WEBVTT 00:00:00.280 --> 00:00:09.460 Now we're going to begin worship singing in Psalm 108, that's on page 146, and the 00:00:09.460 --> 00:00:13.000 tune is Stuttgart, singing verses 1 to 7. 00:00:18.260 --> 00:00:24.580 We'll sing to the double verse 7, down to I will measure with my hand. 00:00:24.579 --> 00:00:33.899 O Lord God, my heart is steadfast, and with all my soul I'll sing. Harp and lyre I will awaken, and my song the dawn will bring. 00:00:34.560 --> 00:00:38.099 These verses to the end of verse 7, and if you can stand, please stand to sing. 00:00:38.100 --> 00:00:54.100 O Lord God, my heart is steadfast, and with all my soul I'll sing. 00:00:54.100 --> 00:01:07.159 Harp and lyre I will awaken, and my song the dawn will bring. 00:01:07.159 --> 00:01:20.899 Lord my heart among the nations, I will ever give you praise. 00:01:20.900 --> 00:01:34.320 In the midst of all the peoples, I will sing of you always. 00:01:34.319 --> 00:01:47.639 Lord, whose steadfast love is one less, greater than the heavens high. 00:01:47.639 --> 00:02:01.359 But your faithfulness towards us reaches even to the sky. 00:02:01.359 --> 00:02:14.800 God, my heart of the highest heavens, be exalted, O my God. 00:02:14.800 --> 00:02:27.099 And through all the earth, the earth, let your glory tread abroad. 00:02:27.099 --> 00:02:57.079 God, my heart of the highest heavens, be exalted, O my God. 00:02:57.080 --> 00:03:08.080 I will distribute in triumph, every part of Chicken's land. 00:03:08.080 --> 00:03:21.300 And the whole of Sacrothed Valley, I will measure with my hand. 00:03:21.300 --> 00:03:22.300 Amen. 00:03:22.300 --> 00:03:23.300 Amen. 00:03:23.300 --> 00:03:24.300 Amen. 00:03:24.300 --> 00:03:25.300 Amen. 00:03:25.300 --> 00:03:26.219 Now let's pray together. 00:03:26.219 --> 00:03:31.360 We're praying especially for the young ones, for the tweenies, and for the Sunday school particularly. 00:03:31.360 --> 00:03:47.400 Lord, our God, we thank you for these reminders and your word that we are here to glorify your name, to sing praises to you, to call upon your name, to read your word, and to hear its meaning. 00:03:47.400 --> 00:03:48.400 Amen. 00:03:48.400 --> 00:03:53.580 We thank you today, O Lord, that we have this privilege, this opportunity given to us once again. 00:03:53.580 --> 00:03:53.640 Amen. 00:03:53.640 --> 00:03:54.640 Amen. 00:03:54.640 --> 00:03:59.400 We thank you for the freedom that we have to gather here to worship you together this morning. 00:03:59.400 --> 00:03:59.520 Amen. 00:03:59.520 --> 00:04:00.520 Amen. 00:04:00.520 --> 00:04:02.400 Bless us, we pray, each one of us. 00:04:02.400 --> 00:04:03.400 Amen. 00:04:03.400 --> 00:04:04.400 Bless us together as a congregation. 00:04:04.400 --> 00:04:05.400 Amen. 00:04:05.400 --> 00:04:07.400 We pray today for our young ones. 00:04:07.400 --> 00:04:09.400 We ask, Lord, that you would bless them. 00:04:09.400 --> 00:04:14.400 Bless them as they receive the teaching of your word from week to week and day to day. 00:04:14.400 --> 00:04:29.399 Bless them here today and bless them in their own families and in the various ways in which they receive the teaching that is necessary for them to grow morally and spiritually in a way that is appropriate and pleasing to you. 00:04:29.399 --> 00:04:42.399 And we ask, O Lord, that you would protect them, that you would shield them with your own power, with your own guidance and strength from the many things that are in the world that would seek to draw them away from God and from his word. 00:04:42.399 --> 00:04:46.399 And we ask that you would graciously, Lord, hear us as we pray for them. 00:04:46.399 --> 00:04:57.399 And in all of these things, we pray that they will grow up to be a people who will glorify your name and publicly proclaim you as their Lord and their God. 00:04:57.399 --> 00:05:01.399 Hear us now, we pray, and pardon our sin for Jesus' sake. 00:05:01.399 --> 00:05:02.399 Amen. 00:05:02.399 --> 00:05:13.399 Now, yesterday was called April Fool's Day. 00:05:13.399 --> 00:05:18.399 I don't know where April Fool's Day came from, how the practice actually started. 00:05:18.399 --> 00:05:23.399 I try to look it up, as I do usually on Google for these sort of things. 00:05:23.399 --> 00:05:30.399 But, you know, the origin where it started is really unclear. 00:05:30.399 --> 00:05:34.399 So we don't know where April Fool's Day really came from, from the practice. 00:05:34.399 --> 00:05:46.399 But April Fool's Day is a time when people try to have some pranks or jokes against others, hopefully good ones, hopefully ones that are not harmful. 00:05:46.399 --> 00:05:50.399 But April Fool's Day has been about that down through the years. 00:05:50.399 --> 00:05:59.399 Now, the word fool in the Bible is actually used over 80 times throughout the Bible. 00:05:59.399 --> 00:06:10.399 Many of them are in the book of Psalms, and especially in the book of Proverbs, which is a book to do with wisdom and learning wisdom and the importance of wisdom. 00:06:10.399 --> 00:06:16.399 And the way the Bible uses the word fool is not so much stupidity as such. 00:06:16.399 --> 00:06:25.399 It's actually to do more with not having wisdom or not wanting the wisdom that God Himself wants to give us and gives us in His Word. 00:06:25.399 --> 00:06:30.399 And I've got three places in the Bible where the word fool is used. 00:06:30.399 --> 00:06:35.399 And I want you to try and remember these because they're very simple verses, but they're very important. 00:06:35.399 --> 00:06:37.399 And you can find many others as well. 00:06:37.399 --> 00:06:45.399 First of all, in Psalms 14 and 53, if you look at the first verse of each of these Psalms, you'll find them exactly the same, 00:06:45.399 --> 00:06:51.399 which says, the fool says in his heart, there is no God. 00:06:51.399 --> 00:06:58.399 So there is God telling us that people who actually say there is no God, God does not exist. 00:06:58.399 --> 00:07:01.399 The Bible says they lack wisdom. 00:07:01.399 --> 00:07:11.399 They have that foolishness that just wants to ignore God, ignore His Word, and therefore live without the advantage of that teaching. 00:07:11.399 --> 00:07:16.399 So remember, whenever you hear somebody saying, God does not exist. 00:07:16.399 --> 00:07:17.399 I don't believe in God. 00:07:17.399 --> 00:07:18.399 I don't believe He exists. 00:07:18.399 --> 00:07:24.399 Well, go to the Bible, see what God thinks of that, pray for them. 00:07:24.399 --> 00:07:28.399 But remember, God is saying that's foolishness. 00:07:28.399 --> 00:07:30.399 That's lack of wisdom. 00:07:30.399 --> 00:07:34.399 That's really closing your mind to the things that are really important. 00:07:34.399 --> 00:07:40.399 That's the first place in the Bible, Psalms 14 and 53. 00:07:40.399 --> 00:07:43.399 The fool says in his heart, there is no God. 00:07:43.399 --> 00:07:47.399 Secondly, Proverbs 18 and verse 2. 00:07:47.399 --> 00:07:55.399 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. 00:07:55.399 --> 00:08:05.399 You come across people like that, don't you, in life? 00:08:05.399 --> 00:08:10.399 All they want to do is tell you what they think themselves and insist that what they think themselves must be right. 00:08:10.399 --> 00:08:15.399 And they're closed their minds, their ears to every other opinion. 00:08:15.399 --> 00:08:20.399 Even if you keep talking to them and try and get them off that track, all they'll do is just come back with the same stuff. 00:08:20.399 --> 00:08:23.399 Well, the Bible calls that foolishness. 00:08:23.399 --> 00:08:25.399 It takes no pleasure in understanding. 00:08:25.399 --> 00:08:33.399 One of the things that is really important for us, whether we're young ones or older ones, is that we try and always add to our understanding. 00:08:33.399 --> 00:08:41.399 That we give our minds especially to the things the Bible teaches us so that our understanding grows. 00:08:41.399 --> 00:08:46.399 Our understanding about God, understanding about why things are as they are in the world, 00:08:46.399 --> 00:08:53.399 understanding about ourselves, understanding about Jesus, why Jesus came, what Jesus did, where Jesus is now. 00:08:53.399 --> 00:08:57.399 Understanding these things is so important. 00:08:57.399 --> 00:09:05.399 That's why the Bible is saying that a fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. 00:09:05.399 --> 00:09:10.399 And one of the important things there is that we learn to listen. 00:09:10.399 --> 00:09:16.399 Not just to talk all the time, expressing our own opinion and our own view of things. 00:09:16.399 --> 00:09:18.399 That's what foolishness does. 00:09:18.399 --> 00:09:22.399 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding. 00:09:22.399 --> 00:09:24.399 So that's two. 00:09:24.399 --> 00:09:29.399 The third one is in the New Testament in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 12. 00:09:29.399 --> 00:09:35.399 Here's a story about somebody who was rich, somebody who actually had a lot of ground, 00:09:35.399 --> 00:09:39.399 and that ground produced a lot more and kept on producing. 00:09:39.399 --> 00:09:40.399 What did he say to himself? 00:09:40.399 --> 00:09:42.399 He said, I'll build bigger barns. 00:09:42.399 --> 00:09:44.399 I'll store all this stuff. 00:09:44.399 --> 00:09:47.399 And I'll say to my soul, relax. 00:09:47.399 --> 00:09:49.399 You've got all this laid up for many years. 00:09:49.399 --> 00:09:51.399 Just take your time. 00:09:51.399 --> 00:09:53.399 Enjoy life. 00:09:53.399 --> 00:09:56.399 God said to him, you fool. 00:09:56.399 --> 00:10:01.399 Tonight, your soul is required of you. 00:10:01.399 --> 00:10:06.399 And the things you have prepared, whose will they be? 00:10:06.399 --> 00:10:12.399 You see, when God calls anybody a fool, we should really listen to what that is saying. 00:10:12.399 --> 00:10:19.399 Because here is God saying to us, life is not about how many things we possess. 00:10:19.399 --> 00:10:22.399 Life is not about just relaxing and taking it easy. 00:10:22.399 --> 00:10:27.399 Life is about preparing for eternity, for the future. 00:10:27.399 --> 00:10:33.399 And especially for the time that we leave this world and need to go to eternity. 00:10:33.399 --> 00:10:36.399 God said to him, you fool. 00:10:36.399 --> 00:10:40.399 Tonight, your soul will be required of you. 00:10:40.399 --> 00:10:42.399 That man was going to die that very night. 00:10:42.399 --> 00:10:44.399 And he wasn't ready to die. 00:10:44.399 --> 00:10:48.399 He was just looking at the things he had all around him. 00:10:48.399 --> 00:10:52.399 And God said, you're a fool. 00:10:52.399 --> 00:10:54.399 Think of the things that you've laid up. 00:10:54.399 --> 00:10:57.399 Who is going to possess them? 00:10:57.399 --> 00:10:59.399 So, these are three places in the Bible. 00:10:59.399 --> 00:11:01.399 See if you can find other places. 00:11:01.399 --> 00:11:05.399 You can ask your teachers or leaders other places in the Bible where the word fool is used. 00:11:05.399 --> 00:11:10.399 And you'll find that it's mostly along the same lines as these three verses. 00:11:10.399 --> 00:11:13.399 So, let's now say the Lord's Prayer together. 00:11:13.399 --> 00:11:14.399 Amen. 00:11:14.399 --> 00:11:19.399 Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. 00:11:19.399 --> 00:11:20.399 Thy kingdom come. 00:11:20.399 --> 00:11:23.399 Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 00:11:23.399 --> 00:11:26.399 Give us this day our daily bread. 