O Magnify the Lord!

Invitation to Praise (vv. 1-3)

Praise Changes things - Napoleon’s Army and the Easter Bells at Feldkirch, Austria.

David was likely hiding in a cave when this was written, having fled from Saul, been captured by the Philistines and escaped from harm.

- How can David praise God in this present distress? You can see this Psalm as an invitation to those who were “in distress, debt and discontent” to turn to God.

David provides four reasons to praise God.

Praise God for His Past Protection (vv 4-7)

David’s testimony to those in distress, “I sought the Lord, and he answered me...”

The Lord enlightens those He favors, Moses, the Mount of Transfiguration.

God’s past protection is our source of confidence - in Him.

Praise God for His Present Provision (vv 8-10)

If God can provide in the wilderness He will provide for His own every good thing.

Good things, is that which God, in His eternal wisdom determines to be in our best interest.

(ESV) Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

(ESV) Give us this day our daily bread,

(ESV)

17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

God’s provision brings joy - “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!”

11 Give us this day our daily bread,

Praise God for His Eternal Compassion (vv 11-18)

First, and invitation to know God’s righteous ways.

A bit of a confession, God is merciful even though David was deceitful.

Seek peace.

Second, a recognition of God’s response to those who seek him.

His ears are open to their cry and he delivers them.

His face is against those who deny him.

Finally, the attitude of the righteous.

Brokenhearted, humble. Needy.

God’s compassion on the humble and needy brings assurance.

Praise God for His Future Promise (vv 19-22)

We are told that there will be future trials, but we can trust in the Lord in them all.

The wicked will be condemned - God is just.

God redeems the life of His followers, they will not be condemned.

God’s promises bring confident hope.