2008 09 Sep

Thirsting For God

Psalm 63

      David writes this Psalm from his experience running for his life from his son Absalom. During this difficult time, he is absent from the special presence of God that was in the sanctuary. David was in the habit of fellowship with God at the tabernacle. The prophet Nathan warned David about this time in his life. He warned him that he would reap the consequences of his sin. He warned of the trouble he would find in his own house. I don't see God as primarily bringing trouble or punishment into David's life. Rather, I see God withdrawing from David, His hand of blessing and protection. Here, David feels this as it happens, and he misses the presence of God.

      If there is substance to our worship and not just appearance, we will come to experience the very presence of God as David did. We will come to hear the voice of God speaking to our hearts. People who come to experience God will not feel great need for the help of outward excitement and entertainment to keep up their interest in worship. This kind of noise may even prove more a distraction than help. I like the language David uses here. He likens his need for God as one who is thirsty in a dry land. Have you ever been without water in a hot dry place? I have, and nothing will quench your thirst like pure cold water.

      In the New Testament, water illustrates the Spirit of God. One flowing out with water illustrates the one empowered by the Spirit. In contrast, the apostate is a well without water. David speaks of his satisfaction, strength of faith and confident expectation. I can't help but wonder, what is your experience in worship. All things being equal, if our heart is right, we will seek and prefer good churches. However, God is able to meet the thirst of all that come to find Him and seek Him by faith. The quality or number of the group does not limit God. He is able to bless as long as at least two or three godly people gather in His name. Is this your experience when it comes to church fellowship? If not, the primary problem is in your own heart and life.

Pss.63
[1] O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
[2] To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
[3] Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
[4] Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
[5] My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
[6] When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
[7] Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
[8] My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.
[9] But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
[10] They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.
[11] But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped.

100102dw

2nd

Prayer and Praise Psalm

Psalm 64:1-10

      W. Graham Scroggie has entitled this Psalm The Hurtful Tongue. He does so because it is "the general subject of the Psalm." "This is a cry of distress, and yet not of despair. The singer is beset by wily enemies who plan and plot against him with malicious and persistent determination. In great detail he describes their method. It is that of secret counsel and studied cruelty. They have one object, that of harming the righteous by shooting at him from secret places. They strengthen themselves by declaring that none can see them. This is his distress. The warfare is unequal. His foes are not in the open but under cover." (G. Campbell Morgan). "It is high time we all paid respectful attention to this matter of the ethics of speech, for our thoughtlessness or maliciousness in the matter is doing incalculable harm alike to the Church and in the world." (Scroggie). It would be good to read James 3 regarding the tongue.

      David turns to his best recourse and that is to PRAYER. Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer. V. 1 It is good to note how often David turns to prayer, "It is his battleaxe and weapon of war; he uses it under every pressure, whether of inward sin or outward wrath, foreign invasion or domestic rebellion."(Spurgeon). "We shall act wisely if we make prayer to God our first and best trusted resource in every hour of need."(Spurgeon) He asks to be protected from fear of the enemy as well as from the enemies themselves. In the first part of the Psalm we hear David's Complaint. Vss 1-6 .

      In the second division vss 7-10 "he reveals his ground of Consolation. The enemy had used many arrows (3), but God uses only one and it is enough (7)." (Scroggie). Verse 7 tells us why David does not despair. The New Testament principle is found in Rom. 12:19 and Rom. 8:31. God is the avenger of His people. Take it to the Lord in prayer. KDD

Pss.64
[1] Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the enemy.
[2] Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity:
[3] Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:
[4] That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not.
[5] They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say, Who shall see them?
[6] They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward thought of every one of them, and the heart, is deep.
[7] But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; suddenly shall they be wounded.
[8] So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away.
[9] And all men shall fear, and shall declare the work of God; for they shall wisely consider of his doing.
[10] The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and shall trust in him; and all the upright in heart shall glory.

100202kdd

3rd

Praise to God for His Salvation and Providence

Psalm 65

"Sing Praise Unto God!" This one phrase encompasses those people who have received the free gift of salvation who are called believers, children of the One True God, Creator and Savior! This Psalm starts out with praise to God for all the spiritual blessings He has bestowed in verses 1 – 5 and then goes on with praises for all the physical blessings He has given through the end of verse 13. This Psalm very well could have been sung at the Feast of Unleavened Bread in the spring or at the Feast of Tabernacles in the fall. For our own edification today, let’s bring personal application to this passage.

