Welcome to Day 2514 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2514 – Thanksgiving – A Heart of Gratitude, Daily – Psalm 100

Putnam Church Message – 11/24/2024

A Heart of Gratitude – Psalm 100

Last week, Paul’s short but powerful letter to Philemon reminds us about the profoundly Christ-centered concepts of freedom, forgiveness, mercy, and grace.

This week is our celebration of Thanksgiving; in a message titled “A Heart of Gratitude, daily,” we will absorb Psalm 100 on 937 of your Pew Bibles.

Introduction:

Thanksgiving is a time when many of us gather with friends and family, enjoy good food, and reflect on the blessed Thanksgiving season. It’s a day set aside to express our gratitude, but true thanksgiving—the kind that goes beyond a single day and shapes our daily lives. Thanksgiving is something we are called to embody year-round. Psalm 100 is a short, yet powerful passage that captures the essence of this kind of heartfelt gratitude toward God. Today, we’ll walk through this Psalm together and unpack what it means to live with a heart of thanksgiving.

Problem Statement:

We live in a world where gratitude often gets lost. Life’s challenges, stress, and busyness can distract us from focusing on the blessings we have. Sometimes, we focus more on what’s missing rather than what we already possess. As Christians, we are called to live differently. We’re called to live in a constant state of thankfulness, not just for what God has done but for who He is.

Reading Psalm 100:1-5 (NLT):

1 Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing with joy.
3 Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
He made us, and we are his.
We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving;
go into his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him and praise his name.
5 For the Lord is good.
His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation.

Main Points: (Bulletin Insert)

1. Gratitude Starts with Joyful Worship (Psalm 100:1-2)

“Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy.”

The psalm opens with a call for everyone to shout joyfully to the Lord. This isn’t just for a select few—it’s a universal call for all the earth! It’s a reminder that worship isn’t just something we do out of duty or obligation, but it should flow out of a heart full of joy.

Illustration: Imagine a little child who runs to greet their father after he comes home from work. They don’t just walk quietly to him—they run, they shout, and they jump into his arms with excitement. That’s the kind of joyful worship God desires from us. He wants us to come to Him like children, filled with joy and awe.

Memorable Point:
Thankful hearts lead to joyful worship. When we’re truly aware of God’s goodness, our natural response is to worship Him with gladness, not out of a sense of duty, but out of sheer delight.

2. Acknowledging Who God Is (Psalm 100:3)

“Acknowledge that the Lord is God! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture.”

True thanksgiving begins with recognizing who God is. The psalmist reminds us that God is the Creator, and we are His creation. We belong to Him, and He cares for us like a shepherd cares for his sheep.

Story:
A little boy was asked to recite Psalm 23 in front of his church. Nervous, he began confidently but stumbled after the first line. Instead of quoting it perfectly, he declared, “The Lord is my Shepherd… and that’s all I need to know!” While he didn’t get every word right, his simple understanding of God’s care captured the truth.

It’s easy to forget this basic truth in our busy lives: God is God, and we are not. He’s the one who made us. He sustains us. He knows our every need, and He’s faithful to provide for us.

Story: I heard a story about a man who was overwhelmed by life’s pressures. He was trying to manage his job, care for his family, and keep up with all his responsibilities, which was wearing him down. One night, he decided to go on a walk to clear his head. As he walked, he looked up at the sky filled with stars and realized just how small he was in the grand scheme of things. In that moment, he prayed, “God, I’ve been trying to handle everything on my own, but I realize now, that You’re in control. You’ve got this.” His burdens didn’t disappear overnight, but his perspective changed. He remembered that God is in control, and that gave him peace.

Memorable Point:
When we acknowledge God as our Creator and Shepherd, trusting Him with our lives becomes easier. Our gratitude grows as we recognize that He is the one who holds everything together.

3. Entering with Thanksgiving and Praise (Psalm 100:4)

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.”

The imagery here is powerful. Picture a great king sitting in a palace. When you enter the palace gates, you don’t walk in complaining or with a list of demands—you come with thanksgiving, recognizing the privilege it is to be in the presence of such majesty.

When we approach God, it’s essential to come with hearts full of gratitude. Sometimes, we’re tempted to focus on what’s wrong in our lives, but the Bible tells us to start with thanksgiving and praise.

