Tuesday, February 7, 2017

A Summary Of Normal Christianity Found In The Psalms

By Carolyn Stewart


There is something unique about each book of the bible and the areas it addresses in Christian living. The proposals in Psalms are unique yet reflect the normal life of a Christian. The normal Christianity found in the psalms takes a poetic angle but captures all challenges and triumphs of a normal human being. There are excellent reflections on humility, praise, gratitude, adherence to the law, etc until a person achieves a sanctified life.

The opening chapter is a perfect place to start for any Christian. It sets the foundation for Christian living which is following the law of the Lord. As one follows the law, he is required to avoid the paths of sinners. Beyond doing and not doing, one is required to meditate upon the word. While there is a promise of prosperity for the people who follow the law, the wicked are left to perish.

One of the most popular chapters is 23. It is a prayer for surrender to the providence and confidence in the ability of God as a shepherd. The chapter captures the providence and protective power of God that allows a person to wine and dine as his enemies watch. Because of this goodness, such a person vows to live in the presence of God forever.

David in chapter 121 cries to God but closes the cry with exaltation. This is a prayer for a person who is beaten by life and is wondering who will rescue him. At his lowest point, David recognizes that his help will only come from the creator of heaven and earth. In his words, this creator does not sleep or abandon his people. He watches over his creation by day and night, never allowing them to fall or strike their toes on a rock.

Christians sometimes feel abandoned or lost in the world. This is the basis of chapter 42 which equates the desire to be one with God to that of a deer panting for cool waters. The psalmist even reminisces days he used to feel close to God to the point of leading praises in the temple. It is a cry for rescue, giving Christians the right words to cry to God when that time comes.

The evil doers sometimes seem to prosper while the righteous struggle despite their adherence to the law. This is what chapter 37 captures. It calls upon the righteous not to envy the exploits of the wicked because it fades as fast as it is acquired, just like the burning grass fire. For the righteous, the earth is their inheritance.

Is it possible to hide from the all knowing omnipresent God? Chapter 139 reveals a God to whom man can hide nothing. This is a God who has searched the soul of man and knows his going in and coming out. The chapter is an exaltation of the power of God to see everywhere including the heart of human beings. No matter how far you hide, it is impossible to hide from God.

The book of Psalms captures a holistic Christian life with submission, defiance, praise and exaltation. Its poetic approach simplifies the message and makes it perfect for music. There are also valuable teachings about life that will make Christian living more fulfilling.




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