We see that there were specific, particular times set aside to bring praise to God. We have those times too, even at Thanksgiving and Christmas and Easter, etc. As true believers, we have much to be thankful for, but one particular spiritual blessing comes to mind. It is that of our salvation! The personal thoughts of it at any given moment should cause a stir in our minds and an overwhelming joy in our hearts that just cannot be contained. When we give any personal thought to what Christ our Savior has done on our behalf, we should be humbled to the core of our very existence in thankfulness and praise for the great sacrifice that was so freely given to us and to all mankind. Praise the Lord for this Spiritual blessing. Paul said this in Ephesians 1:3: 3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Notice the word “all”. What other blessings does He have in store for those that love Him?! Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:9. “9But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” This of course is great cause for heart felt excitement and praise unto the Creator, as He knows each one of His own, personally and intimately and wants to bless each one for their faithfulness and obedience to Him. In other words, we can’t even begin to comprehend the blessings that God wants to give to His children, as we faithfully and obediently live our lives for Him. “Our Great God and Savior, how we praise You for Your great Salvation! Help us to always bring our heartfelt praise to You and may we always be obedient children. In Jesus name, Amen.” DM

Pss.65
[1] Praise waiteth for thee, O God, in Sion: and unto thee shall the vow be performed.
[2] O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come.
[3] Iniquities prevail against me: as for our transgressions, thou shalt purge them away.
[4] Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple.
[5] By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer us, O God of our salvation; who art the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off upon the sea:
[6] Which by his strength setteth fast the mountains; being girded with power:
[7] Which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people.
[8] They also that dwell in the uttermost parts are afraid at thy tokens: thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice.
[9] Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water: thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for it.
[10] Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settlest the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers: thou blessest the springing thereof.
[11] Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness.
[12] They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness: and the little hills rejoice on every side.
[13] The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy, they also sing.

100302dm

4th

A Psalm Of Praise

Psalm 66:1-20

Verses 1-4: The Psalmist exhorts the whole world to give glory to God.
5-7: He is recounting God's great acts in the past.
8-12: The past deliverances guarantee His present deliverance.
13-15: The Psalmist brings a huge offering to God in gratitude.
16-20: He calls all to hear of God's loving mercy and the answers to his prayers.

      1. Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands (people): Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious. Say unto God, How terrible (awesome are) thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee. All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. If you are a monotone you can still sing unto the Lord. No matter how off key you are, God hears it as melodious music to His ears.

      2. The works of God are awesome in creation, divine protection and eternal salvation. If you have doubts about the integrity of the Bible or the promises of God, just remember the preservation of the Jews for over 4000 years. Other nations have faded into oblivion, but the Jew lives on.

      3. As believers, we are to continually praise Him, verse 8. He will not allow you to stumble if your heart is set on Him, verse 9. "Refined as pure silver." What a wonderful relationship with God is expressed in verse 10. The word "net" in verse 11 is also translated "stronghold" or "fortress." Verse 12, we went through both water and fire, but You have brought us into a place of abundance. God has not guaranteed all that we want, but He has provided all that we need; let us be satisfied.

      4. This section is filled with praise, other than words, David is bringing offerings and sacrifices to the Lord. It is one thing to talk a good talk, but to give sacrificially is another thing. If we really love the Lord, we should be willing to give gifts over and above our tithes

      5. 18 and 20 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy (loving kindness) from me. Put away all sin and walk with the Lord. RJS

Pss.66
[1] Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands:
[2] Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious.
[3] Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.
[4] All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah.
[5] Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men.
[6] He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him.
[7] He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.
[8] O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard:
[9] Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved.
[10] For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.
[11] Thou broughtest us into the net; thou laidst affliction upon our loins.
[12] Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place.
[13] I will go into thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows,
[14] Which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath spoken, when I was in trouble.
[15] I will offer unto thee burnt sacrifices of fatlings, with the incense of rams; I will offer bullocks with goats. Selah.
[16] Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.
[17] I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue.
[18] If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:
[19] But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer.
[20] Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.

100402rjs

5th

Grateful Hearts

Psalm 67

This is a Psalm of prayer and praise. He begins by praying that God would cause his face to shine upon us.The language is that of the priestly blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). We are sinners and as such, out of God's favor and under His curse. If God's face shines on us, His favor returns to us. The words speak specifically of the presence of God and fellowship with Him. In other words, he begins by asking God to open the door of fellowship and blessing to His people. We as His people are, at best, sinners saved by grace, and as sinners we are ever in need of God's grace and mercy.

This blessing is not something David wants to see reserved for Israel alone. The apostate Jews in the early church felt the greatest offense at the inclusion of gentiles. They were Jews that took pride in being better than the gentiles are. Their hearts were far from the heart of such great saints as David. David desired that all nations would be included among the people of God. Sadly, many in the church today lack the same concern for those that are in need of God's grace. They are content to keep the knowledge of God in their hearts or within the four walls of the church. They are offended if the ministry neglects the needs of the ninety-and-nine to seek one lost sheep.