00:11:26.399 --> 00:11:30.399 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 00:11:30.399 --> 00:11:34.399 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 00:11:34.399 --> 00:11:39.399 For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. 00:11:39.399 --> 00:11:40.399 Amen. 00:11:40.399 --> 00:11:43.399 Now, our next Psalm of Praise, Psalm 67. 00:11:43.399 --> 00:11:46.399 Psalm 67 in the Scottish Psalter. 00:11:46.399 --> 00:11:51.399 That's on page 300. 00:11:51.399 --> 00:11:54.399 And that's the first version of the Psalm. 00:11:54.399 --> 00:11:57.399 Lord, bless and pity us. 00:11:57.399 --> 00:11:59.399 Shine on us with thy face. 00:11:59.399 --> 00:12:04.399 That the earth, thy way, and nations all may know thy saving grace. 00:12:04.399 --> 00:12:09.399 So, all the Psalms we're singing today have to do with the gospel going out throughout the world. 00:12:09.399 --> 00:12:15.399 Or God's call to the whole world to come and put their trust in him. 00:12:15.399 --> 00:12:19.399 So, Psalm 67 is the same. 00:12:19.399 --> 00:12:21.399 The earth, thy fruit shall yield. 00:12:21.399 --> 00:12:23.399 Our God shall blessing send. 00:12:23.399 --> 00:12:24.399 God shall us bless. 00:12:24.399 --> 00:12:28.399 Men shall him fear unto earth's utmost end. 00:12:28.399 --> 00:12:29.399 Psalm 67. 00:12:29.399 --> 00:12:31.399 The tune this time is Selma. 00:12:31.399 --> 00:12:33.399 Lord, bless and pity us. 00:12:33.399 --> 00:12:34.399 Lord, bless and pity us. 00:12:34.399 --> 00:12:35.399 Lord, bless and pity us. 00:12:35.399 --> 00:12:36.399 Shine on us with thy face. 00:12:36.399 --> 00:12:37.399 Lord, bless and pity us. 00:12:37.399 --> 00:12:38.399 Shine on us with thy face. 00:12:38.399 --> 00:12:42.399 Love the earth, thy way, and nations all may know thy saving grace. 00:12:42.399 --> 00:12:43.399 Lord, bless and pity us. 00:12:43.399 --> 00:12:50.899 Shine on us with thy face 00:12:50.899 --> 00:12:58.480 Love the earth, thy way, and nations all 00:12:58.480 --> 00:13:04.399 May know thy saving grace 00:13:04.959 --> 00:13:11.399 Let people praise thee, Lord 00:13:11.399 --> 00:13:18.399 Let people all be praised 00:13:19.120 --> 00:13:26.399 O let the nations be found 00:13:27.159 --> 00:13:33.399 In songs their voices raise 00:13:33.399 --> 00:13:41.120 Love justly people judge 00:13:41.120 --> 00:13:48.399 Honor and rule nations all 00:13:48.399 --> 00:13:55.120 Let people praise thee, Lord 00:13:55.120 --> 00:14:01.120 Let them praise thee, Lord 00:14:01.120 --> 00:14:03.120 Great and small 00:14:03.120 --> 00:14:11.120 The earth, her fruit shall heal 00:14:11.120 --> 00:14:19.120 Her God shall bless his name 00:14:19.799 --> 00:14:28.440 God shall not bless, men shall end here 00:14:28.440 --> 00:14:34.840 Unto earth that was paid 00:14:34.840 --> 00:14:40.800 Now, our reading from God's Word today 00:14:40.800 --> 00:14:42.720 is from Paul's letter to the Romans 00:14:42.720 --> 00:14:45.000 chapter 15 00:14:45.000 --> 00:14:50.840 and reading the verses 1 to 13 00:14:50.840 --> 00:15:02.560 So Romans chapter 15 and from the beginning 00:15:02.559 --> 00:15:09.439 We who are strong have an obligation 00:15:09.439 --> 00:15:11.459 to bear with the failings of the weak 00:15:11.459 --> 00:15:13.619 and not to please ourselves 00:15:13.619 --> 00:15:17.159 Let each of us please his neighbour for his good 00:15:17.159 --> 00:15:18.519 to build him up 00:15:18.519 --> 00:15:21.139 For Christ did not please himself 00:15:21.139 --> 00:15:22.779 But as it is written 00:15:22.779 --> 00:15:26.039 The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me 00:15:26.039 --> 00:15:29.179 For whatever was written in former days 00:15:29.179 --> 00:15:31.139 was written for our instruction 00:15:31.139 --> 00:15:33.019 That through endurance 00:15:33.019 --> 00:15:35.379 and through the encouragement of the Scriptures 00:15:35.379 --> 00:15:37.000 we might have hope 00:15:37.000 --> 00:15:40.139 May the God of endurance and encouragement 00:15:40.139 --> 00:15:43.500 grant you to live in such harmony with one another 00:15:43.500 --> 00:15:45.740 in accord with Christ Jesus 00:15:45.740 --> 00:15:48.620 That together you may with one voice 00:15:48.620 --> 00:15:52.240 glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ 00:15:52.240 --> 00:15:54.679 Therefore welcome one another 00:15:54.679 --> 00:15:57.100 as Christ has welcomed you 00:15:57.100 --> 00:15:58.980 for the glory of God 00:15:58.980 --> 00:16:02.200 For I tell you that Christ became a servant 00:16:02.200 --> 00:16:03.659 to the circumcised 00:16:03.659 --> 00:16:05.539 to show God's truthfulness 00:16:05.539 --> 00:16:09.460 in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs 00:16:09.460 --> 00:16:11.360 and in order that the Gentiles 00:16:11.360 --> 00:16:13.320 might glorify God for his mercy 00:16:13.320 --> 00:16:15.080 As it is written 00:16:15.080 --> 00:16:18.000 Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles 00:16:18.000 --> 00:16:19.920 and sing to your name 00:16:19.920 --> 00:16:21.980 And again it is said 00:16:21.980 --> 00:16:24.780 Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people 00:16:24.780 --> 00:16:26.180 And again 00:16:26.180 --> 00:16:28.800 Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles 00:16:28.800 --> 00:16:31.500 And let all the peoples extol him 00:16:31.500 --> 00:16:33.820 And again Isaiah says 00:16:33.820 --> 00:16:35.920 The root of Jesse will come 00:16:35.920 --> 00:16:39.040 Even he who arises to rule the Gentiles 00:16:39.040 --> 00:16:41.500 In him will the Gentiles hope 00:16:41.500 --> 00:16:43.620 May the God of hope 00:16:43.620 --> 00:16:46.659 Fill you with all joy and peace in believing 00:16:46.659 --> 00:16:49.379 So that by the power of the Holy Spirit 00:16:49.379 --> 00:16:52.500 You may abound in hope 00:16:52.500 --> 00:16:54.019 Amen 00:16:54.019 --> 00:16:54.759 May God bless 00:16:54.759 --> 00:16:57.220 A reading of that portion of his word 00:16:57.220 --> 00:16:59.159 Let's call upon him again in prayer 00:16:59.159 --> 00:16:59.720 Let's pray 00:16:59.720 --> 00:17:02.399 Amen 00:17:02.399 --> 00:17:04.660 O Lord our God 00:17:04.660 --> 00:17:06.079 We give thanks for the hope 00:17:06.079 --> 00:17:08.319 That you have brought into being 00:17:08.319 --> 00:17:10.819 Through your resurrection from the dead 00:17:10.819 --> 00:17:12.700 We bless you today 00:17:12.700 --> 00:17:13.880 That that is the foundation 00:17:13.880 --> 00:17:15.660 Of your people's hope 00:17:15.660 --> 00:17:17.819 For you tell us in your word 00:17:17.819 --> 00:17:19.539 And our own experience tells us 00:17:19.539 --> 00:17:21.420 That the things of this world 00:17:21.420 --> 00:17:22.620 Cannot be foundational 00:17:22.620 --> 00:17:24.940 To a proper and lasting hope 00:17:24.940 --> 00:17:27.100 A hope that will be fulfilled 00:17:27.100 --> 00:17:28.320 Ultimately in heaven 00:17:28.320 --> 00:17:30.180 O Lord our God 00:17:30.180 --> 00:17:31.039 We thank you today 00:17:31.039 --> 00:17:31.779 For the reality 00:17:31.779 --> 00:17:33.240 Of those things 00:17:33.240 --> 00:17:34.740 For which we give you praise 00:17:34.740 --> 00:17:36.240 We thank you 00:17:36.240 --> 00:17:36.779 That they are 00:17:36.779 --> 00:17:38.299 As real to your people 00:17:38.299 --> 00:17:40.299 As anything that they can see 00:17:40.299 --> 00:17:41.640 Physically in this life 00:17:41.640 --> 00:17:43.720 And we bless you Lord 00:17:43.720 --> 00:17:45.279 That you have provided them for us 00:17:45.279 --> 00:17:46.740 In your own salvation 00:17:46.740 --> 00:17:48.960 So that we might live 00:17:48.960 --> 00:17:49.720 As your people 00:17:49.720 --> 00:17:51.519 So that we might 00:17:51.519 --> 00:17:53.740 Not only praise you ourselves 00:17:53.740 --> 00:17:55.339 But that we might 00:17:55.339 --> 00:17:56.859 Promote your great name 00:17:56.859 --> 00:17:58.519 And that we might seek 00:17:58.519 --> 00:17:59.200 That the gospel 00:17:59.200 --> 00:18:01.200 Would reach forth into the world 00:18:01.200 --> 00:18:02.940 With this great message of hope 00:18:02.940 --> 00:18:04.640 And we thank you today 00:18:04.640 --> 00:18:06.140 That the gospel is 00:18:06.140 --> 00:18:07.279 Being sounded forth 00:18:07.279 --> 00:18:09.620 We pray that it may increase 00:18:09.620 --> 00:18:10.420 More and more 00:18:10.420 --> 00:18:10.980 O Lord 00:18:10.980 --> 00:18:12.799 So that many will come 00:18:12.799 --> 00:18:13.440 Even today 00:18:13.440 --> 00:18:14.120 To hear 00:18:14.120 --> 00:18:15.720 For the first time 00:18:15.720 --> 00:18:16.799 And especially to hear 00:18:16.799 --> 00:18:17.539 Savingly 00:18:17.539 --> 00:18:18.940 Of the hope 00:18:18.940 --> 00:18:21.319 Of eternal life 00:18:21.319 --> 00:18:23.420 In the Lord Jesus Christ 00:18:23.420 --> 00:18:25.340 We thank you Lord 00:18:25.340 --> 00:18:26.080 Today that 00:18:26.080 --> 00:18:28.039 He came into this world 00:18:28.039 --> 00:18:29.039 Specifically 00:18:29.039 --> 00:18:29.980 To die 00:18:29.980 --> 00:18:31.480 And to rise again 00:18:31.480 --> 00:18:32.220 From the dead 00:18:32.220 --> 00:18:33.920 Three days later 00:18:33.920 --> 00:18:35.580 And we give thanks 00:18:35.580 --> 00:18:36.320 That he is now 00:18:36.320 --> 00:18:37.640 At the right hand of glory 00:18:37.640 --> 00:18:39.019 That he ministers 00:18:39.019 --> 00:18:39.840 To his people 00:18:39.840 --> 00:18:40.700 Through his spirit 00:18:40.700 --> 00:18:41.860 And Lord 00:18:41.860 --> 00:18:42.759 We ask that today 00:18:42.759 --> 00:18:43.380 We may know 00:18:43.380 --> 00:18:44.700 Of that benefit 00:18:44.700 --> 00:18:45.600 Of that ministry 00:18:45.600 --> 00:18:46.519 For ourselves 00:18:46.519 --> 00:18:48.440 Bless us here today 00:18:48.440 --> 00:18:49.660 As a congregation 00:18:49.660 --> 00:18:50.519 We pray 00:18:50.519 --> 00:18:51.840 Bless all those 00:18:51.839 --> 00:18:52.599 Who are with us 00:18:52.599 --> 00:18:53.519 Who are visiting 00:18:53.519 --> 00:18:54.199 At this time 00:18:54.199 --> 00:18:55.019 Be pleased to 00:18:55.019 --> 00:18:55.919 Bless them 00:18:55.919 --> 00:18:56.399 In their time 00:18:56.399 --> 00:18:56.799 With us 00:18:56.799 --> 00:18:57.759 And with their families 00:18:57.759 --> 00:18:59.059 Bless all those 00:18:59.059 --> 00:19:00.000 Who are away from us 00:19:00.000 --> 00:19:00.980 As well at this time 00:19:00.980 --> 00:19:01.519 Be pleased 00:19:01.519 --> 00:19:02.000 O Lord 00:19:02.000 --> 00:19:03.539 To be with them 00:19:03.539 --> 00:19:04.619 And to accompany them 00:19:04.619 --> 00:19:06.139 In their time of holiday 00:19:06.139 --> 00:19:07.720 Be with our children 00:19:07.720 --> 00:19:08.799 As they take a break 00:19:08.799 --> 00:19:09.419 From school 00:19:09.419 --> 00:19:10.839 And with our teachers 00:19:10.839 --> 00:19:11.179 Too 00:19:11.179 --> 00:19:12.259 As they look forward 00:19:12.259 --> 00:19:13.480 To time off 00:19:13.480 --> 00:19:14.779 We pray 00:19:14.779 --> 00:19:15.059 Lord 00:19:15.059 --> 00:19:15.500 That you would 00:19:15.500 --> 00:19:16.240 Refresh them 00:19:16.240 --> 00:19:17.220 That you would 00:19:17.220 --> 00:19:18.360 Further encourage them 00:19:18.360 --> 00:19:19.420 And give them 00:19:19.420 --> 00:19:19.660 Lord 00:19:19.660 --> 00:19:20.360 More and more 00:19:20.360 --> 00:19:21.640 To know of 00:19:21.640 --> 00:19:22.559 The faithfulness 00:19:22.559 --> 00:19:23.519 Of God himself 00:19:23.519 --> 00:19:25.000 Who is true 00:19:25.000 --> 00:19:26.160 To all his promises 00:19:26.160 --> 00:19:27.720 And who will never 00:19:27.720 --> 00:19:28.500 Let his people 00:19:28.500 --> 00:19:29.839 