WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:14.500 Well, good morning. Thank you for reading, Sam. My name's Adam White. I'm from Grace Church Leaf, which is halfway down Leaf Walk. I'm very happy to be here. I'm here usually in the food bank, so it's nice to come through the front door rather than through the sides. 00:00:14.500 --> 00:00:30.839 And I want to take our time today to go through Psalm 121, but I don't want to presume anyone's place at the moment where their walk is with Jesus, whether you've been walking with the Lord for a long time or whether this is all new to you. 00:00:31.160 --> 00:00:40.560 And so I want to ask the very simple question to everyone here, though, for different reasons. And that's the question, who is your helper? 00:00:40.560 --> 00:01:01.900 Now, there's been an estimated 6,000 major presidential public appearances since 1865. And the Secret Service is responsible for protecting the president on these trips that he takes into the public, into various different scenarios. 00:01:01.899 --> 00:01:22.280 And they've got an amazing success rate in protecting him. But their track record is not perfect. In fact, it started off quite rough. Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in 1865 because his bodyguard left to go and grab a drink in a local pub. 00:01:22.280 --> 00:01:34.320 James Garfield. He was killed in 1881 because he had next to no security. He allowed the assassin to literally walk up to him and shoot him. 00:01:35.900 --> 00:01:43.900 In 1901, William McKinley was shot because the Secret Service failed to properly search his attacker. 00:01:43.900 --> 00:01:53.040 He hid his gun under a handkerchief, which is a bizarre place to hide a gun and really shows your confidence in the lack of the security around. 00:01:53.440 --> 00:02:03.000 And then finally, of course, we have JFK, who's assassinated in 1963 because the Secret Service overlooked key security risks in Dallas. 00:02:04.140 --> 00:02:12.680 But despite this, the American Secret Service really do have an amazing track record at keeping the president safe in public appearances. 00:02:12.680 --> 00:02:19.319 In fact, it's 99.4% of all appearances do not end with a dead president. 00:02:20.520 --> 00:02:27.719 And even if I added in all the attempts where a president was injured or any other person was hurt, it only drops it down 0.2%. 00:02:27.719 --> 00:02:33.400 So 99.2% of the time, the Secret Service works every time. 00:02:34.500 --> 00:02:41.439 And I think that's a pretty great track record. If I'm looking for protection, 99.2% is pretty impressive. 00:02:42.680 --> 00:02:50.920 So would you feel confident with the Secret Service being your personal protector every time you step foot out of your home? 00:02:52.520 --> 00:02:56.780 But the big question is, do you have that same confidence in God's protection? 00:02:57.819 --> 00:03:02.560 In fact, do you have even more reason to place even more confidence in the Lord? 00:03:02.560 --> 00:03:07.120 Who is your helper? 00:03:10.360 --> 00:03:22.460 I want to show you that Psalm 121 tells us exactly where we should look and why the Secret Service, regardless of how hard they try, will always be a very distant second best. 00:03:22.460 --> 00:03:30.920 Now, this psalm is written about God's people making a long journey, a very dangerous journey to the Holy Temple situated on Mount Zion. 00:03:32.100 --> 00:03:34.600 And we read that this psalm is called a Song of Ascent. 00:03:34.599 --> 00:03:42.680 It's a psalm sung by faithful pilgrims as they made their journey to the Holy City to observe its annual feasts. 00:03:43.259 --> 00:03:48.419 Psalm 121 is sandwiched between two messianic psalms that point towards Christ. 00:03:48.539 --> 00:03:54.599 We have Psalm 120, which opens with this loud cry for deliverance from a life of distress. 00:03:54.599 --> 00:04:02.500 It's prophetically pointing towards Christ's suffering at the hands of those who falsely accuse and betray him. 00:04:03.319 --> 00:04:05.959 On the other side, we have Psalm 122. 00:04:06.579 --> 00:04:15.479 And this celebrates the arrival into Jerusalem and is echoing the messianic expectations of a king who will reign in peace and righteousness in Jerusalem. 00:04:15.479 --> 00:04:24.819 And then sandwiched in the middle, we have Psalm 121, providing assurance and divine protection during the journey. 00:04:25.899 --> 00:04:29.579 I have to show you just how Jesus is foreshadowed in this psalm today. 00:04:30.139 --> 00:04:32.719 And I want to show you that a little later on in this talk. 00:04:32.860 --> 00:04:36.500 But before that, just read with me verse 1. 00:04:36.579 --> 00:04:44.920 Now, I've gone with the ESV translation because I think there's some key literal translation words that really help us understand this psalm. 00:04:44.920 --> 00:04:47.920 So forgive me if this sounds different to what we've just read. 00:04:48.939 --> 00:04:50.240 But verse 1, the psalmist says, 00:04:50.319 --> 00:04:52.000 I lift my eyes to the hills. 00:04:53.199 --> 00:04:56.100 From where does my help come from? 00:04:57.640 --> 00:05:04.960 See, the pilgrims would have to traverse these surrounding hills on their way to the temple at Mount Zion. 00:05:05.680 --> 00:05:09.020 This would have caused enormous anxiety and fear. 00:05:09.939 --> 00:05:12.280 The Israelites, they would be making their way to the temple. 00:05:12.279 --> 00:05:18.839 And what they would essentially see over and over again is the threat of attack and violence. 00:05:19.259 --> 00:05:25.679 And we read over and over again in the Bible that really good things happen on mountains. 00:05:26.279 --> 00:05:29.039 But really, really bad things happen on hills. 00:05:30.179 --> 00:05:31.679 You fight on hills. 00:05:32.199 --> 00:05:33.459 You die on hills. 00:05:33.639 --> 00:05:35.000 You're sacrificed on hills. 