The Power of Meditation 2

Max Chambers

The Power of Meditation • Sermon • Submitted 2 months ago • Presented 2 months ago

Psalm 143:5–6

Meditate

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Review of David’s Life, Meditation

Notes

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Its David Prayer of Rescue

King James Version Psalm 143

1 Hear my prayer, O LORD,

Give ear to my supplications:

In thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.

2 And enter not into judgment with thy servant:

For in thy sight shall no man living be justified.

3 For the enemy hath persecuted my soul;

He hath smitten my life down to the ground;

He hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead.

4 Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me;

My heart within me is desolate.

5 I remember the days of old;

I meditate on all thy kworks;

I muse on the work of thy hands.

6 I stretch forth my hands unto thee:

My soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.

7 Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth:

rHide not thy face from me,

||Lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.

8 Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning;

For in thee do I trust:

Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk;

For I lift up my soul unto thee.

9 Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies:

I flee unto thee to hide me.

10 Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God:

Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.

11 Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name’s sake:

For thy righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.

12 And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies,

And destroy all them that afflict my soul:

For I am thy servant.

In The Lexicon The meditate means to: reflect deeply on a Subject

The practice of focusing one’s thoughts on specific spiritual matters or on a deity.

In Christian traditions, meditation is a spiritual practice typically involving quiet reflection, contemplation, and prayerful focus on God, scripture, or other spiritual themes, with the aim of deepening one’s connection with God and seeking spiritual insight.

Meditation can also refer to the repetition and memorization of scripture.

Psalms 143

A crescendo with eleven petitions marks 7–12. The deeper the need the more fervent the prayer. And the need has become deep indeed! Like a hunted beast he has been chased, grounded, caged (3, cf. 142 title) and is in despair (4). Power to endure has gone. Could it be that the Lord has rejected him and that this really is the end? The psalm ‘pivots’ on the urgency of v 7: Live in Caves, Running For His Life.

A1 (vs 1–2) Relationship

B1 (vs 3–4) Danger

C1 (vs 5–6) Trust

D (v 7) Urgency

C2 (v 8) Trust

B2 (vs 9–10) Danger

A2 (vs 11–12) Relationship

1–2 (Relationship) The attributes of the Lord; 3–4 (Danger) The failing of the human spirit; 5–6 (Trust) The Lord’s past works; 7 (Urgency) Only the Lord; 8 (Trust) The Lord’s present love; 9a–10 (Danger) The guiding divine Spirit; 11–12 (Relationship) The attributes of the Lord.

2 Throughout the whole Saul-episode David was guiltless but even so, as the oppression continued the thought was inevitable: Have I offended the Lord? Not all suffering is consequent upon sin, but every suffering should prompt self-examination with a proper dread of the Lord’s displeasure. 5–6 The cordial of memory. To recall our past is to promote sadness, very often, or self-pity; to recall the Lord’s past prompts confident prayer. Thirsts for you, better ‘I spread out my hands to you, my soul to you like …’ Mute appeal: the mere need of his people is powerful before God. 7 The solution is in God. David prays not for the removal, destruction etc. of foes, but just the lifting up of the Lord’s face in favour. That is all that is needed—just one look! 8–10 The longing is for God himself rather than simply the end of trouble. Divine favour will make the life of obedience possible. Your good Spirit (Ne. 9:20). 11–12, a case in point regarding imprecatory prayers: we are at ease with v 11 and could and do pray such a prayer, but in reality the ‘bland’ terms of v 11 include the ‘harsh’ requests of v 12, for this is the way the Lord deals with unjust accusations (Dt. 19:16–19). There are circumstances (like David’s) where there is no deliverance without destruction and to pray for the one is to pray for the other.

J. A. Motyer, “The Psalms,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition, ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 580.

David’s Victories

David Strikes Down 18,000 Edomites

David Strikes Down the Amalekites in Ziklag

David Strikes Down 22,000 Syrian Men

David’s Army Kills Over 40,000 Syrians

Davids Defeats

David's life is marked by three significant failures:

neglecting his family due to his public pursuits,

indulging in excessive passions leading to sin, and

succumbing to pride and self-sufficiency.

These failures result in familial dysfunction, personal moral decline, and severe consequences, including rebellion and tragedy within his household.