Object Lesson:
Hold up two glasses of water—one full and one half-empty. Ask, “Which one represents your life?” Some people tend to focus on what’s missing, like the half-empty glass. But when we live with thanksgiving, we focus on the fullness of what we have, like the full glass. The key is to remember that even the half-empty glass still has something in it, and for that, we can be grateful.

Illustration:
Imagine receiving an invitation to a royal banquet. You arrive at the gates, but you complain about the long journey or the weather instead of showing gratitude for the privilege. It would seem ungrateful, wouldn’t it? Thanksgiving aligns our hearts with God’s and prepares us to receive the blessings He has for us.

Memorable Point:
When we enter God’s presence with thanksgiving, it shifts our focus. We stop focusing on what we lack and start appreciating the abundant blessings God has already given us.

4. God’s Goodness and Faithfulness (Psalm 100:5)

“For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.”

The psalmist closes with a reminder of God’s unchanging character. God is good. His love is unfailing, and His faithfulness endures through all generations. We can cling to this powerful truth, no matter what we face.

Sometimes, circumstances may tempt us to doubt God’s goodness. We may go through seasons of loss, pain, or confusion, but the truth of God’s goodness and faithfulness never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Story:
Corrie ten Boom, who survived the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp, wrote about finding fleas in the barracks she shared with her sister Betsie. Betsie insisted they thank God even for the fleas. At first, Corrie couldn’t understand how fleas could be a reason for gratitude. Later, they discovered that the guards refused to enter their barracks because of the fleas, allowing them to secretly hold Bible studies. God’s goodness was present even in their suffering.

Story: Corrie ten Boom shared another powerful story about God’s faithfulness. After her release, she traveled and spoke about forgiveness and the love of God. One day, a man came up to her after a service, and she instantly recognized him as one of the cruelest guards from the concentration camp. He didn’t recognize her but extended his hand, asking for forgiveness for his past actions. At that moment, Corrie had to choose between holding on to her bitterness or trusting in God’s goodness. She chose to forgive, because she knew that God’s love was greater than her pain, and His faithfulness had carried her through.

Memorable Point:
God’s goodness and faithfulness never change, no matter what we’re going through. We can give thanks because His love endures forever.

Application: Living with a Heart of Gratitude (Bulletin Insert)

Now that we’ve walked through Psalm 100, how do we apply it to our lives, especially as we approach Thanksgiving?

1. Make Thanksgiving a Daily Habit
   Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday; it’s a daily discipline. Set aside time every day to thank God for at least three things. They don’t have to be big things—sometimes, it’s the little blessings that make the biggest difference. As you cultivate this habit, you’ll find that your perspective on life begins to shift.
2. Praise Before the Provision
   Often, we wait to thank God until after He’s answered our prayers. But Psalm 100 teaches us to enter His gates with thanksgiving before we’ve received anything. Practice praising God even amid uncertainty, trusting He is working all things for your good.
3. Express Gratitude to Others
   Just as we express gratitude to God, we’re called to show gratitude to others. This Thanksgiving, take time to thank the people in your life—your family, friends, co-workers, and even your neighbors. A heart of gratitude extends beyond our relationship with God and transforms the way we treat others.
4. Remember God’s Faithfulness in Difficult Seasons
   When life gets hard, it’s easy to forget all the ways God has been faithful in the past. Take time to reflect on His goodness, even in the tough times. Journaling about God’s past faithfulness is a great way to remind yourself that if He carried you through before, He will do it again.

Story:
I read another story about a family who lost everything in a house fire. When asked how they could still be thankful, they responded, “We lost our home, but not our lives. God has given us another day, and we trust He will provide.” Their gratitude in the face of loss testified to their faith in God’s goodness.

Conclusion:

Psalm 100 invites us into a lifestyle of thanksgiving, not just for one day a year but every single day. As we’ve seen, gratitude begins with joyful worship, recognizing who God is, entering His presence with thanksgiving, and trusting in His goodness and faithfulness.

In closing, let’s commit to living with a heart of gratitude. Not just when things are going well, but even amid life’s challenges. Let’s be people who worship joyfully, who recognize the hand of God in our lives, and who trust in His unchanging character. As we do, we’ll find that gratitude changes everything—it changes our outlook and our relationships, and most importantly, it draws us closer to the God who is worthy of all our thanks.

Takeaway: This week, challenge yourself to start each day by thanking God for three things, no matter how small. Begin each prayer with gratitude, and see how it transforms not only your relationship with God but also the way you interact with the world around you. Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting our focus from what we lack to the abundance of what we have in Christ.

