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TRUTH that Psalms teaches |
ACTION that Psalms invites |
1. Instructions for growing in piety
Those who decide to live in piety don't remain unrecompensed and seek opportunities to tell others what GOD has done for them and through them.
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62:12
Understand and know that GOD will repay each one according to his works.
64:1; 69:9
Communicate any lament only to GOD. Be zealous for GOD's purposes to be fulfilled in the church.
45:17
Give testimony of Jesus as your LORD and Savior.
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2. Steps toward a dynamic devotion
The worship and forms of worship that the Bible prescribes are an important part of our devotion to GOD. We sometimes wrongly look down on certain elements of the worship with which we are not accustomed. GOD makes his presence felt alongside those who worship him as He desires. We also forget to dedicate sufficient time to hearing GOD's voice when we pray. This is surprising when we take into account with whom we are communicating when we pray.
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42:1,2; 63:1,2
Consciously cultivate hunger and thirst for GOD. You should know that this decision means spending more time with Him.
59:16,17
Sing to GOD when you are alone with Him.
47:1-7
Worship GOD with your mouth joyfully. Don't despise directing heart-felt applause to the Father.
46:10
Understand that knowing GOD implies spending time regularly in silence and moments of expectant quietude in his presence.
44:22
Offer yourself daily to GOD in living sacrifice. Consider yourself dead to personal ambition.
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3. Keys for a wise life
Much confusion has been generated among GOD's people because they have accepted unreservedly the belief in the innate goodness of human beings. Many have fallen for having trusted more in people than in GOD.
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53:3
Accept the testimony of GOD about human nature. Understand the impact of sin upon human beings.
44:3-8
Understand that spiritual victory doesn't depend on the hands, mind or physical strength. Victory only comes from GOD.
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4. Key lessons in faith
Faith is a conscious decision to act according to what GOD says is true, not a Christian's passive reaction to his circumstances. Over all, faith requires that it be practiced in order for it to grow and be strengthened. Faith comes from the Word of GOD, illuminated by the Holy Spirit and manifested through obedience. Faith requires an undivided commitment that separates us from doubt and wavering.
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56:3,4,10,11
When you are tempted to feel fear, decide to trust in the LORD consciously, not as an emotional reaction. Make a firm decision to not allow yourself to be pulled down by fear.
55:22
Put in GOD's hands without delay your cares and problems, so that He will take charge of them.
51:10
Implore the LORD to work in you so that you may maintain a unique purpose in your heart. Ask Him to strengthen you to help you stand firm in the truth.
43:3
Expect the Spirit of GOD to illuminate the Scriptures to guide you every day.
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5. The need for humility
Pride and arrogance do not please GOD. We must humble ourselves, recognizing our sins and our need to be cleansed by GOD.
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51:1-19
Understand that the spirit of humility opens up avenues of joy in your heart.
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6. Steps toward confronting sin
To confront sin you must recognize that sin originates in the heart.
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66:18
Avoid annulling your prayers by permitting sin or weaknesses to dwell in your heart.
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