WEBVTT 00:00:00.280 --> 00:00:03.459 Good to be with you this evening, swimming up the road from back. 00:00:03.960 --> 00:00:10.380 Interesting weather events going on still, but we're here to worship the Lord and may He bless us as we seek Him together. 00:00:10.480 --> 00:00:14.620 We'll begin our service by singing to His praise from Sing Psalms in Psalm 93. 00:00:15.080 --> 00:00:20.559 Psalm 93 in Sing Psalms, singing this Psalm together from the beginning. 00:00:20.699 --> 00:00:25.280 The Lord is King, His throne endures majestic in His height. 00:00:25.699 --> 00:00:28.960 The Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength and might. 00:00:28.960 --> 00:00:33.000 The world is founded, firm and sure, removed it cannot be. 00:00:33.380 --> 00:00:37.380 Your throne is strong and you are God from all eternity. 00:00:37.579 --> 00:00:40.359 The 93rd Psalm will stand and sing together. 00:00:40.359 --> 00:00:58.359 The Lord is King, His throne endures majestic in His height. 00:00:58.960 --> 00:01:14.960 The Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength and might. 00:01:14.959 --> 00:01:31.959 The world is founded, firm and sure, removed it cannot be. 00:01:31.959 --> 00:01:47.299 Your throne is strong and you are God from all eternity. 00:01:47.299 --> 00:02:17.280 The Lord is strong and you are God from all eternity. 00:02:17.300 --> 00:02:22.219 The mighty noise. 00:02:22.860 --> 00:02:31.480 The Lord enthroned the highest strong, 00:02:31.480 --> 00:02:38.580 more powerful is He. 00:02:38.580 --> 00:02:47.460 And thunder all the ocean's waves 00:02:47.460 --> 00:02:54.580 are breakers of the sea. 00:02:55.800 --> 00:03:04.480 Your royal statues, large and firm, 00:03:04.479 --> 00:03:11.699 and changing is your word. 00:03:12.060 --> 00:03:20.799 And holiness adorns your hearts 00:03:20.799 --> 00:03:28.699 for endless days, O Lord. 00:03:32.699 --> 00:03:34.199 We'll bow in prayer together. 00:03:34.479 --> 00:03:34.979 Amen. 00:03:38.719 --> 00:03:41.019 The Lord reigns. 00:03:41.639 --> 00:03:45.839 We express our joy and dependence 00:03:45.839 --> 00:03:48.259 as we sing these words towards you, 00:03:48.339 --> 00:03:49.500 our loving Heavenly Father. 00:03:49.599 --> 00:03:51.139 We acknowledge your greatness. 00:03:51.399 --> 00:03:52.579 We bow before you, 00:03:53.199 --> 00:03:55.339 contemplating in our hearts and minds 00:03:55.339 --> 00:03:57.659 the glory, the grace of God, 00:03:58.179 --> 00:03:59.620 conscious of your holiness, 00:04:00.639 --> 00:04:02.519 conscious of your sovereignty, 00:04:02.520 --> 00:04:04.740 conscious of your rule. 00:04:04.980 --> 00:04:07.620 Lord, how else can we do but bow before you? 00:04:08.300 --> 00:04:09.460 And so we would, Lord, 00:04:09.540 --> 00:04:12.680 empty ourselves of any sense of self-sufficiency 00:04:12.680 --> 00:04:17.460 or self-grandizement or self-sufficiency. 00:04:17.980 --> 00:04:19.460 Lord, keep us. 00:04:19.680 --> 00:04:21.500 Keep us from that road where we would think 00:04:21.500 --> 00:04:23.720 it is our gifts, our strength, 00:04:23.819 --> 00:04:26.160 our wisdom, and our plans that matter most 00:04:26.160 --> 00:04:28.320 when it is all of grace. 00:04:28.880 --> 00:04:31.180 For we are saved by grace and through faith, 00:04:31.240 --> 00:04:32.060 and that not of ourselves. 00:04:32.160 --> 00:04:33.340 It is the gift of God, 00:04:34.020 --> 00:04:35.400 lest any man should boast. 00:04:35.980 --> 00:04:37.980 So, Lord, we know in the kingdom 00:04:37.980 --> 00:04:39.940 there is no room for boasting. 00:04:40.520 --> 00:04:42.520 There is no status, 00:04:42.879 --> 00:04:43.580 no rank, 00:04:43.920 --> 00:04:44.920 no standing, 00:04:45.080 --> 00:04:48.020 other than being a child of God 00:04:48.019 --> 00:04:51.339 through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, 00:04:51.459 --> 00:04:52.039 your Son. 00:04:52.479 --> 00:04:53.719 And so we bless you, Lord, 00:04:53.779 --> 00:04:56.519 and praise you for that wonderful reality tonight, 00:04:56.939 --> 00:04:57.599 a reality, 00:04:57.899 --> 00:05:00.500 the light of which draws us here together this evening 00:05:00.500 --> 00:05:04.560 to extol the virtues of the living God, 00:05:05.079 --> 00:05:06.799 to sing praise toward you, 00:05:06.939 --> 00:05:08.219 conscious of who you are 00:05:08.219 --> 00:05:09.459 and what you have done for us 00:05:09.459 --> 00:05:10.899 in Christ, your Son. 00:05:11.240 --> 00:05:12.180 Conscious, Lord, 00:05:12.259 --> 00:05:13.060 of the forgiveness, 00:05:13.359 --> 00:05:14.139 full and free, 00:05:14.240 --> 00:05:15.439 that we find in him 00:05:15.439 --> 00:05:18.319 when we respond in that wonderful manner, 00:05:18.800 --> 00:05:20.139 crying out to Jesus, 00:05:20.360 --> 00:05:22.639 Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner. 00:05:23.500 --> 00:05:24.600 And we thank you, Lord, 00:05:24.660 --> 00:05:27.300 that in him we find that mercy, 00:05:27.699 --> 00:05:29.300 that cleansing and that renewal, 00:05:29.639 --> 00:05:31.819 for in him all things are made new. 00:05:32.620 --> 00:05:36.040 And in him we have the forgiveness of sin, 00:05:36.159 --> 00:05:38.000 redemption through his blood. 00:05:38.399 --> 00:05:40.360 We have newness of life. 00:05:41.159 --> 00:05:43.339 Lord, we thank you for this wonder, 00:05:43.759 --> 00:05:45.120 for this reality, 00:05:45.439 --> 00:05:47.639 for this comfort and this joy 00:05:47.639 --> 00:05:49.660 that in Christ alone 00:05:49.660 --> 00:05:51.180 our hope is found. 00:05:51.819 --> 00:05:52.980 So we pray tonight, Lord, 00:05:53.040 --> 00:05:54.459 as we worship together, 00:05:54.600 --> 00:05:56.160 you might do us good, 00:05:56.319 --> 00:05:58.000 that you might come in among us, 00:05:58.480 --> 00:06:00.680 that we might know the ministry of the Holy Spirit 00:06:00.680 --> 00:06:01.879 moving within us 00:06:01.879 --> 00:06:02.779 and between us, 00:06:02.839 --> 00:06:03.500 around us, 00:06:04.220 --> 00:06:05.920 illuminating within us 00:06:05.920 --> 00:06:08.199 an understanding of the gospel, 00:06:08.759 --> 00:06:10.639 illuminating within us once more 00:06:10.639 --> 00:06:12.139 something more 00:06:12.139 --> 00:06:14.579 of the wonder and beauty of Jesus, 00:06:14.579 --> 00:06:17.120 something more of his work, 00:06:17.699 --> 00:06:20.159 his standing in our place, 00:06:20.779 --> 00:06:22.259 his paying our price. 00:06:23.459 --> 00:06:24.259 Lord our God, 00:06:24.360 --> 00:06:26.379 we profess tonight that 00:06:26.379 --> 00:06:29.419 at times the scope of the gospel 00:06:29.419 --> 00:06:30.899 overwhelms us 00:06:30.899 --> 00:06:33.259 and we fail to grasp 00:06:33.259 --> 00:06:34.859 the grandeur, 00:06:35.319 --> 00:06:36.060 the wonder, 00:06:36.899 --> 00:06:37.899 and at the same time 00:06:37.899 --> 00:06:38.779 the simplicity. 00:06:39.639 --> 00:06:41.179 What joy there is 00:06:41.179 --> 00:06:43.359 in the way the apostle 00:06:43.359 --> 00:06:45.639 responded to the Philippian jailer, 00:06:45.719 --> 00:06:46.399 believe 00:06:46.399 --> 00:06:48.659 in the Lord Jesus Christ 00:06:48.659 --> 00:06:49.679 and you will be saved. 00:06:49.819 --> 00:06:50.539 Keep us, Lord, 00:06:50.599 --> 00:06:53.019 ever from doubting that message, 00:06:53.419 --> 00:06:54.819 from adding to that message, 00:06:55.000 --> 00:06:56.659 from taking from that message, 00:06:57.300 --> 00:06:59.120 from mixing that message up 00:06:59.120 --> 00:07:00.020 with who we are 00:07:00.020 --> 00:07:01.120 and how we do things, 00:07:01.220 --> 00:07:01.840 keep us, Lord, 00:07:01.939 --> 00:07:03.800 that ever in that place 00:07:03.800 --> 00:07:04.820 where we would be grateful 00:07:04.820 --> 00:07:05.740 for our traditions, 00:07:05.939 --> 00:07:07.020 but that we would keep 00:07:07.020 --> 00:07:08.540 the traditions in their place 00:07:08.540 --> 00:07:10.500 and that we would look unto Jesus, 00:07:10.840 --> 00:07:11.680 the author and finisher 00:07:11.680 --> 00:07:12.420 of our faith. 00:07:13.040 --> 00:07:13.840 So we pray, Lord, 00:07:13.879 --> 00:07:14.440 from the outset 00:07:14.440 --> 00:07:15.620 of this communion season 00:07:15.620 --> 00:07:16.820 for your blessing 00:07:16.820 --> 00:07:17.740 and hand to be upon 00:07:17.740 --> 00:07:18.560 the congregation, 00:07:19.160 --> 00:07:20.260 that you be near to each 00:07:20.260 --> 00:07:21.340 and every one of them, Lord, 00:07:21.780 --> 00:07:23.480 and that as Callum 00:07:23.480 --> 00:07:25.360 breaks down the word of life 00:07:25.360 --> 00:07:26.400 and the Gaelic 00:07:26.400 --> 00:07:27.160 and Murdo comes 00:07:27.160 --> 00:07:28.160 to preach Christ 00:07:28.160 --> 00:07:29.139 in the English services, 00:07:29.500 --> 00:07:29.860 that, Lord, 00:07:29.920 --> 00:07:30.780 you would bless them 00:07:30.780 --> 00:07:31.540 and through them 00:07:31.540 --> 00:07:32.580 be a blessing 00:07:32.580 --> 00:07:33.759 to the congregation, 00:07:33.939 --> 00:07:34.900 that your people, Lord, 00:07:34.960 --> 00:07:37.080 would know a real blessing 00:07:37.080 --> 00:07:37.740 from on high, 00:07:37.860 --> 00:07:38.920 that that gift 00:07:38.920 --> 00:07:39.400 that is within 00:07:39.400 --> 00:07:40.639 would be stirred up, 00:07:41.060 --> 00:07:41.840 for you have not given 00:07:41.840 --> 00:07:42.980 as a spirit of fear, 00:07:43.060 --> 00:07:44.160 but a spirit of power 00:07:44.160 --> 00:07:45.259 and of love 00:07:45.259 --> 00:07:45.980 and of discipline. 