I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading. Yesterday I commented how my approach to what I write each day changes. I was not entirely sure that I liked that when I wrote that yesterday. However, I realized today that I definitely like the way my writing has changed as I am reading Psalms. I am curious to see if my current approach lasts all of the way through Psalms.

Today, I am reading and commenting on Psalms 18-22.

    Psalms 18 and 22 have a similar theme. Both psalms are written from the perspective of someone who has reached the end of their rope, who can hang on no longer. Psalms 18 is written after God has answered their cry and saved them. Psalms 20 is written from the perspective of someone who is in the middle of their trouble, feeling abandoned. I love the imagery the psalmist uses in Psalm 18 to describe God coming to the rescue of His faithful follower who has cried out to Him in desperation. In Psalms 18 the psalmist declares that he praises God for the great things God has done for him. On the other hand, Psalm 22 is a great declaration of faith. The psalmist is in the midst of his trial, unable to take any more suffering. Yet, he declares that he WILL praise God in the assembly. He declares that God has not and will not ignore the suffering of the needy. God will listen to their cries for help and save them. Lord give me the strength to trust in You when trouble finds me, and give me the faithfulness to declare to all when You have rescued me.

    In between those two we have Psalms 19, 20, and 21. Their only common theme is the need to praise and worship God. As I sit here looking over my back yard with the trees thrusting up into the blue sky, I read Psalms 19 telling us that the heavens silently make God known and all I can say is “Amen!” In a world which is becoming scarier studying God’s instructions and commands brings us hope and joy. Yes, I will echo the psalmist’s cry, “Oh Lord, do not let the sins which lurk in my heart control me.”
    Psalms 20 I want to remember because it is one of the great blessings. If ever I need to give a toast or a blessing I want to remember to use Psalms 20:1-5. Right now I am praying it for anyone reading this blog today.