hopeless1Continuing our study of Psalm 34, I remind you the backdrop of this psalm was God saving David from his enemies (1 Samuel 20-22).   Having exhausted his strength and efforts to save himself, David turned his thoughts to the LORD and resolved to never turn from worshipping and serving the LORD.

Three spiritual disciplines define David’s ADORATION of the LORD (Psalm 34:1-3).  The first, David resolved his life would be a testimony of perpetual praise to the LORD (34:1).

Psalm 34:1 – “I will bless [salute; praise] the LORD at all times [always; season; continually]: his praise [glory; song of praise] shall continually [daily; always; ever] be in my mouth [word; speech].”

David’s vow to praise the LORD was more than a “fair weather” decision.  He committed to praise the LORD “at all times”…good times and bad times; times of blessing and times of trouble.  When distressed, David vowed, the “praise [of the LORD] shall continually be in my mouth” (34:1b).

The second discipline in David’s ADORATION and worship of the LORD was his vow to “boast in the LORD” (34:2).

Psalm 34:2 – “My soul [life; mind; heart] shall make her boast [praise; glory] in the LORD: the humble [meek; lowly; needy; afflicted] shall hear [hearken; obey; listen; publish] thereof, and be glad [rejoice; cheer; be merry].”worship

Conscious of his role as God’s anointed and his influence on others, David resolved praising the LORD would dominate his soul (34:2a) and the “humble” would be encouraged by his praise (34:2b).

The third discipline of David’s ADORATION was his invitation for others to join him in corporate worship, praise, and thanksgiving (34:3).

Psalm 34:3 – “O magnify [boast; i.e. speak with pride] the LORD with me, and let us exalt [raise; become proud; bold] his name [renown; reputation] together [united].”

Worldly leaders crave the praise and adoration of their followers; however, godly leaders deflect human praise and desire that others would be inspired by their example and “magnify” and “exalt” the LORD and His name!

Some reading today’s devotional are battling depression.  I do not know your circumstances, but I understand feeling abandoned, disillusioned, and discouraged.  I have learned negative feelings and dark thoughts will consume me spiritually, physically and emotionally if I fail to get the focus off myself and turn to the LORD.  Reading and meditating on God’s Word and His promises are the first steps to digging out of a spiritual funk.  Also, turning my focus to encouraging others who are struggling has proven to be a balm to my soul.encourage

In closing, it is my prayer you will take consolation in this:  You are not experiencing anything that the rest of us have not felt and experienced (1 Corinthians 10:13).  Trials, troubles, and disappointments are the lot of living in a sin-cursed world; however, we have this assurance:  The LORD hears and answers prayer!

Psalm 34:4 – “I sought [seek; enquire; consult] the LORD, and He heard [answered; replied] me, and delivered [pluck up; preserve; rescue] me from all my fears [fright].

Copyright 2016 – Travis D. Smith