00:05:35.799 --> 00:05:38.059 The enemy worships gods on hills. 00:05:38.060 --> 00:05:43.000 The potential for danger on the way is incredibly high. 00:05:44.220 --> 00:05:49.959 So as the psalmist is saying, essentially, the hills have eyes and I'm concerned. 00:05:51.120 --> 00:05:53.600 And the physical danger is scary enough. 00:05:54.399 --> 00:05:58.120 But there's also all kinds of spiritual dangers on the way. 00:05:58.120 --> 00:06:04.079 These hills would bring to mind the home of altars for false gods, for instance. 00:06:04.899 --> 00:06:13.240 Although powerless in themselves, these things are set up under the influence of Satan. 00:06:13.399 --> 00:06:16.840 Therefore, they should be approached with incredible caution. 00:06:16.839 --> 00:06:25.000 But as the psalmist reflects on these dangers, he's quick to answer his opening question. 00:06:26.939 --> 00:06:28.819 He says, my help comes from the Lord. 00:06:30.479 --> 00:06:31.539 And there you have it. 00:06:31.799 --> 00:06:33.239 My help comes from the Lord. 00:06:34.159 --> 00:06:35.199 We've got our answer. 00:06:36.039 --> 00:06:37.339 Thank you very much for coming. 00:06:38.419 --> 00:06:39.539 There's coffee in the back. 00:06:40.559 --> 00:06:41.559 And I'll see you later. 00:06:41.560 --> 00:06:45.839 But of course, there's six more verses in the psalm. 00:06:48.120 --> 00:06:49.540 But it's true, isn't it? 00:06:50.759 --> 00:06:55.800 We're very guilty of moving on such a powerful declaration. 00:06:55.959 --> 00:07:00.300 It just washes over us and we don't really internalize it. 00:07:01.319 --> 00:07:03.500 Friends, I'll be the first to put my hands up to this. 00:07:03.879 --> 00:07:06.819 As I reflected on this psalm over the past couple of weeks, 00:07:07.959 --> 00:07:10.959 I'm quick to recognize just how slow I am. 00:07:11.560 --> 00:07:20.160 Just how slow I am to come to the simple, powerful truth that it's the Lord that watches over me. 00:07:20.800 --> 00:07:23.100 I just forget it on a daily, daily basis. 00:07:23.759 --> 00:07:26.340 Depending on the situation, it can take me days, weeks. 00:07:26.420 --> 00:07:29.100 It can even take me months sometimes. 00:07:30.060 --> 00:07:35.420 If you can relate, I think it's because God in his wisdom knows that we need this simple to understand. 00:07:36.019 --> 00:07:37.639 My help comes from the Lord. 00:07:37.639 --> 00:07:42.740 We need it to be repeated to us over and over and over again. 00:07:44.539 --> 00:07:45.779 So we can sink in. 00:07:46.039 --> 00:07:50.379 Like, we don't just tick it off as an intellectual exercise. 00:07:50.379 --> 00:07:57.839 But rather that we can get it stuck into our hearts and acknowledge it needs to be pressed into us over and over again. 00:07:58.639 --> 00:08:04.120 Give our hearts a chance to catch up with our heads and our fears. 00:08:04.120 --> 00:08:10.879 So let's take a second just to really pay attention to this psalm's message to us today. 00:08:11.040 --> 00:08:12.800 I don't know what's going on in your lives. 00:08:13.379 --> 00:08:15.720 But just stop and really take that in. 00:08:16.019 --> 00:08:17.340 My help comes from the Lord. 00:08:20.500 --> 00:08:22.939 We read verse 2's declaration. 00:08:23.079 --> 00:08:26.079 My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth. 00:08:26.079 --> 00:08:29.639 That second half, who made heaven and earth. 00:08:29.719 --> 00:08:33.860 And it's meant to relay God is sovereign over absolutely everything. 00:08:34.419 --> 00:08:38.039 There is nothing that he's not in control of. 00:08:38.539 --> 00:08:42.360 And there's nobody he's not in control of. 00:08:42.559 --> 00:08:43.319 He's sovereign. 00:08:43.659 --> 00:08:46.860 And he's actively helping his people. 00:08:47.960 --> 00:08:52.559 If you're a Christian here today, how does that make you feel? 00:08:52.559 --> 00:08:59.819 How does it make you feel knowing that the creator of the universe is your helper? 00:09:02.319 --> 00:09:07.579 If you're not a Christian, how does that make you feel when you hear that? 00:09:09.059 --> 00:09:10.259 The Lord is your helper. 00:09:12.579 --> 00:09:14.500 We read that the Lord is our helper twice. 00:09:15.479 --> 00:09:21.259 And actually we read another word in the ESV, synonymous word keeper, six times. 00:09:21.259 --> 00:09:24.879 So eight times we get this reference for the Lord is your helper, the Lord is your keeper. 00:09:25.679 --> 00:09:26.939 Over and over again. 00:09:27.879 --> 00:09:30.840 And this declaration is central to Psalm 121. 00:09:31.340 --> 00:09:35.259 It reveals three ways which the Lord helps and keeps his people. 00:09:36.159 --> 00:09:38.299 And so we'll look at each one under three headings. 00:09:39.379 --> 00:09:41.159 You are kept by promises. 00:09:42.600 --> 00:09:45.639 You are kept by personal protection. 00:09:45.639 --> 00:09:48.740 And you are kept permanently. 00:09:50.059 --> 00:09:51.340 You're kept by promises. 00:09:52.100 --> 00:09:54.080 You're kept by personal protection. 00:09:54.639 --> 00:09:56.399 And you are kept permanently. 00:09:57.439 --> 00:10:00.240 The first one, you are kept by promises. 00:10:01.659 --> 00:10:04.899 Verse three says, he will not let your foot be moved. 00:10:06.199 --> 00:10:08.460 He who keeps you will not slumber. 00:10:09.659 --> 00:10:11.519 It's paralleled with verse four. 00:10:11.519 --> 00:10:15.199 Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 00:10:16.399 --> 00:10:23.980 And we get this wonderful faith burst out of the psalmist that his God, the God who made a covenant with Abraham, 00:10:24.799 --> 00:10:28.939 who promised that those who will be his people, he will in turn be their God. 00:10:29.559 --> 00:10:32.860 But this promise to his people is so ironclad. 