1. This Psalm teaches a valuable lesson -- "The Lord helps His people." 2. This is a lesson that we need to be reminded of from time to time. 3. As we study this Psalm we need to pay close attention to the format. a. Vs.1&2 were written from a personal perspective [the writer revealed something he had learned]. b. Vs. 3-8 were written from a teaching perspective [the writer showed how we can profit from what he had learned].
Discussion:
I. (vs.1-2) THE WRITER IDENTIFIED THE LORD AS HIS HELPER
A. It appears from vs.1 that the writer identified the hills as the source of his help. 1. Keep in mind that this Psalm is "a song of degrees" [Psalms 120-134]. 2. The Israelites recited these Psalms as they traveled to Jerusalem that was surrounded by hills. B. As the writer continued in vs.2 he clearly stated that his help came from the Lord. 1. He mentioned in vs.2b that the Lord "made heaven and earth." 2. When he saw the hills he thought about the One who made them. 3. Seeing the hills reminded the writer of the Lord whom he could not see (Romans 1:20).
II. (vs.3-6) THE WRITER SHOWED HOW THE LORD "KEEPS" HIS PEOPLE
A. This is one way that the Lord helps His people -- by "keeping" us. B. Let us consider some details that are revealed. 1. (vs.3a) As our keeper, the Lord will not allow us to stumble (Jude 24). 2. (vs.3b-4) The Lord keeps His people continuously -- He does not slumber of sleep. 3. (vs.5-6) As our keeper, the Lord protects us during the day and the night.
III. (vs.7-8) THE WRITER SHOWED HOW THE LORD "PRESERVES" HIS PEOPLE
A. This is another way that the Lord helps His people -- by "preserving" us. B. Let us consider some additional details that are revealed. 1. (vs.7a) The Lord preserves His people "from all evil." a. This does not mean that God's people will not face unpleasant situations [Romans 1:18 mentions "the sufferings of this present time"]. b. We are assured that nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39). 2. (vs.7b) The Lord preserves our "souls." 3. (vs.8a) The Lord preserves us "coming and going." 4. (vs.8b) The Lord's ability to preserve His people is dependable.
Conclusion:
1. These principles are also taught in the New Testament. 2. According to Hebrews 4:16, the Lord helps His people. 3. As our keeper: a. the Lord will not allow us to stumble (2 Peter 1:10) b. the Lord protects us continuously (Hebrews 13:5b-6). 4. The Lord also preserves His people (1 Thessalonians 5:23).