If our faith is healthy, there will be evangelistic zeal and effort. This Psalm looks forward to the success of the gospel. It looks forward to the day when the knowledge of God will cover the earth, and there will be no more need for evangelism. It looks forward to a day of justice and joy. In Isaiah 51:11 we read the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away.As we worship and serve God, we ought to do so with joy and expectation of the great harvest to come. It is important that churches have a missions program. It is important that churches reach out to lost people in the community. The church must not become a social club, where the emphasis is on serving the members of the club. God has us in the world as salt and light, and the lost, primarily, are in need of these.

Pss.67
[1] God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah.
[2] That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.
[3] Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
[4] O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.
[5] Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.
[6] Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.
[7] God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.

100502dw

6th

The Mighty Conqueror

Psalm 68

"The Psalm has been called the grandest and most elaborate of all the Dedicated Odes, and one of the masterpieces of the world's lyrics." (Scroggie). Maclaren says: "This superb hymn is unsurpassed, if not unequalled, in grandeur, lyric fire, and sustained rush of triumphant praise." Perowne speaks of it as, "This grand hymn." Cheyne says it "It is difficult to read this mighty marching song without the feet longing to tramp and the hands to wave." (Moulton)

Luke 2:32 "It is in two main parts, 1-18 and 19-35; and these again divide into eight strophes:

Pss.68
[1] Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him.
[2] As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.
[3] But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice.
[4] Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.
[5] A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.
[6] God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.
[7] O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness; Selah:
[8] The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.
[9] Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary.
[10] Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor.
[11] The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.
[12] Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil.
[13] Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.
[14] When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon.
[15] The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan; an high hill as the hill of Bashan.
[16] Why leap ye, ye high hills? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will dwell in it for ever.
[17] The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place.
[18] Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.
[19] Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.
[20] He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto God the Lord belong the issues from death.
[21] But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.
[22] The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea:
[23] That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of thine enemies, and the tongue of thy dogs in the same.
[24] They have seen thy goings, O God; even the goings of my God, my King, in the sanctuary.
[25] The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels.
[26] Bless ye God in the congregations, even the Lord, from the fountain of Israel.
[27] There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council, the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali.
[28] Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.
[29] Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.
[30] Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people that delight in war.
[31] Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.
[32] Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah:
[33] To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, and that a mighty voice.
[34] Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds.
[35] O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God.

100602kdd

      As David writes this Psalm he is near the end of this life and faced with deep difficulty from evil men. This ought to help us realize that in this life we will never grow to the point where we outgrow our need for God. Furthermore, we will never come to a point, in this life, where we are free from difficult and hateful people. If they could never find peace with Christ, they will never find peace with us. It is not our faults, but our goodness that they hate.

      I thank God for the example of David here. David had the greatest failures, but he did not quit. I have heard that as folk grow older they get tired of fighting and often give way to evil. David's son Solomon did this. However, as David finds his strength failing, he finds God's strength is ever sufficient. He still fears finding himself ashamed for his trust in God, but comforts himself in his long experience of the blessings of God. God has been faithful to him in his every need. This experience gives him great confidence as he finds his strength failing.

      The need of the hour today is for deliverance from the wicked. David had enemies from the days of his youth till now. If we are righteous, we ought to expect that the wicked will hate us and try to do us harm. We ought to expect that they will hate us. They cannot help it. It amazes me that people today tend to believe just the opposite. They tend to think that if we are righteous, we will be able to keep everybody happy. Nothing could be further from the truth. This has never been the experience of the righteous. It was not the experience of Jesus Christ. Jesus warned his disciples that all people speak well of false prophets and teachers. David prays that he would not give way to confusion, but that his enemies would. One of the important elements of success in fighting the good fight of faith is praying against our enemies. David's mind and strength were failing, but not God's power. Therefore, David prays for grace in his weakness that he might be able to continue the good fight of faith. If our faith is right, it will involve us in some conflict.

Pss.71
[1] In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.
[2] Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.
[3] Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.
[4] Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man.
[5] For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth.
[6] By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee.
[7] I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge.
[8] Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day.
[9] Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.
[10] For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together,
[11] Saying, God hath forsaken him: persecute and take him; for there is none to deliver him.
[12] O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.
[13] Let them be confounded and consumed that are adversaries to my soul; let them be covered with reproach and dishonour that seek my hurt.
[14] But I will hope continually, and will yet praise thee more and more.
[15] My mouth shall shew forth thy righteousness and thy salvation all the day; for I know not the numbers thereof.
[16] I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.
[17] O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.
[18] Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.
[19] Thy righteousness also, O God, is very high, who hast done great things: O God, who is like unto thee!
[20] Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth.
[21] Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.
[22] I will also praise thee with the psaltery, even thy truth, O my God: unto thee will I sing with the harp, O thou Holy One of Israel.
[23] My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my soul, which thou hast redeemed.
[24] My tongue also shall talk of thy righteousness all the day long: for they are confounded, for they are brought unto shame, that seek my hurt.