Other than 00:19:29.839 --> 00:19:31.779 Have his promises 00:19:31.779 --> 00:19:33.500 Fulfilled for them 00:19:33.500 --> 00:19:35.099 We ask Lord 00:19:35.099 --> 00:19:35.440 Today 00:19:35.440 --> 00:19:35.960 That you would 00:19:35.960 --> 00:19:36.440 Bless us 00:19:36.440 --> 00:19:37.319 As a congregation 00:19:37.319 --> 00:19:38.559 We pray 00:19:38.559 --> 00:19:39.019 Your blessing 00:19:39.019 --> 00:19:40.079 For all age groups 00:19:40.079 --> 00:19:41.519 That we represent 00:19:41.519 --> 00:19:42.619 As a congregation 00:19:42.619 --> 00:19:44.000 And we ask 00:19:44.000 --> 00:19:44.680 That in all our 00:19:44.680 --> 00:19:45.839 Variety of need 00:19:45.839 --> 00:19:46.740 Lord 00:19:46.740 --> 00:19:47.160 That you would 00:19:47.160 --> 00:19:47.700 Be pleased 00:19:47.700 --> 00:19:48.639 To provide us 00:19:48.639 --> 00:19:49.400 With your blessing 00:19:49.400 --> 00:19:50.500 Lord 00:19:50.500 --> 00:19:51.539 We need your blessing 00:19:51.539 --> 00:19:53.059 For every step of life 00:19:53.059 --> 00:19:54.639 We need your blessing 00:19:54.639 --> 00:19:56.079 Even from the youngest days 00:19:56.079 --> 00:19:57.339 Through to our old age 00:19:57.339 --> 00:19:58.759 We thank you 00:19:58.759 --> 00:19:59.379 That your blessing 00:19:59.379 --> 00:20:00.720 Is assured 00:20:00.720 --> 00:20:02.480 And brought to us 00:20:02.480 --> 00:20:03.019 In your word 00:20:03.019 --> 00:20:03.859 As that which is 00:20:03.859 --> 00:20:04.599 Guaranteed 00:20:04.599 --> 00:20:05.740 To all those 00:20:05.740 --> 00:20:06.720 Who place their trust 00:20:06.720 --> 00:20:07.160 In you 00:20:07.160 --> 00:20:08.900 We ask oh Lord 00:20:08.900 --> 00:20:10.139 That as we have 00:20:10.139 --> 00:20:10.559 Been reading 00:20:10.559 --> 00:20:11.420 And as we're thinking 00:20:11.420 --> 00:20:13.080 Today of the gospel 00:20:13.080 --> 00:20:14.620 Going forth into the world 00:20:14.620 --> 00:20:15.880 That the nations 00:20:15.880 --> 00:20:16.759 May come under 00:20:16.759 --> 00:20:17.779 The rule of Christ 00:20:17.779 --> 00:20:19.560 We pray that your kingdom 00:20:19.560 --> 00:20:20.500 Will indeed come 00:20:20.500 --> 00:20:21.680 That your will 00:20:21.680 --> 00:20:22.539 Be done on earth 00:20:22.539 --> 00:20:23.500 As it is in heaven 00:20:23.500 --> 00:20:24.820 And we ask 00:20:24.820 --> 00:20:25.180 That you would 00:20:25.180 --> 00:20:26.039 Enable us to 00:20:26.039 --> 00:20:27.519 Continue to pray 00:20:27.519 --> 00:20:28.400 In that regard 00:20:28.400 --> 00:20:30.100 And not to lose heart 00:20:30.100 --> 00:20:31.519 Or be discouraged 00:20:31.519 --> 00:20:33.000 As we find Lord 00:20:33.000 --> 00:20:34.140 So much around us 00:20:34.140 --> 00:20:35.380 That is opposed to you 00:20:35.380 --> 00:20:37.300 So much that is closed 00:20:37.300 --> 00:20:39.039 To the demands of God 00:20:39.039 --> 00:20:40.100 To the rights 00:20:40.099 --> 00:20:40.759 And the claims 00:20:40.759 --> 00:20:41.659 Of Christ himself 00:20:41.659 --> 00:20:42.379 As Lord 00:20:42.379 --> 00:20:44.019 We pray oh Lord 00:20:44.019 --> 00:20:44.439 That you would 00:20:44.439 --> 00:20:45.939 Continue to encourage 00:20:45.939 --> 00:20:46.639 Your people 00:20:46.639 --> 00:20:47.859 To reach forth 00:20:47.859 --> 00:20:48.539 And to continue 00:20:48.539 --> 00:20:49.099 To pray 00:20:49.099 --> 00:20:50.839 For the turning around 00:20:50.839 --> 00:20:52.259 Of the world 00:20:52.259 --> 00:20:53.219 In which we live 00:20:53.220 --> 00:20:54.680 And we ask today 00:20:54.680 --> 00:20:55.120 Oh Lord 00:20:55.120 --> 00:20:55.640 That you would 00:20:55.640 --> 00:20:56.740 Grant blessing 00:20:56.740 --> 00:20:57.860 To us as a nation 00:20:57.860 --> 00:20:59.700 We pray that in these 00:20:59.700 --> 00:21:01.460 Challenging times 00:21:01.460 --> 00:21:02.259 That you would bless 00:21:02.259 --> 00:21:03.880 Those who govern us 00:21:03.880 --> 00:21:04.900 For you have required 00:21:04.900 --> 00:21:05.559 Of us Lord 00:21:05.559 --> 00:21:06.980 That we constantly 00:21:06.980 --> 00:21:07.720 Bear in mind 00:21:07.720 --> 00:21:08.799 And pray for those 00:21:08.799 --> 00:21:10.140 Who rule over us 00:21:10.140 --> 00:21:11.520 And we do pray 00:21:11.520 --> 00:21:12.140 For them Lord 00:21:12.140 --> 00:21:12.420 Today 00:21:12.420 --> 00:21:13.680 Whatever our 00:21:13.680 --> 00:21:14.940 Political persuasions 00:21:14.940 --> 00:21:15.480 May be 00:21:15.480 --> 00:21:17.080 You have called upon us 00:21:17.080 --> 00:21:17.540 To pray 00:21:17.540 --> 00:21:19.000 For those in authority 00:21:19.000 --> 00:21:19.860 That we may live 00:21:19.860 --> 00:21:20.960 Peaceable lives 00:21:20.960 --> 00:21:22.320 That we may have 00:21:22.320 --> 00:21:24.000 The gospel 00:21:24.000 --> 00:21:25.759 Advantageously 00:21:25.759 --> 00:21:26.140 Given 00:21:26.140 --> 00:21:27.780 That place 00:21:27.780 --> 00:21:29.060 In our minds 00:21:29.060 --> 00:21:30.720 And in our lives 00:21:30.720 --> 00:21:31.840 And we ask 00:21:31.840 --> 00:21:32.259 Oh Lord 00:21:32.259 --> 00:21:33.000 That you would bless 00:21:33.000 --> 00:21:33.400 Therefore 00:21:33.400 --> 00:21:35.120 Those who are in 00:21:35.120 --> 00:21:35.960 Government over us 00:21:35.960 --> 00:21:36.560 In Scotland 00:21:36.560 --> 00:21:37.660 And in Westminster 00:21:37.660 --> 00:21:39.300 We pray for them 00:21:39.300 --> 00:21:40.019 We pray for 00:21:40.019 --> 00:21:41.300 Our first minister 00:21:41.300 --> 00:21:41.940 We pray for 00:21:41.940 --> 00:21:42.860 Our prime minister 00:21:42.860 --> 00:21:44.259 We ask that you 00:21:44.259 --> 00:21:45.360 Bless their cabinets 00:21:45.360 --> 00:21:46.259 We pray that 00:21:46.259 --> 00:21:47.540 Lord you would 00:21:47.540 --> 00:21:48.580 Give them that wisdom 00:21:48.580 --> 00:21:49.900 To look to you 00:21:49.900 --> 00:21:51.180 And to look to your word 00:21:51.180 --> 00:21:52.800 To regard the things 00:21:52.800 --> 00:21:53.279 Of God 00:21:53.279 --> 00:21:54.660 As of utmost importance 00:21:54.660 --> 00:21:56.000 To give place 00:21:56.000 --> 00:21:57.019 To your laws 00:21:57.019 --> 00:21:58.580 And your precepts 00:21:58.580 --> 00:21:59.360 Gracious Lord 00:21:59.360 --> 00:22:00.580 We long for the day 00:22:00.580 --> 00:22:02.540 When we will find 00:22:02.540 --> 00:22:04.460 Righteousness 00:22:04.460 --> 00:22:05.840 Marking us 00:22:05.840 --> 00:22:06.740 And exalting us 00:22:06.740 --> 00:22:07.640 Again as a people 00:22:07.640 --> 00:22:09.160 We pray that that 00:22:09.160 --> 00:22:09.880 May be our great 00:22:09.880 --> 00:22:11.240 Concern as your people 00:22:11.240 --> 00:22:12.520 That we will see 00:22:12.520 --> 00:22:13.920 Righteousness restored 00:22:13.920 --> 00:22:15.080 In our midst 00:22:15.080 --> 00:22:15.780 As a nation 00:22:15.780 --> 00:22:16.900 And that truth 00:22:16.900 --> 00:22:17.520 Will no longer 00:22:17.520 --> 00:22:18.820 Be fallen in the streets 00:22:18.820 --> 00:22:20.300 We ask Lord 00:22:20.300 --> 00:22:20.860 That you would 00:22:20.860 --> 00:22:22.120 Give those who 00:22:22.120 --> 00:22:22.759 Rule over us 00:22:22.759 --> 00:22:24.020 A regard for truth 00:22:24.020 --> 00:22:25.040 Not their own 00:22:25.040 --> 00:22:26.100 Version of the truth 00:22:26.100 --> 00:22:27.420 Not their own 00:22:27.420 --> 00:22:28.759 Political party's 00:22:28.759 --> 00:22:29.700 Version of the truth 00:22:29.700 --> 00:22:30.840 But the truth 00:22:30.840 --> 00:22:31.620 Of your word 00:22:31.620 --> 00:22:33.280 The truth of the gospel 00:22:33.280 --> 00:22:35.020 The truth of your laws 00:22:35.020 --> 00:22:35.860 The truth of those 00:22:35.860 --> 00:22:36.860 Things that are firm 00:22:36.859 --> 00:22:37.419 And sure 00:22:37.419 --> 00:22:38.799 And that are given 00:22:38.799 --> 00:22:39.779 To us as a people 00:22:39.779 --> 00:22:41.319 For our betterment 00:22:41.319 --> 00:22:42.039 And for our 00:22:42.039 --> 00:22:43.539 Our wholeness 00:22:43.539 --> 00:22:45.019 And the things of life 00:22:45.019 --> 00:22:46.679 We pray your blessing 00:22:46.679 --> 00:22:47.679 Today for those 00:22:47.679 --> 00:22:48.919 Who are 00:22:48.919 --> 00:22:50.419 Today grieving 00:22:50.419 --> 00:22:52.099 Who miss loved ones 00:22:52.099 --> 00:22:52.799 For whom 00:22:52.799 --> 00:22:54.339 The reality of death 00:22:54.339 --> 00:22:55.119 Is a present 00:22:55.119 --> 00:22:57.240 Experience in their families 00:22:57.240 --> 00:22:58.379 Bless them we pray 00:22:58.380 --> 00:23:00.200 We ask that your blessing 00:23:00.200 --> 00:23:01.240 Will be with all those 00:23:01.240 --> 00:23:02.980 Who look upon 00:23:02.980 --> 00:23:03.940 Times gone by 00:23:03.940 --> 00:23:04.780 As times of 00:23:04.780 --> 00:23:06.400 Sorrow and bereavement 00:23:06.400 --> 00:23:06.960 And loss 00:23:06.960 --> 00:23:08.360 Oh Lord today 00:23:08.360 --> 00:23:09.140 We pray that 00:23:09.140 --> 00:23:10.120 You would again 00:23:10.120 --> 00:23:11.120 Enable them to 00:23:11.120 --> 00:23:12.520 Know your encouragement 00:23:12.520 --> 00:23:14.100 To know the direction 00:23:14.100 --> 00:23:14.800 And the comfort 00:23:14.800 --> 00:23:15.620 Of your word 00:23:15.620 --> 00:23:17.200 And to realize 00:23:17.200 --> 00:23:18.080 Oh God again 00:23:18.080 --> 00:23:18.600 That you are 00:23:18.600 --> 00:23:19.800 At all times 00:23:19.800 --> 00:23:20.820 Faithful and worthy 00:23:20.820 --> 00:23:22.420 To be trusted in 00:23:22.420 --> 00:23:24.120 Remember those 00:23:24.120 --> 00:23:24.820 Of our number 00:23:24.819 --> 00:23:26.079 Who are in hospital 00:23:26.079 --> 00:23:26.879 At this time 00:23:26.879 --> 00:23:27.519 Who are ill 00:23:27.519 --> 00:23:28.439 In care homes 00:23:28.439 --> 00:23:29.619 Or at home 00:23:29.619 --> 00:23:30.519 We pray for them 00:23:30.519 --> 00:23:31.000 Oh Lord 00:23:31.000 --> 00:23:32.279 We ask that you 00:23:32.279 --> 00:23:32.899 Be pleased 00:23:32.899 --> 00:23:33.799 To bless them 00:23:33.799 --> 00:23:35.240 We think especially 00:23:35.240 --> 00:23:35.779 Oh Lord 00:23:35.779 --> 00:23:37.179 In these days 00:23:37.179 --> 00:23:38.179 Of the Graham family 00:23:38.179 --> 00:23:39.259 William and Morag 00:23:39.259 --> 00:23:40.619 And William's time 00:23:40.619 --> 00:23:41.279 In hospital 00:23:41.279 --> 00:23:43.159 We pray for him 00:23:43.159 --> 00:23:44.019 For his recovery 00:23:44.019 --> 00:23:45.399 Pray for Morag 00:23:45.399 --> 00:23:46.359 As she supports him 00:23:46.359 --> 00:23:47.099 And for the family 00:23:47.099 --> 00:23:48.679 We ask oh Lord 00:23:48.679 --> 00:23:49.759 That you'd bless them 00:23:49.759 --> 00:23:50.700 In the days to come 00:23:50.700 --> 00:23:52.159 Be pleased to hear 00:23:52.159 --> 00:23:52.839 All those who are 00:23:52.839 --> 00:23:53.720 Praying for them 00:23:53.720 --> 00:23:55.000 We ask too 00:23:55.000 --> 00:23:56.059 That you'd bless those 00:23:56.059 --> 00:23:56.640 Oh Lord 00:23:56.640 --> 00:23:58.079 Of the congregation 00:23:58.079 --> 00:24:00.539 Who have bad news 00:24:00.539 --> 00:24:01.539 In recent times 00:24:01.539 --> 00:24:03.039 Who have difficult 00:24:03.039 --> 00:24:04.460 Challenges now to face 00:24:04.460 --> 00:24:06.039 In regard to their health 00:24:06.039 --> 00:24:06.539 We pray 00:24:06.539 --> 00:24:08.140 That you'd bless them 00:24:08.140 --> 00:24:09.339 And encourage them too 00:24:09.339 --> 00:24:11.500 And we do ask oh Lord 00:24:11.500 --> 00:24:12.100 That you would 00:24:12.100 --> 00:24:14.120 Graciously help us all 00:24:14.120 --> 