00:07:46.199 --> 00:07:47.639 And so we pray tonight, Lord, 00:07:47.699 --> 00:07:48.840 that you would, 00:07:49.040 --> 00:07:50.319 by word and sacrament 00:07:50.319 --> 00:07:51.439 in these days ahead, 00:07:52.080 --> 00:07:53.500 bless and strengthen 00:07:53.500 --> 00:07:54.460 and enliven 00:07:54.459 --> 00:07:56.139 and encourage your people 00:07:56.139 --> 00:07:58.120 to go into the week ahead, 00:07:58.799 --> 00:08:00.139 bright, shining witnesses 00:08:00.139 --> 00:08:01.039 to Christ, 00:08:01.739 --> 00:08:02.979 uncompromising 00:08:02.979 --> 00:08:05.699 and yet also merciful 00:08:05.699 --> 00:08:06.539 and patient 00:08:06.539 --> 00:08:07.539 and tenderhearted 00:08:07.539 --> 00:08:09.639 in sharing the gospel 00:08:09.639 --> 00:08:10.939 with those around us. 00:08:11.000 --> 00:08:11.419 We must, 00:08:11.519 --> 00:08:12.000 for we know 00:08:12.000 --> 00:08:13.699 we must always be ready 00:08:13.699 --> 00:08:15.039 to give a reason 00:08:15.039 --> 00:08:16.219 for the hope we have within. 00:08:16.939 --> 00:08:17.919 So may we, Lord, 00:08:18.039 --> 00:08:18.859 in days to come 00:08:18.859 --> 00:08:20.079 by your word and sacrament, 00:08:20.240 --> 00:08:22.379 know that particular blessing 00:08:22.379 --> 00:08:24.620 as we remember 00:08:24.620 --> 00:08:26.139 the Lord's death, 00:08:26.199 --> 00:08:27.279 as your people gather 00:08:27.279 --> 00:08:28.759 at his table, 00:08:29.399 --> 00:08:30.300 be near to them, 00:08:30.899 --> 00:08:31.839 feed their souls 00:08:31.839 --> 00:08:32.679 and nourish them, 00:08:33.220 --> 00:08:34.460 that they would rejoice 00:08:34.460 --> 00:08:35.399 in the reality 00:08:35.399 --> 00:08:37.159 of the ancient text 00:08:37.159 --> 00:08:37.779 that says, 00:08:37.879 --> 00:08:38.620 I have found 00:08:38.620 --> 00:08:39.679 the one 00:08:39.679 --> 00:08:42.259 in whom my soul loves. 00:08:43.039 --> 00:08:43.879 And so, Lord God, 00:08:43.960 --> 00:08:45.139 this evening we pray 00:08:45.139 --> 00:08:46.899 that you would bless 00:08:46.899 --> 00:08:48.120 your word to our hearts, 00:08:48.700 --> 00:08:49.399 that you would 00:08:49.399 --> 00:08:50.939 go before us 00:08:50.939 --> 00:08:51.860 in every way, 00:08:52.059 --> 00:08:53.600 not just at the communion season, 00:08:54.059 --> 00:08:55.179 this time of vacancy 00:08:55.179 --> 00:08:55.980 and change 00:08:55.980 --> 00:08:56.879 and decisions 00:08:56.879 --> 00:08:57.720 and choices, 00:08:57.860 --> 00:08:58.539 all these things, 00:08:58.659 --> 00:08:58.759 Lord, 00:08:58.819 --> 00:09:00.600 we commit to your care, 00:09:00.699 --> 00:09:02.000 we seek your grace, 00:09:02.720 --> 00:09:03.459 your patience, 00:09:03.959 --> 00:09:04.639 your wisdom, 00:09:05.459 --> 00:09:06.419 that the Holy Spirit 00:09:06.419 --> 00:09:07.720 would be our leader 00:09:07.720 --> 00:09:08.720 in these things 00:09:08.720 --> 00:09:09.899 and that we, 00:09:10.019 --> 00:09:11.199 in dependence upon him, 00:09:11.259 --> 00:09:12.179 would know you're leading 00:09:12.179 --> 00:09:13.519 and that we might, 00:09:13.740 --> 00:09:13.840 Lord, 00:09:13.960 --> 00:09:15.419 with devoted hearts, 00:09:15.860 --> 00:09:16.740 trust in you 00:09:16.740 --> 00:09:18.199 and walk with you. 00:09:18.200 --> 00:09:19.680 So watch over the congregation. 00:09:20.220 --> 00:09:20.360 Lord, 00:09:20.420 --> 00:09:21.020 be with those 00:09:21.020 --> 00:09:22.160 who cannot be here tonight, 00:09:22.280 --> 00:09:22.800 be with those 00:09:22.800 --> 00:09:24.680 in the congregation 00:09:24.680 --> 00:09:25.440 who are recovering 00:09:25.440 --> 00:09:26.000 from illness, 00:09:26.140 --> 00:09:27.160 who are in hospital. 00:09:27.440 --> 00:09:28.220 We pray for any, 00:09:28.340 --> 00:09:28.440 Lord, 00:09:28.520 --> 00:09:29.180 tonight who are 00:09:29.180 --> 00:09:30.220 uncertain, 00:09:30.440 --> 00:09:30.980 downcast, 00:09:31.120 --> 00:09:31.759 housebound, 00:09:31.920 --> 00:09:32.160 those, 00:09:32.300 --> 00:09:32.420 Lord, 00:09:32.480 --> 00:09:33.980 maybe in the district, 00:09:34.080 --> 00:09:34.600 in the town, 00:09:34.700 --> 00:09:35.320 who are suffering 00:09:35.320 --> 00:09:36.140 from loneliness. 00:09:36.480 --> 00:09:37.680 What a scourge 00:09:37.680 --> 00:09:39.080 that is in our day and age. 00:09:39.580 --> 00:09:40.420 And we pray for any, 00:09:40.560 --> 00:09:40.660 Lord, 00:09:40.740 --> 00:09:42.080 tonight known to us 00:09:42.080 --> 00:09:43.200 or connected with us 00:09:43.200 --> 00:09:43.700 in any way 00:09:43.700 --> 00:09:45.320 who are experiencing 00:09:45.320 --> 00:09:46.580 a sense of isolation 00:09:46.580 --> 00:09:47.500 and uncertainty, 00:09:47.500 --> 00:09:48.360 draw near to them, 00:09:48.480 --> 00:09:48.659 Lord. 00:09:49.279 --> 00:09:50.639 Bless them with your peace, 00:09:51.059 --> 00:09:51.899 your mercy, 00:09:51.980 --> 00:09:53.940 and may they be calm 00:09:53.940 --> 00:09:55.759 knowing that you are with them. 00:09:55.919 --> 00:09:56.799 We pray for your people 00:09:56.799 --> 00:09:57.820 who would minister to them, 00:09:58.139 --> 00:09:59.399 grant them a word in season 00:09:59.399 --> 00:10:00.539 to come alongside 00:10:00.539 --> 00:10:02.259 and share something 00:10:02.259 --> 00:10:03.539 of the hope of the gospel 00:10:03.539 --> 00:10:05.139 with those who tonight 00:10:05.139 --> 00:10:06.899 perhaps do not know Christ. 00:10:06.980 --> 00:10:08.059 And we pray for the lost. 00:10:08.580 --> 00:10:09.679 At our communion season, 00:10:09.679 --> 00:10:10.779 as we look to the cross, 00:10:10.840 --> 00:10:11.879 as we reflect 00:10:11.879 --> 00:10:13.139 on the death of our Saviour, 00:10:13.139 --> 00:10:13.899 we, Lord, 00:10:13.980 --> 00:10:14.679 pray especially 00:10:14.679 --> 00:10:15.519 for those who 00:10:15.519 --> 00:10:17.019 as yet do not know him, 00:10:17.399 --> 00:10:18.319 do not love him, 00:10:18.620 --> 00:10:19.740 are not living for him, 00:10:20.019 --> 00:10:21.120 are unconvinced 00:10:21.120 --> 00:10:22.539 and unconverted, 00:10:23.000 --> 00:10:24.039 who are far off, 00:10:24.399 --> 00:10:26.000 still in darkness, 00:10:26.620 --> 00:10:28.759 still alienated to God, 00:10:28.980 --> 00:10:30.159 strangers to the Commonwealth, 00:10:30.620 --> 00:10:31.500 and cut off 00:10:31.500 --> 00:10:32.860 from your promise 00:10:32.860 --> 00:10:33.500 of life 00:10:33.500 --> 00:10:35.779 and eternal fellowship. 00:10:36.000 --> 00:10:36.220 Lord, 00:10:36.299 --> 00:10:37.720 open hearts and eyes, 00:10:37.799 --> 00:10:38.259 we pray, 00:10:38.819 --> 00:10:39.879 by your word. 00:10:40.659 --> 00:10:41.939 May there be a season 00:10:41.939 --> 00:10:42.779 of reaping, 00:10:43.379 --> 00:10:44.799 and may there be joy 00:10:44.799 --> 00:10:45.559 in heaven, 00:10:45.740 --> 00:10:46.500 even tonight, 00:10:47.080 --> 00:10:47.759 over a sinner 00:10:47.759 --> 00:10:48.659 that would repent 00:10:48.659 --> 00:10:50.259 and come to Christ 00:10:50.259 --> 00:10:51.700 and looking to him 00:10:51.700 --> 00:10:52.960 for the salvation 00:10:52.960 --> 00:10:53.679 that he alone 00:10:53.679 --> 00:10:54.539 can bestow. 00:10:55.240 --> 00:10:55.820 So, Lord, 00:10:55.899 --> 00:10:56.779 we wait on you 00:10:56.779 --> 00:10:57.259 this evening. 00:10:57.399 --> 00:10:57.799 We ask you 00:10:57.799 --> 00:10:58.820 to accept our praise, 00:10:59.320 --> 00:10:59.799 that you would hear 00:10:59.799 --> 00:11:00.379 our prayers 00:11:00.379 --> 00:11:01.580 and draw near to each 00:11:01.580 --> 00:11:02.120 and every one 00:11:02.120 --> 00:11:02.960 in Jesus' name. 00:11:03.299 --> 00:11:03.580 Amen. 00:11:06.779 --> 00:11:07.500 Now we'll turn 00:11:07.500 --> 00:11:08.159 to the Psalter 00:11:08.159 --> 00:11:08.659 this evening. 00:11:08.799 --> 00:11:09.279 We'll sing from 00:11:09.279 --> 00:11:10.360 Psalm 25, 00:11:10.919 --> 00:11:11.740 the first version, 00:11:11.879 --> 00:11:13.519 Psalm 25 in the Psalter, 00:11:14.120 --> 00:11:15.360 singing the first version 00:11:15.360 --> 00:11:16.740 from the beginning. 00:11:17.679 --> 00:11:19.019 We'll sing to verse 7. 00:11:19.199 --> 00:11:20.839 To thee I lift my soul, 00:11:21.500 --> 00:11:21.919 O Lord, 00:11:21.980 --> 00:11:22.980 I trust in thee. 00:11:23.079 --> 00:11:23.620 My God, 00:11:23.679 --> 00:11:24.720 let me not be ashamed 00:11:24.720 --> 00:11:26.659 nor foes triumph over me. 00:11:27.159 --> 00:11:28.079 Let none that wait 00:11:28.079 --> 00:11:29.620 and they be put to shame at all, 00:11:29.939 --> 00:11:31.299 but those that without cause 00:11:31.299 --> 00:11:32.039 transgress, 00:11:32.179 --> 00:11:33.919 let shame upon them fall. 00:11:34.059 --> 00:11:35.120 We'll sing to verse 7. 00:11:35.459 --> 00:11:36.120 To God's praise, 00:11:36.179 --> 00:11:36.959 we'll stand together. 00:11:36.959 --> 00:11:37.079 Amen. 00:11:39.279 --> 00:11:47.079 To thee I lift my soul, 00:11:47.079 --> 00:11:49.980 O Lord, 00:11:50.199 --> 00:11:54.240 I trust in thee. 00:11:54.240 --> 00:11:57.079 My God, 00:11:57.159 --> 00:12:03.459 let me not be ashamed, 00:12:03.460 --> 00:12:09.259 nor foes triumph for me. 00:12:09.259 --> 00:12:18.379 Let the man that waits on thee, 00:12:18.379 --> 00:12:25.639 be good to shame at all. 00:12:25.639 --> 00:12:33.439 But those that with thy cross, 00:12:33.439 --> 00:12:42.439 let shame upon them fall. 00:12:42.440 --> 00:12:50.240 Show me thy ways, O Lord, 00:12:50.240 --> 00:12:55.280 Thy path, O Jesus, 00:12:55.279 --> 00:12:57.079 Nor mercen consoles' fast on me. 00:13:04.759 --> 00:13:07.480 O'er, O which of thou shalt, 00:13:07.480 --> 00:13:08.079 Give thy truth, 00:13:08.079 --> 00:13:09.539 I bet my Lord have shown 00:13:09.539 --> 00:13:10.980 may not be ashamed, 00:13:10.980 --> 00:13:11.199 for thou mej contract, 00:13:11.199 --> 00:13:12.600 my life, O Lord have garnished my eyes, 00:13:12.659 --> 00:13:14.259 And do thou reap, 00:13:14.259 --> 00:13:29.379 For Thou art for the just, to Thee salvation sent. 00:13:29.379 --> 00:13:45.379 And I upon Thee all the day, expecting to attend. 