00:10:32.860 --> 00:10:40.779 It's so set in stone that even the minute details of the psalmist's life is held fast by the Lord. 00:10:41.980 --> 00:10:48.600 So much so that not even a foot will slip for him as he makes his journey to Mount Zion. 00:10:50.100 --> 00:10:52.360 Verse four expands on this promise. 00:10:53.019 --> 00:11:01.560 Behold, he who keeps Israel, he will do this for his covenant people as they make their way up to the hill towards the temple. 00:11:02.860 --> 00:11:12.779 And this imagery reflects his supreme confidence in God's promise to protect his people from misfortune and to fulfill his covenant promises. 00:11:14.460 --> 00:11:21.300 The second half of both verse three and four emphasizes that God will not slumber or sleep. 00:11:22.399 --> 00:11:25.820 You will not find the Lord sleeping at his post. 00:11:25.820 --> 00:11:34.120 Unlike the very human secret service, the Lord never becomes too tired or too weary to care for his people. 00:11:34.379 --> 00:11:38.140 He has not got to go and grab a quick pint to refresh himself. 00:11:39.480 --> 00:11:47.400 Unlike the very, very secret service, he's never caught off to God and he's never taken by surprise. 00:11:47.399 --> 00:11:53.019 But let me just be clear on what this is saying and what it is not saying. 00:11:54.240 --> 00:11:56.939 This is talking about eternal things. 00:11:57.840 --> 00:12:03.399 This is not saying that there will be no physical danger for those who put their trust in the Lord. 00:12:05.120 --> 00:12:08.259 That for the Christian today, you don't have to look left or right when you leave. 00:12:08.740 --> 00:12:10.699 You know, the bus is just going to bounce off you. 00:12:11.139 --> 00:12:14.139 You have some sort of power in Christ to repel traffic. 00:12:14.139 --> 00:12:16.019 Do not test it. 00:12:17.580 --> 00:12:24.779 Now, what this is saying, if it was though, I'm a father. 00:12:25.220 --> 00:12:29.340 If you're a father or a mother or anyone who's been around children, maybe this has happened to you. 00:12:29.379 --> 00:12:31.519 If it hasn't, the Lord is being very kind. 00:12:31.899 --> 00:12:33.100 Anyone ever stood on a bit of Lego? 00:12:35.899 --> 00:12:37.519 Pain like nothing else in this world. 00:12:39.319 --> 00:12:41.779 If it was the case that this psalm is saying that it will protect you, 00:12:41.779 --> 00:12:44.720 I wouldn't have to feel that pain on a bi-weekly basis. 00:12:45.459 --> 00:12:47.860 But no, that's not what it's saying. 00:12:48.120 --> 00:12:51.759 It doesn't mean I'm not going to get in any danger physically. 00:12:52.339 --> 00:12:57.139 It also doesn't mean that if you get sick or dealing with an illness, 00:12:58.939 --> 00:13:04.459 that you have done anything, that's happening to you because the Lord's not with you. 00:13:04.460 --> 00:13:09.180 No, don't take that as a sign that the Lord is not with you either. 00:13:11.180 --> 00:13:17.160 Now, the protection from the Lord is against ultimate evil. 00:13:18.320 --> 00:13:21.379 And the word in the NIV is from all harm. 00:13:22.200 --> 00:13:29.500 But we look at that word used, and ultimate evil, I think, is the stronger, more powerful understanding for us. 00:13:29.500 --> 00:13:35.779 Ultimate evil on harm, attacking that comes towards us on a daily basis. 00:13:36.740 --> 00:13:43.600 Ultimate evil that tries to interact with us and penetrate into our lives a thousand different ways. 00:13:44.340 --> 00:13:46.440 Regardless of where you are and what your walk is, 00:13:47.539 --> 00:13:49.820 ultimate evil wants to get a nip at you. 00:13:50.360 --> 00:13:52.659 And that's what the Lord is protecting you from. 00:13:52.659 --> 00:13:54.579 Verse 4, we read, 00:13:54.659 --> 00:13:56.959 Behold, he who keeps Israel. 00:13:58.419 --> 00:14:05.579 It's a powerful affirmation and word from the Lord that would be there to clearly remind the first pilgrims 00:14:05.579 --> 00:14:13.559 who sang the psalm of the 40 years that their ancestors would have made their way through the wilderness with his protection. 00:14:16.139 --> 00:14:19.360 Deuteronomy 3.16 records God's message to his people. 00:14:19.839 --> 00:14:22.159 Just before they entered the promised land, we read, 00:14:22.659 --> 00:14:23.259 The Lord said, 00:14:23.259 --> 00:14:24.579 Be strong and courageous. 00:14:24.759 --> 00:14:29.419 Do not let fear or be in dread of them. 00:14:29.519 --> 00:14:32.559 For it is the Lord your God who goes forth with you. 00:14:32.899 --> 00:14:36.019 He will not leave you or forsake you. 00:14:37.539 --> 00:14:44.059 God's promise of keeping his people safe on long, dangerous journeys is not 99.2%. 00:14:44.059 --> 00:14:46.139 It's 100%. 00:14:46.139 --> 00:14:49.459 They have got concrete evidence. 00:14:49.460 --> 00:14:53.100 And that's true for them then. 00:14:53.500 --> 00:14:58.180 And if you're a Christian here today, his promise is the same for you too. 00:14:59.980 --> 00:15:01.080 And so I ask the question, 00:15:01.360 --> 00:15:08.560 Do you put your faith 100% into God's perfect promise to keep you safe? 00:15:08.559 --> 00:15:15.699 We've seen that you're kept by promises. 00:15:18.179 --> 00:15:20.479 Let's move on to our second big point here, 00:15:20.539 --> 00:15:23.979 that you are kept by personal protection. 00:15:25.039 --> 00:15:28.759 And now over and over again, the Lord is portrayed as a very personal guardian. 00:15:29.199 --> 00:15:30.739 We see it here again in verse 5. 00:15:30.740 --> 00:15:35.960 The Lord is your keeper, and the Lord is your shade on your right hand. 00:15:38.279 --> 00:15:43.680 If you want to jump to Exodus 13, 21-22. 00:15:43.679 --> 00:15:51.000 It's going to read different because I have the ESV, so I hope it doesn't trip you up. 00:15:52.000 --> 00:15:54.939 Let me read Exodus 13, 21-22. 00:15:55.059 --> 00:16:02.819 And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, 00:16:02.820 --> 00:16:09.980 and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light that they might travel by day and by night. 