00:24:15.259 Whenever the turnings 00:24:15.259 --> 00:24:15.779 Of life 00:24:15.779 --> 00:24:17.000 Are difficult 00:24:17.000 --> 00:24:18.360 And challenging for us 00:24:18.360 --> 00:24:20.100 Help us to turn to you 00:24:20.100 --> 00:24:21.039 Help us to turn 00:24:21.039 --> 00:24:21.839 To your cross 00:24:21.839 --> 00:24:23.079 To your death 00:24:23.079 --> 00:24:23.960 To your resurrection 00:24:23.960 --> 00:24:24.899 To your person 00:24:24.899 --> 00:24:26.319 Help us to draw 00:24:26.319 --> 00:24:27.179 All our encouragement 00:24:27.179 --> 00:24:28.099 From the Christ 00:24:28.099 --> 00:24:28.899 Who knows us 00:24:28.899 --> 00:24:30.740 Who knows our position 00:24:30.740 --> 00:24:31.439 So well 00:24:31.439 --> 00:24:33.000 Who is able to 00:24:33.000 --> 00:24:34.099 Give us support 00:24:34.099 --> 00:24:35.519 In all our circumstances 00:24:35.519 --> 00:24:37.179 So help us Lord 00:24:37.179 --> 00:24:38.199 We pray to take 00:24:38.199 --> 00:24:39.599 All our concerns 00:24:39.599 --> 00:24:40.319 To your throne 00:24:40.319 --> 00:24:40.779 Of grace 00:24:40.779 --> 00:24:42.059 That we may obtain mercy 00:24:42.059 --> 00:24:43.779 And find grace 00:24:43.779 --> 00:24:44.299 To help 00:24:44.299 --> 00:24:45.759 In time of need 00:24:45.759 --> 00:24:47.299 We ask oh Lord 00:24:47.299 --> 00:24:48.000 Now that you would 00:24:48.000 --> 00:24:50.119 Continue to bless us here 00:24:50.119 --> 00:24:51.299 And we pray 00:24:51.299 --> 00:24:52.519 That as we turn 00:24:52.519 --> 00:24:53.139 To your word 00:24:53.139 --> 00:24:53.759 Once again 00:24:53.759 --> 00:24:55.259 So we may know 00:24:55.259 --> 00:24:55.939 The guidance 00:24:55.939 --> 00:24:56.679 The instruction 00:24:56.679 --> 00:24:57.500 Of your spirit 00:24:57.500 --> 00:24:59.279 Coming to lay your word 00:24:59.279 --> 00:25:00.219 Upon our hearts 00:25:00.219 --> 00:25:01.539 Giving us to be 00:25:01.539 --> 00:25:02.279 To rejoice 00:25:02.279 --> 00:25:03.339 And to be glad 00:25:03.339 --> 00:25:04.759 That you are God 00:25:04.759 --> 00:25:06.000 And to take us 00:25:06.000 --> 00:25:06.739 As your people 00:25:06.739 --> 00:25:08.099 Here as we pray 00:25:08.099 --> 00:25:09.239 Pardoning our sin 00:25:09.239 --> 00:25:10.739 For Jesus' sake 00:25:10.739 --> 00:25:11.459 Amen 00:25:11.459 --> 00:25:15.539 Let's sing once again 00:25:15.539 --> 00:25:16.139 Before we turn 00:25:16.140 --> 00:25:16.900 To God's word 00:25:16.900 --> 00:25:18.220 We're singing this 00:25:18.220 --> 00:25:18.980 In this time 00:25:18.980 --> 00:25:19.980 Psalm 86 00:25:19.980 --> 00:25:22.080 Psalm 86 00:25:22.080 --> 00:25:23.300 In the Scottish Psalter 00:25:23.300 --> 00:25:24.500 Page 341 00:25:24.500 --> 00:25:26.780 Verses 6 to 11 00:25:26.780 --> 00:25:27.840 And the tune is 00:25:27.840 --> 00:25:28.340 Ayrshire 00:25:28.340 --> 00:25:30.500 Hear Lord 00:25:30.500 --> 00:25:31.120 My prayer 00:25:31.120 --> 00:25:32.460 And to the voice 00:25:32.460 --> 00:25:33.360 Of my request 00:25:33.360 --> 00:25:33.900 Attend 00:25:33.900 --> 00:25:35.700 In troublous times 00:25:35.700 --> 00:25:36.740 I'll call on thee 00:25:36.740 --> 00:25:37.960 For thou wilt 00:25:37.960 --> 00:25:38.880 Answer send 00:25:38.880 --> 00:25:40.440 Lord there is none 00:25:40.440 --> 00:25:41.300 Among the gods 00:25:41.300 --> 00:25:42.120 That may with thee 00:25:42.120 --> 00:25:42.680 Compare 00:25:42.680 --> 00:25:44.300 And like the works 00:25:44.300 --> 00:25:45.520 Which thou hast done 00:25:45.519 --> 00:25:47.319 Not any work 00:25:47.319 --> 00:25:48.500 Is there 00:25:48.500 --> 00:25:50.039 Psalm 86 00:25:50.039 --> 00:25:51.500 Verses 6 to 11 00:25:51.500 --> 00:25:52.740 To God's praise 00:25:52.740 --> 00:26:00.299 Hear Lord 00:26:00.299 --> 00:26:02.339 My prayer 00:26:02.339 --> 00:26:06.200 Unto the voice 00:26:06.200 --> 00:26:10.839 Of my request 00:26:10.839 --> 00:26:17.839 Lord there is none 00:26:17.839 --> 00:26:21.839 Among the gods 00:26:21.839 --> 00:26:32.839 But there is none 00:26:32.839 --> 00:26:37.839 Among the gods 00:26:37.839 --> 00:26:38.839 That may with thee 00:26:38.839 --> 00:26:42.839 That may with thee 00:26:42.839 --> 00:26:44.839 Compare 00:26:44.839 --> 00:26:49.839 And like the works 00:26:49.839 --> 00:26:54.839 Which thou hast done 00:26:54.839 --> 00:27:02.839 Not any work is there 00:27:02.839 --> 00:27:07.839 All the ancient truth 00:27:07.839 --> 00:27:08.539 All the ancient truth 00:27:08.539 --> 00:27:10.839 Thou hast done 00:27:10.839 --> 00:27:14.839 And worship reverently 00:27:14.839 --> 00:27:19.839 And worship reverently 00:27:19.839 --> 00:27:24.839 Before thy face 00:27:24.839 --> 00:27:28.839 A day O Lord 00:27:28.839 --> 00:27:35.839 Thy name shall glorify 00:27:35.839 --> 00:27:42.839 Because the Lord 00:27:42.839 --> 00:27:43.159 Because the Lord 00:27:43.159 --> 00:27:46.839 Exceeding day 00:27:46.839 --> 00:27:51.839 And works by thee 00:27:51.839 --> 00:27:53.839 Are done 00:27:53.839 --> 00:27:58.839 Which are to thee 00:27:58.839 --> 00:27:59.839 And my love 00:27:59.839 --> 00:28:03.839 And my love 00:28:03.839 --> 00:28:04.839 And my love 00:28:04.839 --> 00:28:05.839 But God 00:28:05.839 --> 00:28:06.839 Thou hast 00:28:06.839 --> 00:28:08.839 Thou shalt 00:28:08.839 --> 00:28:09.839 Alone 00:28:09.839 --> 00:28:11.839 In thee 00:28:11.839 --> 00:28:12.839 I pray 00:28:12.839 --> 00:28:13.839 And in thy truth 00:28:13.839 --> 00:28:15.839 O Lord 00:28:15.839 --> 00:28:17.839 Then what will I 00:28:17.839 --> 00:28:20.839 And in thy truth 00:28:20.839 --> 00:28:22.839 O Lord 00:28:22.839 --> 00:28:27.839 Then what will I 00:28:27.839 --> 00:28:32.839 Unite my heart 00:28:32.839 --> 00:28:34.839 Thou die thy dear 00:28:34.839 --> 00:28:44.839 Then what will I 00:28:44.839 --> 00:28:45.839 And in thy life 00:28:45.839 --> 00:28:46.839 And in my heart 00:28:46.839 --> 00:28:47.839 And in thy life 00:28:47.839 --> 00:28:48.839 And in thy life 00:28:48.839 --> 00:28:49.839 And in thy life 00:28:49.839 --> 00:28:50.839 Now please turn with me 00:28:50.839 --> 00:28:51.839 To the book of Psalms 00:28:52.839 --> 00:28:53.839 The book of Psalms 00:28:53.839 --> 00:28:54.839 The book of Psalms 00:28:54.839 --> 00:28:55.839 And Psalm 117 00:29:05.839 --> 00:29:06.839 Psalm 117 00:29:06.839 --> 00:29:07.839 In the book of Psalms 00:29:07.839 --> 00:29:08.839 Psalm 117 in the book of Psalms 00:29:08.839 --> 00:29:10.839 Praise the Lord all nations 00:29:10.839 --> 00:29:13.839 Extol him all peoples 00:29:13.839 --> 00:29:16.839 For great is his steadfast love towards us 00:29:16.839 --> 00:29:20.839 And the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever 00:29:20.839 --> 00:29:23.839 Praise the Lord 00:29:23.839 --> 00:29:29.839 Well you'll be aware I'm sure that this is the shortest psalm in length 00:29:29.839 --> 00:29:31.839 In the whole of the Psalter 00:29:31.839 --> 00:29:35.839 But while it is the shortest psalm in length 00:29:35.839 --> 00:29:38.839 It is one of the broadest in width 00:29:38.839 --> 00:29:43.839 Because it encompasses all the nations in the call that goes out from it 00:29:43.839 --> 00:29:45.839 To praise the Lord 00:29:45.839 --> 00:29:48.839 Praise the Lord all nations 00:29:48.839 --> 00:29:51.839 Extol him all peoples 00:29:51.839 --> 00:29:58.839 And that has a significance for ourselves that goes on in its significance and importance 00:29:58.839 --> 00:30:01.839 Because it's not just a call to all the nations 00:30:01.839 --> 00:30:05.839 As we'll see it's a call that goes out from God 00:30:05.839 --> 00:30:09.839 To incorporate ourselves in the praising of God 00:30:09.839 --> 00:30:14.839 As well as to have that actually go out to the nations 00:30:14.839 --> 00:30:20.839 And we can think of these things as we sing this short psalm 00:30:20.839 --> 00:30:25.839 It's important always to think through the things that we're singing 00:30:25.839 --> 00:30:27.839 Even if we're very familiar with them 00:30:27.839 --> 00:30:30.839 And of course being very familiar with the Psalms as we are 00:30:30.839 --> 00:30:35.839 The danger with that is that we'll sing just like a kind of rote or parrot fashion 00:30:35.839 --> 00:30:38.839 We know the words, we sing them through 00:30:38.839 --> 00:30:42.839 And they slip out of our minds without really thinking deeply of what they mean 00:30:42.839 --> 00:30:46.839 And it's so important for us that whenever we sing praise to God 00:30:46.839 --> 00:30:49.839 That we're thinking deeply of the words we're singing 00:30:49.839 --> 00:30:51.839 Of the meaning they carry 00:30:51.839 --> 00:30:54.839 And of how we apply that to ourselves 00:30:54.839 --> 00:30:59.839 The psalm is used as we saw when we read through Romans 15 earlier 00:30:59.839 --> 00:31:00.839 The psalm is used there 00:31:00.839 --> 00:31:05.839 And it's used there in regard to all the nations coming to share 00:31:05.839 --> 00:31:08.839 In the Old Testament promises to God's people 00:31:08.839 --> 00:31:11.839 So there's no longer the Jewish people 00:31:11.839 --> 00:31:14.839 It has now come to incorporate the Gentiles 00:31:14.839 --> 00:31:18.839 Which we are, most of us were, and are, other than Jewish people 00:31:18.839 --> 00:31:24.839 But now all peoples are being incorporated into the church of God 00:31:24.839 --> 00:31:30.839 To sing His praises, to know His salvation in Jesus Christ 00:31:30.839 --> 00:31:33.839 And it's fitting, I think, as we today think of Muriel 00:31:33.839 --> 00:31:39.839 Our own Muriel who's here for only today's, her last Sunday with us 00:31:39.839 --> 00:31:41.839 And we're going to finish our service today 00:31:41.839 --> 00:31:45.839 A prayer specifically for Muriel as she returns to Cambodia 00:31:45.839 --> 00:31:50.839 And this psalm is a psalm that Muriel knows very well, of course 00:31:50.839 --> 00:31:53.839 Because she is one of those people who puts it into action 00:31:53.839 --> 00:31:56.839 In terms of carrying the gospel and the teaching of the gospel 00:31:56.839 --> 00:31:58.839 Through to other nations as well 00:31:58.839 --> 00:32:03.839 Such as in Cambodia, where she shortly will be going back to 00:32:03.839 --> 00:32:06.839 So let's look at this psalm very briefly 00:32:06.839 --> 00:32:10.839 Here's a single directive and also two reasons 00:32:10.839 --> 00:32:15.839 A single directive or call to all people to praise the Lord 00:32:15.839 --> 00:32:18.839 Praise the Lord all nations 00:32:18.839 --> 00:32:21.839 Extol Him all peoples 00:32:21.839 --> 00:32:22.839 It's leaving nobody out 00:32:22.839 --> 00:32:24.839 It's not leaving any nation out 00:32:24.839 --> 00:32:26.839 Any people of any background 00:32:26.839 --> 00:32:28.839 That's the first thing 00:32:28.839 --> 00:32:32.839 There's a single call or directive to all peoples to praise God 00:32:32.839 --> 00:32:35.839 Secondly, it gives us two reasons 00:32:35.839 --> 00:32:38.839 Why the Lord's people especially should praise Him 00:32:38.839 --> 00:32:40.839 Because here are the people of Israel 00:32:40.839 --> 00:32:42.839 The Lord's covenant people 00:32:42.839 --> 00:32:45.839 And in verse 2 you find the two reasons 00:32:45.839 --> 00:32:46.839 He gives for praising Him 00:32:46.839 --> 00:32:50.839 First of all, great is His steadfast love towards us 00:32:50.839 --> 00:32:55.839 And secondly, the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever 00:32:55.839 --> 00:32:59.839 In other words, these are two primary topics 00:32:59.839 --> 00:33:03.839 In the reasons why we are called to praise the Lord 00:33:03.839 --> 00:33:05.839 