"This is one of the clearest of the Theocratic and Messianic Psalms. Of course it has an historical setting, and all its points cannot be introduced into the Messianic interpretation, but neither can all that is said be true of any other than Christ. David had predicted such a reign for Solomon as he here desires for himself. David as king of war laid the righteous foundation on which his son as king of peace built. But the furthest reach of fulfillment of David's prophecy left much of the vision unrealized, and what Solomon here prays for in his kingdom was never experienced, so that the prophecy of the father and the prayer of the son look on to a time still future when God's kingdom on earth shall be perfect and universal. This will be the fulfillment of the prayer Jesus taught His disciples, Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10. (Scroggie)

The Psalm has five stanzas, and a doxology; each of the stanzas emphasizes one feature of the King's Reign.

Thought: The Perfections of Heaven will more than reward us for the Privations on earth.(Daily Bread, 1979)

Pss.72
[1] Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king's son.
[2] He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment.
[3] The mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness.
[4] He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.
[5] They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, throughout all generations.
[6] He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth.
[7] In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.
[8] He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.
[9] They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him; and his enemies shall lick the dust.
[10] The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.
[11] Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.
[12] For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.
[13] He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy.
[14] He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight.
[15] And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the gold of Sheba: prayer also shall be made for him continually; and daily shall he be praised.
[16] There shall be an handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains; the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon: and they of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.
[17] His name shall endure for ever: his name shall be continued as long as the sun: and men shall be blessed in him: all nations shall call him blessed.
[18] Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.
[19] And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.
[20] The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.

      Many times, when we try to live the Christian life to be obedient and pleasing to God, we see many people who seemingly get by with all kinds of wickedness and it looks as if we have possibly chosen the wrong direction. It's just simply amazing that so many people can get by with so much sin and nothing seemingly happens to them at all. It causes believers to start to doubt what God has commanded Christians to do, doesn't it? We know of course that God will deal with all those wicked people in the end, but just getting through the things that this Psalm talks of, are quite difficult from our perspective. That's why we really need to learn from God's perspective, to trust and obey, for there really is no other way, to be happy in Jesus.

      Asaph, who is the writer of this Psalm, learned this truth too. He was a Levite, who led one of the temple choirs. He became depressed when he contrasted the seeming prosperity of the wicked people with the difficulties of living a righteous life, but his attitude changes completely in vs. 15-17, as he then looks at life from the perspective of being under the control of a sovereign and holy God and he correctly concludes that it is the wicked, not the righteous, who have really made the mistakes.

      Seriously, it really is the wicked who lose in the end, who will spend an eternity without God, who will be repaid for their foolish ways and who will receive their just recompense. God will see to it because He is a just God and He must punish sin. He even states, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord." Question is: Are we ready and willing to accept and believe that He will? We should answer unequivocally: Yes! As believers, we trustingly can begin to take heart in God and take our eyes off the worldly turmoil of this life, the inequities and injustices and instead, focus our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

      Dear Lord God, my Creator, thank You for the victory over sin and death that has already been won because of Christ. Help me to focus my heart and my life on Jesus as my Savior, who knows my hurts and sees my needs and is able to meet them. Help me to trust You. Amen.

A Psalm of Desperation Because of God's Rejection

Psalm 74

      Psalms 74 and 79 both refer to the same calamity. Old Testament students differ as to the time of these events. Some say it was at the time of the carrying away into the 70 years captivity. (Verse 8: they have burned all the synagogues of God in the land. The reasoning for the earlier trouble is that there is no more any prophet in the Land (verse 9). Their thinking is that Jeremiah had already been put into chains and was under house arrest. Also, there seems to be a desecration of the countryside and Jerusalem by fire.

      Others think it had to do with the desecration of the Temple after the death of Malachi. The tunnel period of 400 years, in which there was no revelation from God, between Malachi and Matthew. History tells us that under the Grecian rule there was a time of apostasy. This was when Antiochus Epiphanes (a type of the antichrist) sacrificed a pig on the altar of sacrifice before the temple. If you have a Bible that has the Apocrypha which is made up of 15 books which are not considered part of the canon of the Bible you will find the story of this desecration in 1 Maccabees 1:30-53, 2:8-12 and 3:48-51. The Apocrypha is included in the Roman Catholic Bible, but for centuries has been excluded from the King James and most modern translations. It was during this age that two main bodies of Jewish religion were established, the Pharisees and the Sadducees, who were the real troublers during the ministry of Christ.