00:16:10.720 --> 00:16:16.420 The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people. 00:16:18.460 --> 00:16:22.080 Again, the psalm cast its first hearers back to God, 00:16:22.180 --> 00:16:25.140 keeping their ancestors shaded from the sun in the day 00:16:25.140 --> 00:16:30.560 and warm as they trek through the desert at night on their way to the promised land. 00:16:30.559 --> 00:16:36.459 We get this combined image of the Lord being shade from natural elements, 00:16:36.799 --> 00:16:43.979 but also that he's on your right hand as the perfect secret service agent, 00:16:44.119 --> 00:16:47.279 that perfect God who's just right there. 00:16:48.019 --> 00:16:51.479 I love how this metaphor resonates with the personal nature of the Lord's protection. 00:16:51.959 --> 00:16:56.799 You have to be intimately close to someone to provide shade for them. 00:16:57.579 --> 00:16:59.199 It's not a faraway job. 00:16:59.200 --> 00:17:00.900 You have to get up close. 00:17:02.020 --> 00:17:05.240 The sun in Israel near Mount Zion can get up to about 40 degrees. 00:17:06.759 --> 00:17:10.740 So we get this idea that the sun, which is hot enough to burn the Israelite skin, 00:17:12.019 --> 00:17:17.120 they will be kept from that harm by the Lord who will stand between them and it. 00:17:17.279 --> 00:17:18.799 And that's wonderful to think of. 00:17:20.500 --> 00:17:23.920 And through this psalm, the Lord wants you to put your trust in him, 00:17:23.920 --> 00:17:31.440 to understand that he is your companion throughout all the ups and all the downs of your life. 00:17:33.940 --> 00:17:35.960 If you find yourself in hot spots, 00:17:35.960 --> 00:17:44.100 where the enemy makes the temperature of your life unbearably painful or stressful or scary, 00:17:45.779 --> 00:17:49.860 then the Lord is there personally providing shade for you. 00:17:52.360 --> 00:17:56.960 Shade so you can fight on continuously in his strength rather than your own. 00:17:56.960 --> 00:18:06.640 That same personal protection and warmth of the Lord for the Israelites in the wilderness is still there for us today. 00:18:06.640 --> 00:18:11.220 And it's for anyone who will embrace him. 00:18:13.800 --> 00:18:15.759 Reach out to the Lord through his word. 00:18:16.860 --> 00:18:20.320 Be warmed by him in your struggles. 00:18:20.319 --> 00:18:25.779 As someone who has struggled with addiction in the past, 00:18:25.819 --> 00:18:30.079 it's the cold hand of Satan that tries to creep into my heart, 00:18:30.700 --> 00:18:35.179 creep into my mind and tries to tempt me to turn the temperature down on my love for the Lord. 00:18:36.159 --> 00:18:41.259 It's at those points that I have to recognize that it can only be pushed away and fought off 00:18:41.259 --> 00:18:44.819 with my portable, handy Bible-shaped heater 00:18:44.819 --> 00:18:47.659 that just falls me out, warms me up 00:18:47.660 --> 00:18:50.840 through the taking in of his words. 00:18:52.800 --> 00:18:55.120 Indeed, those who have given their life to the Lord, 00:18:56.380 --> 00:19:00.720 they have the Holy Spirit and the flame of the Lord living and ignited inside themselves. 00:19:01.660 --> 00:19:07.100 You can rest knowing that God will protect you from the cold, cold hand of evil. 00:19:07.940 --> 00:19:08.940 I think that's wonderful. 00:19:11.320 --> 00:19:13.360 The Lord's protection is constant. 00:19:13.580 --> 00:19:14.500 He's ever vigilant. 00:19:14.500 --> 00:19:17.740 The Lord protects from all kinds of dangers 00:19:17.740 --> 00:19:21.519 that the enemy tries to throw at you throughout the day, 00:19:21.799 --> 00:19:23.140 throughout the night, throughout the week. 00:19:24.319 --> 00:19:25.660 Maybe you're going through illness. 00:19:27.559 --> 00:19:32.519 Maybe you're having a battle with a hidden disease 00:19:32.519 --> 00:19:35.420 or a very, very painful experience 00:19:35.420 --> 00:19:38.680 that you just can't seem to get anyone to understand. 00:19:38.680 --> 00:19:44.620 Just know that the Lord is with you every step of the way. 00:19:45.039 --> 00:19:46.519 He's not forgotten you. 00:19:47.220 --> 00:19:49.980 He's keeping your soul safe for eternity. 00:19:51.160 --> 00:19:52.700 Even when you stand on the Lego. 00:19:55.039 --> 00:19:56.900 Which leads me to my final point. 00:19:58.259 --> 00:20:00.600 You are kept permanently. 00:20:00.599 --> 00:20:03.939 Verse 7 and 8 reads, 00:20:03.839 --> 00:20:07.559 The Lord will keep you from all evil. 00:20:07.679 --> 00:20:09.399 He will keep your life. 00:20:11.099 --> 00:20:13.039 The Lord will keep your going out. 00:20:13.659 --> 00:20:18.199 And you're coming in from this time forth and forevermore. 00:20:18.200 --> 00:20:21.940 And this is, once again, why I like the ASV translation, 00:20:22.080 --> 00:20:23.279 the literal translation here. 00:20:23.880 --> 00:20:27.500 Notice the subtle change in the last part of this psalm. 00:20:27.940 --> 00:20:31.880 The psalmist switches now from present tense to future tense. 00:20:32.720 --> 00:20:33.680 And instead of, 00:20:33.799 --> 00:20:34.880 The Lord is your keeper. 00:20:34.940 --> 00:20:35.319 He says, 00:20:35.400 --> 00:20:37.080 The Lord will keep. 00:20:38.860 --> 00:20:43.279 Now he's looking to the future with 100% confidence. 00:20:44.059 --> 00:20:45.140 As I mentioned at the beginning, 00:20:45.140 --> 00:20:48.300 It's here that we see Psalm 121 00:20:48.300 --> 00:20:52.100 Start to foreshadow the promises that are filled in the Lord Jesus. 00:20:54.220 --> 00:20:55.640 We get these free quick, 00:20:55.759 --> 00:20:57.500 The Lord will keep statements. 00:20:57.860 --> 00:20:58.560 In verse 7 and 8. 