Psalm 20

Mother Emanuel AME

Psalm 20

November 26, 2024 • Pastor Manning • Psalm 20

This psalm represents a widespread Church prayer for the King of Israel, asking God for protection in times of peril. It also seeks divine support for his kingdom, urging God to preserve and ensure its prosperity. In David's figure, the safety and welfare of the entire community are intertwined. Additionally, there is a promise that God will oversee this kingdom, of which He is the creator, watching over it effectively to guarantee its ongoing preservation.

Psalm 25

December 11, 2024 • Pastor Manning • Psalm 25

This psalm features a blend of meditations and prayers. Seeing the harsh treatment and deep distress caused by his enemies’ cruelty, David first recognizes that God justly uses these circumstances to chastise and punish him for his sins. As a result, he seeks forgiveness in hopes of regaining assurance of divine favor and deliverance. He also appeals for the Holy Spirit's support, desiring to remain steadfast in God's fear amid numerous temptations. He incorporates meditation to inspire greater confidence in God and to redirect his thoughts away from worldly distractions.

Psalm 24

December 11, 2024 • Pastor Manning • Psalm 24

David highlights God's unique favor towards the children of Abraham, choosing them as His special people over all others and establishing His sanctuary as a place to dwell among them. He emphasizes that while the sanctuary was accessible to all Jews, God's presence was only with those who sincerely feared and served Him, having purified themselves from worldly influences to commit to holiness and righteousness. Furthermore, with the temple's construction showcasing God's grace more prominently, David celebrates this grace in beautiful poetry, inspiring true believers to continue their service and honor Him diligently.

Psalm 23 prt 2

December 10, 2024 • Pastor Manning • Psalm 23

Beneath the simplicity of this psalm lies depth and strength. Its peace isn’t about avoidance; its contentment isn’t a sign of laziness; it involves a willingness to confront profound darkness and looming threats. The climax unveils a love that seeks no material reward, only the Lord Himself.