      After the death of Alexander the Great the Grecian ruler of the Levant from Greece to Egypt, which included the Holy Land, was followed by the Romans. Under the Roman rule, we find the life of Christ and the history of the early church. Whether it was the Babylonian Captivity or the Maccabian period is debatable, but which ever, this Psalm was a prayer for God to destroy their enemies and restore the land to the rightful owners, the Jews. It was not until May, 1948, and the opening of the Land for the Jews to return that we see the beginning of God's answer to this ancient prayer of Psalm 74. The Jews are in the Land, there is no peace, but the desert is blooming like a rose and this is all in preparation for the coming of Christ for his Church. Praise the Lord! RJS

Pss.74
[1] O God, why hast thou cast us off for ever? why doth thine anger smoke against the sheep of thy pasture?
[2] Remember thy congregation, which thou hast purchased of old; the rod of thine inheritance, which thou hast redeemed; this mount Zion, wherein thou hast dwelt.
[3] Lift up thy feet unto the perpetual desolations; even all that the enemy hath done wickedly in the sanctuary.
[4] Thine enemies roar in the midst of thy congregations; they set up their ensigns for signs.
[5] A man was famous according as he had lifted up axes upon the thick trees.
[6] But now they break down the carved work thereof at once with axes and hammers.
[7] They have cast fire into thy sanctuary, they have defiled by casting down the dwelling place of thy name to the ground.
[8] They said in their hearts, Let us destroy them together: they have burned up all the synagogues of God in the land.
[9] We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that knoweth how long.
[10] O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? shall the enemy blaspheme thy name for ever?
[11] Why withdrawest thou thy hand, even thy right hand? pluck it out of thy bosom.
[12] For God is my King of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth.
[13] Thou didst divide the sea by thy strength: thou brakest the heads of the dragons in the waters.
[14] Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces, and gavest him to be meat to the people inhabiting the wilderness.
[15] Thou didst cleave the fountain and the flood: thou driedst up mighty rivers.
[16] The day is thine, the night also is thine: thou hast prepared the light and the sun.
[17] Thou hast set all the borders of the earth: thou hast made summer and winter.
[18] Remember this, that the enemy hath reproached, O LORD, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy name.
[19] O deliver not the soul of thy turtledove unto the multitude of the wicked: forget not the congregation of thy poor for ever.
[20] Have respect unto the covenant: for the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty.
[21] O let not the oppressed return ashamed: let the poor and needy praise thy name.
[22] Arise, O God, plead thine own cause: remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily.
[23] Forget not the voice of thine enemies: the tumult of those that rise up against thee increaseth continually.

"The singer celebrates a great victory, recognizing it as the work of God."(Morgan). The Psalm tells of a deliverance of Zion from her foes "and the occasion," with a probability which approaches certainty," is the destruction of the army of Sennacherib in the reign of Hezekiah."(Scroggie) "Both 2 Kings 18:13-19; 37 and Isaiah 36-37 record the attack on Judah by the Assyrian king, Sennacherib. That threat to Jerusalem ended when the angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 enemy soldiers in one night and Sennacherib retreated to his capital in Nineveh on the upper Euphrates."(Robert Alden). Here he was slain by his two sons in the house of his god. "Archaeologists have uncovered verification of this biblical account."(Alden).

The "Psalm is in four strophes of three verses each. The first two strophes describe the act of deliverance, and the last two describe the results.

Pss.76
[1] In Judah is God known: his name is great in Israel.
[2] In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.
[3] There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Selah.
[4] Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey.
[5] The stouthearted are spoiled, they have slept their sleep: and none of the men of might have found their hands.
[6] At thy rebuke, O God of Jacob, both the chariot and horse are cast into a dead sleep.
[7] Thou, even thou, art to be feared: and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry?
[8] Thou didst cause judgment to be heard from heaven; the earth feared, and was still,
[9] When God arose to judgment, to save all the meek of the earth. Selah.
[10] Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.
[11] Vow, and pay unto the LORD your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.
[12] He shall cut off the spirit of princes: he is terrible to the kings of the earth.

      Depression and self centered focus has become an ever-increasing problem with many folks who don't know the Lord. It has even spilled over into the ranks of the people who do profess Christ as Savior. This Psalm shows some interesting details that happen when we go through different problems and it also shows us some very interesting cures in helping us to overcome the depressions and self-centeredness that tends to occupy our lives, especially those without God.