We are called to praise the Lord 00:33:05.839 --> 00:33:08.839 Because of His steadfast love to His people 00:33:08.839 --> 00:33:14.839 And because He is always continually faithful towards us 00:33:15.839 --> 00:33:18.839 Well, look first of all at this call 00:33:18.839 --> 00:33:22.839 Or this directive to all people to praise the Lord 00:33:22.839 --> 00:33:25.839 Now that of course anticipates the New Testament itself 00:33:25.839 --> 00:33:28.839 The call that goes out from the New Testament 00:33:28.839 --> 00:33:30.839 For example, Acts chapter 17 00:33:30.839 --> 00:33:36.839 You'll recall that that's the great chapter of Paul in Athens 00:33:36.839 --> 00:33:39.839 And Paul addressing the heathen pagan people of Athens 00:33:39.839 --> 00:33:41.839 Bringing them the message of the gospel 00:33:41.839 --> 00:33:45.839 And wonderfully working that through into how he addresses them 00:33:45.839 --> 00:33:48.839 But in verse 30 of Acts chapter 17 00:33:48.839 --> 00:33:51.839 In verse 17 you find the apostles saying 00:33:51.839 --> 00:33:58.839 That we must not think that the Lord is like gold or silver and stone 00:33:58.839 --> 00:34:01.839 Formed by the art and imagination of man 00:34:01.839 --> 00:34:03.839 The times of ignorance God overlooked 00:34:03.839 --> 00:34:08.840 But now He commands all people everywhere to repent 00:34:08.840 --> 00:34:13.840 Because He has fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness 00:34:13.840 --> 00:34:15.840 By a man whom He has appointed 00:34:15.840 --> 00:34:18.840 And of this He has given assurance to all 00:34:18.840 --> 00:34:19.840 By raising Him from the dead 00:34:19.840 --> 00:34:24.840 In other words, the resurrection of Jesus is fitted in exactly and foundationally 00:34:24.840 --> 00:34:26.840 To the call of the gospel 00:34:26.840 --> 00:34:28.840 To go out to all the nations 00:34:28.840 --> 00:34:32.840 In order to come and place their trust and their confidence in this Christ 00:34:32.840 --> 00:34:35.840 To repent of sin and to turn to Him believingly 00:34:35.840 --> 00:34:40.840 In the Old Testament in the likes of Psalm 117 has become 00:34:40.840 --> 00:34:43.840 If you like embodied in the person of Christ 00:34:43.840 --> 00:34:46.840 As the basis of this great call of the gospel 00:34:46.840 --> 00:34:51.840 To come, repent of our sin and turn to the Lord and praise the Lord 00:34:53.840 --> 00:34:57.840 In other words, Paul is incorporating Psalm 117 00:34:57.840 --> 00:35:04.840 Not just to actually give us a reminder that the gospel must go forth to all the Gentiles 00:35:04.840 --> 00:35:07.840 As well as having come to the Jews already 00:35:07.840 --> 00:35:11.840 It incorporates a mandate for our evangelism 00:35:11.840 --> 00:35:16.840 Psalm 117 is magnificently evangelistic 00:35:16.840 --> 00:35:19.840 Because there you have an Old Testament passage 00:35:19.840 --> 00:35:22.840 Into which you find Jesus 00:35:22.840 --> 00:35:27.840 Placed by the apostle in the likes of the chapter we read in Romans 15 00:35:27.840 --> 00:35:29.840 But that comes home to ourselves 00:35:29.840 --> 00:35:33.840 Because as we'll see the reasons why we have to call upon all people 00:35:33.840 --> 00:35:34.840 To praise the Lord 00:35:34.840 --> 00:35:35.840 It's all to do with Christ 00:35:35.840 --> 00:35:37.840 He has raised Him from the dead 00:35:38.840 --> 00:35:40.840 This Jesus who died on the cross 00:35:41.840 --> 00:35:43.840 And this is the mandate we have 00:35:44.840 --> 00:35:46.840 To go forth with the gospel 00:35:47.840 --> 00:35:51.840 To call upon all people to come and place their trust, their confidence in God 00:35:51.840 --> 00:35:52.840 Now I know what you're saying 00:35:52.840 --> 00:35:53.840 You're immediately saying 00:35:53.840 --> 00:35:56.840 Well, when you go out with that gospel 00:35:56.840 --> 00:35:58.840 You meet with this kind of opposition 00:35:58.840 --> 00:35:59.840 This kind of response 00:35:59.840 --> 00:36:02.840 Why should I trust in your God? 00:36:02.840 --> 00:36:05.840 Why should your God be better than any other God? 00:36:05.840 --> 00:36:08.840 Why should it not be the God Muslims believe in? 00:36:08.840 --> 00:36:10.840 Why should it not be Buddhism? 00:36:10.840 --> 00:36:11.840 Why should it not be atheism? 00:36:11.840 --> 00:36:18.840 Well, we as a people, as a Christian people 00:36:18.840 --> 00:36:21.840 Believe in freedom of religion 00:36:22.840 --> 00:36:26.840 We believe that people, as they choose whichever God 00:36:26.840 --> 00:36:30.840 Or no God at all to believe in or to trust in 00:36:30.840 --> 00:36:32.840 That's a freedom given them 00:36:33.840 --> 00:36:36.840 In the way that we, as a nation 00:36:36.840 --> 00:36:40.840 Have freedom of religion as an important concept 00:36:40.840 --> 00:36:46.840 We are not in the business of forcing people to believe what we believe 00:36:47.840 --> 00:36:49.840 What we would want them to believe 00:36:50.840 --> 00:36:51.840 Nevertheless, that means 00:36:52.840 --> 00:36:54.840 That does not mean that freedom of religion 00:36:54.840 --> 00:36:57.840 Does not mean in our multi-faith setting 00:36:57.840 --> 00:36:59.840 That we ought not to evangelize 00:37:00.840 --> 00:37:02.840 That it's actually wrong in some way or other 00:37:02.840 --> 00:37:05.840 To try and get people of other religions 00:37:05.840 --> 00:37:06.840 Or no religion at all 00:37:06.840 --> 00:37:09.840 To come and place their trust in Jesus Christ 00:37:09.840 --> 00:37:10.840 We believe that we are not in the way 00:37:10.840 --> 00:37:11.840 We believe that we are not in the way 00:37:11.840 --> 00:37:12.840 We believe that we are not in the way 00:37:12.840 --> 00:37:13.840 We believe that we are not in the way 00:37:13.840 --> 00:37:14.840 We believe that we are not in the way 00:37:14.840 --> 00:37:16.840 No one comes to the Father except through Him 00:37:17.840 --> 00:37:19.840 And because that is the case 00:37:19.840 --> 00:37:21.840 We have that mandate to go forth and to evangelize 00:37:22.840 --> 00:37:24.840 And to actually call upon the world to come 00:37:24.840 --> 00:37:26.840 And place their trust and their confidence 00:37:26.840 --> 00:37:29.840 In this God, in this Jesus, in this Savior 00:37:29.840 --> 00:37:35.840 And that is where we come across the idea that is very current at the moment 00:37:36.840 --> 00:37:39.840 Which is called conversion therapy 00:37:40.840 --> 00:37:44.840 And you will find a clamor for the introduction of laws 00:37:44.840 --> 00:37:47.840 Which would ban so-called conversion therapy 00:37:48.840 --> 00:37:52.840 Now that gives the impression that when we are thinking of conversion as Christians 00:37:52.840 --> 00:37:56.840 We are thinking of forcing people into believing what we believe 00:37:57.840 --> 00:38:00.840 I was across at the Nicholson a couple of weeks ago there 00:38:00.840 --> 00:38:03.840 And one of the questions, there were very many questions the class was asking 00:38:03.840 --> 00:38:07.840 I was talking about what it is to be a Christian minister 00:38:07.840 --> 00:38:08.840 What does a minister do? 00:38:09.840 --> 00:38:13.840 And amongst the many, many good questions that the pupils had 00:38:13.840 --> 00:38:14.840 One was this 00:38:14.840 --> 00:38:19.840 Would you force an atheist to believe what you believe? 00:38:20.840 --> 00:38:23.840 And of course my response to that was 00:38:23.840 --> 00:38:25.840 No, we don't force anyone to believe 00:38:26.840 --> 00:38:28.840 Whether they are atheists or otherwise 00:38:28.840 --> 00:38:31.840 We don't force anybody to believe what we believe 00:38:32.840 --> 00:38:34.840 We don't force anybody to believe in Christ 00:38:35.840 --> 00:38:36.840 In fact, we couldn't anyway 00:38:37.840 --> 00:38:39.840 And if we tried to do it, it would just be damaging 00:38:39.840 --> 00:38:41.840 Remember your catechism, children maybe 00:38:42.840 --> 00:38:43.840 Your catechism 00:38:44.840 --> 00:38:45.840 Catechism 31 00:38:46.840 --> 00:38:47.840 What is effectual calling? 00:38:48.840 --> 00:38:51.840 It's one of the ones I dreaded being asked to repeat in Sunday school 00:38:52.840 --> 00:38:53.840 Because it's the longest 00:38:54.840 --> 00:38:55.840 I think in the whole of the catechism 00:38:56.840 --> 00:38:57.840 And especially when you are learning it in Gaelic 00:38:58.840 --> 00:38:59.840 It wasn't easy to remember it 00:38:59.840 --> 00:39:01.840 Nevertheless, it was so useful to remember it 00:39:01.840 --> 00:39:04.840 Because effectual calling is the work of God's Spirit 00:39:05.840 --> 00:39:07.840 And then it goes on to tell us what's involved in effectual calling 00:39:07.840 --> 00:39:12.840 That's God calling us and uniting us to Jesus for our salvation 00:39:13.840 --> 00:39:17.840 And what the Spirit of God does in our hearts when He does that 00:39:18.840 --> 00:39:19.840 When we are effectually called is 00:39:20.840 --> 00:39:22.840 He convinces us of our sin and misery 00:39:23.840 --> 00:39:26.840 He instructs or enlightens our mind in the knowledge of Christ 00:39:27.840 --> 00:39:29.840 And He renews our will 00:39:30.840 --> 00:39:31.840 Three things 00:39:32.840 --> 00:39:35.840 Three things, the threefold elements of our effectual calling 00:39:35.840 --> 00:39:38.840 But the third one is what's important for us just now 00:39:39.840 --> 00:39:40.840 When we are saying we don't force people 00:39:41.840 --> 00:39:43.840 Or try to force people into being Christians 00:39:43.840 --> 00:39:44.840 And to believe in what we believe 00:39:45.840 --> 00:39:48.840 God when He comes to actually bring us to know Himself 00:39:49.840 --> 00:39:50.840 He doesn't force our minds 00:39:51.840 --> 00:39:52.840 He renews our minds 00:39:53.840 --> 00:39:55.840 And your mind is never as free 00:39:56.840 --> 00:39:58.840 As it is when God sets it free 00:39:59.840 --> 00:40:01.840 And don't listen to the things that you find out in the world 00:40:01.840 --> 00:40:02.840 There are people that say 00:40:02.840 --> 00:40:05.840 Actually you Christians are the ones with the closed minds 00:40:06.840 --> 00:40:07.840 You're not prepared to listen to other alternatives 00:40:08.840 --> 00:40:10.840 Yes, we've tried all the alternatives 00:40:11.840 --> 00:40:12.840 We know what the alternatives are 00:40:13.840 --> 00:40:14.840 They're not the way, the truth and the life 00:40:15.840 --> 00:40:16.840 But Jesus is, the Lord is 00:40:17.840 --> 00:40:19.840 His death is, His resurrection is 00:40:20.840 --> 00:40:21.840 His return to judge the world 00:40:22.840 --> 00:40:24.840 Is part of all that we come to believe in 00:40:25.840 --> 00:40:26.840 How do we come to believe in it? 00:40:26.840 --> 00:40:28.840 Not because somebody forces our minds 00:40:29.840 --> 00:40:31.840 But because God renews our mind 00:40:32.840 --> 00:40:33.840 He opens our mind 00:40:34.840 --> 00:40:36.840 He gives us a mind that we didn't have before 00:40:37.840 --> 00:40:44.840 And when you come to have your mind renewed by the Holy Spirit 00:40:45.840 --> 00:40:46.840 What does the Catechon go on to say? 00:40:46.840 --> 00:40:50.840 Thereby, He persuades and enables us 00:40:51.840 --> 00:40:52.840 To embrace Jesus Christ 00:40:53.840 --> 00:40:55.840 As He is offered in the Gospel 00:40:56.840 --> 00:40:57.840 It's not my business today 00:40:58.840 --> 00:41:00.840 To try and force anybody here to become a Christian 00:41:01.840 --> 00:41:02.840 To actually be converted 00:41:02.840 --> 00:41:04.840 To come to believe in Christ 00:41:05.840 --> 00:41:06.840 My business is to