Next week is the first Sunday of Advent, and our focus will be; “Living In Hope Daily.”  Please invest time in reading Isaiah 9:1-7 in preparation for the message.

Welcome to Day 2513 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2513 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 36:1-4 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2513

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2513 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’re beginning our exploration of Psalm 36, focusing on verses 1 through 4 from the New Living Translation. These verses reveal a stark contrast between humanity’s sinful heart and God’s righteousness, setting the stage for deeper reflection on the character of God later in the psalm.

In these opening verses, David examines the nature of sin and its impact on a person’s thoughts, actions, and relationship with God. It’s a sobering reminder of the dangers of living apart from God’s truth. Let’s begin by reading Psalm 36:1-4 together:

Psalm 36:1-4 (NLT)

1 Sin whispers to the wicked, deep within their hearts.
They have no fear of God at all.

2 In their blind conceit,
they cannot see how wicked they really are.

3 Everything they say is crooked and deceitful.
They refuse to act wisely or do good.

4 They lie awake at night, hatching sinful plots.
Their actions are never good.
They make no attempt to turn from evil.

The Subtle Whisper of Sin (Verse 1):

In Verse 1, David addresses the root of sinful behavior: “Sin whispers to the wicked, deep within their hearts. They have no fear of God at all.” The imagery of sin “whispering” highlights its subtle and deceptive nature. Sin doesn’t always shout; instead, it quietly works its way into a person’s heart, influencing their thoughts and desires. It appeals to our selfish and prideful tendencies, gradually leading us away from God.

This verse also identifies a key issue at the heart of wickedness: “They have no fear of God at all.” The fear of God, in biblical terms, means having reverence, respect, and awe for His holiness and authority. When someone lacks this fear, they live as though God doesn’t exist or as though His judgment doesn’t matter. Without this foundational reverence, there’s no accountability, and sin gains a strong foothold.

David’s words remind us of the importance of being vigilant about the whispers of sin in our own lives. Sin often begins in the heart, with subtle thoughts or desires that seem harmless at first. But these whispers can grow into full-blown rebellion against God when left unchecked. Cultivating a healthy fear of God—recognizing His authority and a commitment to honor Him—helps guard our hearts against sin’s influence.

Blindness to Sin’s Reality (Verse 2):

In verse 2, David describes the self-deception that accompanies a life of sin: “In their blind conceit, they cannot see how wicked they really are.” Sin has a way of blinding people to their own condition. Those caught in its grip often live in denial, unable—or unwilling—to recognize the depth of their wrongdoing. Instead, they become consumed with pride, convinced of their own righteousness or invincibility.

This “blind conceit” prevents honest self-reflection. Without a clear view of their own hearts, the wicked continue on a path of destruction, unaware of the harm they’re causing to themselves and others. They justify their actions, shifting blame or dismissing their behavior as insignificant.

David’s observation here challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are there areas in our lives where pride or self-deception might be keeping us from acknowledging sin? It’s easy to see the flaws in others, but much more challenging to confront our own. Yet, only through honest reflection—guided by God’s Word and Spirit—can we begin to see ourselves clearly and turn back to God.

This verse also highlights the value of humility. When we approach God with a humble heart, acknowledging our need for His grace, we open the door for Him to transform us. Humility is the antidote to the blindness caused by sin and pride.

The Fruit of Deceit and Foolishness (Verse 3):

Verse 3 paints a vivid picture of the behavior that flows from a sinful heart: “Everything they say is crooked and deceitful. They refuse to act wisely or do good.” Here, David describes a life characterized by dishonesty and a rejection of wisdom and righteousness. The words of the wicked are “crooked,” meaning they distort the truth, often to serve selfish ends. Deceit becomes a way of life, breaking trust and causing harm to others.

Beyond their words, the wicked also refuse to act wisely or pursue good. Wisdom, in Scripture, is rooted in the fear of the Lord and in living according to His principles. To reject wisdom is to reject God’s ways, choosing instead a path of foolishness that ultimately leads to ruin. Likewise, a refusal to “do good” reflects a heart that is hardened against God’s call to love and serve others.

