Keeping Ourselves unspotted from the world (Lesson 98)
Introduction:
1. "Pure and undefiled religion before God" includes "keeping ourselves unspotted from the world" (James 1:27). 2. God's Word contains valuable information and instructions that will help us to remain free from the world's stains. 3. This lesson is a study of the message presented in Psalm 46. 4. Having "God as our refuge" will help us in keeping ourselves unspotted from the world, especially during times of difficulty. Discussion: I. PSALM 46 STATES 3 TIMES THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE"
A. This statement is made: 1. at the beginning (vs.1a) 2. in the middle (vs.7b) 3. at the conclusion (vs.11b). B. This point is made numerous times throughout the Psalms. 1. Psalm 9:9 2. Psalm 62:7-8 3. Psalm 142:4-5 C. In addition to stating that "God is our refuge," Psalm 46 identifies God as: 1. our "strength" (vs.1b) 2. "a very present help in trouble" (vs.1c). II. THE FACT THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE" WILL HELP US OVERCOME "FEAR" (vs.2a)
A. Natural calamities such as those listed in vs.2b-3 can cause us to fear. B. However, God provides "peace" (vs.4) and "security" (vs.5). C. The activities of ungodly men such as those listed in vs.6a can cause us to fear. D. However, God remains in control (vs.9). III. WE MUST NOT LOSE SIGHT OF THE FACT THAT "GOD IS OUR REFUGE" DURING TIMES OF "TROUBLE"
A. "Trouble" can lead to "fear," and "fear" can prevent us from taking advantage of the "refuge" that God provides. B. During times of "trouble," let us: 1. remember that "the Lord of hosts [the God of Jacob] is with us" (vs.7, 11) 2. "behold the works of the Lord" (vs.8, Psalm 124) 3. "be still" and know God (vs.10a) 4. always exalt God (vs.10b). Conclusion:
1. God's children have access to many special blessings that will help us in keeping ourselves unspotted from the world. 2. One blessing is the fact that "God is our refuge." 3. Let us heed the appeals made in Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:14-16.