      The psalmist was in a gloomy state and was irritated and depressed. Interestingly, he does something that we, too, can use as we also go through these times. He starts to make an evaluation of what is the matter. Maybe there is sin in his life and God has to use some discipline to correct it. Maybe God is just allowing a refining trial or problem to help him to focus on God and His Word, rather than on self and self's very limited resources. A very useful acronym for daily godly focus is this: ECoPE. Evaluate-Confess-Plan-Execute. E-valuate your life daily before God and His Word. Be willing to C-onfess sin as needed and daily meditate on and memorize His Word in personal devotions. Make a P-lan each day for what God would have you spiritually focus on for that specific day. Obediently E-xecute that plan. Follow through with what God has shown you through His Word to live your life in obedience to Him. This has helped a lot of God fearing Christians to live their lives in a way that is different from the world. They begin to experience the awesome power of God, as His Word is put into practical and daily use. They begin to focus on their Creator and their Savior rather than on the problems and difficulties. They begin to experience the sanctified, fulfilled life of a believer, as God fully intends our lives to be. When we compare the wonderful riches of God's Word to the very limited areas of our own sinful attitudes and self, we begin to realize that what God says is true and that realization begins to bring us up out of the miry clay. May we fully trust and focus our hearts on Him!

      O Heavenly Father, as we go through great difficulties and problems, forgive us for not trusting You fully. Help us to turn our eyes and our hearts back to Your Glory and may You be exalted above all. Amen.

Pss.77
[1] I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.
[2] In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted.
[3] I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.
[4] Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak.
[5] I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times.
[6] I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.
[7] Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more?
[8] Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore?
[9] Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah.
[10] And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.
[11] I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.
[12] I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.
[13] Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?
[14] Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.
[15] Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph. Selah.
[16] The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled.
[17] The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a sound: thine arrows also went abroad.
[18] The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook.
[19] Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.
[20] Thou leddest thy people like a flock by the hand of Moses and Aaron.

Reminding Israel of God's Goodness and Their Apostasy

Psalm 78

      The first 29 verses recap the many blessings God has given to Israel. The miracles God performed, making the waters to stand in a heap when they crossed the Red Sea. To this writer, the crossing of the Red Sea is astounding, when I think of over three million people walking through in one night. That path must have been close to a mile wide when we consider all the people, all the animals and baggage they were carrying. There must have been four and five generations walking that wide path. I can see a small child breaking away form its mother and putting a finger into the wall of water and then running back and saying, "It's salty." Water from the rock, manna from heaven every morning, five days a week and a double portion on the sixth -- have you ever thought of the amount of water and food that was needed to supply that hoard of people and animals in the wilderness? Only God could provide!

      Verses 23-41 speak of the repentance of Israel after being punished. Repentance that was soon forgotten - they returned to their idolatry and sinful practices as recorded in verses 42-58. Yes, Israel forgets the goodness of God and returns to sin. It almost seems repetitious in verses 59-63, God in His anger again punishes, and 64-72, God delivers His chosen.

      It would seem that they would have learned their lesson and learned it well, but we should ask ourselves a question or two. Have we, as born- again Christians, learned our lessons, or do we go back and sin again and again? It is easy to criticize Israel, but we have so much more Bible knowledge than they had. They did not have the written Word, they did not have the indwelling Holy Spirit. They only had types of what was to come. Yes, they had the Ten Commandments, but not even we are able to keep them, so why find fault with them in their ignorance. They had the sacrifices and the Tabernacle where God dwelt in the midst of the camp. They had the pillar of fire by night and the cloud by day, they could see the presence of God when they were in camp or on the trail. Israel did not have to walk by faith they had sight. We have the Bible, but still we fail God, that's why I John 1:8-10 is there for us. RJS