This verse is a reminder that our words and actions flow from the condition of our hearts. Jesus Himself said in Luke 6:45, “What you say flows from what is in your heart.” If our hearts are filled with pride, deceit, or rebellion, it will inevitably show in how we speak and act. Conversely, when our hearts are aligned with God, our words and deeds will reflect His truth and goodness.

David’s description challenges us to consider the impact of our own words and actions. Are we speaking truthfully? Are we pursuing wisdom and seeking opportunities to do good? By aligning our lives with God’s Word, we can ensure that our words and deeds reflect His character, not the whispers of sin.

A Life Devoted to Evil (Verse 4):

In verse 4, David describes the depth of the wicked’s commitment to sin: “They lie awake at night, hatching sinful plots. Their actions are never good. They make no attempt to turn from evil.” This verse reveals the intentional and persistent nature of their wrongdoing. The wicked aren’t just passively influenced by sin—they actively plan and pursue it, even in their quiet moments.

The phrase “lie awake at night” suggests their thoughts are consumed with plotting harm. Instead of finding rest or peace, they use their time to devise schemes that further their own selfish desires. Their actions reflect this inner preoccupation with evil, as they consistently choose paths that harm others and defy God’s will.

Perhaps most striking is the statement, “They make no attempt to turn from evil.” This reflects a hardened heart, one that is fully committed to a life apart from God. Rather than seeking repentance or change, the wicked persist in their sin, ignoring the consequences.

This verse serves as a stark warning about the danger of allowing sin to take root in our lives. When we ignore the conviction of the Holy Spirit and resist God’s call to repentance, our hearts can become hardened, leading us further from Him. But there is hope: no matter how far we’ve strayed, God’s grace is always available to those who turn back to Him in humility and faith.

Lessons for Today:

Psalm 36:1-4 offers a sobering look at the nature of sin and its impact on the human heart. These verses challenge us to reflect on our own lives and remain vigilant against sin’s subtle whispers. They also remind us of the importance of cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord—a reverence for His holiness and a commitment to live in alignment with His will.

Here are a few key takeaways:

1. Be aware of sin’s subtle influence. Sin often begins with small compromises or thoughts that seem harmless. By staying rooted in God’s Word and prayer, we can recognize and resist sin’s whispers before they take hold.
2. Examine your heart with humility. Pride blinds us to our own flaws, but humility opens the door for God to reveal areas where we need growth. Regular self-reflection, guided by Scripture, helps us stay aligned with God’s truth.
3. Guard your words and actions. Our speech and behavior reflect the state of our hearts. By allowing God to transform us from the inside out, we can ensure that our lives reflect His wisdom and goodness.
4. Pursue repentance. If we find ourselves straying from God’s path, we can take comfort in knowing that His grace is always available. Turning back to Him brings forgiveness, healing, and renewal.

As we reflect on these verses, let’s ask God to guard our hearts, to keep us sensitive to His Spirit, and to help us walk in humility and truth.

Conclusion:

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek as we explored Psalm 36:1-4. These verses remind us of the importance of staying close to God, guarding our hearts against sin, and seeking His wisdom in every aspect of our lives.

As we continue our journey through Psalm 36 in future episodes, we’ll see the contrast between the sinfulness of humanity and the incomparable love and faithfulness of God. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His truth guard your heart.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Day 2512 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2512 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 35:22-28 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2512

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2512 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we conclude our journey through Psalm 35 by exploring verses 22 through 28 from the New Living Translation. In this final section of the psalm, David shifts his focus to a heartfelt plea for God to act on his behalf. He speaks openly of his pain and the injustice he faces, but he also proclaims his confidence that God’s justice will prevail.

This passage is a powerful reminder of God’s role as the ultimate judge and the One who defends His people. It encourages us to trust in God’s timing and to commit to praising Him, even as we wait for His deliverance.

Let’s begin by reading Psalm 35:22-28 together:

Psalm 35:22-28 (NLT)

22 O Lord, You know all about this.
Do not stay silent.
Do not abandon me now, O Lord.

23 Wake up! Rise to my defense!
Take up my case, my God and my Lord.

24 Declare me not guilty, O Lord my God,
for You give justice.
Don’t let my enemies laugh about me in my troubles.

25 Don’t let them say, “Look, we got what we wanted!
Now we will eat him alive!”

26 May those who rejoice at my troubles
be humiliated and disgraced.
May those who triumph over me
be covered with shame and dishonor.