00:13:45.379 --> 00:14:00.379 Thy tender mercies, Lord, I pray Thee to remember. 00:14:00.379 --> 00:14:16.779 And loving kindnesses, for They have been of hope forever. 00:14:16.779 --> 00:14:31.779 My sins and faults of You, do Thou, O Lord, forget. 00:14:31.779 --> 00:14:48.620 After Thy mercy, think on me, and for Thy goodness great. 00:14:53.620 --> 00:14:57.959 We'll read from the book of Psalms this evening in Psalm 86. 00:14:57.960 --> 00:15:05.560 Psalm 86, a psalm that has much to say to us, as the psalm as we've just sung, 00:15:05.639 --> 00:15:09.300 of the goodness and greatness and grace of God. 00:15:09.780 --> 00:15:12.259 Clearly it was a theme that thrilled David's heart, 00:15:12.820 --> 00:15:15.200 and we'll see that in this psalm also, entitled, 00:15:15.360 --> 00:15:19.400 Great is your steadfast love, a prayer of David. 00:15:19.560 --> 00:15:20.420 Psalm 86. 00:15:20.419 --> 00:15:30.159 Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. 00:15:30.699 --> 00:15:33.339 Preserve my life, for I am godly. 00:15:33.579 --> 00:15:35.740 Save your servant who trusts in you. 00:15:36.279 --> 00:15:37.620 You are my God. 00:15:38.219 --> 00:15:41.979 Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day. 00:15:42.500 --> 00:15:46.980 Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. 00:15:46.980 --> 00:15:54.659 For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. 00:15:55.480 --> 00:15:57.500 Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer. 00:15:57.639 --> 00:15:59.320 Listen to my plea for grace. 00:15:59.960 --> 00:16:03.680 In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me. 00:16:04.519 --> 00:16:09.840 There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. 00:16:09.840 --> 00:16:16.960 All the nations you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name. 00:16:17.639 --> 00:16:20.420 For you are great and do wondrous things. 00:16:21.060 --> 00:16:22.220 You alone are God. 00:16:23.060 --> 00:16:26.040 Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth. 00:16:26.440 --> 00:16:28.639 Unite my heart to fear your name. 00:16:29.379 --> 00:16:32.540 I give thanks to you, O Lord, my God, with my whole heart, 00:16:32.860 --> 00:16:35.340 and I will glorify your name forever. 00:16:36.200 --> 00:16:39.019 For great is your steadfast love towards me. 00:16:39.019 --> 00:16:42.480 You have delivered my soul from the depths of Shoal. 00:16:43.220 --> 00:16:45.779 O God, insolent men have risen up against me. 00:16:46.100 --> 00:16:50.439 A band of ruthless men seek my life, and they do not set you before them. 00:16:51.019 --> 00:16:54.079 But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, 00:16:54.659 --> 00:16:59.419 slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. 00:17:00.240 --> 00:17:01.939 Turn to me and be gracious to me. 00:17:02.379 --> 00:17:06.619 Give your strength to your servant and save the son of your maidservant. 00:17:06.619 --> 00:17:12.179 Show me a sign of your favour that those who hate me may see and be put to shame 00:17:12.179 --> 00:17:16.539 because you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me. 00:17:17.500 --> 00:17:17.939 Amen. 00:17:18.099 --> 00:17:21.739 May the Lord bless to our hearts the reading of his own word. 00:17:21.879 --> 00:17:23.799 We'll turn back to this psalm again in a moment, 00:17:23.799 --> 00:17:26.579 but we'll turn first of all to sing psalms. 00:17:27.720 --> 00:17:29.960 We'll sing once more from Psalm 17. 00:17:30.659 --> 00:17:32.839 Singing from the beginning and sing psalms. 00:17:33.039 --> 00:17:34.399 Psalm 17. 00:17:35.200 --> 00:17:38.379 And we'll sing from the beginning to verse 5. 00:17:38.380 --> 00:17:44.180 Lord, hear my righteous plea and listen to my cry. 00:17:44.580 --> 00:17:47.640 It does not rise deceitfully or come from lips that lie. 00:17:48.180 --> 00:17:50.560 Declare me innocent and vindicate my name. 00:17:50.720 --> 00:17:55.320 Lord, may your eyes see what is right and free me from all blame. 00:17:55.760 --> 00:17:58.140 We'll sing to verse 5 and we'll stand together. 00:17:58.140 --> 00:18:15.820 Lord, hear my righteous plea and listen to my cry. 00:18:15.819 --> 00:18:45.799 Lord, hear my righteous plea and listen to my cry. 00:18:45.819 --> 00:18:59.919 Lord, may your eyes see what is right and leave me from all blame. 00:18:59.919 --> 00:19:13.960 Though you examine me and grow my heart and mind, 00:19:13.960 --> 00:19:22.079 And though you test me in the night, 00:19:22.420 --> 00:19:29.079 Yet nothing you will find. 00:19:29.079 --> 00:19:36.240 I said I will not say 00:19:36.240 --> 00:19:43.220 In anything I say 00:19:43.220 --> 00:19:51.339 From those who practice violence, 00:19:51.339 --> 00:19:57.660 I have yet far away. 00:19:57.660 --> 00:20:05.600 From every evil power, 00:20:05.600 --> 00:20:11.059 By your word I deserve, 00:20:11.059 --> 00:20:20.559 My feet have held to all your ways, 00:20:20.559 --> 00:20:28.059 From them I have not swelled. 00:20:28.059 --> 00:20:39.500 Now if we turn together in our Bibles to the Old Testament in the book of Psalms in Psalm 86, 00:20:42.179 --> 00:20:51.139 Psalm that we read together that is a song of praise and an offering of prayer to God for his steadfast love. 00:20:51.140 --> 00:20:56.140 And the words in verse 15 perhaps bring these themes together. 00:20:56.140 --> 00:20:59.259 You, O Lord, are a God, 00:20:59.259 --> 00:21:00.259 Merciful and gracious, 00:21:00.259 --> 00:21:01.259 Merciful and gracious, 00:21:01.259 --> 00:21:02.259 Merciful and gracious, 00:21:02.259 --> 00:21:03.259 Slow to anger, 00:21:03.259 --> 00:21:07.940 And abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. 00:21:07.940 --> 00:21:19.600 I think it's fair to say and accurate that for David there was nothing as exhilarating as the greatness and grace of God. 00:21:19.599 --> 00:21:24.719 As we find him in his psalms and as we look through his life as it's recorded for us in the scripture, 00:21:25.359 --> 00:21:29.299 We find him at his best when he puts God first. 00:21:29.639 --> 00:21:39.879 We find him at his best, his strongest, his most useful in the hand of the Lord when he is praising God and acknowledging God and depending on God. 00:21:39.880 --> 00:21:46.600 And this psalm, this prayer of David really brings out this sense of that that's exhilarating. 00:21:46.600 --> 00:21:49.640 He acknowledges, of course, his need. 00:21:49.640 --> 00:21:55.880 That's where he begins and that's where we all begin this evening and that's where we always begin when we bow our heads and we close our eyes in prayer. 00:21:56.600 --> 00:21:57.640 I am poor and needy. 00:21:57.640 --> 00:22:01.560 There it is in verse 1, an acknowledgement, an acknowledgement of his need. 00:22:02.320 --> 00:22:08.860 And yet we'll find as we look at this psalm that this acknowledgement is that there's a tension also with anticipation. 00:22:08.859 --> 00:22:15.279 Because he can say that to you in verse 4, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. 00:22:15.599 --> 00:22:16.919 Be gracious to me, Lord. 00:22:17.259 --> 00:22:19.779 And I will call upon you again in verse 5, verse 6. 00:22:19.879 --> 00:22:21.179 Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer. 00:22:21.500 --> 00:22:23.719 Listen to my plea for grace. 00:22:23.719 --> 00:22:28.099 These petitions are followed up with this unswerving anticipation. 00:22:28.759 --> 00:22:30.679 You answer me. 00:22:31.619 --> 00:22:37.819 So David, in giving God the glory in this sense of worship and wonder and thanksgiving, 00:22:37.819 --> 00:22:47.679 this statement of praise and this offering of prayer because of God's greatness, because of God's goodness, because of God's grace, 00:22:48.240 --> 00:22:55.619 brings us to a point where there's much for us to take to heart this evening and into a communion weekend and into our lives 00:22:55.619 --> 00:23:00.200 as we too look to serve God and honour him in our day and in our age. 00:23:00.559 --> 00:23:01.839 So we'll begin where David does. 00:23:01.919 --> 00:23:04.439 We see an acknowledgement of his need there in verse 1. 00:23:04.599 --> 00:23:06.319 There's no delusions of grandeur here. 00:23:06.319 --> 00:23:08.299 He doesn't stand in a soapbox. 00:23:08.359 --> 00:23:09.339 He doesn't puff himself up. 00:23:09.559 --> 00:23:10.539 He doesn't say, look at me. 00:23:10.619 --> 00:23:11.179 It's the opposite. 00:23:11.799 --> 00:23:12.480 He's bowing. 00:23:12.879 --> 00:23:14.079 There's contrition here. 00:23:14.359 --> 00:23:15.439 There's humility here. 00:23:15.720 --> 00:23:20.919 There's an acknowledgement of his weakness, his sinfulness, his propensity to get things wrong, 00:23:21.419 --> 00:23:24.119 a desire to get things right that doesn't always carry him through. 00:23:24.519 --> 00:23:26.359 O Lord, incline your ear. 00:23:26.480 --> 00:23:27.179 Listen to me. 00:23:27.180 --> 00:23:37.920 It's almost, he's acknowledging that he is poor and needy, such as his awareness of what he should be and what he isn't. 00:23:38.640 --> 00:23:40.539 And that's something we find throughout scripture. 00:23:40.660 --> 00:23:46.100 When we come to the galaxy of heroes, we're surrounded by this great, this cloud of witnesses. 