Great discussion and sermon based on Psalm 103.

Psalm 103 [ 32:50 ] Play in Popup | Download

Because we had so many people away (usual for our summer meetings) we were able to discuss together and meditate on Psalm 103. It is best to listen to the recording to get the extra details but the notes used are as follows:

Failure – Psalm 103

The Psalm could be viewed from a number of perspectives. The first one would be of course that this is a song of praise and worship. However, I brought this to the congregation as a meditation on how a believer can respond to disappointment and failure. When we fail we must come to Jesus but this Psalm has wisdom on this subject.

Responsibility, verses 1-2
I may not always be responsible for what happens to me but I am always responsible for how I react, whether I react in forgiveness or with rage. We tend to look for someone to blame. We often blame God. See 1 Corinthians 13, God can take it, he does not go in a huff.

I can take responsibility by worshipping despite the situation, and by remembering, “forget not all his benefits”. The enemy wants us to forget, that is the victory he often achieves with those who fall from faith.

Focus, verses 3-5, 10-12
Instead of blaming, claim the grace of God. God’s love is for us and is not dependent upon what we do.

Security, verses 13-18
If we read this section but finish at verse 16 we would and up with a miserable conclusion that we have little value. We must read this including verses 17 and 18 and we see his love lasts longer that the physical creation, “But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him.”

Perspective, verses 15-18
Why compare ourselves with others? Why worship what others are of have?

A determination to worship, verses 20-22
David is not only determined to worship but he calls others to join with him. David is saying, “You angels, come with me, I am going to worship. You heavenly host, come with me, I am going to worship. You, all of creation, come with me, I am going to worship.

What a nerve David has to call those to join him. What a great faith he displays.

I want to be a worshipper like that!