27 But give great joy to those who came to my defense.
Let them continually say, “Great is the Lord,
who delights in blessing His servant with peace!”

28 Then I will proclaim Your justice,
and I will praise You all day long.

A Plea for God’s Attention and Action (Verses 22-23):

David begins this final section with Verse 22 by addressing God directly: “O Lord, You know all about this. Do not stay silent. Do not abandon me now, O Lord.” This opening line expresses David’s confidence in God’s knowledge of his situation. He acknowledges that nothing is hidden from God—not the injustices he has endured, nor the actions of his enemies. Yet, David doesn’t stop at recognizing God’s awareness; he urgently calls on God to act.

In verse 23, David continues, “Wake up! Rise to my defense! Take up my case, my God and my Lord.” This plea for God to “wake up” is not a sign of doubt but a cry for immediate intervention. David knows that God is always present and attentive, but in his distress, he longs for a tangible display of God’s power and justice. By calling God “my God and my Lord,” David emphasizes his personal relationship with God and his reliance on Him as his ultimate advocate.

These verses remind us that it’s okay to bring our emotions, urgency, and desperation to God. He is not offended by our cries for help; instead, He invites us to cast our burdens on Him, trusting in His care and timing.

The Call for Justice (Verses 24-25):

In verse 24, David shifts to a plea for vindication: “Declare me not guilty, O Lord my God, for You give justice. Don’t let my enemies laugh about me in my troubles.” David is not asking for justice based on his own righteousness but on God’s character as the ultimate judge. He trusts that God will declare him “not guilty” because God is fair and just. David’s concern isn’t just for himself; he doesn’t want his enemies to triumph, mocking both him and the God he serves.

Verse 25 continues this thought: “Don’t let them say, ‘Look, we got what we wanted! Now we will eat him alive!’” The vivid imagery of being “eaten alive” highlights the intensity of his enemies’ malice. They’re not just opposing him; they’re eager to see his complete destruction. David’s prayer reflects his desire for God to prevent his enemies from gloating or believing their wicked schemes have succeeded.

These verses are a reminder that God is the ultimate arbiter of justice. When we face false accusations or unjust treatment, we can bring our case to God, trusting He sees the truth and will act on our behalf.

A Desire for Justice and Joy (Verse 26-27):

In verse 26, David prays for God to reverse the fortunes of his enemies: “May those who rejoice at my troubles be humiliated and disgraced. May those who triumph over me be covered with shame and dishonor.” This isn’t a vindictive wish but a call for God to expose and judge wrongdoing. David longs for justice, not only for his own sake but also to uphold God’s righteousness. He asks for those who celebrate injustice to be humbled, so that God’s justice can be clearly seen.

In contrast, verse 27 focuses on those who support David: “But give great joy to those who came to my defense. Let them continually say, ‘Great is the Lord, who delights in blessing His servant with peace!’” Here, David prays for blessings and joy poured out on those who stand with him. He wants his supporters to experience God’s favor and to continually proclaim His greatness. This verse highlights David’s desire for God’s glory to be magnified through the outcome of his situation.

These verses show us the importance of aligning our prayers with God’s justice. David doesn’t seek personal revenge but entrusts the matter to God, asking for the humble to be lifted up and the proud to be brought low. This approach encourages us to focus on God’s will and His glory, even amid our struggles.

A Commitment to Praise (Verse 28):

David concludes this psalm in Verse 28 with a vow of praise: “Then I will proclaim Your justice, and I will praise You all day long.” This final verse is a beautiful expression of David’s trust and gratitude. He doesn’t just want deliverance for his own sake; he wants to use his testimony to proclaim God’s justice and faithfulness to others.

David’s promise to “praise [God] all day long” reflects the depth of his devotion. He understands that God’s deliverance deserves ongoing gratitude and recognition. This commitment to praise isn’t contingent on the timing or nature of God’s response—it’s rooted in David’s faith that God will act according to His perfect will.

This verse reminds us that our response to God’s intervention should be one of continual praise. When we experience His deliverance, it’s an opportunity to share His goodness with others and to give Him the glory He deserves.

Lessons for Today:

Psalm 35:22-28 offers us several important lessons for our lives today. First, it reminds us that God is fully aware of our struggles. When we face injustice, betrayal, or opposition, we can bring our concerns to Him, trusting that He sees and understands every detail.

