Devotionals

Psalm 19:10–13

As David considers the impact of God's written communication in the second section of Psalm 19, he's prompted to appraise the value of Scripture. He uses two illustrations for the purpose of comparison:

Psalm 19:7–13

The heavens may declare God's power and glory, but they do not declare His will or His plan and promise of salvation. God has communicated those marvellous truths only in His Word—the living Scriptures, the Bible. In a sudden shift in perspective, David turns from the general evidence of God's creative power to the specific evidence of God's desire for a relationship with people.

Psalm 19:1–6

David has packed a lot of great theology into a short space in Psalm 19. Unfortunately, we can hit only the highlights of these 14 verses because neither time nor space permits us to dig into the depths of each one. However, I urge you to take the outline and use it as a guide in your own, personal study of this magnificent composition. It is a veritable treasure house of truth.

For six verses, David looks heavenward. He ponders the vast universe surrounding our little globe, that realm we call deep space.

Psalm 19:1–14

Ever felt completely removed from God's awareness? It's almost like you're standing at the bottom of a long stairway looking up, isn't it? The light is off, and even though you knock or call out for a response, nothing happens. No answer is heard. Not even a stir.

Psalm 15:1–5

While salvation is entirely a work of God—an unconditional commitment on His part to preserve those He has saved (John 10:28–29; Romans 8:28–39; 2 Timothy 1:12)—He gives us a genuine stake in maintaining the quality of our spiritual lives. Those who lead lives of integrity receive something valuable for their faithfulness.

The Promise

...he who does these things will never be shaken. (Psalm 15:5)

Psalm 15:1–5

David's song explores the characteristics of a person who enjoys fellowship with the Lord in this life with seven facets of integrity. As you consider each one, take note of the Lord's emphasis on relationships.

Who enjoys fellowship with God?

    1. He who does not do evil to his neighbour. The Spirit-filled believer is loyal and consistent—not fickle, not erratic. He does not consciously bring difficulty upon others

Psalm 15:2–5

David's song, Psalm 15, opens with a probing question about our experience of fellowship with God in the temporal realm, our relationship with Him in daily life. He wanted to know what characteristics mark the person who is able to enjoy unencumbered, uninhibited association with the almighty Creator of the universe. Inspired by the Holy Spirit in his writing, David received and then recorded the Lord's reply.

Psalm 15:1

If you read Psalm 15 carefully, you will discover the entire song all hangs upon the first verse. Verse 1 is crucial in that it asks a probing question. That's today's devotional. David's answer forms the rest of the psalm. He then arrives at a wonderful promise. A Simple outline could be:

    I. Question: “Who may abide in Your tent?” (v. 1)
    II. Answer: “He who walks with integrity.” (vv. 2–5)
    III. Promise: “He will never be shaken.” (v. 5)

Psalm 15:1–5

Psalm 13:5–6

As David's song—preserved for us as Psalm 13—reaches its climax, David's posture has changed once again.

David on His Feet

But I have trusted in Your lovingkindness;
My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.
I will sing to the LORD,
Because He has dealt bountifully with me. (vv. 5–6)