Pss.78
[1] Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth.
[2] I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:
[3] Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us.
[4] We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.
[5] For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children:
[6] That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children:
[7] That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments:
[8] And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.
[9] The children of Ephraim, being armed, and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle.
[10] They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in his law;
[11] And forgat his works, and his wonders that he had shewed them.
[12] Marvellous things did he in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan.
[13] He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap.
[14] In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire.
[15] He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths.
[16] He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers.
[17] And they sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness.
[18] And they tempted God in their heart by asking meat for their lust.
[19] Yea, they spake against God; they said, Can God furnish a table in the wilderness?
[20] Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed; can he give bread also? can he provide flesh for his people?
[21] Therefore the LORD heard this, and was wroth: so a fire was kindled against Jacob, and anger also came up against Israel;
[22] Because they believed not in God, and trusted not in his salvation:
[23] Though he had commanded the clouds from above, and opened the doors of heaven,
[24] And had rained down manna upon them to eat, and had given them of the corn of heaven.
[25] Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full.
[26] He caused an east wind to blow in the heaven: and by his power he brought in the south wind.
[27] He rained flesh also upon them as dust, and feathered fowls like as the sand of the sea:
[28] And he let it fall in the midst of their camp, round about their habitations.
[29] So they did eat, and were well filled: for he gave them their own desire;
[30] They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths,
[31] The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel.
[32] For all this they sinned still, and believed not for his wondrous works.
[33] Therefore their days did he consume in vanity, and their years in trouble.
[34] When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and inquired early after God.
[35] And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.
[36] Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their tongues.
[37] For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant.
[38] But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath.
[39] For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again.
[40] How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert!
[41] Yea, they turned back and tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel.
[42] They remembered not his hand, nor the day when he delivered them from the enemy.
[43] How he had wrought his signs in Egypt, and his wonders in the field of Zoan:
[44] And had turned their rivers into blood; and their floods, that they could not drink.
[45] He sent divers sorts of flies among them, which devoured them; and frogs, which destroyed them.
[46] He gave also their increase unto the caterpiller, and their labour unto the locust.
[47] He destroyed their vines with hail, and their sycomore trees with frost.
[48] He gave up their cattle also to the hail, and their flocks to hot thunderbolts.
[49] He cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending evil angels among them.
[50] He made a way to his anger; he spared not their soul from death, but gave their life over to the pestilence;
[51] And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the chief of their strength in the tabernacles of Ham:
[52] But made his own people to go forth like sheep, and guided them in the wilderness like a flock.
[53] And he led them on safely, so that they feared not: but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.
[54] And he brought them to the border of his sanctuary, even to this mountain, which his right hand had purchased.
[55] He cast out the heathen also before them, and divided them an inheritance by line, and made the tribes of Israel to dwell in their tents.
[56] Yet they tempted and provoked the most high God, and kept not his testimonies:
[57] But turned back, and dealt unfaithfully like their fathers: they were turned aside like a deceitful bow.
[58] For they provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their graven images.
[59] When God heard this, he was wroth, and greatly abhorred Israel:
[60] So that he forsook the tabernacle of Shiloh, the tent which he placed among men;
[61] And delivered his strength into captivity, and his glory into the enemy's hand.
[62] He gave his people over also unto the sword; and was wroth with his inheritance.
[63] The fire consumed their young men; and their maidens were not given to marriage.
[64] Their priests fell by the sword; and their widows made no lamentation.
[65] Then the Lord awaked as one out of sleep, and like a mighty man that shouteth by reason of wine.
[66] And he smote his enemies in the hinder parts: he put them to a perpetual reproach.
[67] Moreover he refused the tabernacle of Joseph, and chose not the tribe of Ephraim:
[68] But chose the tribe of Judah, the mount Zion which he loved.
[69] And he built his sanctuary like high palaces, like the earth which he hath established for ever.
[70] He chose David also his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds:
[71] From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance.
[72] So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands.

      This is a Psalm of Asaph. In this Psalm, the nation of Israel lies devastated. This devastation comes to the nation as a direct result of unfaithfulness to God. Before the captivity, the nation could not free itself from the sin of idolatry. At the captivity, they lost their freedom, the temple, and their kingdom. The nation is yet to regain all that was lost. What are God's people to do in the meantime?

      In this Psalm, there is a cry for both mercy and justice. The cry for mercy recognizes God's just dealings with the nation. The nation deserves all the trouble that is come upon her. They do not deserve God's help and blessing. However, the cry for justice recognizes that Israel's enemies deserve judgment every bit as much as Israel. Then there is the cry of verse 5, How long, LORD? wilt thou be angry for ever? How long will God allow the evil to go unpunished, and how long will God not answer the prayers of His people.

      In other words, there is the recognition, that in the end, God will deal according to the principles of grace and mercy. God's goal in His dealings with His people is not punishment, but restoration. When it comes to the wicked, God uses them to chasten His people. Yet, their end will be destruction. This is the result of punishment. For this reason, we ought to graciously and patiently yield ourselves to the chastening hand of God. As we are the sons of God, He will mold us fully into the image of Jesus Christ. The pain of the moment is not forever. The pain of the moment works righteousness in the hearts of all that believe. Israel is an example for Christians. God has not and would not ever fully set aside his chosen people. Israel will one day become everything God intended her to be in this world. Then the day is coming when all the saints are fully conformed to the image of Jesus Christ. Once we trust and commit ourselves to Him, He will bring it to pass. God's chastening is an important part of this process. There is a great difference between chastening and punishment.