00:23:46.099 --> 00:23:52.480 And again and again in their lives, Isaiah and Peter and John, we see this self-same acknowledgement of need. 00:23:52.859 --> 00:23:57.779 Isaiah, woe is me, for I am lost, for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. 00:23:58.079 --> 00:24:03.399 Humility, conscious of God's holiness, leaves him conscious of his own unholiness. 00:24:03.519 --> 00:24:08.000 We see it in Peter, 700 years later, in the fishing boat that day in the Sea of Galilee. 00:24:08.000 --> 00:24:11.759 Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man. 00:24:11.819 --> 00:24:15.039 This acknowledgement of his need. 00:24:16.000 --> 00:24:19.640 But the acknowledgement is balanced, as we've said, by this anticipation. 00:24:20.819 --> 00:24:21.799 Look at verse 4. 00:24:22.339 --> 00:24:28.779 Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. 00:24:29.319 --> 00:24:30.119 That's wonderful. 00:24:30.119 --> 00:24:35.519 And that brings us this evening to just the words in the song in chapter 3. 00:24:35.639 --> 00:24:38.500 I have found him who my soul loves. 00:24:38.839 --> 00:24:46.039 And this is this sense of exhilaration, this sense of joy and worship and thanksgiving and gratitude. 00:24:46.219 --> 00:24:49.739 It's all here in that gladden or make me joyful. 00:24:50.159 --> 00:24:52.879 Give me that sense of joy in my soul. 00:24:53.439 --> 00:24:56.039 For to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. 00:24:56.039 --> 00:25:04.319 So, yes, there's an acknowledgement of need, but there's also an anticipation of being welcomed as he draws near to the throne of grace. 00:25:05.059 --> 00:25:08.599 So these two things combine in our own hearts and minds this evening, don't they? 00:25:09.119 --> 00:25:10.259 We acknowledge our need. 00:25:10.359 --> 00:25:11.420 We confess our sin. 00:25:12.039 --> 00:25:15.000 We say, Lord, be merciful to us as sinners. 00:25:15.599 --> 00:25:21.279 We seek the renewing power and ministry and blessing of the Holy Spirit to grant us strength and wisdom and peace, 00:25:21.279 --> 00:25:29.460 to be servants of the living God, to be bright, shining witnesses, to be consistently Christ-like as we become holy, 00:25:29.559 --> 00:25:36.660 as we are sanctified, as we are brought toward and further into the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:25:36.759 --> 00:25:39.940 So there's a sense of hope here. 00:25:40.019 --> 00:25:45.599 Not hopelessness, but hope in this wonderful gladden the soul of your servant. 00:25:45.599 --> 00:25:55.199 If I were to lift up my soul for you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. 00:25:56.219 --> 00:25:58.199 What a wonderful petition this is. 00:25:58.279 --> 00:26:02.159 What an acknowledgement this is of the nature and character of the living God. 00:26:02.939 --> 00:26:05.599 And so we give thanks tonight that we too acknowledge our need. 00:26:05.980 --> 00:26:10.079 And we also have this sense of anticipation of being welcomed. 00:26:10.079 --> 00:26:13.919 But it's not just a theological thing or a church thing. 00:26:14.019 --> 00:26:15.539 It's far more wonderful than that. 00:26:15.899 --> 00:26:19.359 Notice the phrasing he uses in verse 2, at the end of verse 2. 00:26:19.639 --> 00:26:24.879 As he gives thanks and the sense of exhilaration leads him to acknowledging and professing, 00:26:25.019 --> 00:26:27.119 You are my God. 00:26:28.240 --> 00:26:29.579 Is that not why we're here tonight? 00:26:30.159 --> 00:26:33.079 To say as well, you are my God. 00:26:33.460 --> 00:26:34.659 To give thanks to him. 00:26:34.960 --> 00:26:36.259 To acknowledge our need, yes. 00:26:36.259 --> 00:26:43.519 But we do so with an anticipation of being welcomed as we join in worship and seek the living God in prayer. 00:26:43.640 --> 00:26:49.160 So these things combine in our experience this evening at the outset of a communion season. 00:26:49.299 --> 00:26:51.640 We too can say with God it is personal. 00:26:52.000 --> 00:26:53.019 With us it's personal. 00:26:53.259 --> 00:26:55.440 Because through faith in Christ we too say, 00:26:55.859 --> 00:26:57.980 You are my God. 00:26:59.059 --> 00:27:01.539 One other thing here, in a general sense. 00:27:02.440 --> 00:27:03.379 Acknowledgement is here. 00:27:03.779 --> 00:27:04.759 Anticipation is here. 00:27:04.759 --> 00:27:06.539 But so is awareness. 00:27:07.619 --> 00:27:10.079 Preserve my life, he says in verse 2. 00:27:10.140 --> 00:27:11.000 What's going on here? 00:27:11.099 --> 00:27:12.420 The little we can piece together. 00:27:12.920 --> 00:27:13.500 Verse 7. 00:27:13.599 --> 00:27:16.039 In the day of my trouble I call upon you. 00:27:16.379 --> 00:27:18.119 And again in verse 14. 00:27:18.379 --> 00:27:20.099 Insolent men have risen up against me. 00:27:20.279 --> 00:27:21.359 There's an awareness here. 00:27:21.420 --> 00:27:22.319 An awareness of trouble. 00:27:22.460 --> 00:27:23.299 Awareness of pressure. 00:27:23.740 --> 00:27:24.660 There's hardship here. 00:27:25.240 --> 00:27:26.240 There's difficulty here. 00:27:26.359 --> 00:27:28.099 Probably in David's experience, danger. 00:27:28.640 --> 00:27:29.299 He was a soldier. 00:27:29.440 --> 00:27:31.059 He knew what it was to stand on the battlefield. 00:27:31.359 --> 00:27:32.460 And feel vulnerable. 00:27:32.819 --> 00:27:33.960 Feel like he was made of paper. 00:27:33.960 --> 00:27:36.140 Feel like his life could be snuffed out in a moment. 00:27:36.380 --> 00:27:39.519 As he fought these many, many battles throughout his life. 00:27:39.740 --> 00:27:40.900 He had that pressure. 00:27:41.180 --> 00:27:45.539 That was almost a constant accompaniment in his experience. 00:27:45.880 --> 00:27:47.779 Even though he had the promise of God. 00:27:48.120 --> 00:27:50.019 And God's covenant commitment to him. 00:27:50.240 --> 00:27:52.700 And he would use again and again God's covenant name. 00:27:53.079 --> 00:27:53.880 In his psalms. 00:27:53.960 --> 00:27:54.620 In his prayers. 00:27:54.740 --> 00:27:55.700 In his walk with God. 00:27:55.700 --> 00:27:58.319 But there was still here an awareness of trouble. 00:27:58.480 --> 00:27:59.319 And why was that? 00:27:59.420 --> 00:28:01.799 Because David and us tonight. 00:28:01.960 --> 00:28:03.100 We know for a fact. 00:28:03.200 --> 00:28:05.480 There is no promise of an easy time. 00:28:05.940 --> 00:28:09.519 There's no promise of a stress-free, trouble-free life. 00:28:09.580 --> 00:28:10.360 None of us have that. 00:28:10.860 --> 00:28:12.600 That's in the mist. 00:28:12.819 --> 00:28:14.160 That's just nonsensical. 00:28:14.220 --> 00:28:17.740 None of us tonight can anticipate a life that's without hardship. 00:28:17.980 --> 00:28:18.600 Heartache. 00:28:18.599 --> 00:28:19.519 A big difficulty. 00:28:20.099 --> 00:28:22.359 And we probably all in our own way. 00:28:22.699 --> 00:28:23.559 In our own times. 00:28:23.679 --> 00:28:25.240 Have experienced these things. 00:28:25.859 --> 00:28:27.019 But what can we say then? 00:28:27.419 --> 00:28:28.299 We can say this. 00:28:29.259 --> 00:28:31.919 We too can share an awareness of trouble and pressure. 00:28:32.039 --> 00:28:35.759 And maybe some this evening are dealing with things that none of us know about. 00:28:35.879 --> 00:28:36.459 A pressure. 00:28:36.699 --> 00:28:37.639 A difficulty. 00:28:37.779 --> 00:28:38.339 A hardship. 00:28:38.459 --> 00:28:39.159 Or a heartache. 00:28:40.099 --> 00:28:42.259 Awareness of trouble marks this psalm. 00:28:43.059 --> 00:28:45.460 And it brings the psalm into our experience. 00:28:45.759 --> 00:28:47.539 And we enter the experience of the psalmist. 00:28:47.700 --> 00:28:49.039 Because we can relate to this. 00:28:50.019 --> 00:28:51.220 But what we can say is this. 00:28:51.259 --> 00:28:52.900 We do not know what the future holds. 00:28:52.980 --> 00:28:54.460 We do not know what tomorrow may bring. 00:28:55.720 --> 00:28:57.140 In Romans in chapter 8. 00:28:57.220 --> 00:28:59.539 That great seminal chapter in the New Testament. 00:28:59.640 --> 00:29:02.220 It even says that at times we do not even know what to pray for. 00:29:02.779 --> 00:29:04.180 There's lots of things we don't know. 00:29:04.559 --> 00:29:06.500 But two verses later on. 00:29:06.680 --> 00:29:08.519 In that same chapter of Romans. 00:29:08.900 --> 00:29:09.759 We do know. 00:29:10.240 --> 00:29:11.980 That for those who love God. 00:29:12.259 --> 00:29:15.259 All things work together for good. 00:29:15.379 --> 00:29:18.599 For those who are called according to his purpose. 00:29:18.920 --> 00:29:19.879 That we do know. 00:29:20.759 --> 00:29:24.740 So we share in this acknowledgement of weakness and failing. 00:29:25.859 --> 00:29:29.119 We enter into this sense of anticipation of being welcomed. 00:29:29.379 --> 00:29:33.900 We share also this sense of awareness that trouble will find us. 00:29:33.940 --> 00:29:37.559 And we're going to go through the shadows in the same way many others do. 00:29:38.420 --> 00:29:39.539 But yet as we do that. 00:29:39.599 --> 00:29:41.180 As we go through those times. 00:29:41.299 --> 00:29:42.160 These times of difficulty. 00:29:42.160 --> 00:29:43.080 We know that. 00:29:43.080 --> 00:29:43.100 We know that. 00:29:44.980 --> 00:29:46.759 For those who love God. 00:29:47.279 --> 00:29:48.600 And there's the clincher. 00:29:49.120 --> 00:29:50.180 For those who love God. 00:29:50.660 --> 00:29:52.060 All things work together. 00:29:52.940 --> 00:29:53.940 That tells us that. 00:29:54.660 --> 00:29:56.500 God in the present tense. 00:29:56.880 --> 00:29:59.400 Is involved in his unceasing action. 00:29:59.400 --> 00:30:02.060 Of bringing things together for good. 00:30:02.600 --> 00:30:04.840 To those who are his children. 