesus as their Savior, there was great risk on every level. For the adventure in trusting and following was provided through the opportunity to turn to Him as the Spirit of God had prompted us to do so. The risk came as in reality we didn’t know what our future would hold. We simply knew that He was with us leading every step of the way. Application: It doesn't make sense to throw bread into water. However, the point is to have faith and do something now for a reward that cannot be immediately seen. Prayer: Lord, help my unbelief... Ecclesiastes 10 - Day 1068 (link to reading)
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 10:1 Commentary (enduringword.com)a: Dead flies putrefy the perfumer’s ointment: Solomon here followed a familiar form in stating proverbs. An obvious statement is made: that dead flies spoil a fine ointment and cause it to smell. i. “This is a metaphorical confirmation of the truth enunciated at the end of the last chapter, ‘One sinner destroyeth much good.’” (Deane) b. So does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor: Even as small dead flies – quite little in proportion to the whole – spoil a fine ointment, so just a little folly spoils the reputation of someone regarded as wise and honorable. i. “There are endless instances of prizes forfeited and good beginning marred in a single reckless moment – not only by the irresponsible, such as Esau, but by the sorely tried, such as Moses and Aaron.” (Kidner) ii. The Preacher is beginning to direct his arguments in the intended direction. To use the metaphor of a ship, he has sailed in many different directions to show us the meaninglessness of life. Now, still out of sight of land, he begins to tack his direction towards meaning and truth. Ecclesiastes 10:1 reminds us that even small things have consequences. Application: Everyone makes mistakes, even the wisest man on earth. The key isn't knowing what to do, but doing what we know. And when we mess us, repent (do it God's way) and help others do the same. Prayer: Lord, show me Your glory... |
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