Psalm 3

Intro:

We are all worshippers - We will either worship God or self

If worship God, in the person of Jesus, we must know Him.

This ties directly into our purpose statement. To know Him, we must Yield, Become and Grow as His disciple.

This leads to why we are studying Psalms

How to participate in the series

There are different Psalms that help us understand more of the human experience (heart, soul, mind and strength) in how we worship through everyday life.

David and Absalom

Favoritism and Disparity: Absalom, known for his beauty and charisma, becomes David's favorite son, possibly creating resentment among his brothers. (2 Samuel 3:3)

Unveiling of Family Discord: The tragic rape of Absalom's sister Tamar by their half-brother Amnon sparks Absalom's vengeful murder of Amnon. David exiles Absalom, creating a rift in their relationship. (2 Samuel 13:1-34)

Reconciliation and Cunning Deceptions: After three years, Joab orchestrates Absalom's return to Jerusalem, but full reconciliation seems elusive. Absalom begins subtly undermining David's authority, winning over the hearts of the people with charm and promises. (2 Samuel 14:1-33)

II. Rebellion and Tragic Conflict:

Open Defiance: Fueled by ambition and a perceived sense of injustice, Absalom declares himself king in Hebron, leading to open rebellion against David. (2 Samuel 15:1-12)

David's Humility and Painful Retreat: Choosing to avoid bloodshed, David flees Jerusalem, showcasing his humility and trust in God despite his grief and pain. (2 Samuel 15:13-37)

Main point for today

In times of betrayal and trouble, we can hope—because God will bring justice and restore us.

Psalm 3:1–8 (ESV)

O Lord, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me;

many are saying of my soul, “There is no salvation for him in God.” Selah

But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.

I cried aloud to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah

I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the Lord sustained me.

I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.

Arise, O Lord! Save me, O my God! For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked.

Salvation belongs to the Lord; your blessing be on your people! Selah

David’s Psalm

David’s Lament

Verse 1-2 are the lament

Verse 1 Parallelism

many foes

Escalation—may more are rising against me

David’s Hope

Verses 3-4 express confidence in God

God is a shield (protection)

God is my glory (The one who gives me dignity)

God lifts my head (he removes my disgace)

David’s Rest

I can trust God with all my being (even my emotions)

So I can rest

I can live without fear

David’s Request

Verse 3:7 is his petition (and imprecation)

I give the power to you—you awake and set things right

David’s Conclusion

Salvation belong to the Lord

The Lord will bless us

The Rest of the David’s Story

Strategic Maneuvers and Treacherous Plots: While David gathers support, Hushai remains in Jerusalem as a spy, strategically countering Absalom's advisor Ahithophel's plots. Ahithophel, seeing his plans thwarted, commits suicide. (2 Samuel 16:1-17:23)

III. The Battle and Loss of a Son:

Clash of Forces: David's and Absalom's armies meet in a decisive battle. Despite David's pleas to spare Absalom, Joab disobeys orders and kills Absalom while he is entangled in a tree, leading to David's profound grief. (2 Samuel 18:1-18)

IV. Mourning and Reconciliation:

David's Agony and Yearning: David's overwhelming grief for Absalom, despite his rebellion, reflects the complex depth of their bond. (2 Samuel 18:19-33)

Restoration and Hope: As news of Absalom's death spreads, the rebellion dissolves, and David triumphantly returns to Jerusalem, marking a time of healing and reconciliation. (2 Samuel 19:1-15)

Jesus in the Garden

Christ’s Lament

He’s been betrayed by Judas a member of his inner circle

It’s escalating—may more are taking me to be crucified

Garden of Gethsemane: In the Gospels, Jesus experiences immense emotional turmoil before his crucifixion. He wrestles with fear, loneliness, and the weight of his impending sacrifice, as seen in Mark 14:33-34: "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch."

Christ’s Hope

Jesus submits to the will of the father

I will give up my safety so that other will be safe with God (protection)

I will give up my dignity so that (The one who gives me dignity)

I will suffer disgrace so that I might remove it from others

Christ’s Rest

I can trust God with all my being (even my emotions)

So I can remain silent and endure the cross

I proceed without fear

Christ’s Request

Verse 3:7 is his petition (and imprecation)

Garden of Gethsemane: Despite the anguish, Jesus submits to God's will, praying "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will" (Matthew 26:39). This submission, while acknowledging his human fear, ultimately reflects his complete trust in God's plan.

Christ’s Conclusion

Garden of Gethsemane: While Jesus knows the path ahead will be painful, he also knows it will lead to the ultimate victory over sin and death. His acceptance of God's will paves the way for redemption and salvation.

Credit Care bills for Christmas are coming due

Our Prayer

Lament

Hope

Rest

Request

Conclusion