00:30:04.839 --> 00:30:07.899 There's never a moment where God is not at work. 00:30:07.899 --> 00:30:10.220 To the good of those who love him. 00:30:11.220 --> 00:30:13.379 That's probably one of the most obvious. 00:30:13.380 --> 00:30:14.380 And sustained targets of attack. 00:30:14.380 --> 00:30:18.360 And sustained targets of attack for the devil. 00:30:18.360 --> 00:30:21.500 The world, the flesh and the devil want us to doubt that verse. 00:30:21.600 --> 00:30:22.780 The Bible's closed. 00:30:23.180 --> 00:30:24.860 They want us to be consumed with the hardship. 00:30:25.160 --> 00:30:26.540 And intimidated by the shadows. 00:30:26.940 --> 00:30:29.140 And just falling flat on our faces. 00:30:29.260 --> 00:30:32.460 Because of the difficulties we may be going through and experiencing. 00:30:32.460 --> 00:30:33.779 All the more reason. 00:30:34.440 --> 00:30:35.640 That we open our Bibles. 00:30:35.960 --> 00:30:36.680 That we worship. 00:30:36.819 --> 00:30:37.319 That we sing. 00:30:37.400 --> 00:30:37.920 That we pray. 00:30:38.480 --> 00:30:39.819 That we prepare in our hearts. 00:30:39.819 --> 00:30:41.579 To come to the Lord's table. 00:30:42.240 --> 00:30:44.680 So these themes are swirling around. 00:30:44.840 --> 00:30:47.340 This central aspect of this psalm. 00:30:47.420 --> 00:30:49.420 Which is the greatness and grace of God. 00:30:49.420 --> 00:30:51.380 And that's what we'll focus on now a bit more. 00:30:51.660 --> 00:30:53.200 For a few more moments. 00:30:53.759 --> 00:30:55.120 That's David's. 00:30:55.120 --> 00:30:59.560 I guess we could call David's preparation for prayer. 00:30:59.940 --> 00:31:01.500 These things stand out. 00:31:01.600 --> 00:31:04.200 But I want us to look tonight at his focus. 00:31:04.200 --> 00:31:05.740 When he gets into his prayers. 00:31:06.420 --> 00:31:09.279 And that's what we see in verses 5, 13 and 15. 00:31:09.800 --> 00:31:11.779 You oh Lord are good and forgiving. 00:31:12.200 --> 00:31:15.519 Abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. 00:31:15.740 --> 00:31:16.820 Again in verse 13. 00:31:17.759 --> 00:31:19.380 Great is your steadfast love. 00:31:19.420 --> 00:31:20.019 Towards me. 00:31:20.360 --> 00:31:22.779 You have delivered my soul from the depths of Shoal. 00:31:22.920 --> 00:31:23.980 And again in verse 15. 00:31:24.080 --> 00:31:25.200 You oh Lord are a God. 00:31:25.539 --> 00:31:26.580 Merciful and gracious. 00:31:26.720 --> 00:31:28.360 In this short song of praise. 00:31:28.620 --> 00:31:30.200 In this short offering of prayer. 00:31:30.200 --> 00:31:31.380 Three times. 00:31:31.900 --> 00:31:34.539 David comes back to the goodness. 00:31:35.400 --> 00:31:36.019 The grace. 00:31:36.800 --> 00:31:37.680 And the grip of God. 00:31:38.580 --> 00:31:41.820 That God has towards and for his people. 00:31:42.759 --> 00:31:45.880 So we'll think about these things this evening together. 00:31:45.880 --> 00:31:50.880 There's a sense of purpose in this language throughout this psalm. 00:31:51.360 --> 00:31:54.260 That really does show David's heart for worship. 00:31:54.400 --> 00:31:58.260 His sense of exhilaration and thankfulness and joy. 00:31:58.259 --> 00:32:03.160 But we see these things especially in how he addresses the Lord. 00:32:03.259 --> 00:32:04.619 He repeats himself here. 00:32:04.920 --> 00:32:06.500 Give ear oh Lord to my prayer. 00:32:06.879 --> 00:32:08.859 Listen to my plea for grace. 00:32:09.819 --> 00:32:11.039 In the day of my trouble. 00:32:11.039 --> 00:32:12.799 I call upon you. 00:32:13.859 --> 00:32:14.920 For you answer me. 00:32:16.099 --> 00:32:17.720 As David closed his eyes. 00:32:17.859 --> 00:32:19.980 As David bowed his head. 00:32:20.200 --> 00:32:23.139 As David probably got on his knees in prayer. 00:32:24.440 --> 00:32:28.319 He is full of a sense of God's goodness. 00:32:30.200 --> 00:32:33.480 He is full of a sense of God's goodness. 00:32:34.319 --> 00:32:37.139 He's already said you are my God. 00:32:37.140 --> 00:32:41.360 And so in verse 5 we see him saying you are abounding. 00:32:41.500 --> 00:32:43.180 You God are good and forgiving. 00:32:43.620 --> 00:32:45.200 Abounding in steadfast love. 00:32:45.580 --> 00:32:47.360 So yes there's hardship and difficulty. 00:32:47.900 --> 00:32:49.560 But David's staying the course. 00:32:50.800 --> 00:32:51.780 His heart is fixed. 00:32:52.740 --> 00:32:54.120 He's looking to his Lord. 00:32:54.740 --> 00:32:56.040 He's looking to his God. 00:32:56.620 --> 00:32:58.180 He's looking to his Saviour. 00:32:58.540 --> 00:33:01.400 And he's doing so in a deep sense of reverence. 00:33:01.560 --> 00:33:05.840 And that's where this prayer focus and energy comes from. 00:33:05.839 --> 00:33:08.559 He knows who he is calling. 00:33:09.339 --> 00:33:14.419 And he knows that he abounds, overflows in steadfast love. 00:33:15.220 --> 00:33:18.379 And to such that pray to him in sincerity of heart. 00:33:18.539 --> 00:33:20.179 That is what we will experience. 00:33:20.279 --> 00:33:21.119 Look at verse 12. 00:33:21.459 --> 00:33:24.379 I give thanks to you oh Lord my God. 00:33:24.539 --> 00:33:25.879 With my whole heart. 00:33:26.240 --> 00:33:28.599 And I will glorify your name forever. 00:33:29.699 --> 00:33:32.619 I'm sure you like myself many times. 00:33:32.720 --> 00:33:35.720 You've spoken with people perhaps who show an interest in Christian. 00:33:35.720 --> 00:33:37.220 And things who show an interest in faith. 00:33:37.440 --> 00:33:39.059 Who talk to you about becoming Christians. 00:33:39.160 --> 00:33:40.839 Who talk to you about professing faith. 00:33:40.960 --> 00:33:43.460 Who seem to be making all the right noises. 00:33:43.640 --> 00:33:45.220 And making the right signals. 00:33:45.460 --> 00:33:46.960 And going to the right things. 00:33:47.059 --> 00:33:48.779 And then something happens. 00:33:48.839 --> 00:33:50.039 And a drift sets in. 00:33:50.279 --> 00:33:52.279 And then we don't see them again. 00:33:53.240 --> 00:33:54.680 And we wonder what's going on there. 00:33:54.680 --> 00:33:57.960 And I think what we find in situations like that. 00:33:58.060 --> 00:34:02.320 Is that they are people who could not put their amen to verse 12. 00:34:02.880 --> 00:34:04.860 I give thanks to you oh Lord my God. 00:34:04.920 --> 00:34:06.100 With my whole heart. 00:34:06.200 --> 00:34:07.340 Rather than being whole hearted. 00:34:07.360 --> 00:34:08.099 They're half hearted. 00:34:08.680 --> 00:34:10.840 Rather than God being a forethought. 00:34:10.960 --> 00:34:12.180 God is an afterthought. 00:34:12.820 --> 00:34:13.700 And they drift. 00:34:14.519 --> 00:34:16.700 And you think well I'll come back to this. 00:34:17.180 --> 00:34:18.280 I'll talk about that again. 00:34:18.280 --> 00:34:19.740 I'll think about that another time. 00:34:19.920 --> 00:34:23.400 And our job friends is to seek them out. 00:34:23.640 --> 00:34:26.340 Do what we can to bring them back to the light. 00:34:26.460 --> 00:34:28.519 To bring them back to the cross. 00:34:29.700 --> 00:34:30.900 God's goodness then. 00:34:31.380 --> 00:34:33.760 Is something that stirs the heart of David. 00:34:34.120 --> 00:34:35.180 He is so sincere. 00:34:35.480 --> 00:34:37.500 And he is so encouraged. 00:34:37.840 --> 00:34:39.240 By the nature and character. 00:34:39.360 --> 00:34:41.160 Of the God to whom he is calling out in prayer. 00:34:41.159 --> 00:34:44.699 That start to finish in this psalm. 00:34:44.759 --> 00:34:47.059 And that's why we find him three times. 00:34:47.239 --> 00:34:48.980 Speaking about this central theme. 00:34:49.639 --> 00:34:51.779 In verses 5 and 13 and 15. 00:34:51.940 --> 00:34:53.079 Because it's the key. 00:34:53.859 --> 00:34:55.579 This is the nature of our God. 00:34:55.859 --> 00:34:57.299 The God whom we worship. 00:34:57.699 --> 00:34:58.899 The God whom we adore. 00:34:59.219 --> 00:35:01.819 The God whom we wish to serve this evening. 00:35:02.480 --> 00:35:04.319 We give thanks tonight for God's goodness. 00:35:04.539 --> 00:35:06.219 And when the world doubt and question. 00:35:06.440 --> 00:35:08.239 And reject and claim. 00:35:08.339 --> 00:35:10.460 And we face counterclaim to the goodness of God. 00:35:10.460 --> 00:35:11.300 Where do we go? 00:35:12.320 --> 00:35:13.679 We go to the cross. 00:35:15.000 --> 00:35:17.280 The final and ultimate expression. 00:35:17.639 --> 00:35:21.420 Declaration and proof of God's goodness. 00:35:22.039 --> 00:35:22.820 Toward us. 00:35:23.599 --> 00:35:25.199 This is how one writer put it. 00:35:25.980 --> 00:35:29.860 God's grace is the source of the whole work of redemption. 00:35:30.740 --> 00:35:32.880 It is a work God persists in. 00:35:33.559 --> 00:35:34.559 To our salvation. 00:35:35.559 --> 00:35:36.880 Grace overcomes us. 00:35:37.659 --> 00:35:40.420 Bringing us to spiritual life. 00:35:41.460 --> 00:35:42.179 What a God. 00:35:42.320 --> 00:35:43.019 What a gospel. 00:35:43.440 --> 00:35:44.800 And it's the goodness of God. 00:35:45.000 --> 00:35:45.599 That is here. 00:35:45.900 --> 00:35:48.099 Just pouring out from David's pen. 00:35:48.179 --> 00:35:49.360 As he gives thanks to God. 00:35:49.500 --> 00:35:50.119 In worship. 00:35:50.500 --> 00:35:51.500 Praise and prayer. 00:35:51.619 --> 00:35:52.820 So we see in his focus. 00:35:53.820 --> 00:35:56.380 He really zeroes in on the goodness of God. 00:35:56.380 --> 00:35:57.019 And then. 00:35:57.320 --> 00:35:57.679 Secondly. 00:35:58.039 --> 00:35:58.659 In verse 6. 00:35:58.740 --> 00:35:59.880 We notice these words as well. 00:36:00.220 --> 00:36:02.039 Listen to my plea for grace. 