The Story of Psalm 4, Part II

Today's Three-minute Bible Study
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Title: The Story of Psalm 4, Part II ------------------- Date: 7/15/2002
Keywords: "distress" "prayer" "problem" "struggle"
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Passage: Psalm 4* (Focus on verses 2-4)

1. Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; be gracious to me and hear my prayer.

2. Sons of men, how long will my honor become a reproach? How long will you love what is worthless and aim at deception? Selah.

3. But know that the LORD has set apart the godly man for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him.

4. Tremble, and do not sin; meditate in you heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.

5. Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and trust in the LORD.

6. Many are saying, "Who will show us any good?" Lift up the light of your countenance upon us, O LORD!

7. You have put gladness in my heart, more than when their grain and new wine abound.

8. In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.

Questions

1. What two questions does the writer ask in verse 2, and who is he addressing?

 

2. What two things does the writer declare as true in verse 3?

 

3. What do you think the writer means by "Tremble, and do not sin" in verse 4?

 

Practical help

Yesterday we studied verse 1 and learned that our prayers to God are based on a relationship with him. You should be able to clearly recall how you came to know him. Today let’s move to verses 2-4.

The writer is now addressing the people around him who evidently have been mocking him for his stand for goodness. If you declare yourself opposed to pornography, be prepared for some opposition. Taking a stand against the porn business and those who "enjoy" it, is to invite a response. Just remember that life addicted porn web sites is an empty life.

By the way, the word, "Selah" is a musical instruction that tells the musicians or readers to pause. It is the same as saying, "Take a moment of quiet and think about it. What you have just read is vital to your life so you should pause and reflect."

If you face opposition for taking a godly or pro-God stand, it’s okay to "tremble" at the strength of the opposition (verse 4), but that’s not a reason to back away from your commitment to live a pure life.

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*"Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, © Copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995. Used by permission."