00:20:58.600 --> 00:20:59.520 So let's look at the first one. 00:20:59.580 --> 00:21:01.580 The Lord will keep you from all evil. 00:21:02.860 --> 00:21:03.560 As I said before, 00:21:03.640 --> 00:21:04.620 The more accurate translation, 00:21:04.940 --> 00:21:06.140 Ultimate evil. 00:21:08.480 --> 00:21:11.300 Literally from all possible kinds of evil, 00:21:11.420 --> 00:21:12.400 Satan can throw at you. 00:21:13.280 --> 00:21:15.120 I think it's important to remind ourselves again, 00:21:15.140 --> 00:21:19.300 That this is not saying that the Israelites will not face troubles and pain. 00:21:19.420 --> 00:21:21.220 It's so easy for us to fall into that thinking. 00:21:22.040 --> 00:21:23.200 Things are going wrong, Lord. 00:21:23.220 --> 00:21:23.800 Where have you gone? 00:21:25.420 --> 00:21:27.780 It's not saying we won't face trouble and pain. 00:21:27.860 --> 00:21:32.560 I'm sure if we could grab one of these early travelers to the temple and ask them, 00:21:32.920 --> 00:21:33.460 You know, 00:21:33.640 --> 00:21:35.160 Did you have a bad trip? 00:21:35.259 --> 00:21:36.280 Any danger or dread? 00:21:36.900 --> 00:21:37.940 You could take a few nicks. 00:21:38.660 --> 00:21:40.240 One guy's trying to take my arm off. 00:21:40.240 --> 00:21:41.160 Like, 00:21:41.200 --> 00:21:44.259 It's not the case that there's going to be easy walking. 00:21:45.059 --> 00:21:45.740 No, instead, 00:21:46.579 --> 00:21:52.599 This is talking about keeping true followers of the Lord from all attacks from the evil one. 00:21:53.539 --> 00:21:54.859 We read in John's gospel, 00:21:55.400 --> 00:21:59.740 Of the Lord Jesus praying to his father for protection for his followers. 00:21:59.740 --> 00:22:02.160 Chapter 17, verse 15. 00:22:02.299 --> 00:22:02.400 He says, 00:22:02.460 --> 00:22:04.779 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, 00:22:04.779 --> 00:22:08.240 But that you keep them from the evil one. 00:22:10.579 --> 00:22:11.460 So to the Christian, 00:22:12.240 --> 00:22:15.839 Do you trust your Lord and Keeper? 00:22:16.839 --> 00:22:18.200 To the non-Christian, 00:22:20.019 --> 00:22:23.359 Who is your Lord and Keeper? 00:22:27.160 --> 00:22:27.879 The second, 00:22:28.019 --> 00:22:29.819 The Lord will keep your life. 00:22:30.839 --> 00:22:31.660 For the Israelites, 00:22:32.000 --> 00:22:33.779 Who are faithful to the Lord, 00:22:33.779 --> 00:22:39.460 Their promise that no one can take them from he who keeps them. 00:22:41.799 --> 00:22:43.680 In Deuteronomy 7, verse 9, 00:22:43.740 --> 00:22:44.019 It says, 00:22:44.259 --> 00:22:44.759 God, therefore, 00:22:45.319 --> 00:22:46.180 I shall know, therefore, 00:22:46.279 --> 00:22:46.940 That the Lord, 00:22:47.319 --> 00:22:47.940 Your God, 00:22:48.019 --> 00:22:48.619 Is God, 00:22:48.700 --> 00:22:49.660 The faithful God, 00:22:49.720 --> 00:22:54.099 Who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him, 00:22:54.460 --> 00:22:55.579 And keep his commandments. 00:22:56.240 --> 00:22:58.160 To a thousand generations. 00:22:59.519 --> 00:23:02.660 A thousand in the Bible means forever. 00:23:02.660 --> 00:23:04.080 Such a ridiculous number. 00:23:05.200 --> 00:23:06.320 Definitely includes us. 00:23:06.420 --> 00:23:06.740 Don't worry. 00:23:07.540 --> 00:23:08.019 We're in. 00:23:09.220 --> 00:23:13.560 The psalmist affirms that the Lord has long promised to protect those faithful to him, 00:23:13.620 --> 00:23:15.940 And finds its fulfillment too, 00:23:16.740 --> 00:23:18.120 In our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:23:18.320 --> 00:23:19.440 We see it in John 17, 00:23:20.019 --> 00:23:20.920 When he says, 00:23:20.980 --> 00:23:21.519 Holy Father, 00:23:21.680 --> 00:23:22.800 Keep them in your name, 00:23:23.480 --> 00:23:24.519 Which you have given me, 00:23:24.519 --> 00:23:26.579 That they may be one, 00:23:26.619 --> 00:23:27.599 Even as we are one. 00:23:28.599 --> 00:23:29.400 And to the Christian, 00:23:30.519 --> 00:23:32.400 Do you trust your Lord and keeper? 00:23:34.539 --> 00:23:35.759 To the non-Christian, 00:23:37.259 --> 00:23:38.299 I respectfully ask, 00:23:38.440 --> 00:23:42.119 Who is your helper? 00:23:42.119 --> 00:23:45.399 And finally, 00:23:45.859 --> 00:23:46.419 Verse 8, 00:23:47.939 --> 00:23:48.859 My favorite verse, 00:23:48.939 --> 00:23:50.739 The Lord will keep your going out, 00:23:50.799 --> 00:23:51.619 And your coming in, 00:23:51.639 --> 00:23:52.759 From this time forth, 00:23:53.299 --> 00:23:54.239 And forevermore. 00:23:54.939 --> 00:23:56.399 Notice it doesn't say, 00:23:57.000 --> 00:23:58.099 You're coming in, 00:23:58.359 --> 00:23:59.439 And going out. 00:24:00.099 --> 00:24:01.619 Let me use you all as an illustration. 00:24:03.819 --> 00:24:05.079 You're all inside. 00:24:06.459 --> 00:24:08.139 That means you have to go out now. 00:24:08.140 --> 00:24:11.480 It says you're going out, 00:24:11.620 --> 00:24:12.560 And coming in. 00:24:13.400 --> 00:24:14.740 The prayer in this psalm, 00:24:14.800 --> 00:24:15.300 From the beginning, 00:24:15.440 --> 00:24:16.200 Is the Lord, 00:24:16.620 --> 00:24:18.120 Is going to bring the whole of his people, 00:24:18.220 --> 00:24:18.860 Body and soul, 00:24:18.980 --> 00:24:21.520 Safely to his presence at the temple. 00:24:21.900 --> 00:24:22.740 But verse 8 declares, 00:24:22.860 --> 00:24:24.259 That the Lord's already got them there. 00:24:25.740 --> 00:24:26.600 You can only go out, 00:24:26.620 --> 00:24:27.600 If you first come in. 00:24:28.759 --> 00:24:29.660 It's wonderful. 