preach the Gospel that says 00:41:07.840 --> 00:41:10.840 Here is God's call to come to trust in Jesus 00:41:11.840 --> 00:41:12.840 Here is God's provision in the cross 00:41:13.840 --> 00:41:14.840 And in the resurrection of Christ 00:41:14.840 --> 00:41:15.840 Trust in Him 00:41:15.840 --> 00:41:17.840 Place your faith in Him 00:41:18.840 --> 00:41:20.840 Whether you do that or not 00:41:21.840 --> 00:41:22.840 Is your responsibility 00:41:25.840 --> 00:41:26.840 I can't force you 00:41:26.840 --> 00:41:27.840 Not what I want to force you 00:41:28.840 --> 00:41:30.840 But I can try 00:41:31.840 --> 00:41:35.840 To persuasively present Christ to you 00:41:36.840 --> 00:41:37.840 And your need of Christ 00:41:38.840 --> 00:41:41.840 And all that is in Christ that you have to do without 00:41:41.840 --> 00:41:42.840 When you don't accept Him 00:41:42.840 --> 00:41:43.840 When you don't present 00:41:43.840 --> 00:41:44.840 When you don't have 00:41:45.840 --> 00:41:46.840 As He presents Himself to you 00:41:47.840 --> 00:41:48.840 When you don't receive Him 00:41:49.840 --> 00:41:50.840 And trust in Him 00:41:51.840 --> 00:41:54.840 So we are not in the business of forcing minds 00:41:55.840 --> 00:41:56.840 And that is an important matter 00:41:57.840 --> 00:41:59.840 In the current day and age in which we live 00:42:00.840 --> 00:42:01.840 Now this psalm is really saying to us 00:42:02.840 --> 00:42:04.840 Actually that God's kingship 00:42:05.840 --> 00:42:07.840 Extends over the whole of creation 00:42:07.840 --> 00:42:11.840 Now it doesn't matter whether you or I 00:42:11.840 --> 00:42:13.840 Or hundreds or millions of people 00:42:13.840 --> 00:42:16.840 Would come to actually not acknowledge that 00:42:17.840 --> 00:42:18.840 When we would come and say 00:42:18.840 --> 00:42:19.840 Well I don't believe in that 00:42:19.840 --> 00:42:20.840 I don't want that 00:42:20.840 --> 00:42:21.840 Well that's fine 00:42:21.840 --> 00:42:22.840 It doesn't actually do anything 00:42:23.840 --> 00:42:24.840 To displace this truth 00:42:25.840 --> 00:42:27.840 This still remains true 00:42:28.840 --> 00:42:30.840 However many people choose not to believe it 00:42:30.840 --> 00:42:32.840 God is still the king 00:42:33.840 --> 00:42:34.840 God still reigns 00:42:35.840 --> 00:42:37.840 You and I are still answerable to God 00:42:38.840 --> 00:42:40.840 Whether people choose to believe otherwise 00:42:41.840 --> 00:42:43.840 Or you and I choose to believe it or not 00:42:44.840 --> 00:42:48.840 Praise the Lord 00:42:49.840 --> 00:42:50.840 All peoples 00:42:51.840 --> 00:42:54.840 He has a universal right 00:42:55.840 --> 00:42:56.840 To be praised 00:42:56.840 --> 00:42:58.840 And that means 00:42:59.840 --> 00:43:01.840 Praised by you and by me individually as well 00:43:04.840 --> 00:43:05.840 How can it possibly 00:43:06.840 --> 00:43:07.840 Be cruel 00:43:08.840 --> 00:43:09.840 Or intolerable 00:43:11.840 --> 00:43:13.840 To present a God who is essentially good 00:43:14.840 --> 00:43:17.840 Who calls us to eternal life 00:43:18.840 --> 00:43:21.840 Who calls upon us to leave our ways of sin 00:43:22.840 --> 00:43:24.840 And enter the ways of righteousness 00:43:24.840 --> 00:43:25.840 How can that be cruelty? 00:43:26.840 --> 00:43:27.840 You know the cruelty would be 00:43:28.840 --> 00:43:29.840 If I stood in a pulpit today and said 00:43:30.840 --> 00:43:31.840 There are big chunks of the Bible 00:43:32.840 --> 00:43:33.840 You don't need to believe anymore 00:43:34.840 --> 00:43:35.840 That's cruelty 00:43:36.840 --> 00:43:37.840 That's intolerable 00:43:38.840 --> 00:43:42.840 That's just providing people with a cushion 00:43:43.840 --> 00:43:45.840 On which they can sleep all the way through life 00:43:46.840 --> 00:43:49.840 And then wake up to the reality and eternity in hell 00:43:49.840 --> 00:43:52.840 Praise the Lord 00:43:53.840 --> 00:43:54.840 All you nations 00:43:55.840 --> 00:43:56.840 God's rights 00:43:57.840 --> 00:44:00.840 Extend over all human life 00:44:01.840 --> 00:44:02.840 Over all human beings 00:44:03.840 --> 00:44:07.840 And what we have to constantly remember of course 00:44:08.840 --> 00:44:09.840 Is that 00:44:10.840 --> 00:44:12.840 There is no greater privilege given to us 00:44:13.840 --> 00:44:14.840 Than to know God 00:44:15.840 --> 00:44:16.840 And to praise God 00:44:16.840 --> 00:44:19.840 It's such an immense privilege 00:44:19.840 --> 00:44:20.840 We can't possibly take it in 00:44:20.840 --> 00:44:21.840 In our own puny minds 00:44:22.840 --> 00:44:23.840 But it is such an immense privilege 00:44:23.840 --> 00:44:24.840 That God 00:44:25.840 --> 00:44:26.840 Brings us to know himself 00:44:26.840 --> 00:44:28.840 And to know why he is worthy of our praise 00:44:29.840 --> 00:44:30.840 And that takes us to our second point 00:44:31.840 --> 00:44:32.840 There are two reasons why the Lord's people 00:44:33.840 --> 00:44:34.840 Should praise him 00:44:35.840 --> 00:44:36.840 First of all 00:44:37.840 --> 00:44:38.840 For his steadfast love 00:44:39.840 --> 00:44:40.840 The greatest of steadfast love toward us 00:44:40.840 --> 00:44:41.840 Now you know that 00:44:41.840 --> 00:44:42.840 The steadfast love of the Lord 00:44:42.840 --> 00:44:43.840 Often mentioned in the Old Testament 00:44:43.840 --> 00:44:44.840 This is an important word 00:44:44.840 --> 00:44:46.840 It's a covenant word 00:44:47.840 --> 00:44:48.840 It's a word that means love 00:44:48.840 --> 00:44:49.840 But love that's steadfast 00:44:50.840 --> 00:44:51.840 Or in the Old Word 00:44:52.840 --> 00:44:53.840 Which I think is also good 00:44:54.840 --> 00:44:55.840 The Old AV word 00:44:56.840 --> 00:44:57.840 Is loving kindness 00:44:58.840 --> 00:44:59.840 It's not just love 00:45:00.840 --> 00:45:01.840 In the sense of something that goes out 00:45:02.840 --> 00:45:03.840 Without really affecting your life much 00:45:04.840 --> 00:45:05.840 It's loving kindness 00:45:05.840 --> 00:45:07.840 It's actually bringing you things 00:45:07.840 --> 00:45:08.840 Which are beneficial 00:45:09.840 --> 00:45:11.840 Which will actually be good for you 00:45:11.840 --> 00:45:13.840 That's what the love of the Lord does 00:45:13.840 --> 00:45:15.840 That's what the love of the Lord is 00:45:16.840 --> 00:45:18.840 It is loving kindness 00:45:19.840 --> 00:45:20.840 It is doing good 00:45:21.840 --> 00:45:22.840 It is providing life 00:45:23.840 --> 00:45:24.840 It is rescuing from death 00:45:25.840 --> 00:45:27.840 The steadfast love 00:45:28.840 --> 00:45:29.840 Of the Lord toward us 00:45:30.840 --> 00:45:31.840 Is the first point 00:45:32.840 --> 00:45:33.840 Why he calls upon us 00:45:34.840 --> 00:45:35.840 To praise him 00:45:35.840 --> 00:45:36.840 It's the foundation of 00:45:36.840 --> 00:45:37.840 A covenant relationship 00:45:37.840 --> 00:45:38.840 With himself 00:45:38.840 --> 00:45:39.840 Where God 00:45:39.840 --> 00:45:40.840 Comes to 00:45:40.840 --> 00:45:41.840 Take us as his people 00:45:42.840 --> 00:45:43.840 And we take him as our God 00:45:43.840 --> 00:45:44.840 That's what 00:45:44.840 --> 00:45:45.840 The essence 00:45:45.840 --> 00:45:46.840 The core of 00:45:47.840 --> 00:45:48.840 The covenant is 00:45:48.840 --> 00:45:49.840 That God's people have with him 00:45:50.840 --> 00:45:51.840 He is their God 00:45:51.840 --> 00:45:52.840 And will be their God 00:45:52.840 --> 00:45:53.840 They are his people 00:45:53.840 --> 00:45:54.840 And will be his people 00:45:55.840 --> 00:45:56.840 In other words 00:45:56.840 --> 00:45:57.840 Great here 00:45:58.840 --> 00:45:59.840 Is more than just 00:46:00.840 --> 00:46:01.840 To do with size 00:46:01.840 --> 00:46:03.840 The word in Hebrew 00:46:03.840 --> 00:46:04.840 That's used here 00:46:05.840 --> 00:46:06.840 Is the root of a word 00:46:06.840 --> 00:46:07.840 That's used in the Old Testament 00:46:08.840 --> 00:46:09.840 For warrior 00:46:09.840 --> 00:46:10.840 For somebody as great 00:46:10.840 --> 00:46:11.840 In might as a warrior 00:46:12.840 --> 00:46:14.840 And what it means really 00:46:14.840 --> 00:46:15.840 Is to prevail 00:46:16.840 --> 00:46:17.840 It's used 00:46:17.840 --> 00:46:18.840 Psalm 65 00:46:19.840 --> 00:46:20.840 Verse 3 for example 00:46:21.840 --> 00:46:23.840 Our iniquities prevail against us 00:46:24.840 --> 00:46:26.840 But as for our transgressions 00:46:26.840 --> 00:46:27.840 You will atone for them 00:46:27.840 --> 00:46:28.840 In other words 00:46:28.840 --> 00:46:29.840 That's just saying 00:46:29.840 --> 00:46:31.840 The power of sin is great 00:46:31.840 --> 00:46:32.840 It has us in its grip 00:46:32.840 --> 00:46:33.840 But Lord 00:46:33.840 --> 00:46:34.840 You are the one 00:46:34.840 --> 00:46:35.840 Who prevails over that 00:46:35.840 --> 00:46:37.840 While sin prevails against us 00:46:37.840 --> 00:46:38.840 You outdo that 00:46:38.840 --> 00:46:40.840 In providing atonement for us 00:46:44.840 --> 00:46:46.840 So this really is saying to us 00:46:47.840 --> 00:46:49.840 The steadfast love of the Lord 00:46:50.840 --> 00:46:51.840 Is great 00:46:51.840 --> 00:46:52.840 It prevails 00:46:53.840 --> 00:46:54.840 It conquers 00:46:56.840 --> 00:46:57.840 What a wonderful emphasis 00:46:57.840 --> 00:46:58.840 That is for you today 00:46:58.840 --> 00:47:00.840 When you know the Lord 00:47:00.840 --> 00:47:01.840 As your Savior 00:47:01.840 --> 00:47:02.840 And as your God 00:47:02.840 --> 00:47:03.840 You are placing your trust 00:47:03.840 --> 00:47:04.840 In someone 00:47:04.840 --> 00:47:06.840 Who has such a love 00:47:07.840 --> 00:47:08.840 Such a commitment in love 00:47:09.840 --> 00:47:10.840 Such a covenant love 00:47:11.840 --> 00:47:12.840 As is mighty love 00:47:13.840 --> 00:47:15.840 A love that can't possibly go wrong 00:47:16.840 --> 00:47:17.840 A love that will achieve 00:47:18.840 --> 00:47:19.840 Its objective 00:47:20.840 --> 00:47:21.840 Come what may 00:47:21.840 --> 00:47:27.840 Where has that been shown to us 00:47:28.840 --> 00:47:29.840 Most clearly 00:47:31.840 --> 00:47:32.840 Well it's in the death 00:47:33.840 --> 00:47:34.840 And resurrection of Jesus 00:47:35.840 --> 00:47:36.840 Isn't it? 00:47:37.840 --> 00:47:39.840 God so loved the world 00:47:40.840 --> 00:47:43.840 That he gave his only begotten son 00:47:44.840 --> 00:47:45.840 That whoever believes in him 00:47:45.840 --> 00:47:46.840 Should not perish 00:47:46.840 --> 00:47:48.840 But have everlasting 00:47:48.840 --> 00:47:49.840 Or eternal life 00:47:51.840 --> 00:47:53.840 God has demonstrated his love to us 00:47:54.840 --> 00:47:55.840 Paul says to the Romans 00:47:55.840 --> 00:47:56.840 In that while we were yet sinners 00:47:57.840 --> 00:47:58.840 Christ died for us 00:47:59.840 --> 00:48:00.840 Who died for us? 00:48:01.840 --> 00:48:02.840 Christ died for us 00:48:03.840 --> 00:48:04.840 Who is Christ? 00:48:04.840 --> 00:48:05.840 The Son of God 00:48:07.840 --> 00:48:09.840 Does anyone doubt the love of God? 00:48:10.840 --> 00:48:12.840 Does anyone doubt the power of God's love? 00:48:12.840 --> 00:48:14.840 Does anyone doubt the mightiness 00:48:15.840 --> 00:48:16.840 The all-mightiness 00:48:16.840 --> 00:48:18.840 Of the steadfast love of the Lord 00:48:18.840 --> 00:48:19.840 When you look at the cross 00:48:19.840 --> 00:48:20.840 And you say 00:48:20.840 --> 00:48:21.840 Not just that's love 00:48:21.840 --> 00:48:22.840 But that's powerful love 00:48:23.840 --> 00:48:25.840 That's love that conquers death 00:48:26.840 --> 00:48:27.840 That's love that deals with sin 00:48:28.840 --> 00:48:29.840 That's love that brings us righteousness 00:48:30.840 --> 00:48:33.840 That love that atones for sin 00:48:34.840 --> 00:48:36.840 That's the love that rescues 00:48:37.840 --> 00:48:38.840 From the grip of death 00:48:38.840 --> 00:48:40.840 Praise the Lord 00:48:41.840 --> 00:48:42.840 All you peoples 00:48:42.840 --> 00:48:43.840 Why? 00:48:43.840 --> 00:48:45.840 Because his steadfast love toward us 00:48:46.840 --> 00:48:47.840 Is great 00:48:48.840 --> 00:48:50.840 The steadfast love of the Lord 00:48:51.840 --> 00:48:52.840 Where are you today? 