His sins, including adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah, led to severe consequences, including family strife and divine judgment. Despite forgiveness, his reputation suffered lasting damage.

Chapter 143

David complains of his enemies and distresses 1–6

He prays for comfort, guidance, and deliverance 7–12

This verse refers to Saul who had driven David away from his inheritance, his family, his place of worship, and everything else that was dear to him. Saul made him "dwell in darkness" (i.e., forced him to hide in dark places), as though he were dead.

Verses 1–6

We have no righteousness of our own to plead, therefore must plead God’s righteousness, and the word of promise which he has freely given us, and caused us to hope in. David, before he prays for the removal of his trouble, prays for the pardon of his sin, and depends upon mercy alone for it. He bemoans the weight upon his mind from outward troubles. But he looks back, and remembers God’s former appearance for his afflicted people, and for him in particular. He looks round, and notices the works of God. The more we consider the power of God, the less we shall fear the face or force of man. He looks up with earnest desires towards God and his favour. This is the best course we can take, when our spirits are overwhelmed. The believer will not forget, that in his best actions he is a sinner.

Meditation and prayer will recover us from distresses; and then the mourning soul strives to return to the Lord as the infant stretches out its hands to the indulgent mother, and thirsts for his consolations as the parched ground for refreshing rain.

When I think of the goodness of Jesus and all that he has done for me my soul cries out Halaejah

Thank God for saving me

Verses 7–12

David prays that God would be well pleased with him, and let him know that he was so. He pleads the wretchedness of his case, if God withdrew from him. But the night of distress and discouragement shall end in a morning of consolation and praise. He prays that he might be enlightened with the knowledge of God’s will; and this is the first work of the Spirit. A good man does not ask the way in which is the most pleasant walking, but what is the right way. Not only show me what thy will is, but teach me how to do it. Those who have the Lord for their God, have his Spirit for their Guide; they are led by the Spirit. He prays that he might be enlivened to do God’s will. But we should especially seek the destruction of our sins, our worst enemies, that we may be devotedly God’s servants.

Matthew Henry and Thomas Scott, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary (Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, 1997), Ps 143:1–7.

Psalm 143. Two themes run through this urgent plea. David is pursued, crushed, “darkened,” faint, dismayed, beset, in danger of death. He urges that his foes be silenced and destroyed. He is plainly hard-pressed and frightened. His army is fighting against his Son army.

David’s cry is also for mercy, relying on God’s faithfulness alone; he cannot face God’s judgment. He seeks comfort from the past, but needs a present blessing to slake his spiritual thirst. David begs for a quick answer, an early (morning) reassurance, especially that God will not turn away. He acknowledges his need to be shown God’s way, taught God’s will, helped by God’s Spirit to walk safely. He is, as plainly, spiritually despondent and penitent.

R. E. O. White, “Psalms,” in Evangelical Commentary on the Bible, vol. 3, Baker Reference Library (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1995), 397.