00:24:29.960 --> 00:24:31.120 The Lord is so sure, 00:24:31.180 --> 00:24:33.340 He's going to get his people home safely, 00:24:33.440 --> 00:24:34.880 That when he talks about the future, 00:24:35.500 --> 00:24:36.820 It's not they're coming in, 00:24:36.820 --> 00:24:37.900 But they're going out. 00:24:38.140 --> 00:24:41.040 And what they're going to do next, 00:24:41.540 --> 00:24:44.020 You're going out, 00:24:44.320 --> 00:24:45.120 And coming in. 00:24:45.900 --> 00:24:46.960 And so for you and me, 00:24:47.020 --> 00:24:48.220 Who put our faith in the Lord, 00:24:48.280 --> 00:24:48.700 He's saying, 00:24:48.780 --> 00:24:50.240 He will really get you home. 00:24:52.060 --> 00:24:53.640 You will arrive one day, 00:24:53.780 --> 00:24:54.620 Body and soul, 00:24:55.240 --> 00:24:56.420 In the presence of Christ, 00:24:56.500 --> 00:24:57.300 When he returns. 00:24:57.900 --> 00:24:59.020 It's a done deal. 00:25:00.900 --> 00:25:02.780 And when you arrive, 00:25:02.880 --> 00:25:04.259 You will never have to leave again. 00:25:04.860 --> 00:25:06.000 Never have to deal with pain, 00:25:06.000 --> 00:25:06.540 Or illness, 00:25:06.680 --> 00:25:07.240 Or sadness. 00:25:08.140 --> 00:25:09.140 Or temptation, 00:25:09.320 --> 00:25:09.980 Or despair, 00:25:10.700 --> 00:25:11.360 Or frustration, 00:25:11.960 --> 00:25:13.060 Ever again. 00:25:13.059 --> 00:25:16.839 This eternal life insurance, 00:25:16.940 --> 00:25:18.460 Is 100% guaranteed. 00:25:19.460 --> 00:25:20.659 And it's underwritten, 00:25:20.779 --> 00:25:22.179 By our Lord Jesus. 00:25:23.879 --> 00:25:24.980 So to the Christian, 00:25:25.619 --> 00:25:26.879 Do you trust, 00:25:27.700 --> 00:25:28.679 Your Lord and keeper? 00:25:31.679 --> 00:25:32.240 Quickly, 00:25:32.460 --> 00:25:33.579 We fall into believing, 00:25:33.779 --> 00:25:35.379 That God has forgotten about us, 00:25:35.379 --> 00:25:37.200 At the first sign of peril. 00:25:37.200 --> 00:25:38.779 Such is our nature, 00:25:38.779 --> 00:25:40.000 To harden our hearts, 00:25:40.480 --> 00:25:42.420 To the truly powerful fact, 00:25:42.500 --> 00:25:43.779 Is that the Lord is your keeper. 00:25:43.880 --> 00:25:45.160 We're just so quick, 00:25:45.259 --> 00:25:46.380 To just cold, 00:25:46.519 --> 00:25:46.720 And get, 00:25:47.100 --> 00:25:48.120 Where are you? 00:25:48.519 --> 00:25:49.900 The minute something goes wrong. 00:25:49.900 --> 00:25:52.900 Old Testament scholar, 00:25:52.900 --> 00:25:53.620 Bruce Watke, 00:25:53.620 --> 00:25:55.080 He says, 00:25:55.140 --> 00:25:56.740 And the tendency is to forget this fact, 00:25:57.220 --> 00:25:58.120 In his psalm commentary, 00:25:58.280 --> 00:25:58.400 He says, 00:25:58.460 --> 00:25:59.180 On the contrary, 00:25:59.420 --> 00:26:01.040 Even when we seem to have 00:26:01.040 --> 00:26:02.120 Largely experienced 00:26:02.120 --> 00:26:03.660 What this protection of God implies, 00:26:04.220 --> 00:26:05.640 We yet instantly tremble 00:26:05.640 --> 00:26:06.519 At the noise of a leaf 00:26:06.519 --> 00:26:07.519 Falling from a tree, 00:26:08.080 --> 00:26:09.700 As if God has quite forgotten us. 00:26:10.620 --> 00:26:11.480 Being then entangled 00:26:11.480 --> 00:26:13.200 In so many unholy misgivings, 00:26:13.280 --> 00:26:14.860 And so much inclined to trust, 00:26:15.420 --> 00:26:16.780 We are taught from the passage 00:26:16.780 --> 00:26:18.140 That if a sentence 00:26:18.140 --> 00:26:19.120 Couch in a few words 00:26:19.120 --> 00:26:20.300 Does not suffice us, 00:26:20.780 --> 00:26:21.740 We should gather together 00:26:21.740 --> 00:26:22.820 Whatever may be found 00:26:22.820 --> 00:26:24.060 Throughout the whole scriptures 00:26:24.060 --> 00:26:25.720 Concerning the providence of God, 00:26:26.200 --> 00:26:27.440 Until this doctrine, 00:26:28.240 --> 00:26:30.740 That God always keeps watch for us, 00:26:31.400 --> 00:26:33.480 Is deeply rooted in our hearts, 00:26:33.840 --> 00:26:35.100 So that depending upon 00:26:35.100 --> 00:26:36.040 His guardianship alone, 00:26:36.120 --> 00:26:37.040 We may bid adieu 00:26:37.040 --> 00:26:39.100 To all vain confidences 00:26:39.100 --> 00:26:39.860 In the world. 00:26:41.360 --> 00:26:42.160 Fellow Christians, 00:26:42.420 --> 00:26:44.600 Confidently put your trust 00:26:44.600 --> 00:26:45.280 In the Lord. 00:26:47.060 --> 00:26:48.040 He will keep you safe 00:26:48.039 --> 00:26:48.940 From harm 00:26:48.940 --> 00:26:51.200 And evil today, 00:26:52.099 --> 00:26:52.480 Tomorrow, 00:26:53.259 --> 00:26:53.619 And for 00:26:53.619 --> 00:26:55.480 Whole eternity. 00:26:55.799 --> 00:26:56.700 It is impossible 00:26:56.700 --> 00:26:58.039 For him not to. 00:26:59.399 --> 00:27:00.680 If you're not a Christian, 00:27:01.720 --> 00:27:03.019 Or you've not put your trust 00:27:03.019 --> 00:27:03.960 In Jesus yet, 00:27:05.220 --> 00:27:06.920 I'm so happy you're here. 00:27:08.059 --> 00:27:09.579 I would respectfully ask 00:27:09.579 --> 00:27:10.099 Once again, 00:27:10.200 --> 00:27:10.859 Who's your helper? 00:27:13.099 --> 00:27:14.480 When things get hard, 00:27:15.579 --> 00:27:16.259 Think back 00:27:16.259 --> 00:27:18.660 To a time of deep despair. 00:27:19.859 --> 00:27:21.440 If I asked everyone in this room, 00:27:22.039 --> 00:27:23.460 Was there a time when you were just 00:27:23.460 --> 00:27:25.180 So stuck and lonely, 00:27:25.720 --> 00:27:26.720 Or just in despair? 00:27:26.799 --> 00:27:27.640 There's not a single hand 00:27:27.640 --> 00:27:28.400 That wouldn't go up. 00:27:30.359 --> 00:27:31.500 Think back to that time 00:27:31.500 --> 00:27:32.680 When no one understood you, 00:27:32.920 --> 00:27:34.059 Or could protect your soul 00:27:34.059 --> 00:27:34.839 From the darkness 00:27:34.839 --> 00:27:36.240 That was just surrounding you. 00:27:37.660 --> 00:27:38.559 Maybe you received 00:27:38.559 --> 00:27:39.519 Some terrifying news 00:27:39.519 --> 00:27:39.940 From the doctor. 00:27:40.059 --> 00:27:41.940 Maybe a once trusted relationship 00:27:41.940 --> 00:27:42.539 Is shattered. 00:27:42.539 --> 00:27:44.059 Maybe you feel 00:27:44.059 --> 00:27:45.279 Wounded and lost 00:27:45.279 --> 00:27:45.960 From a friendship 00:27:45.960 --> 00:27:46.980 And a trust betrayed. 