00:36:02.039 --> 00:36:04.840 The goodness of God. 00:36:04.840 --> 00:36:04.880 The goodness of God. 00:36:05.320 --> 00:36:08.199 Brings him to reflect and understand further. 00:36:08.360 --> 00:36:09.900 Something of the grace of God. 00:36:10.860 --> 00:36:12.699 God's grace toward us. 00:36:12.759 --> 00:36:13.420 Here we come. 00:36:13.699 --> 00:36:14.159 Of course. 00:36:14.219 --> 00:36:15.380 To the very heart of the gospel. 00:36:16.480 --> 00:36:17.880 The cross of Christ. 00:36:18.880 --> 00:36:20.059 Where by grace. 00:36:20.059 --> 00:36:21.380 He paid our price. 00:36:21.480 --> 00:36:22.579 And took our place. 00:36:23.320 --> 00:36:24.759 You gather in the next days. 00:36:25.179 --> 00:36:27.239 To remember the price he paid. 00:36:28.019 --> 00:36:29.279 You gather on Sunday morning. 00:36:29.379 --> 00:36:29.819 God willing. 00:36:29.899 --> 00:36:30.439 At the table. 00:36:31.059 --> 00:36:32.679 To remember him. 00:36:32.799 --> 00:36:33.500 In obedience. 00:36:34.119 --> 00:36:34.799 In dependence. 00:36:35.059 --> 00:36:35.699 In humility. 00:36:36.359 --> 00:36:37.359 Do this. 00:36:38.000 --> 00:36:39.119 In remembrance of me. 00:36:39.199 --> 00:36:40.679 Aren't we so prone to forget. 00:36:41.479 --> 00:36:42.679 Aren't we so programmed. 00:36:42.679 --> 00:36:45.039 To be forgetful about things. 00:36:45.939 --> 00:36:47.000 And it's no wonder that. 00:36:47.299 --> 00:36:47.699 The Lord. 00:36:47.819 --> 00:36:49.019 The night he was betrayed. 00:36:49.699 --> 00:36:50.979 Constituted the Lord's Supper. 00:36:51.479 --> 00:36:52.719 That we would have. 00:36:53.179 --> 00:36:54.359 Such a weapon. 00:36:54.479 --> 00:36:55.299 At our disposal. 00:36:55.699 --> 00:36:57.179 In our spiritual arsenal. 00:36:57.179 --> 00:36:59.279 To combat our forgetfulness. 00:36:59.399 --> 00:37:00.739 That we would never forget. 00:37:01.460 --> 00:37:02.879 The cost of our salvation. 00:37:03.559 --> 00:37:04.639 That we would never forget. 00:37:04.719 --> 00:37:05.559 The price paid. 00:37:06.059 --> 00:37:07.059 That we would never forget. 00:37:07.139 --> 00:37:08.259 The person and work. 00:37:08.319 --> 00:37:09.299 Of Jesus Christ. 00:37:09.739 --> 00:37:10.739 The son of God. 00:37:11.919 --> 00:37:13.559 Who Paul so movingly spoke of. 00:37:13.559 --> 00:37:14.460 He loved me. 00:37:14.779 --> 00:37:16.139 And gave himself for me. 00:37:16.219 --> 00:37:17.679 And every Christian in here tonight. 00:37:17.799 --> 00:37:18.679 Can say that. 00:37:18.779 --> 00:37:20.299 And put their amen to that. 00:37:21.339 --> 00:37:22.559 And so we too can anticipate. 00:37:23.559 --> 00:37:24.639 In days to come. 00:37:25.119 --> 00:37:27.000 And particularly on the Lord's day. 00:37:27.000 --> 00:37:27.739 At the table. 00:37:28.380 --> 00:37:29.280 A reflection. 00:37:29.280 --> 00:37:29.880 And a moment. 00:37:29.880 --> 00:37:31.119 Where you will remember. 00:37:31.119 --> 00:37:32.920 Something of the goodness of God. 00:37:33.019 --> 00:37:34.780 Displayed in the cross of his son. 00:37:35.639 --> 00:37:37.139 Where we see that statement. 00:37:37.280 --> 00:37:37.960 And declaration. 00:37:37.960 --> 00:37:39.659 Of undeserved. 00:37:40.320 --> 00:37:40.960 Unearned. 00:37:41.619 --> 00:37:42.260 Unmerited. 00:37:42.659 --> 00:37:43.139 Love. 00:37:43.460 --> 00:37:44.139 Of God. 00:37:44.820 --> 00:37:45.679 This is the fuel. 00:37:45.780 --> 00:37:47.420 That drives the New Testament church. 00:37:47.820 --> 00:37:48.639 God's grace. 00:37:48.980 --> 00:37:49.860 And God's goodness. 00:37:50.739 --> 00:37:51.579 For we too. 00:37:51.699 --> 00:37:52.719 Were once lost. 00:37:52.780 --> 00:37:53.500 And far off. 00:37:53.639 --> 00:37:54.420 Every one of us. 00:37:54.420 --> 00:37:55.740 We didn't grow up. 00:37:55.860 --> 00:37:56.559 And become. 00:37:57.360 --> 00:37:57.840 Sinners. 00:37:58.240 --> 00:37:59.639 We're born in sin. 00:38:00.000 --> 00:38:00.920 It's the condition. 00:38:01.059 --> 00:38:02.300 That we come to speak of as. 00:38:02.700 --> 00:38:03.700 Original sin. 00:38:03.820 --> 00:38:04.900 We're born in it. 00:38:05.599 --> 00:38:06.860 And we can't shed it. 00:38:06.920 --> 00:38:07.940 We can't outgrow it. 00:38:07.980 --> 00:38:08.519 We can't. 00:38:08.519 --> 00:38:09.960 We can't leave it aside. 00:38:10.159 --> 00:38:11.360 We don't come to a position. 00:38:11.480 --> 00:38:12.200 In and of ourselves. 00:38:12.460 --> 00:38:14.260 Or by the church's ministry. 00:38:14.260 --> 00:38:15.400 Or anything else. 00:38:15.860 --> 00:38:17.240 That we can do anything about. 00:38:17.380 --> 00:38:17.980 The condition. 00:38:18.200 --> 00:38:18.920 That changes. 00:38:19.380 --> 00:38:20.860 To a lost eternity. 00:38:20.860 --> 00:38:22.940 Which is what makes the cross. 00:38:23.120 --> 00:38:23.780 So amazing. 00:38:23.920 --> 00:38:24.760 And so incredible. 00:38:25.640 --> 00:38:26.579 So humbling. 00:38:27.140 --> 00:38:28.019 So gracious. 00:38:28.579 --> 00:38:29.420 That Christ. 00:38:29.640 --> 00:38:31.620 Stepped into that darkness. 00:38:31.820 --> 00:38:32.500 That void. 00:38:32.680 --> 00:38:33.519 That brokenness. 00:38:33.760 --> 00:38:34.599 That lostness. 00:38:34.680 --> 00:38:35.500 And paid a price. 00:38:35.579 --> 00:38:36.400 We could not pay. 00:38:40.120 --> 00:38:41.039 God's grace. 00:38:41.620 --> 00:38:42.880 Is the fuel of everything. 00:38:43.140 --> 00:38:43.900 That we do. 00:38:44.240 --> 00:38:45.400 We open our doors. 00:38:45.559 --> 00:38:46.599 We make our plans. 00:38:46.760 --> 00:38:48.140 We hold our communion seasons. 00:38:48.140 --> 00:38:49.079 We welcome everyone. 00:38:49.240 --> 00:38:49.440 Don't we? 00:38:49.440 --> 00:38:51.900 Every church that has Christ at the core. 00:38:52.000 --> 00:38:53.400 Will always be a welcoming church. 00:38:53.500 --> 00:38:54.659 We'll have our notice boards. 00:38:54.740 --> 00:38:55.320 Or websites. 00:38:55.519 --> 00:38:56.460 Or bulletins. 00:38:56.760 --> 00:38:58.840 And we'll work at welcoming people. 00:38:59.599 --> 00:39:01.860 Because we want them to know what we know. 00:39:02.519 --> 00:39:04.519 We want them to know who we know. 00:39:04.780 --> 00:39:05.619 In our hearts. 00:39:06.099 --> 00:39:07.039 Jesus Christ. 00:39:07.380 --> 00:39:08.039 As Lord. 00:39:08.780 --> 00:39:10.320 And we do all this because. 00:39:10.559 --> 00:39:11.720 Of the grace of God. 00:39:12.679 --> 00:39:14.860 The Catechism famously. 00:39:16.059 --> 00:39:16.700 Describes. 00:39:17.320 --> 00:39:18.800 God as spirit. 00:39:18.800 --> 00:39:19.300 Infinite. 00:39:19.300 --> 00:39:19.420 Infinite. 00:39:20.080 --> 00:39:20.500 Eternal. 00:39:20.940 --> 00:39:21.860 And unchangeable. 00:39:22.460 --> 00:39:23.200 In his being. 00:39:23.400 --> 00:39:23.820 Wisdom. 00:39:24.039 --> 00:39:24.380 Power. 00:39:24.580 --> 00:39:24.980 Holiness. 00:39:25.240 --> 00:39:25.660 Justice. 00:39:25.980 --> 00:39:26.300 Goodness. 00:39:26.620 --> 00:39:27.400 And truth. 00:39:28.080 --> 00:39:30.920 And as we think of these wonderful characteristics. 00:39:31.200 --> 00:39:32.500 That flow from. 00:39:33.019 --> 00:39:33.900 The living God. 00:39:34.260 --> 00:39:36.280 That come from the very essence. 00:39:36.820 --> 00:39:37.320 Of God. 00:39:37.740 --> 00:39:38.500 We give thanks. 00:39:38.580 --> 00:39:38.900 That tonight. 00:39:39.000 --> 00:39:40.060 We know this. 00:39:40.539 --> 00:39:41.900 That we have the truth. 00:39:42.100 --> 00:39:42.940 Not a truth. 00:39:43.680 --> 00:39:45.340 Not a version of truth. 00:39:45.340 --> 00:39:47.140 We have the truth. 00:39:47.760 --> 00:39:48.300 The way. 00:39:48.480 --> 00:39:48.900 The truth. 00:39:49.059 --> 00:39:49.720 And the life. 00:39:50.280 --> 00:39:50.700 The truth. 00:39:50.800 --> 00:39:51.900 That sets you free. 00:39:52.059 --> 00:39:52.480 The truth. 00:39:52.620 --> 00:39:54.160 That brings people from darkness. 00:39:54.420 --> 00:39:54.920 To light. 00:39:55.100 --> 00:39:55.640 From death. 00:39:55.720 --> 00:39:56.320 To life. 00:39:57.579 --> 00:39:58.860 The sweet exchange. 00:39:59.559 --> 00:40:00.780 He takes our sin. 00:40:01.559 --> 00:40:03.200 And gives us his righteousness. 00:40:04.460 --> 00:40:05.280 And so there is here. 00:40:05.340 --> 00:40:07.019 In this focused prayer of David's. 00:40:07.280 --> 00:40:08.460 The goodness of God. 00:40:09.100 --> 00:40:10.200 And the grace. 00:40:10.199 --> 00:40:11.259 Of God. 00:40:11.739 --> 00:40:12.099 One. 00:40:12.500 --> 00:40:14.119 I think it's one of the hymn writers. 00:40:14.259 --> 00:40:15.099 Or maybe a chorus. 00:40:15.619 --> 00:40:16.980 If anyone knows these words. 00:40:17.079 --> 00:40:17.599 Maybe you could. 00:40:18.219 --> 00:40:19.399 Remind me this evening. 00:40:19.619 --> 00:40:20.899 His love has no limits. 00:40:21.279 --> 00:40:22.659 His grace has no measure. 00:40:23.079 --> 00:40:24.519 His power has no boundary. 00:40:24.639 --> 00:40:25.699 Known unto man. 00:40:26.119 --> 00:40:27.939 For out of his infinite riches. 00:40:28.139 --> 00:40:28.699 In Jesus. 00:40:29.059 --> 00:40:29.699 He giveth. 00:40:29.919 --> 00:40:30.539 And giveth. 00:40:30.739 --> 00:40:31.359 And giveth. 00:40:31.539 --> 00:40:31.980 Again. 00:40:32.819 --> 00:40:33.579 That wonderful. 00:40:34.419 --> 00:40:34.980 Verse. 00:40:36.119 --> 00:40:37.659 Which reflects these words. 00:40:37.719 --> 00:40:38.419 We've read tonight. 00:40:38.579 --> 00:40:39.500 You oh Lord. 00:40:39.500 --> 00:40:40.400 In verse 15. 00:40:40.519 --> 00:40:41.199 Are a God. 00:40:41.840 --> 00:40:42.480 Merciful. 00:40:42.619 --> 00:40:43.119 And gracious. 00:40:43.599 --> 00:40:44.639 Slow to anger. 