The Power of Meditation 2

Psalms 1:1

Davids Relatives

· Jesse Father

· Eliam {Amiel) Father-In-Law

· Saul (king) Father-In-Law

· Abinadab {son of Jesse) Brother

Absolom is his Son

Davids Interactions

· Saul is jealous of David and makes attempts on his life 1 Sam18: 5-16

· Saul becomes jealous of David 1 Sam 18:6- 9

· Saul attacks David with a spear 1 Sam 18:10- 11

· Saul makes David commander of a thousand 1 Sam18:5, U -16

· David marries Sauls older daughter Merab 1 Sam18:1 7- 29

· Saul attempts to give Merab to David 1 Sam18:17 - 19

· David Marries Michal 1 Sam18:20 - 29

· Saul say she will not kill David 1 Sam19:1 - 7

· Saul pursues David 1 Sam 19:9- 24

· Saul attacks David a second time 1 Sam19:9 -10

· David runs away from Saul 1Sam19:11 - 17

· David flees from Saul 1 Sam20:24 - 22:5

· David in Keilah 1 Sam 23:1 - 14

· David escapes from Saul in the wilderness of Maon 1 Sam 23:24- 28

· David spares Saul's life 1 Sam 23:29 - 24:22

· The Ziphites offer to surrender David to Saul a second time 1 Sam 26:1 -

· David spares Saul's life a second time 1 Sam 26:3- 12

· Saul realizes that David spared his life 1 Sam 26:13 - 25

I & II Samuel VII. Teaching Outline

Commentary

1. Absalom Lays the Groundwork for a Rebellion Against David (15:1–6)

2. Absalom Declares Himself King over Israel While David is King(15:7–12)

3. David Flees Jerusalem (15:13–16:14)

4. Absalom Rapes David’s Concubines (16:15–23)

5. Hushai Misleads Absalom (17:1–14)

6. David Goes to Mahanaim (17:15–29)

7. David’s Forces Kill Absalom (18:1–33)

C. Conclusion: Israel’s Bloodstained Monarchies

NIV Bible Speaks Today: Notes Outline: 2 Samuel

The rebellion of Absalom

13:23–29 Absalom murders Amnon

14:1–33 Absalom gains entry to David’s presence

15:1–6 The growing influence of Absalom

15:7–12 Absalom seizes power

15:13–16:14 David flees from Jerusalem from Absalom

16:15–17:14 Absalom determines to kill David and his army

17:15–29 David warned of Absalom’s plans

18:1–19:8 The battle between the armies of David and Absalom;

Absalom killed by Joab

Absalom would sit at the gate to Jerusalem to persuade the people not to accept Kings David legal advice. He committed high treason and swayed the people to accept him as king instead of david.

David had to flee the city of Jerusalem and hide from Absalom.

Absalom sends and entire Army to kill David his father. Absalom ends up dead as his head is caught in a tree which left him hanging

9 Now Absalom happened to meet David’s men. He was riding his mule, and as the mule went under the thick branches of a large oak, Absalom’s hair got caught in the tree. He was left hanging in midair, while the mule he was riding kept on going. 11 The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), 2 Sa 18:9.

2 Samuel 18:14 (KJV 1900)

14 Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak.

18:1–18 Before Absalom can seize full control of Israel and Judah, he must kill his father, David. David strategically moves the battle to a site that suits the strengths of his army. The result is an overwhelming victory by David’s forces and the death of his rebellious son, Absalom. 11 John D. Barry et al., Faithlife Study Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2012, 2016), 2 Sa 18:1–18.

Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: 200 Greek and 200 Hebrew Words Defined and Explained Meditate

KEY VERSES

James 4:8 (KJV 1900)

8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge Psalm 143

PSALM 143

Psalm 143:5–6 “I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands. I spread out my hands to You; My soul longs for You like a thirsty land. Selah”

Faithlife Study Bible Psalm 143

143:title–12 In this individual lament psalm, the psalmist begs Yahweh to rescue him from his enemies. He begins by asking Yahweh to listen to him and rescue him rather than judge him (vv. 1–2), explaining that his enemies have pursued him and he fears for his life (vv. 3–4). He recalls Yahweh’s past deeds of rescue and reaches out to Him in his desperation (vv. 5–6), requesting Yahweh to rescue him so that he does not die (v. 7). The psalmist desperately pleads that he might see the next morning because of Yahweh’s help, and he asks that Yahweh guide him out of the crisis he now faces (v. 8). He then restates his request for deliverance and implies his hope in Yahweh (v. 9). He commits himself to doing God’s will in the future (v. 10) and connects his request for help to Yahweh’s reputation and character (v. 11). The psalmist closes by reaffirming his relationship with Yahweh and emphasizing his trust that Yahweh will destroy the enemies of His servant (v. 12). This is the last of the early church’s penitential psalms (

Begin with just ten minutes of silence, focusing on a Bible verse that resonates with your current struggles, such as Philippians 4:6–7 “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” .

Phil 4:6-7 MSG

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns.

Phil 4:4-7 AMP

Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.

As you meditate, visualize releasing your anxieties to God, allowing His peace to fill your heart. This quiet time will help set a positive tone for your day and cultivate a deeper connection with God.

If the pressures of deadlines and responsibilities at work leave you feeling overwhelmed, take short meditation breaks throughout your day.

Set a reminder to pause for five minutes every couple of hours.

During this break, find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and recite a prayer or reflect on God's promises.

This practice can enhance your focus, reduce stress, and remind you of your purpose in the workplace, ultimately helping you to perform your best for God's glory.

When you're in crowded public places and feeling anxious or out of control, practice meditation techniques right where you are.

Take a moment to breathe deeply, and as you inhale, think of God's love surrounding you.