00:27:47.799 --> 00:27:48.960 Maybe you're battling addiction 00:27:48.960 --> 00:27:50.339 Or you're longing for someone 00:27:50.339 --> 00:27:51.920 To truly see 00:27:51.920 --> 00:27:53.599 And heal your brokenness. 00:27:53.819 --> 00:27:54.700 I don't know what it is 00:27:54.700 --> 00:27:55.099 You do. 00:27:56.619 --> 00:27:58.019 Christians and non-Christians alike 00:27:58.019 --> 00:27:59.000 Are going to suffer physically 00:27:59.000 --> 00:27:59.779 In this world. 00:28:00.339 --> 00:28:01.019 Sooner or later 00:28:01.019 --> 00:28:01.740 It's going to happen. 00:28:01.899 --> 00:28:02.960 Nobody is immune. 00:28:03.639 --> 00:28:05.099 Whether it's from injury, 00:28:05.240 --> 00:28:05.659 Accident, 00:28:06.299 --> 00:28:07.480 Untimely disease, 00:28:07.839 --> 00:28:09.099 Or age-related disorders, 00:28:09.240 --> 00:28:10.099 It is impossible. 00:28:10.099 --> 00:28:11.779 The question is 00:28:11.779 --> 00:28:13.199 Who else 00:28:13.199 --> 00:28:14.519 Are you going 00:28:14.519 --> 00:28:15.819 To go to 00:28:15.819 --> 00:28:16.579 For protection 00:28:16.579 --> 00:28:18.279 Of your soul? 00:28:19.199 --> 00:28:20.159 Because the last time 00:28:20.159 --> 00:28:20.539 I checked 00:28:20.539 --> 00:28:21.500 The Secret Service 00:28:21.500 --> 00:28:22.399 Were not in the business 00:28:22.399 --> 00:28:23.240 Of saving souls. 00:28:24.279 --> 00:28:25.199 Just bodies. 00:28:27.859 --> 00:28:29.039 99.2 00:28:29.039 --> 00:28:29.559 Impressive. 00:28:30.619 --> 00:28:31.779 But it drops to 0% 00:28:31.779 --> 00:28:32.459 When it comes to 00:28:32.459 --> 00:28:33.240 Protecting souls. 00:28:33.879 --> 00:28:35.219 That's the Lord's business. 00:28:35.740 --> 00:28:36.740 He has no competition. 00:28:36.740 --> 00:28:39.539 And so 00:28:39.539 --> 00:28:42.539 To finish 00:28:42.539 --> 00:28:44.240 Let's look at this psalm 00:28:44.240 --> 00:28:45.819 If it was written 00:28:45.819 --> 00:28:46.539 From someone 00:28:46.539 --> 00:28:48.380 Who says 00:28:48.380 --> 00:28:49.259 There's no God 00:28:49.259 --> 00:28:51.900 I lift my eyes 00:28:51.900 --> 00:28:52.640 To the hills 00:28:52.640 --> 00:28:54.000 Where does my help 00:28:54.000 --> 00:28:54.519 Come from? 00:28:56.000 --> 00:28:57.160 No help is coming. 00:28:58.640 --> 00:28:59.779 I'm on my own. 00:29:01.460 --> 00:29:02.200 Verse 3 00:29:02.200 --> 00:29:03.559 My feet are slipping 00:29:03.559 --> 00:29:05.140 And sliding 00:29:05.140 --> 00:29:06.180 All over the place. 00:29:06.180 --> 00:29:08.440 Nobody is there 00:29:08.440 --> 00:29:09.440 To keep me steady. 00:29:10.440 --> 00:29:11.720 Nobody is awake 00:29:11.720 --> 00:29:12.460 To help me. 00:29:13.759 --> 00:29:15.120 Nobody is my keeper. 00:29:16.340 --> 00:29:17.660 The sun burns me 00:29:17.660 --> 00:29:18.180 By day 00:29:18.180 --> 00:29:20.120 And the moon 00:29:20.120 --> 00:29:21.080 Leaves me cold 00:29:21.080 --> 00:29:21.759 At night. 00:29:23.440 --> 00:29:24.900 Nobody will protect me 00:29:24.900 --> 00:29:25.820 From the evil 00:29:25.820 --> 00:29:27.560 Attacking my soul. 00:29:28.140 --> 00:29:29.519 And I don't think 00:29:29.519 --> 00:29:30.820 I'm going to make it. 00:29:33.400 --> 00:29:35.180 Nobody keeps my life safe. 00:29:35.180 --> 00:29:37.680 Nobody keeps my soul 00:29:37.680 --> 00:29:38.640 Safe in eternity. 00:29:41.440 --> 00:29:42.320 Now I don't know 00:29:42.320 --> 00:29:42.779 About you 00:29:42.779 --> 00:29:43.620 But I consider that 00:29:43.620 --> 00:29:44.580 To be an incredibly 00:29:44.580 --> 00:29:46.140 Scary and sobering version. 00:29:47.140 --> 00:29:47.580 And I don't 00:29:47.580 --> 00:29:49.080 Really like it very much. 00:29:49.120 --> 00:29:49.720 So let's go back 00:29:49.720 --> 00:29:50.340 To the original. 00:29:52.279 --> 00:29:53.299 The journey of life 00:29:53.299 --> 00:29:54.420 Is long and dangerous. 00:29:54.620 --> 00:29:55.580 Evil comes from 00:29:55.580 --> 00:29:56.600 All directions. 00:29:56.759 --> 00:29:57.299 Taking chips 00:29:57.299 --> 00:29:58.060 Out of your heart. 00:29:59.400 --> 00:30:00.440 Tempting us to give up 00:30:00.440 --> 00:30:01.000 And to give in. 00:30:01.000 --> 00:30:01.980 But here is the 00:30:01.980 --> 00:30:02.980 Amazing claim 00:30:02.980 --> 00:30:04.740 That the Bible makes. 00:30:05.380 --> 00:30:05.880 Is that God 00:30:05.880 --> 00:30:06.799 Became flesh 00:30:06.799 --> 00:30:08.480 And dwelt 00:30:08.480 --> 00:30:09.200 Among us 00:30:09.200 --> 00:30:10.039 In the Lord Jesus. 00:30:11.299 --> 00:30:12.420 Jesus Christ 00:30:12.420 --> 00:30:13.519 Fully God 00:30:13.519 --> 00:30:14.900 Humbling himself 00:30:14.900 --> 00:30:16.599 Becomes fully human. 00:30:18.400 --> 00:30:19.680 So we see this 00:30:19.680 --> 00:30:21.460 In here 00:30:21.460 --> 00:30:22.140 Jesus Christ 00:30:22.140 --> 00:30:23.019 Is the example 00:30:23.019 --> 00:30:24.759 Of the perfect pilgrim 00:30:24.759 --> 00:30:26.460 On a dangerous journey. 00:30:26.460 --> 00:30:28.460 There's nobody 00:30:28.460 --> 00:30:30.039 Who's travelled further 00:30:30.039 --> 00:30:30.640 From home 00:30:30.640 --> 00:30:32.299 Than the Lord Jesus. 00:30:34.299 --> 00:30:36.140 Jesus is the perfect pilgrim 00:30:36.140 --> 00:30:37.880 Who put his full trust 00:30:37.880 --> 00:30:38.519 In his father 00:30:38.519 --> 00:30:40.000 On his dangerous journey. 00:30:40.799 --> 00:30:41.960 From infancy 00:30:41.960 --> 00:30:44.059 To 00:30:44.059 --> 00:30:45.160 Being 00:30:45.160 --> 00:30:46.860 Hunted down 00:30:46.860 --> 00:30:47.660 By a king 00:30:47.660 --> 00:30:50.360 To his childhood 00:30:50.359 --> 00:30:52.740 To his short time 00:30:52.740 --> 00:30:53.179 Preaching 00:30:53.179 --> 00:30:53.740 And healing 00:30:53.740 --> 00:30:54.779 The lost 00:30:54.779 --> 00:30:55.279 And teaching 00:30:55.279 --> 00:30:56.119 That salvation 00:30:56.119 --> 00:30:56.859 Comes 00:30:56.859 --> 00:30:58.959 By turning to him 00:30:58.959 --> 00:30:59.459 In repentance 00:30:59.459 --> 00:31:00.119 And faith. 