00:40:45.079 --> 00:40:45.840 And abounding. 00:40:46.079 --> 00:40:47.559 In steadfast love. 00:40:47.760 --> 00:40:49.699 And faithfulness. 00:40:50.260 --> 00:40:50.920 God's goodness. 00:40:51.519 --> 00:40:52.360 And God's grace. 00:40:52.619 --> 00:40:53.920 And these two truths. 00:40:54.000 --> 00:40:55.619 Combine in a quite wonderful. 00:40:55.619 --> 00:40:57.119 And reassuring way. 00:40:57.619 --> 00:40:58.420 And we see this. 00:40:58.800 --> 00:40:59.139 Lastly. 00:40:59.260 --> 00:40:59.619 In this way. 00:41:00.579 --> 00:41:01.880 The reality of God's goodness. 00:41:02.440 --> 00:41:04.800 And the wonder of God's amazing grace. 00:41:05.099 --> 00:41:07.559 Lead us to think about God's grip. 00:41:08.440 --> 00:41:09.280 God's grip. 00:41:10.320 --> 00:41:11.360 Verse 16. 00:41:12.039 --> 00:41:12.760 Turn to me. 00:41:13.260 --> 00:41:14.380 Be gracious to me. 00:41:14.880 --> 00:41:16.440 Give your strength. 00:41:16.599 --> 00:41:17.639 To your servant. 00:41:19.119 --> 00:41:21.139 And then there's that very interesting phrase. 00:41:21.699 --> 00:41:23.840 And save the son of your maidservant. 00:41:25.179 --> 00:41:26.159 Which is I think. 00:41:26.239 --> 00:41:28.059 The only direct reference. 00:41:28.059 --> 00:41:28.780 In scripture. 00:41:29.019 --> 00:41:29.739 To David's mother. 00:41:30.659 --> 00:41:30.840 Yes. 00:41:30.840 --> 00:41:31.920 He put his parents to more. 00:41:32.019 --> 00:41:33.099 But a time of difficulty. 00:41:33.099 --> 00:41:33.880 For safety. 00:41:34.340 --> 00:41:35.320 Away from the ravaging. 00:41:35.519 --> 00:41:36.360 Persecution of Saul. 00:41:36.360 --> 00:41:37.160 But here David. 00:41:37.820 --> 00:41:39.860 Refers directly to his own mother. 00:41:40.280 --> 00:41:41.680 Save the son of your maidservant. 00:41:41.740 --> 00:41:42.220 But he's saying here. 00:41:42.539 --> 00:41:43.860 Give your strength. 00:41:43.860 --> 00:41:45.120 To your servant. 00:41:46.380 --> 00:41:47.300 God's grip. 00:41:48.300 --> 00:41:50.220 The language of thanksgiving. 00:41:50.219 --> 00:41:50.839 And worship. 00:41:50.839 --> 00:41:51.599 And adoration. 00:41:52.079 --> 00:41:53.339 In verses 8 to 10. 00:41:53.399 --> 00:41:54.259 And these three verses. 00:41:54.399 --> 00:41:54.839 We've looked at. 00:41:54.980 --> 00:41:55.839 In 5. 00:41:55.959 --> 00:41:56.419 13. 00:41:56.480 --> 00:41:56.959 And 15. 00:41:57.679 --> 00:41:58.099 These. 00:41:58.879 --> 00:41:59.719 This language. 00:41:59.919 --> 00:42:01.019 These expressions. 00:42:01.319 --> 00:42:02.559 They come from the soul. 00:42:02.559 --> 00:42:04.000 Of the saved. 00:42:04.000 --> 00:42:05.480 I give thanks to you. 00:42:05.519 --> 00:42:05.900 Oh Lord. 00:42:05.960 --> 00:42:06.380 My God. 00:42:06.440 --> 00:42:07.400 With my whole heart. 00:42:07.820 --> 00:42:09.380 And I will glorify your name forever. 00:42:09.779 --> 00:42:11.880 For great is your steadfast love. 00:42:11.960 --> 00:42:12.480 Towards me. 00:42:12.559 --> 00:42:12.820 Notice. 00:42:13.079 --> 00:42:13.759 Verse 13. 00:42:13.880 --> 00:42:15.460 You have delivered my soul. 00:42:15.960 --> 00:42:16.860 From the depths. 00:42:17.199 --> 00:42:17.820 Of shore. 00:42:17.920 --> 00:42:18.519 How do we. 00:42:19.159 --> 00:42:19.860 Reflect tonight. 00:42:19.940 --> 00:42:20.840 On God's grip. 00:42:21.000 --> 00:42:21.820 Upon us. 00:42:22.000 --> 00:42:23.019 By his grace. 00:42:23.940 --> 00:42:24.980 Well this psalm. 00:42:25.619 --> 00:42:26.960 Uses several phrases. 00:42:27.059 --> 00:42:27.559 Let me just. 00:42:27.960 --> 00:42:28.539 Run through them. 00:42:29.299 --> 00:42:30.019 Preserve me. 00:42:30.820 --> 00:42:31.500 Save me. 00:42:31.500 --> 00:42:32.719 Hear me. 00:42:33.400 --> 00:42:34.039 Teach me. 00:42:34.719 --> 00:42:35.219 Lead me. 00:42:36.000 --> 00:42:36.559 Deliver me. 00:42:37.400 --> 00:42:37.880 Save me. 00:42:39.079 --> 00:42:40.320 This is a God. 00:42:40.960 --> 00:42:42.280 Of infinite. 00:42:42.500 --> 00:42:43.539 And eternal love. 00:42:44.400 --> 00:42:45.699 Who gave his son. 00:42:46.159 --> 00:42:47.000 That we might live. 00:42:47.159 --> 00:42:47.780 That we tonight. 00:42:47.860 --> 00:42:48.679 Would gather around. 00:42:49.219 --> 00:42:50.699 And in the name of a risen savor. 00:42:50.760 --> 00:42:51.960 Who tasted death. 00:42:52.699 --> 00:42:54.440 Who paid that price. 00:42:55.519 --> 00:42:56.800 And now by grace. 00:42:57.739 --> 00:42:58.920 He holds us. 00:42:59.119 --> 00:42:59.679 In his grip. 00:42:59.679 --> 00:43:01.579 The goodness of God. 00:43:02.000 --> 00:43:03.059 The grace of God. 00:43:03.559 --> 00:43:04.739 And the grip of God. 00:43:04.859 --> 00:43:05.940 There is peace here. 00:43:06.460 --> 00:43:07.839 And there is comfort here. 00:43:08.239 --> 00:43:08.679 And notice. 00:43:09.059 --> 00:43:09.940 How the psalm. 00:43:10.299 --> 00:43:10.899 Concludes. 00:43:11.839 --> 00:43:12.399 You Lord. 00:43:12.500 --> 00:43:13.659 Have helped me. 00:43:14.960 --> 00:43:15.559 You Lord. 00:43:15.619 --> 00:43:17.379 Have comforted me. 00:43:18.779 --> 00:43:19.960 And that comes from. 00:43:20.019 --> 00:43:21.079 David's awareness. 00:43:21.899 --> 00:43:22.940 Not where we began. 00:43:23.019 --> 00:43:23.819 Of his sinfulness. 00:43:23.960 --> 00:43:24.519 And his weakness. 00:43:24.519 --> 00:43:25.279 And his failings. 00:43:25.280 --> 00:43:25.580 Yes. 00:43:25.720 --> 00:43:26.080 But now. 00:43:26.240 --> 00:43:27.440 He's in this place. 00:43:27.440 --> 00:43:27.660 Of. 00:43:29.540 --> 00:43:30.540 Reflecting upon. 00:43:30.740 --> 00:43:31.360 And giving thanks. 00:43:31.460 --> 00:43:32.320 For God's goodness. 00:43:32.700 --> 00:43:33.380 God's grace. 00:43:33.620 --> 00:43:34.360 And God's grip. 00:43:34.360 --> 00:43:34.920 Upon him. 00:43:35.400 --> 00:43:36.140 And that's why. 00:43:36.220 --> 00:43:37.080 The psalm finishes. 00:43:37.760 --> 00:43:38.640 With this sense. 00:43:38.680 --> 00:43:39.620 Of being helped. 00:43:40.019 --> 00:43:40.980 And being. 00:43:41.840 --> 00:43:42.280 Comforted. 00:43:43.100 --> 00:43:43.460 Helped. 00:43:43.540 --> 00:43:44.340 And being comforted. 00:43:44.700 --> 00:43:45.680 Very similar language. 00:43:45.800 --> 00:43:47.000 To Psalm 131. 00:43:47.120 --> 00:43:47.980 Which reads so well. 00:43:48.019 --> 00:43:49.140 In the Singed Psalms version. 00:43:49.139 --> 00:43:50.879 My heart's not proud. 00:43:50.960 --> 00:43:51.319 O Lord. 00:43:51.400 --> 00:43:52.659 Nor haughty is my eye. 00:43:52.980 --> 00:43:54.259 I do not occupy myself. 00:43:54.259 --> 00:43:54.799 With things. 00:43:54.900 --> 00:43:55.900 Too great or high. 00:43:56.359 --> 00:43:56.920 My spirit. 00:43:57.019 --> 00:43:57.920 I have calmed. 00:43:58.359 --> 00:43:59.839 My heart is pacified. 00:44:00.400 --> 00:44:01.319 My soul is like. 00:44:01.319 --> 00:44:02.199 A little child. 00:44:02.859 --> 00:44:04.639 Close to its mother's side. 00:44:05.739 --> 00:44:06.639 The comfort. 00:44:06.779 --> 00:44:07.359 That comes. 00:44:07.779 --> 00:44:09.379 From a personal relationship. 00:44:09.379 --> 00:44:10.279 With the living God. 00:44:11.239 --> 00:44:13.059 Is the particular joy. 00:44:13.259 --> 00:44:13.960 And privilege. 00:44:14.239 --> 00:44:15.119 Of every Christian. 00:44:15.259 --> 00:44:15.839 Here this evening. 00:44:16.679 --> 00:44:17.279 This is. 00:44:17.559 --> 00:44:18.460 God's blessing. 00:44:18.460 --> 00:44:19.579 Toward us. 00:44:19.639 --> 00:44:20.300 That in Christ. 00:44:20.440 --> 00:44:20.860 We too. 00:44:21.159 --> 00:44:21.900 Can have this. 00:44:22.340 --> 00:44:23.320 Sense of calm. 00:44:23.920 --> 00:44:25.099 And being pacified. 00:44:25.460 --> 00:44:26.260 Through being helped. 00:44:26.539 --> 00:44:27.699 And being comforted. 00:44:27.960 --> 00:44:28.440 Because. 00:44:28.840 --> 00:44:29.420 As David. 00:44:29.579 --> 00:44:31.059 Could rely on God's grip. 00:44:31.119 --> 00:44:31.659 Upon him. 00:44:31.760 --> 00:44:32.519 So too. 00:44:33.039 --> 00:44:33.699 Do we tonight. 00:44:34.720 --> 00:44:35.619 Again of course. 00:44:35.679 --> 00:44:36.139 The world. 00:44:36.260 --> 00:44:36.659 The flesh. 00:44:36.659 --> 00:44:37.659 And the devil out there. 00:44:37.800 --> 00:44:38.820 Will rail against us. 00:44:38.940 --> 00:44:39.760 Rail against you. 00:44:40.460 --> 00:44:41.179 Challenge you. 00:44:41.340 --> 00:44:42.039 Question you. 00:44:42.159 --> 00:44:42.800 Reject you. 00:44:42.920 --> 00:44:43.480 Rebuke you. 00:44:43.599 --> 00:44:44.340 Perhaps try to. 00:44:44.900 --> 00:44:45.559 Humiliate you. 00:44:45.659 --> 00:44:46.720 Try to wind you up. 00:44:46.800 --> 00:44:47.720 And poke fun at you. 00:44:47.760 --> 00:44:48.260 At times. 00:44:48.260 --> 00:44:50.000 Leave you with a sense of. 00:44:50.500 --> 00:44:50.980 Isolation. 00:44:51.100 --> 00:44:51.260 But. 00:44:51.720 --> 00:44:52.840 We reject all these things. 00:44:52.900 --> 00:44:54.300 We reject the world's ways. 00:44:55.220 --> 00:44:56.360 And we face the world. 00:44:56.500 --> 00:44:57.620 With the promises of God. 00:44:58.200 --> 00:44:59.260 We trust in the Lord. 00:44:59.340 --> 00:45:00.820 With all our heart. 00:45:01.060 --> 00:45:01.940 We live for him. 00:45:02.280 --> 00:45:03.120 In a whole. 00:45:03.220 --> 00:45:04.060 Hearted manner. 00:45:04.060 --> 00:45:05.300 I give thanks to you. 00:45:05.440 --> 00:45:05.720 Oh Lord. 00:45:05.800 --> 00:45:06.300 My God. 00:45:06.360 --> 00:45:07.880 With my whole heart. 00:45:08.400 --> 00:45:10.280 And I will ever glorify. 00:45:10.840 --> 00:45:11.480 Your name. 00:45:12.480 --> 00:45:13.520 For great. 