00:48:53.840 --> 00:48:55.840 With regard to your relationship 00:48:56.840 --> 00:48:58.840 To this truth or to this God 00:48:59.840 --> 00:49:01.840 Do you know the steadfast love for yourself? 00:49:04.840 --> 00:49:05.840 Are you trusting in a love 00:49:05.840 --> 00:49:07.840 That's somehow less than this love? 00:49:08.840 --> 00:49:10.840 A love that can never achieve 00:49:11.840 --> 00:49:14.840 What this love has achieved for God's people? 00:49:15.840 --> 00:49:18.840 His steadfast love toward us is great 00:49:19.840 --> 00:49:20.840 And you know when 00:49:21.840 --> 00:49:22.840 When I think of my own love 00:49:23.840 --> 00:49:24.840 When you think of your own love 00:49:25.840 --> 00:49:28.840 And when you think of how easily it's deflected 00:49:29.840 --> 00:49:30.840 How often it fails 00:49:31.840 --> 00:49:33.840 How often it wanes 00:49:33.840 --> 00:49:35.840 How often it may grow cold 00:49:36.840 --> 00:49:38.840 How often it fluctuates 00:49:39.840 --> 00:49:44.840 What a huge advantage you have as a Christian 00:49:45.840 --> 00:49:47.840 To know that your life 00:49:48.840 --> 00:49:50.840 Is founded on and fed by 00:49:51.840 --> 00:49:52.840 God's steadfast love 00:49:53.840 --> 00:49:56.840 A love that does not change 00:49:57.840 --> 00:49:59.840 A love that will be the same 00:49:59.840 --> 00:50:01.840 For all eternity 00:50:02.840 --> 00:50:03.840 Praise the Lord 00:50:04.840 --> 00:50:05.840 Why? 00:50:05.840 --> 00:50:06.840 For his steadfast love 00:50:06.840 --> 00:50:07.840 His powerful love 00:50:07.840 --> 00:50:08.840 His great love 00:50:09.840 --> 00:50:10.840 Is great, it's powerful, it's mighty 00:50:11.840 --> 00:50:12.840 Toward us 00:50:13.840 --> 00:50:14.840 And then his faithfulness 00:50:15.840 --> 00:50:16.840 Endures forever 00:50:17.840 --> 00:50:19.840 And that of course is tied up with his love being steadfast 00:50:20.840 --> 00:50:21.840 The faithfulness of God 00:50:22.840 --> 00:50:23.840 And the love of God 00:50:23.840 --> 00:50:25.840 Are aspects as we experience God 00:50:25.840 --> 00:50:26.840 As our Saviour 00:50:26.840 --> 00:50:27.840 Aspects of the same 00:50:27.840 --> 00:50:28.840 Grace of God 00:50:29.840 --> 00:50:30.840 Grace that flows from 00:50:31.840 --> 00:50:32.840 His love 00:50:32.840 --> 00:50:33.840 The grace, the kindness 00:50:34.840 --> 00:50:36.840 And also the faithfulness of God 00:50:36.840 --> 00:50:37.840 Here as well 00:50:38.840 --> 00:50:39.840 Remember in Hebrews 00:50:40.840 --> 00:50:41.840 Chapter 10 verse 23 00:50:42.840 --> 00:50:44.840 You have an emphasis there on 00:50:45.840 --> 00:50:47.840 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope 00:50:48.840 --> 00:50:49.840 Without wavering 00:50:50.840 --> 00:50:54.840 And sometimes you find these words are so challenging 00:50:55.840 --> 00:50:56.840 Because you say, well, that must leave me out 00:50:57.840 --> 00:50:58.840 Because I often waver in my hope 00:50:59.840 --> 00:51:01.840 I don't have that same steady hope 00:51:02.840 --> 00:51:05.840 In God and in his promises that I ought to have 00:51:06.840 --> 00:51:09.840 How can I actually meet the terms of that verse that says 00:51:10.840 --> 00:51:12.840 Let us not waver in hope 00:51:13.840 --> 00:51:15.840 Well, the verse finishes 00:51:15.840 --> 00:51:17.840 For he is faithful 00:51:18.840 --> 00:51:19.840 Who has promised 00:51:20.840 --> 00:51:25.840 Your continuance in hope 00:51:26.840 --> 00:51:31.840 Living a hopeful life by faith in Christ 00:51:32.840 --> 00:51:34.840 It's not based on the strength of your hope 00:51:35.840 --> 00:51:37.840 Your hope is not based on itself 00:51:38.840 --> 00:51:40.840 It's not based on your faithfulness 00:51:40.840 --> 00:51:43.840 It's not based on the quality of your prayer life 00:51:44.840 --> 00:51:47.840 It's not based on the quality of the congregation you belong to 00:51:48.840 --> 00:51:51.840 Your hope is based on this 00:51:52.840 --> 00:51:53.840 The faithfulness of God 00:51:54.840 --> 00:51:56.840 Let us hold fast, he says 00:51:57.840 --> 00:51:58.840 To the profession of our hope 00:51:59.840 --> 00:52:00.840 The confession of our hope 00:52:01.840 --> 00:52:02.840 Because he is faithful 00:52:03.840 --> 00:52:05.840 And you can depend on that faithfulness 00:52:06.840 --> 00:52:07.840 You can depend on that 00:52:07.840 --> 00:52:08.840 But absolutely 00:52:09.840 --> 00:52:10.840 And entirely throughout life 00:52:10.840 --> 00:52:12.840 He is faithful 00:52:13.840 --> 00:52:14.840 He is faithful 00:52:15.840 --> 00:52:16.840 Who has promised 00:52:16.840 --> 00:52:17.840 He says here 00:52:17.840 --> 00:52:18.840 The faithfulness of the Lord 00:52:19.840 --> 00:52:20.840 Endures forever 00:52:21.840 --> 00:52:22.840 There's one great passage in the Bible 00:52:23.840 --> 00:52:24.840 That I think is 00:52:25.840 --> 00:52:27.840 A really tremendous passage in the context 00:52:28.840 --> 00:52:29.840 And it's in the 00:52:30.840 --> 00:52:31.840 Lamentations of Jeremiah 00:52:32.840 --> 00:52:33.840 It's not a book perhaps that we 00:52:33.840 --> 00:52:35.840 Very often refer to 00:52:36.840 --> 00:52:37.840 Or preach from 00:52:37.840 --> 00:52:38.840 But in chapter 3 00:52:39.840 --> 00:52:40.840 Of Jeremiah 00:52:40.840 --> 00:52:41.840 Remember Jeremiah had faced 00:52:41.840 --> 00:52:43.840 The greatest disaster of his life 00:52:44.840 --> 00:52:46.840 The arrival of the Babylonians 00:52:47.840 --> 00:52:48.840 Who wrecked Jerusalem 00:52:48.840 --> 00:52:49.840 Wrecked the temple 00:52:49.840 --> 00:52:50.840 Took people captive 00:52:50.840 --> 00:52:51.840 Plundered it 00:52:52.840 --> 00:52:53.840 Absolutely devastated 00:52:53.840 --> 00:52:54.840 Vandalized it 00:52:55.840 --> 00:52:56.840 And here he is 00:52:56.840 --> 00:52:57.840 In lamentations 00:52:57.840 --> 00:52:58.840 Sitting down 00:52:58.840 --> 00:52:59.840 And crying his heart out to God 00:53:00.840 --> 00:53:02.840 Asking serious questions of God 00:53:03.840 --> 00:53:07.840 And telling us about the depth of his sorrow 00:53:09.840 --> 00:53:10.840 Then he comes in chapter 22 00:53:11.840 --> 00:53:12.840 Of this verse 00:53:13.840 --> 00:53:14.840 Of this chapter 00:53:15.840 --> 00:53:17.840 Verse 22 of this chapter rather 00:53:18.840 --> 00:53:21.840 My soul continually remembers it 00:53:22.840 --> 00:53:23.840 My affliction and my wanderings 00:53:24.840 --> 00:53:25.840 My soul is bowed down within me 00:53:26.840 --> 00:53:28.840 But this I call to mind 00:53:28.840 --> 00:53:29.840 And therefore I have hope 00:53:29.840 --> 00:53:31.840 What does he call to mind? 00:53:31.840 --> 00:53:33.840 What is it that gives him hope? 00:53:33.840 --> 00:53:35.840 What is it that pierces the darkness 00:53:35.840 --> 00:53:37.840 Of his agony at this time? 00:53:37.840 --> 00:53:38.840 This is it 00:53:39.840 --> 00:53:41.840 The steadfast love of the Lord 00:53:42.840 --> 00:53:43.840 Never ceases 00:53:44.840 --> 00:53:46.840 His mercies never come to an end 00:53:47.840 --> 00:53:48.840 They are new every morning 00:53:49.840 --> 00:53:50.840 Great is your faithfulness 00:53:51.840 --> 00:53:52.840 The Lord is my portion 00:53:53.840 --> 00:53:54.840 Says my soul 00:53:54.840 --> 00:53:56.840 Therefore I will hope in him 00:53:57.840 --> 00:53:59.840 I know it's easy to say 00:54:00.840 --> 00:54:01.840 In pulpits 00:54:01.840 --> 00:54:02.840 You know it doesn't matter what happens 00:54:02.840 --> 00:54:03.840 In your life 00:54:03.840 --> 00:54:04.840 God is steadfast 00:54:04.840 --> 00:54:05.840 God is faithful 00:54:06.840 --> 00:54:07.840 But that is true 00:54:08.840 --> 00:54:09.840 And I have to apply it to my own life 00:54:09.840 --> 00:54:10.840 And you have to apply it to yours 00:54:11.840 --> 00:54:13.840 When the difficult times come 00:54:14.840 --> 00:54:15.840 When the challenges come 00:54:15.840 --> 00:54:16.840 When the pains come 00:54:16.840 --> 00:54:17.840 When the afflictions come 00:54:18.840 --> 00:54:19.840 When all of these things actually 00:54:20.840 --> 00:54:22.840 Sometimes unexpectedly come upon us 00:54:22.840 --> 00:54:23.840 What do we turn to? 00:54:24.840 --> 00:54:25.840 What do we do then 00:54:25.840 --> 00:54:26.840 In our grief of soul? 00:54:27.840 --> 00:54:30.840 The steadfast love of the Lord 00:54:31.840 --> 00:54:33.840 Is from everlasting to everlasting 00:54:34.840 --> 00:54:35.840 We remind ourselves that God 00:54:35.840 --> 00:54:36.840 Does not make mistakes 00:54:37.840 --> 00:54:39.840 That God is always 00:54:40.840 --> 00:54:41.840 As he says here 00:54:42.840 --> 00:54:43.840 Faithful and steadfast 00:54:44.840 --> 00:54:45.840 All through 00:54:47.840 --> 00:54:48.840 And that we need to come 00:54:49.840 --> 00:54:51.840 Anew to place our trust in him 00:54:52.840 --> 00:54:53.840 And in his word that tells us 00:54:54.840 --> 00:54:55.840 Now we need to take this back 00:54:55.840 --> 00:54:56.840 To the beginning of the psalm 00:54:57.840 --> 00:54:58.840 Here are the two points 00:54:59.840 --> 00:55:00.840 The steadfast love of the Lord toward us 00:55:01.840 --> 00:55:02.840 And the faithfulness of the Lord 00:55:03.840 --> 00:55:04.840 Endures forever 00:55:04.840 --> 00:55:05.840 The reasons why the Lord's people are to praise him 00:55:06.840 --> 00:55:07.840 There are other reasons 00:55:07.840 --> 00:55:08.840 But these are the two in the psalm 00:55:09.840 --> 00:55:11.840 Now we take that back to the first verse 00:55:12.840 --> 00:55:13.840 Praise the Lord all nations 00:55:14.840 --> 00:55:15.840 Extol him all peoples 00:55:16.840 --> 00:55:17.840 And you need to feed that 00:55:17.840 --> 00:55:19.840 Feed that into the call of the gospel 00:55:20.840 --> 00:55:24.840 Into the evangelistic exercises and endeavors of God's people 00:55:24.840 --> 00:55:25.840 Why do you go out with the gospel? 00:55:26.840 --> 00:55:30.840 Why are we concerned to actually bring the gospel to people around us in this town 00:55:31.840 --> 00:55:32.840 Or wherever it is we belong? 00:55:33.840 --> 00:55:34.840 What is it that we seek to convey to them? 00:55:35.840 --> 00:55:39.840 What is it we seek to bring to them in seeking to instruct their minds meaningfully? 