Scripture: Psalm 46
Discussion questions mentioned in the sermon today.
This is one of those times when a concrete, tangible application of the information we’ve studied needs to be our primary focus.
Selah #1 (Psalm 46:1-3) — How have you seen God work in your life in the past that gives you strength for the present?”
Selah #2 (Psalm 46:4-7) — What does it mean to you that God is your security? How have you experienced the security of God’s presence in your life during these troubled times today?
Selah #3 (Psalm 46:8-11) — How can you apply what you heard this morning? More specifically, how can you begin to put v10 into practice? (Remember, you will only experience the truth of v1 if you practice the truth of v10.)
Do you need more time in quiet reflection on God as the source of your strength??? More time to reflect back on times when you have experienced the strong hand of God leading you through trouble? More time to anchor and to hold on to the fact that he can do it again? When will you set aside that time?
In the midst of all this coronavirus trouble, how’s it going at home? —How’s your relationship with your spouse? How are you doing with having the kiddos around all the time? How are you handling the loneliness and isolation?
The more chaotic things are, the harder it is to find time for prayer and reading Scripture and meditating on who God is and what he’s done for you. I understand it’s not easy, but wouldn’t you agree that it’s even more needful? Figure out how to be still and know that God is bigger than all the chaos in your life. Be still and know that God is with you and for you. I guarantee you the calming effect of his strength will carry you through these troubled times.
One more question—How will you remind yourself of the truth of this psalm over this next week? How can you remind yourself of these great truths—"Jesus is my strength—Jesus is my stronghold— Jesus is my security—Jesus is my ever-present help in times of trouble. Because Jesus is with me and for me—I am not afraid—even if the whole world comes apart at the seams. Preach that Good News to yourself.
Why not memorize vv1 and v10 with your family or with a group of friends? —or if you’re bold enough—memorize all of Psalm 46. Feel free to memorize it in a simpler translation like the New Living Translation. (You can find it online if you don’t have a copy).
Go to YouTube and listen to the worship song—“Do it again”—by Elevation Worship
One more idea—To help you be still and know that God is God—try writing your own psalm of confidence in God—write a psalm or a poem or even compose your own song—or—re-write this psalm in your own words—like—write out your own paraphrase of this psalm by bringing it forward into your life today—and then—share it with others. Share with family and friends how God is leading you put the truth of this psalm into practice.
*We are a church located in Greenville, South Carolina. Our vision is to see God transform us into a community of grace passionately pursuing life and mission with Jesus.