00:31:01.000 --> 00:31:01.579 His enemies 00:31:01.579 --> 00:31:02.399 Were everywhere 00:31:02.399 --> 00:31:04.139 But his trust 00:31:04.139 --> 00:31:05.679 Was in his father 00:31:05.679 --> 00:31:06.819 To keep him safe 00:31:06.819 --> 00:31:07.500 On his 00:31:07.500 --> 00:31:08.899 Earthly journey 00:31:08.899 --> 00:31:10.399 To complete his mission 00:31:10.399 --> 00:31:13.159 Which he did perfectly. 00:31:14.599 --> 00:31:15.459 Even when he was 00:31:15.459 --> 00:31:16.339 Betrayed by a friend 00:31:16.339 --> 00:31:17.959 Even when he was 00:31:17.959 --> 00:31:19.199 Beaten and put on a cross 00:31:19.200 --> 00:31:22.840 He knew his father's will 00:31:22.840 --> 00:31:25.460 He knew it was being done 00:31:25.460 --> 00:31:26.840 Sovereignly 00:31:26.840 --> 00:31:28.100 And in control 00:31:28.100 --> 00:31:29.400 Of his life 00:31:29.400 --> 00:31:30.740 Throughout all the pain 00:31:30.740 --> 00:31:31.660 His crucifixion 00:31:31.660 --> 00:31:32.299 And resurrection 00:31:32.299 --> 00:31:34.019 Was the defeat 00:31:34.019 --> 00:31:35.440 Of the ultimate enemy 00:31:35.440 --> 00:31:38.759 Defeating death itself 00:31:38.759 --> 00:31:40.539 He was brought 00:31:40.539 --> 00:31:41.400 Safely home 00:31:41.400 --> 00:31:42.019 To the father 00:31:42.019 --> 00:31:44.039 Who kept him safe 00:31:44.039 --> 00:31:44.720 Here on earth 00:31:44.720 --> 00:31:45.660 Not in the way 00:31:45.660 --> 00:31:46.600 We think safe is 00:31:46.599 --> 00:31:50.240 And now his father 00:31:50.240 --> 00:31:51.519 And him 00:31:51.519 --> 00:31:53.119 Are reunited 00:31:53.119 --> 00:31:53.899 As he stands 00:31:53.899 --> 00:31:55.159 And sits at the right hand 00:31:55.159 --> 00:31:55.480 Of him 00:31:55.480 --> 00:31:56.439 Ever watchful 00:31:56.439 --> 00:31:57.519 Over us 00:31:57.519 --> 00:31:59.419 Perfectly and personally 00:31:59.419 --> 00:32:00.959 Keeping anyone 00:32:00.959 --> 00:32:02.019 Who puts his faith 00:32:02.019 --> 00:32:02.519 In him 00:32:02.519 --> 00:32:05.599 Only the Lord Jesus 00:32:05.599 --> 00:32:06.240 Can give you 00:32:06.240 --> 00:32:07.159 That 100% 00:32:07.159 --> 00:32:08.459 Perfect personal protection 00:32:08.459 --> 00:32:09.859 For your life 00:32:09.859 --> 00:32:10.339 And soul 00:32:10.339 --> 00:32:12.559 And if there's 00:32:12.559 --> 00:32:13.199 Any truth 00:32:13.199 --> 00:32:13.899 In what you've heard 00:32:13.899 --> 00:32:14.459 Isn't it worth 00:32:14.459 --> 00:32:14.899 Spending 00:32:14.900 --> 00:32:16.040 Some time looking 00:32:16.040 --> 00:32:16.580 Into him 00:32:16.580 --> 00:32:19.019 Spending some more time 00:32:19.019 --> 00:32:19.900 Getting to know him 00:32:19.900 --> 00:32:22.860 You speak to me 00:32:22.860 --> 00:32:24.280 Other members of the church 00:32:24.280 --> 00:32:24.920 After the service 00:32:24.920 --> 00:32:25.720 You can go straight 00:32:25.720 --> 00:32:26.759 To the Lord Jesus 00:32:26.759 --> 00:32:27.240 In prayer 00:32:27.240 --> 00:32:27.940 You can do it today 00:32:27.940 --> 00:32:28.900 You can do it right now 00:32:28.900 --> 00:32:31.320 The amazing truth 00:32:31.320 --> 00:32:32.160 Of the gospel is this 00:32:32.160 --> 00:32:33.080 If you are truly sorry 00:32:33.080 --> 00:32:33.980 For the things you've done 00:32:33.980 --> 00:32:37.400 That the pain 00:32:37.400 --> 00:32:37.900 You've caused 00:32:37.900 --> 00:32:39.740 To others yourself 00:32:39.740 --> 00:32:42.080 Recognize that your creator 00:32:42.080 --> 00:32:43.040 Is the chief one 00:32:43.040 --> 00:32:43.560 You've offended 00:32:43.559 --> 00:32:45.460 Then you can humbly 00:32:45.460 --> 00:32:46.159 Ask for forgiveness 00:32:46.159 --> 00:32:47.259 And he's just so gracious 00:32:47.259 --> 00:32:47.859 To forgive 00:32:47.859 --> 00:32:49.240 So quick 00:32:49.240 --> 00:32:51.220 He will then keep you safe 00:32:51.220 --> 00:32:52.139 From all evil 00:32:52.139 --> 00:32:52.980 Today 00:32:52.980 --> 00:32:53.519 Tomorrow 00:32:53.519 --> 00:32:55.460 And into eternity 00:32:55.460 --> 00:32:58.539 As the band 00:32:58.539 --> 00:32:59.240 Come back up 00:32:59.240 --> 00:32:59.799 Let's pray 00:32:59.799 --> 00:33:03.720 Heavenly Father 00:33:03.720 --> 00:33:04.500 We thank you for 00:33:04.500 --> 00:33:06.500 This psalm 00:33:06.500 --> 00:33:06.720 Lord 00:33:06.720 --> 00:33:07.319 We thank you for the 00:33:07.319 --> 00:33:08.179 Encouragement of knowing 00:33:08.179 --> 00:33:09.200 That you are our keeper 00:33:09.200 --> 00:33:11.259 You are the Lord 00:33:11.259 --> 00:33:12.799 Who keeps us from all evil 00:33:12.799 --> 00:33:13.819 From ultimate evil 00:33:13.819 --> 00:33:16.700 Help us Lord 00:33:16.700 --> 00:33:17.700 To take the message 00:33:17.700 --> 00:33:19.160 That you Lord 00:33:19.160 --> 00:33:20.600 Will keep us from 00:33:20.600 --> 00:33:22.080 All harm and evil 00:33:22.080 --> 00:33:22.759 From today 00:33:22.759 --> 00:33:23.140 Tomorrow 00:33:23.140 --> 00:33:23.880 And eternity 00:33:23.880 --> 00:33:25.400 Help us take that 00:33:25.400 --> 00:33:26.160 Into our heart 00:33:26.160 --> 00:33:27.860 And help us turn 00:33:27.860 --> 00:33:28.640 To our friends 00:33:28.640 --> 00:33:29.100 Family 00:33:29.100 --> 00:33:29.799 Neighbors 00:33:29.799 --> 00:33:32.100 And help them see 00:33:32.100 --> 00:33:33.100 That their help 00:33:33.100 --> 00:33:34.180 Can only be 00:33:34.180 --> 00:33:35.500 In the Lord Jesus 00:33:35.500 --> 00:33:38.920 We thank you for our time 00:33:38.920 --> 00:33:39.680 Today together Lord 00:33:39.680 --> 00:33:40.460 And we pray all this 00:33:40.460 --> 00:33:40.839 In your 00:33:40.839 --> 00:33:43.000 Lord's name 00:33:43.000 --> 00:33:44.000 Jesus 00:33:44.000 --> 00:33:44.299 Amen 00:33:44.299 --> 00:33:46.669 Amen