Psalm 44
-Theme: Crying out to God to help a people who have not forgotten Him, yet are being overwhelmed by an adversary. Trusting in God even when it appears He has forgotten about you.
-*Application* When these times of doubt and fear assail, remember the past and what God has done for you. Count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the LORD has done. Keep acknowledging Him as the psalmist does here and expecting Him to show up. Abide in His presence even when it is not felt. Feelings can absolutely fool us. The truth is that He is always there and has us in His loving care. Even though we will go through times of rejection, dishonor, loss, break-up, slavery, reproach, being scoffed at, derision, being a laughingstock, and humiliation, don’t forget that God is good and wants us to draw closer to Him through all the pain. He knows all and will test our hearts from time to time. Allow this with grace and not bitterness and rebellion. This is the LORD’s desire.
Psalm 45
-Theme: A wedding song of praise celebrating the King (Christ, anointed) with His bride (His people, the church) forevermore.
-*Application* What emotion overwhelms us when we consider our undeserved favor and place with the King of glory. He blesses His people with intimacy and oneness with Him. He is great and greatly to be praised for all His righteous acts and power. Blessing and honor and majesty belong to Him. Give Him His deserved glory for the great and awesome things He has done, is doing, and will do! He is victorious and we will reign with Him in this never ending Kingdom!
Psalm 46
-Theme: Our God is an ever-present help in times of trouble, our refuge and strength. Fear can be overcome through realizing His power over all things. Cease striving and know that He is God. Exalt Him alone all you nations of the earth.
-*Application* Ever want to be released from the bondage of fear and constant anxiety in this modern world? It is not a new phenomenon as the psalmist makes us aware. But, this psalm mainly points to the future in which we now in so many ways live with all its uncertainties. We must always remember who is in control and has the final say in this world. We will not be moved if we stay tight with the LORD. He will protect and surround us even in the midst of chaos and destruction. There is coming a day when all the wars and strife will cease and His Kingdom will be in full effect. We wait with great anticipation of that time. It is our hope. For now we can simply cease our own striving and know that He is our God and stronghold. His mercy endures forever, and He is with us. What a comforting thought this is.
Verses to Memorize: Psalm 46:1, 10
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