Oasis Staff Devo: Peace in Distress

Psalm 4 NIV

For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm of David. 1 Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer. 2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? 3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. 4 Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. 5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. 6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. 7 Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. 8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.

1. Things are tense. Ukraine. Israel. Azerbaijan.

2. Psalm 4 gives us some guidance for life in difficult times.

3. In distress, David calls out to God Psalm 4:1

Psalm 4:1 NIV

1 Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.

4. God is faithful to those who trust in Him. Psalm 4:2-3

Psalm 4:2–3 NIV

2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? 3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.

5. Anger at bad situations is noral but don’t let your anger lead to sin. Psalm 4:4-5

Psalm 4:4–5 NIV

4 Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. 5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.

a. Search your heart, be silent

b. Worship

c. Trust in God

6. Psalm 4:6-8

Psalm 4:6–8 NIV

6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. 7 Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. 8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.