00:55:40.840 --> 00:55:41.840 Well this 00:55:42.840 --> 00:55:44.840 The steadfast love of God is great 00:55:45.840 --> 00:55:46.840 And the faithfulness of God endures forever 00:55:47.840 --> 00:55:49.840 Therefore come and place your trust in him 00:55:50.840 --> 00:55:52.840 You see these are arguments that the Bible gives us 00:55:53.840 --> 00:55:54.840 That we feed into our evangelism 00:55:55.840 --> 00:55:57.840 And say this is the God we actually serve 00:55:58.840 --> 00:55:59.840 And this is the God we commend to you 00:56:00.840 --> 00:56:07.840 Not the God of the caricatures you find all too often in public life 00:56:07.840 --> 00:56:10.840 But the God 00:56:11.840 --> 00:56:13.840 Who loves and who is faithful 00:56:14.840 --> 00:56:18.840 To the extent of giving his only begotten son 00:56:19.840 --> 00:56:21.840 And raising him from the dead 00:56:22.840 --> 00:56:24.840 That we might have hope 00:56:27.840 --> 00:56:29.840 And so that's our task 00:56:30.840 --> 00:56:31.840 Go he says 00:56:31.840 --> 00:56:35.840 And make disciples of all nations 00:56:36.840 --> 00:56:37.840 On the basis of what? 00:56:38.840 --> 00:56:42.840 All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me 00:56:43.840 --> 00:56:45.840 This is Jesus shortly before his ascension 00:56:46.840 --> 00:56:50.840 Therefore, therefore because this is who I am 00:56:51.840 --> 00:56:53.840 Because these are the great truths of God 00:56:54.840 --> 00:56:57.840 Go and make disciples of all nations 00:56:57.840 --> 00:56:59.840 Baptizing them 00:57:00.840 --> 00:57:03.840 In the name of the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit 00:57:04.840 --> 00:57:05.840 Teaching them to observe 00:57:06.840 --> 00:57:08.840 All things that I have commanded you 00:57:09.840 --> 00:57:11.840 And lo, I am with you 00:57:12.840 --> 00:57:13.840 To the end of the age 00:57:14.840 --> 00:57:16.840 And that's a promise 00:57:17.840 --> 00:57:18.840 And a fact 00:57:19.840 --> 00:57:22.840 That's based on God's steadfast love and faithfulness 00:57:22.840 --> 00:57:23.840 What is our great concern today? 00:57:23.840 --> 00:57:24.840 What is your great concern? 00:57:25.840 --> 00:57:26.840 Surely it is to know God for yourself 00:57:27.840 --> 00:57:28.840 To be like those people 00:57:29.840 --> 00:57:30.840 In John chapter 4 00:57:30.840 --> 00:57:31.840 To whom the woman of Samaria 00:57:32.840 --> 00:57:33.840 Of Samaria 00:57:34.840 --> 00:57:35.840 Spoke of the Lord Jesus Christ 00:57:36.840 --> 00:57:37.840 That she had come to know 00:57:37.840 --> 00:57:39.840 As she sat at that well 00:57:39.840 --> 00:57:40.840 Near Sychar 00:57:40.840 --> 00:57:41.840 Come and see a man 00:57:41.840 --> 00:57:42.840 Who told me all things that ever I did 00:57:42.840 --> 00:57:43.840 Can this not be the Christ? 00:57:44.840 --> 00:57:45.840 So they went out of the town 00:57:46.840 --> 00:57:47.840 And they believed in him 00:57:47.840 --> 00:57:49.840 Many of them believed in him 00:57:49.840 --> 00:57:50.840 And they said to the woman 00:57:51.840 --> 00:57:52.840 Now we believe 00:57:53.840 --> 00:57:54.840 Not just because of what you said 00:57:55.840 --> 00:58:09.840 But we have heard him for ourselves 00:58:10.840 --> 00:58:13.840 And know that this is indeed the Christ 00:58:14.840 --> 00:58:15.840 The Saviour of the world 00:58:16.840 --> 00:58:19.840 Now isn't that what you're saying? 00:58:19.840 --> 00:58:23.840 You're not going to base your life 00:58:24.840 --> 00:58:26.840 Merely on what someone else tells you 00:58:26.840 --> 00:58:27.840 Not even from the pulpit 00:58:28.840 --> 00:58:31.840 You're going to come to him for yourself 00:58:31.840 --> 00:58:32.840 Aren't you? 00:58:33.840 --> 00:58:34.840 You're going to listen to him for yourself 00:58:35.840 --> 00:58:37.840 You're going to embrace him yourself 00:58:38.840 --> 00:58:39.840 With your own mind 00:58:40.840 --> 00:58:41.840 And with your own will 00:58:41.840 --> 00:58:42.840 As God will enable you 00:58:43.840 --> 00:58:44.840 And you're going to say 00:58:45.840 --> 00:58:46.840 Well now I know 00:58:47.840 --> 00:58:48.840 Now I believe 00:58:49.840 --> 00:58:51.840 Now I accept him 00:58:52.840 --> 00:58:53.840 Because I've come to know him 00:58:54.840 --> 00:58:55.840 For myself 00:58:56.840 --> 00:58:58.840 And may God bless these thoughts 00:58:59.840 --> 00:59:00.840 On his word today to us 00:59:02.840 --> 00:59:04.840 We're going to sing now to God's praise 00:59:05.840 --> 00:59:07.840 Our final psalm today is Psalm 47 00:59:10.840 --> 00:59:11.840 And that's on page 62 00:59:12.840 --> 00:59:13.840 We're singing to a tune Warrington 00:59:14.840 --> 00:59:15.840 Singing verses 1 to 9 00:59:15.840 --> 00:59:18.840 That's the whole of Psalm 47 00:59:18.840 --> 00:59:20.840 As you find it there on page 62 00:59:21.840 --> 00:59:22.840 All nations 00:59:23.840 --> 00:59:24.840 Clap your hands and shout 00:59:25.840 --> 00:59:26.840 Let joyful cries to God ring out 00:59:27.840 --> 00:59:29.840 How awesome is the Lord most high 00:59:30.840 --> 00:59:32.840 Great King who rules the earth throughout 00:59:33.840 --> 00:59:34.840 Psalm 47 00:59:35.840 --> 00:59:36.840 And we'll sing the whole psalm 00:59:36.840 --> 00:59:37.840 End 00:59:37.840 --> 00:59:38.840 Time 00:59:39.840 --> 00:59:53.840 On John还是 2 through 1, Psalm 49 00:59:53.840 --> 00:59:54.840 And we'll sing the whole psalm 00:59:56.840 --> 00:59:58.840 plopнее song 00:59:58.840 --> 01:00:06.519 How awesome is the Lord most high, 01:00:06.519 --> 01:00:15.800 With he through rules we e'er through love. 01:00:16.640 --> 01:00:24.240 He hath subdued beneath our feet 01:00:24.239 --> 01:00:33.379 The nations who hath been our foes 01:00:33.379 --> 01:00:41.519 In blessing Jacob whom we love 01:00:41.519 --> 01:00:51.019 The heaven is which for us he chose 01:00:51.019 --> 01:01:00.159 God hath gone up with showers of joy 01:01:00.159 --> 01:01:09.159 The Lord hath made the trumpet sound 01:01:09.159 --> 01:01:18.299 Sing, praise, sing, praise to God most high 01:01:18.299 --> 01:01:28.299 To God the King that plays the world 01:01:28.300 --> 01:01:36.440 For God is King of all the earth 01:01:36.440 --> 01:01:45.560 Sing sounds of praise to him alone 01:01:45.559 --> 01:01:54.699 For whose the nations from on high 01:01:54.699 --> 01:02:04.699 He sits upon his holy throne 01:02:04.699 --> 01:02:13.159 The leaders of the nations come 01:02:13.839 --> 01:02:21.839 To yield and stand to Abram's war 01:02:21.840 --> 01:02:30.980 To him below the shields of man 01:02:30.980 --> 01:02:39.980 Exalted in the midst of Lord 01:02:39.980 --> 01:02:42.940 Will you please take your seats for a moment? 01:02:48.719 --> 01:02:50.880 Muriel, I can speak to you directly from here 01:02:50.880 --> 01:02:53.800 Even though I'm not facing you at the front here 01:02:53.800 --> 01:02:56.219 I know you didn't want to make this a big thing 01:02:56.219 --> 01:03:00.619 But we are pleased to be able to commend you to God 01:03:00.619 --> 01:03:03.119 As you return shortly to Cambodia 01:03:03.119 --> 01:03:06.819 Let me just assure you if you need any assurance 01:03:06.819 --> 01:03:08.299 Of our love for you 01:03:08.299 --> 01:03:10.099 Of our prayers for you 01:03:10.099 --> 01:03:11.279 That they will follow you 01:03:11.279 --> 01:03:13.400 And of our prayers for you 01:03:13.400 --> 01:03:15.039 As you go back to Cambodia 01:03:15.039 --> 01:03:17.239 And as you serve the Lord there 01:03:17.239 --> 01:03:19.519 We pray that you may know 01:03:19.519 --> 01:03:22.000 More and more of his presence each day 01:03:22.000 --> 01:03:24.139 Of his blessing upon your life 01:03:24.139 --> 01:03:27.819 His blessing upon your work as well for him 01:03:27.819 --> 01:03:29.000 In Cambodia 01:03:29.000 --> 01:03:31.980 And you leave, as I say, with our love 01:03:31.980 --> 01:03:33.039 And our prayers 01:03:33.039 --> 01:03:35.599 And we thank you for your time with us here 01:03:35.599 --> 01:03:37.599 For the times you've taken 01:03:37.599 --> 01:03:39.159 To tell us about your work 01:03:39.159 --> 01:03:41.440 Both for the congregation as a whole 01:03:41.440 --> 01:03:43.579 And also for the young folks 01:03:43.579 --> 01:03:45.659 When you spoke to them a few weeks ago 01:03:45.659 --> 01:03:46.519 At the Sunday school 01:03:46.519 --> 01:03:49.179 We appreciate all of that very much 01:03:49.179 --> 01:03:52.039 And please keep sending us your newsletter 01:03:52.039 --> 01:03:54.139 Even though I have to apologize 01:03:54.139 --> 01:03:57.500 For the few times that I respond to that 01:03:57.500 --> 01:03:58.380 By email 01:03:58.380 --> 01:04:01.619 But we do take delight in receiving 01:04:01.619 --> 01:04:03.559 News of your work 01:04:03.559 --> 01:04:04.859 From time to time 01:04:04.859 --> 01:04:06.880 As you send us your newsletter 01:04:06.880 --> 01:04:08.819 So please do be assured 01:04:08.819 --> 01:04:11.440 We will continue to remember you in prayer 01:04:11.440 --> 01:04:13.579 And we're going to pray for Muriel 01:04:13.579 --> 01:04:15.099 And finish the service with prayer 01:04:15.099 --> 01:04:17.239 And then that'll include the benediction 01:04:17.239 --> 01:04:19.179 And afterwards please allow me 01:04:19.179 --> 01:04:20.219 To get to the main door 01:04:20.219 --> 01:04:21.739 To shake hands with you then 01:04:21.739 --> 01:04:22.859 Let's stand now for prayer 01:04:22.860 --> 01:04:30.019 Almighty God we give thanks 01:04:30.019 --> 01:04:30.900 For the gospel 01:04:30.900 --> 01:04:33.400 We give thanks for those you call 01:04:33.400 --> 01:04:34.980 To proclaim the gospel 01:04:34.980 --> 01:04:37.500 To be workers in the gospel 01:04:37.500 --> 01:04:38.920 In the name of Christ 01:04:38.920 --> 01:04:41.559 We pray now Lord for Muriel 01:04:41.559 --> 01:04:44.280 We thank you for her months with us here 01:04:44.280 --> 01:04:46.260 With her family elsewhere 01:04:46.260 --> 01:04:48.760 We pray that you'd bless her now 01:04:48.760 --> 01:04:50.540 As she anticipates leaving 01:04:50.540 --> 01:04:52.000 To go back to Cambodia 01:04:52.000 --> 01:04:54.040 We thank you for the strength 01:04:54.040 --> 01:04:54.800 Of her call 01:04:54.800 --> 01:04:56.600 For her love for you 01:04:56.600 --> 01:04:58.960 And for her desire to serve you there 01:04:58.960 --> 01:05:01.760 We pray that she will see much blessing 01:05:01.760 --> 01:05:03.040 Oh Lord in days to come 01:05:03.040 --> 01:05:05.400 We pray that your protective care 01:05:05.400 --> 01:05:06.800 Will be with her in her travels 01:05:06.800 --> 01:05:08.880 And in all that she does for you 01:05:08.880 --> 01:05:10.940 When she returns to Cambodia 01:05:10.940 --> 01:05:12.560 Be with her Lord 01:05:12.560 --> 01:05:14.380 As we commend her to you once again 01:05:14.380 --> 01:05:16.200 We commend her to you 01:05:16.200 --> 01:05:17.500 And to the word of your grace 01:05:17.500 --> 01:05:19.059 And we pray that 01:05:19.059 --> 01:05:21.140 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ 01:05:21.140 --> 01:05:23.000 The love of God the Father 01:05:23.000 --> 01:05:25.019 And the communion of the Holy Spirit 01:05:25.019 --> 01:05:26.720 Will be with us now 01:05:26.720 --> 01:05:28.099 Forevermore 01:05:28.099 --> 01:05:29.000 Amen 01:05:44.380 --> 01:05:47.460 That little table 01:05:47.460 --> 01:05:48.440 Good 01:05:48.440 --> 01:05:50.480 Thank you 01:05:50.480 --> 01:05:52.059 What have you come to? 01:05:52.059 --> 01:05:53.000 Whether to man 01:05:53.000 --> 01:05:53.980 Notchuss 01:05:53.980 --> 01:05:54.340 Will be with us 01:05:54.340 --> 01:05:55.740 So 01:05:55.740 --> 01:05:55.780 Thank you 01:05:55.780 --> 01:05:57.140 That little table 01:05:57.140 --> 01:05:58.119 If we want to come to you 01:05:58.119 --> 01:05:58.660 And we make everyone 01:05:58.660 --> 01:05:59.360 It's time to bathroom 01:05:59.360 --> 01:06:00.440 And it's time tomadı 01:06:00.440 --> 01:06:01.500 And we let our job 01:06:01.500 --> 01:06:02.480 There's life 01:06:02.500 --> 01:06:03.119 The world 01:06:03.119 --> 01:06:03.519 Hang her 01:06:03.519 --> 01:06:04.660 Throughout 01:06:04.660 --> 01:06:05.660 And it's time to 01:06:05.660 --> 01:06:07.059 Campaign 01:06:07.059 --> 01:06:08.039 ioni 01:06:08.039 --> 01:06:09.920 It's time to 01:06:09.920 --> 01:06:10.920 And the MC 01:06:10.920 --> 01:06:11.000 Trim 01:06:11.000 --> 01:06:12.099 And 01:06:12.099 --> 01:06:13.440 It entered