Pss.79
[1] O God, the heathen are come into thine inheritance; thy holy temple have they defiled; they have laid Jerusalem on heaps.
[2] The dead bodies of thy servants have they given to be meat unto the fowls of the heaven, the flesh of thy saints unto the beasts of the earth.
[3] Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and there was none to bury them.
[4] We are become a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us.
[5] How long, LORD? wilt thou be angry for ever? shall thy jealousy burn like fire?
[6] Pour out thy wrath upon the heathen that have not known thee, and upon the kingdoms that have not called upon thy name.
[7] For they have devoured Jacob, and laid waste his dwelling place.
[8] O remember not against us former iniquities: let thy tender mercies speedily prevent us: for we are brought very low.
[9] Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake.
[10] Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is their God? let him be known among the heathen in our sight by the revenging of the blood of thy servants which is shed.
[11] Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee; according to the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are appointed to die;
[12] And render unto our neighbours sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached thee, O Lord.
[13] So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations.

      Asaph begins this psalm with the phrase; Sing aloud to God our strength, Make a joyful shout to the God of Jacob. As God's people, there should be an overflowing song of redemption in our hearts unto God and we should be ready at all times, to joyfully shout aloud our praises unto our Savior! In our congregational worship services, the first song sung by the choir is a call to the people to begin to joyfully worship God. Then throughout the service, we all, as a body of believers are to bring acceptable worship to God through our singing, through our praying, through our giving, and through our undivided attention and meditation to the teaching and preaching of God's Holy Word!

      God desires true worship! God desires holy, acceptable, spiritual worship, given by His children unto Him. God desires an undivided and heartfelt obedience. God wants us to listen to Him. He will deliver us, He will free us from the troubles of life, He wants us to call on Him, He will answer us, but He will also test us. We need to hear Him, we need to be admonished by Him, and we need to obey Him. We are to put no other gods before Him. We are not to worship any other gods, but Him.

      Sadly, Israel did not listen and heed God's voice. Sadly many, many people today, who even claim to be believers, do not listen to, nor give heed or pay attention to God's voice. And God then says an even sadder statement. So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart; Oh, that my people would listen to Me! This statement causes tears and much agonizing pain in our hearts as we begin to realize that this could be true of us. God finishes the chapter with things that He will still do, if we will only listen to Him. As we close this devotional for today, may this verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14 be on our hearts and lips, in humble and prayerful consideration, to cause us to bring God the Glory that is due only unto Him. May we worship God acceptably today and every day!

      If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

Accept our humble prayer Dear God, as we pray this in the precious name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, Amen.

      This Psalm was written to Asaph a descendant of Gershon, one of the sons of Aaron. He was a choir leader in the times of King David and his son King Solomon. There are twelve Psalms assigned to Asaph and he was called a seer or a prophet in 2 Chronicles 29:30.

      This Psalm is both forth telling and fore telling, it was for the people of the Old Testament age in which it was written, and it is prophetic and applicable to our age. It is to those who have pledged or sworn in assuming their office to uphold the law. Every minister has pledged to preach the Word of God when he was ordained and if he does not he will answer at the Judgment Seat (Bema Seat) before the Lord Jesus Christ. This is why we need to be like the Bereans as recorded in Acts 17:11 Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily, to see whether these things were so. Christians need to do the same today.

      Every political leader pledges to uphold the constitution of the United States and/or the state, county or city. However, there are few if any who keep their word and it is doubtful if many of them have studied the constitution. God appears to Israel and condemns their leaders, because they have not abided by the ceremonial, civil or moral laws handed down from God to Moses.

They were not a witness to the nations around about them. Rather they worshipped the idols and gods of their neighbors. When their Messiah came, they rejected Him and demanded His death. Israel failed as a repository of the truth as this Psalm speaks to them. In closing, are we, as Christians, accepting apostasy in our churches today? Do we think we can get away with playing church? We are just as accountable before the Lord as the Jews were, if not more so! We have no excuses, we have the full revelation in the Word of God, which is more than the Jews had. RJS

This is another Psalm of Asaph. There are many that would question whether a prayer like this is right. You see, here Asaph prays against his enemies. These enemies are more importantly the enemies of God and of all His people. They have hemmed in Judah. In other words, they have succeeded in their efforts to bring the nation into bondage. These enemies are described as being numerous, deceptive and dangerous. These foes included numerous surrounding nations: Edom . . . Ishmaelites (also called the descendants of Hagar), Moab . . . Gebal (Byblos), Ammon . . Amalek . . . Philistia and the city of Tyre. Mighty Assyria also supported this coalition which included the descendants of Lot, the Moabites and Ammonites (Gen. 19:36-38).Walvoord, John F., and Zuck, Roy B., The Bible Knowledge Commentary, (Wheaton, Illinois: Scrip

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