With each exhale, let go of any tension or negativity. This mindfulness practice can help ground you in the present, reminding you that you are never alone.

You can also silently pray for the people around you, transforming your anxiety into an opportunity for compassion.

If you’re struggling to find peace in your home due to family tensions or distractions, create a dedicated space for meditation.

Designate a corner of a room with comfortable seating and inspiring decor that reflects your faith.

Use this space for daily meditation by reflecting on how God can bring harmony into your family life. Invite family members to join you, introducing them to the practice, helping everyone experience the calming and unifying effects of meditation in your home.

If you find workplace conflict or miscommunication to be a recurring issue, implement a 'meditation moment' in team meetings.

David finds solace and hope in remembering former days, when he had experienced God’s mighty works (143:5). He longs for God’s intervention to restore his spiritually thirsty soul (143:6).

Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 578.

2 Timothy 3:14–17 (KJV 1900)

14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

Remembering God’s work of creation

Ex 20:11; Ps 104:5–9; Ps 136:1–9

Remembering God’s saving works

Psalm 105:5 NKJV

Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth,

See also Dt 8:2; Mic 6:5; Jos 24:2; 1 Sa 12:6; Ne 9:7; Ps 106:6; Ps 114:1; Ps 136:10; Ps 143:5; Is 51:1–2

Remembering God’s work in Jesus Christ

2 Timothy 2:8 NKJV

Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel,

See also 1 Co 11:23–26 One of the purposes of the Lord’s Supper is to remember Jesus Christ and his death on the cross.

Learning from the past

Romans 15:4 NKJV

For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.

See also 1 Jn 3:12; Dt 4:9; Dt 32:7; Zec 1:4; 1 Co 10:6; 1 Co 10:11; Heb 12:16; 1 Pe 3:5–6 Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;

Meditation on the person of God

Psalm 16:8 NKJV

I have set the Lord always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

CONCLUSION

Remembering His Works: A Call to Meditate

Bible Passage: Psalm 143:5–6

Summary: In Psalm 143:5-6, the psalmist emphasizes the importance of remembering God's past deeds and turning towards Him in prayer and worship, illustrating a deep need for spiritual reflection amid struggles.

Application: This sermon could help Christians develop a discipline of meditation that leads to a more profound dependence on God amidst their daily struggles, encouraging them to remember God’s faithfulness in their own lives.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that meditation on God's Word and His past works is essential for spiritual health, allowing believers to draw strength from God's nature and promises during difficult times.

How this passage could point to Christ: Jesus exemplifies the ultimate remembrance of God's works through His life, death, and resurrection. He embodies the fulfillment of God's redemptive history, inviting us to meditate on Him as the source of strength and hope.

Big Idea: To find solace and strength in meditation, we must actively remember God's past deeds, which empowers our present faith and shapes our future trust in Him.

1. Reflecting on His Works

Psalm 143:5

You could focus on remembering God's past works as a powerful exercise that strengthens faith and offers perspective. The act of reflection helps believers see God's continuity in history and their lives, nurturing trust in times of trial. Consider discussing the specific works of God mentioned in Scripture and how they reveal His character and faithfulness, setting a precedent for hope. This can lead to practical suggestions for daily meditation, incorporating personal testimonies of God's deeds.

2. Reaching Out in Faith

Psalm 143:6

Drawing from the imagery of thirst and longing, perhaps highlight how yearning for God's presence leads to spiritual fulfillment. This longing is deepened through meditation on His deeds, as we reach out in prayer with open hands, symbolizing dependence and faith. By focusing on the soul's thirst for God, you can explore ways believers can make room for His presence in their daily lives, emphasizing intimacy and reliance on God's strength amid life’s struggles.

Applications Examples AND STEPS

If you're finding your mind constantly racing with worries or stress from the day, dedicate a specific time each morning for meditation.

Love Lifted Me

The Song Writer Said

I was sinking deep in sin, Far from the peaceful shore, Very deeply stained within, Sinking to rise no more; But the Master of the sea Heard my despairing cry, From the waters lifted me– Now safe am I.

Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: 200 Greek and 200 Hebrew Words Defined and Explained Meditate

Meditation must be based on the Bible’s guidelines. The object of meditation in the Psalms was the Law of the Lord. The psalmist not only meditated upon God’s Word day and night, but he delighted in it as well (

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