00:45:13.860 --> 00:45:15.320 Is your steadfast love. 00:45:15.320 --> 00:45:15.660 God. 00:45:15.660 --> 00:45:15.980 And I will. 00:45:15.980 --> 00:45:16.000 For me. 00:45:17.380 --> 00:45:17.780 Perhaps. 00:45:17.880 --> 00:45:18.720 A communion season. 00:45:18.880 --> 00:45:19.880 Brings all these things. 00:45:20.000 --> 00:45:20.440 To the fore. 00:45:20.559 --> 00:45:21.580 In a special way. 00:45:21.680 --> 00:45:22.059 In a very. 00:45:22.440 --> 00:45:23.140 Personal way. 00:45:23.680 --> 00:45:24.500 When we remember. 00:45:24.620 --> 00:45:25.480 And reflect upon. 00:45:25.880 --> 00:45:27.400 What God has done for us. 00:45:27.840 --> 00:45:29.039 And I trust and pray. 00:45:29.160 --> 00:45:29.680 That as you. 00:45:30.160 --> 00:45:30.900 Do so. 00:45:31.000 --> 00:45:31.700 This weekend. 00:45:32.059 --> 00:45:32.700 And take. 00:45:32.780 --> 00:45:33.620 Your place. 00:45:33.880 --> 00:45:34.580 At the table. 00:45:34.800 --> 00:45:35.840 Of your Lord. 00:45:35.880 --> 00:45:36.460 And Saviour. 00:45:36.800 --> 00:45:37.820 That you will do so. 00:45:37.900 --> 00:45:38.780 With this sense. 00:45:38.780 --> 00:45:39.740 Of being helped. 00:45:39.880 --> 00:45:41.059 And being comforted. 00:45:41.900 --> 00:45:42.779 That you will do so. 00:45:43.340 --> 00:45:44.219 Not so much. 00:45:44.299 --> 00:45:44.820 With an awareness. 00:45:44.820 --> 00:45:46.019 Of your. 00:45:46.480 --> 00:45:46.880 Sinfulness. 00:45:48.119 --> 00:45:49.159 But an awareness. 00:45:49.159 --> 00:45:50.279 Of God's goodness. 00:45:50.739 --> 00:45:51.420 God's grace. 00:45:51.599 --> 00:45:52.460 And God's grip. 00:45:53.079 --> 00:45:53.559 That grip. 00:45:53.579 --> 00:45:54.299 He has of you. 00:45:55.039 --> 00:45:55.759 For we know. 00:45:55.900 --> 00:45:56.639 That in Christ. 00:45:56.719 --> 00:45:57.139 We belong. 00:45:57.639 --> 00:45:58.880 To the church of Christ. 00:45:58.960 --> 00:45:59.500 The church. 00:45:59.679 --> 00:46:01.000 Purchased with his own blood. 00:46:01.940 --> 00:46:02.699 That phrase. 00:46:02.779 --> 00:46:03.779 Resonates deeply. 00:46:04.219 --> 00:46:04.880 When we see. 00:46:05.039 --> 00:46:06.400 The indifference. 00:46:06.400 --> 00:46:07.320 And antagonism. 00:46:07.480 --> 00:46:07.880 Of the world. 00:46:08.000 --> 00:46:08.440 Around us. 00:46:08.519 --> 00:46:09.420 And so we face. 00:46:10.219 --> 00:46:10.659 Indifference. 00:46:10.659 --> 00:46:11.440 And we do it. 00:46:11.819 --> 00:46:12.559 To the glory. 00:46:12.859 --> 00:46:13.619 Of God. 00:46:14.799 --> 00:46:15.779 There is a peace. 00:46:15.899 --> 00:46:16.379 Then here. 00:46:16.579 --> 00:46:17.139 There is a peace. 00:46:17.259 --> 00:46:18.079 That allows David. 00:46:18.199 --> 00:46:18.879 To praise. 00:46:19.359 --> 00:46:20.139 And pray. 00:46:20.819 --> 00:46:21.879 And we give thanks. 00:46:21.960 --> 00:46:22.759 For this example. 00:46:23.460 --> 00:46:24.239 And we would seek. 00:46:24.359 --> 00:46:25.359 To take it to heart. 00:46:25.839 --> 00:46:26.619 As David says. 00:46:26.679 --> 00:46:27.319 In verse 11. 00:46:27.519 --> 00:46:28.239 Teach me. 00:46:28.359 --> 00:46:29.000 Your way. 00:46:29.079 --> 00:46:29.539 O Lord. 00:46:30.039 --> 00:46:31.279 That I may walk in it. 00:46:31.559 --> 00:46:32.759 That I may walk in your truth. 00:46:33.279 --> 00:46:34.000 And in this phrase. 00:46:34.000 --> 00:46:34.980 Unite my heart. 00:46:35.099 --> 00:46:35.699 To fear your name. 00:46:35.980 --> 00:46:36.579 That's a phrase. 00:46:36.659 --> 00:46:37.399 That speaks of having. 00:46:37.539 --> 00:46:38.879 A devoted heart. 00:46:39.199 --> 00:46:40.279 Not two-mindedness. 00:46:40.280 --> 00:46:41.300 It's not uncertainly. 00:46:41.300 --> 00:46:42.620 Being pulled from the pillar to post. 00:46:42.660 --> 00:46:43.019 Or thinking. 00:46:43.160 --> 00:46:43.820 Going left to right. 00:46:44.060 --> 00:46:44.800 But devoted. 00:46:45.760 --> 00:46:46.500 In fear. 00:46:47.080 --> 00:46:48.100 Which is a word of course. 00:46:48.140 --> 00:46:48.780 Of devotion. 00:46:49.580 --> 00:46:50.019 Commitment. 00:46:50.660 --> 00:46:51.100 Closeness. 00:46:51.560 --> 00:46:52.380 Leaning on. 00:46:52.940 --> 00:46:53.760 The living God. 00:46:53.980 --> 00:46:55.240 That's what he asks of all of us. 00:46:55.760 --> 00:46:56.740 That as he teaches. 00:46:57.280 --> 00:46:58.680 We walk in what we learn. 00:46:59.120 --> 00:46:59.840 That the light. 00:47:00.060 --> 00:47:02.260 Of the glorious gospel of grace. 00:47:02.940 --> 00:47:04.060 That has been revealed to us. 00:47:04.060 --> 00:47:05.400 In the face of Jesus Christ. 00:47:05.480 --> 00:47:06.060 Would be seen. 00:47:06.360 --> 00:47:07.780 In how each one of us live. 00:47:07.780 --> 00:47:09.540 How we conduct ourselves. 00:47:10.040 --> 00:47:11.180 The choices we make. 00:47:11.300 --> 00:47:12.360 The language we use. 00:47:12.420 --> 00:47:13.300 The decisions we make. 00:47:13.620 --> 00:47:14.740 Privately and publicly. 00:47:14.900 --> 00:47:15.480 In the workplace. 00:47:15.680 --> 00:47:16.140 At home. 00:47:16.960 --> 00:47:20.000 May we be found living in a manner that is wholehearted. 00:47:20.800 --> 00:47:24.060 Seeking to glorify the name of our Lord and Saviour. 00:47:24.580 --> 00:47:25.500 Jesus Christ. 00:47:26.160 --> 00:47:27.800 David then is focused in prayer. 00:47:28.320 --> 00:47:28.940 And he finishes. 00:47:29.640 --> 00:47:30.600 Looking for wisdom. 00:47:31.120 --> 00:47:31.660 In living. 00:47:32.120 --> 00:47:33.420 And strength for serving. 00:47:33.420 --> 00:47:35.579 May you know God's blessing. 00:47:35.780 --> 00:47:38.099 As you anticipate the table to come. 00:47:38.619 --> 00:47:39.519 May you look up. 00:47:40.159 --> 00:47:42.720 And may you say as the song said. 00:47:43.220 --> 00:47:46.280 I found him who my soul loves. 00:47:46.920 --> 00:47:47.680 Comforting you. 00:47:48.119 --> 00:47:49.000 And helping you. 00:47:49.300 --> 00:47:50.240 And reassuring you. 00:47:50.440 --> 00:47:51.480 By word and sacrament. 00:47:51.740 --> 00:47:52.740 Over these days. 00:47:53.220 --> 00:47:55.539 To live wholeheartedly for him. 00:47:56.019 --> 00:47:57.720 We'll bow in prayer for a moment together. 00:48:00.180 --> 00:48:01.260 Gracious Lord. 00:48:01.360 --> 00:48:02.440 Ever blessed Father. 00:48:02.440 --> 00:48:05.720 We thank you for your goodness toward us. 00:48:06.360 --> 00:48:08.860 Lord we bless you for the bounty of your provision. 00:48:09.000 --> 00:48:09.760 For the depth. 00:48:10.599 --> 00:48:12.159 For the wonder of the gospel. 00:48:13.159 --> 00:48:16.360 Where Christ in his covenant commitment came. 00:48:17.300 --> 00:48:19.860 A covenant commitment made from all eternity. 00:48:20.400 --> 00:48:22.200 To save a people to himself. 00:48:22.980 --> 00:48:24.280 We bless you that our Redeemer. 00:48:25.440 --> 00:48:28.340 Has tasted death in our place. 00:48:29.179 --> 00:48:31.380 Has paid a price we could not pay. 00:48:31.380 --> 00:48:34.500 And now at the right hand of the majesty on high. 00:48:35.160 --> 00:48:38.599 He affects a sympathetic ministry toward us. 00:48:38.599 --> 00:48:40.719 What a saviour. 00:48:40.719 --> 00:48:42.440 What hope. 00:48:42.679 --> 00:48:43.460 What joy. 00:48:43.579 --> 00:48:44.179 What assurance. 00:48:44.319 --> 00:48:44.960 Be with us Lord. 00:48:45.039 --> 00:48:47.039 As we take these things to heart. 00:48:47.159 --> 00:48:49.420 And may the spirit himself apply them to us. 00:48:49.699 --> 00:48:50.239 Day by day. 00:48:50.319 --> 00:48:50.980 In Jesus name. 00:48:51.360 --> 00:48:51.719 Amen. 00:48:51.719 --> 00:48:57.439 I will sing from the psalter. 00:48:57.440 --> 00:48:58.960 And we'll sing this psalm together. 00:48:58.960 --> 00:49:00.119 Psalm 86. 00:49:00.800 --> 00:49:02.740 Singing from verse 9. 00:49:02.820 --> 00:49:04.200 And we'll sing to verse 12. 00:49:04.659 --> 00:49:05.420 Psalm 86. 00:49:05.659 --> 00:49:07.519 Singing from verse 9 to verse 12. 00:49:07.599 --> 00:49:12.039 All nations whom they made shall come and worship reverently before thy face. 00:49:12.500 --> 00:49:15.019 And thee oh Lord thy name shall glorify. 00:49:15.420 --> 00:49:17.200 Because thou art exceeding great. 00:49:17.559 --> 00:49:18.800 And works by thee are done. 00:49:19.179 --> 00:49:20.320 Which are to be admired. 00:49:20.860 --> 00:49:22.960 And thou art God thyself alone. 00:49:22.960 --> 00:49:23.519 Alone. 00:49:23.699 --> 00:49:24.920 We'll stand and sing together. 00:49:24.920 --> 00:49:48.920 All nations whom they made shall come and worship reverently before thy face. 00:49:48.920 --> 00:50:00.920 And thee oh Lord thy name shall glorify. 00:50:00.920 --> 00:50:10.900 Because thou art exceeding great. 00:50:10.900 --> 00:50:17.900 And works by thee are done. 00:50:17.900 --> 00:50:27.380 Which are to thee a mark and love. 00:50:27.380 --> 00:50:33.900 Are told thyself alone. 00:50:33.900 --> 00:50:39.900 Teach me thy way. 00:50:39.900 --> 00:50:40.480 Teach me thy way. 00:50:40.480 --> 00:50:44.900 And in thy truth. 00:50:44.900 --> 00:50:52.300 O Lord and Lord will I. 00:50:52.300 --> 00:50:57.059 Unite my heart. 00:50:57.380 --> 00:51:00.900 But I thy name. 00:51:00.900 --> 00:51:07.900 May fear continually. 00:51:07.900 --> 00:51:19.180 O Lord my God with all my heart. 00:51:19.179 --> 00:51:26.179 To thee I will give praise. 00:51:26.179 --> 00:51:35.179 And I thy glory will ascribe. 00:51:36.179 --> 00:51:42.179 And to thy name always. 00:51:42.179 --> 00:51:47.559 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:51:47.679 --> 00:51:49.039 The love of God the Father. 00:51:49.159 --> 00:51:51.399 And fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 00:51:51.679 --> 00:51:51.940 Amen.