Psalm 56 is a psalm of David, which he wrote for one of his three choir directors. He wrote it to the tune of another song by the title “A Silent Dove Far Away.” David refers to this psalm as a “Miktam.” There are six “Miktams” in the psalms—Psalm 16, and Psalms 56-60. While we don’t know for certain what a Miktam actually is, some speculate that the term is related to the … [Read more...]
Everyday Exhortations: The Gift of Suffering
"For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake" (Philippians 1:29). Everyone suffers--Christians and lost people alike. While the degrees to which people suffer vary from person to person, suffering touches everyone. Suffering comes as the result of one's sins (1 Peter 4:15). It comes as the result … [Read more...]
Everyday Exhortations: Do You Pray to Stay?
"Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world" (John 17:24). While in the Upper Room, shortly before heading to the Garden of Gethsemene and His subsequent arrest, Jesus prayed what is often referred to as the "Highly Priestly Prayer" (John … [Read more...]
Everyday Exhortations: The Trap of Practical Atheism
"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, doing abominable iniquity; there is none who does good" (Psalm 53:1). Psalm 53:1 is true and, when rightly (lovingly and respectfully) applied, it's an appropriate admonition to the professed atheist. Only a fool, only one who has deluded himself, would suggest that God doesn't exist. In fact, it is the … [Read more...]
