Psalm 25

Mother Emanuel AME

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.

Psalm 23 prt 1

December 9, 2024 • Pastor Manning • Psalm 23

This psalm is neither mixed with prayers nor lament hardships to seek relief; rather, it expresses pure thanksgiving. It appears to have been written when David had secured peaceful control of the kingdom, living in prosperity and fulfilling all his desires. To avoid becoming like worldly individuals who, in their fortune, forget God and indulge in pleasures, he finds joy in God, the source of all his blessings. David recognizes that his current state of tranquility and freedom from difficulties is due to God’s goodness, but he also trusts that through God’s providence, his happiness will continue until the end of his life, striving to engage in true worship.