Prayer that leads to Joyful Praise

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

Psalm 63:1

-THIS SUNDAY'S TEXT- Prayer that Leads to Praise (Part 2)

Last Sunday, we saw three important acknowledgements in David’s prayer in Psalm 63. First, he acknowledged God to be his God. Next, David acknowledged his need for God. And finally, he acknowledged the power and glory of God.

Read Psalm 63

In verse 3, David gets specific in the character of God. He says – Because your steadfast love is better than life… The steadfast love of God serves as the foundation in which David’s prayer turns to praise. This steadfast love is a characteristic God proclaims of Himself to Moses. In Exodus 34, the Lord proclaims that He is abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.

This Sunday we will look more into detail of the meaning of God’s steadfast love. The steadfast love of God is further explained in verses 7 and 8 of Psalm 63: · Verse 7 – for you have been my help… · Verse 7 - …in the shadow of your wings… · Verse 8 - …your right hand upholds me.

The word for steadfast love is “checed”. It refers to faithful love in action. It is seen in God’s faithful tenderness and mercy toward His people. It can be described as God’s kindness expressed in a loyal commitment to His people. It is marked by God’s faithful compassion toward His people.

With God’s steadfast love in mind, David begins to worship God. Identify the ways David shares his expressions of worship to God.

-CONSIDER & MEDITATE- Something to think about – While David was experiencing many challenges during the time of this Psalm, he was king. He was wealthy. He had many luxuries that came with his kingship. But look at what he claims in verse 3,

Because your steadfast love is better than life…

Close in reading Hebrews 13:5-6. With a better understanding of “checed”, how does Hebrews 13:5-6 relate to what David has said in Psalm 63:3?

PRAYER

Prayer is vital to the health of The River Bible Church. We need more folks committed to gathering regularly, crying out to God with praise, thanksgiving, and supplications. Consider joining our prayer team on Sunday evenings at 6pm in the Sanctuary.