Second, these verses encourage us to seek God’s justice rather than taking matters into our own hands. David’s prayer reflects his confidence in God’s role as the ultimate judge. This challenges us to resist the urge for personal revenge and to trust God to handle the situation in His perfect way.

Third, David’s commitment to praising God reminds us to keep our focus on Him, even amid trials. When we shift our perspective from our circumstances to God’s character, we find the strength to endure and the hope to keep moving forward.

Finally, this passage highlights the importance of proclaiming God’s faithfulness. When we experience His deliverance, we have an opportunity to encourage others by sharing our testimony and pointing them to His goodness.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our journey through Psalm 35, let’s take David’s example to heart. Whether we’re facing challenges, waiting for deliverance, or celebrating God’s faithfulness, we can trust that He is with us, that He sees us, and that He is working on our behalf. Our role is to bring our burdens to Him, trust in His justice, and commit to praising Him in all circumstances.

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His love fill your heart with peace and confidence in His unfailing justice.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Day 2511 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – Burying Hell – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible.

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2511

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2511 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

Today is the thirty-second lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today’s lesson is: Burying Hell.

“ Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John,^[a] because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. ¹⁸ Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’),^[b] and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell^[c] will not conquer it.” (Matt 16:17-18). The “powers of hell”? Why did Jesus respond to Peter’s confession, “You are the Messiah,^[d] the Son of the living God.” in this way? (16:16)

The Powers or Gates of Hell in Cosmic Geography

When we read “hell,” we naturally think of the realm of the unbelieving dead. But the Greek word translated “hell” (qôqç, hadës) is also the name for the Underworld—Hades, the realm of all the dead, not just unbelievers. The Hebrew equivalent to Hades is Sheol—the place “under the earth” where all went after this life ended.

Sheol had “bars” (Job 17:16) and “cords” to tie down its inhabitants (2 Sam 22:5-6), preventing any escape (Job 7:9). Both the righteous and the unrighteous went to Sheol. The righteous believer, however, could hope for deliverance and eternity with God (Psalm 49:15).

While the imagery associated with the Underworld would have unnerved the disciples, Jesus’ reference to the powers or gates of Hades would have jolted them for another reason. If they knew their Old Testament well, they understood that they were standing before those very powers or gates as Jesus spoke.

The Gates of Hell in Terrestrial Geography

Matthew 16 takes place in Caesarea Philippi, situated near a mountainous region containing Mount Hermon. In the Old Testament, this region was known as Bashan—a place with a sinister reputation.

According to the Old Testament, Bashan was controlled by two kings—Sihon and Og—who were associated with the ancient giant clans: the Rephaim and the Anakim (Deut 2:10-12: Josh 12:1-5). The two main cities of their kingdom were Ashtaroth and Edrei, home to the Rephaim (Deut 3:1, 10-11; Josh 12:4-5).

These cities and their Rephaim inhabitants are mentioned by name in Canaanite (Ugaritic) cuneiform tablets. The people of Ugarit believed the Rephaim were the spirits of dead warrior-kings. They also believed that the cities of Ashtaroth and Edrei were the entryway to the Underworld—the gates of Sheol. Also, during Israel’s divided kingdom period, Jeroboam built a pagan religious center at Pan—just south of Mount Hermon—where the Israelites worshiped Baal instead of Yahweh.

For the disciples, Bashan was an evil, otherworldly domain. But they had two other reasons to feel queasy about where they were standing. According to Jewish tradition, Mount Hermon was the location where the divine sons of God had descended from heaven—ultimately corrupting humankind via their offspring with human women (see Gen 6:1-4). These offspring were known as Nephilim, ancestors of the Anakim and the Rephaim (Num 13:3 0— 33). In Jewish theology, the spirits of these giants were demons (1 Enoch 15:1-12).

To make the region even spookier, Caesarea Philippi had been built and dedicated to Zeus. This pagan god was worshiped at a religious center built a short distance from the more ancient one in Dan—at the foot of Mount Hermon. Aside from the brief interlude during the time of Joshua through Solomon, the gates of hell were continually open for business.

Jesus Declares War

The rock which Jesus referred to in this passage was neither Peter nor Himself; it was the rock on which they were standing—the foot of Mount Hermon_; the demonic headquarters of the Old Testament and the Greek world.

We often presume that the phrase “the powers of hell^[g] will not conquer it” describes a Church taking on the onslaught of evil. It is the Church that Jesus sees as the aggressor. He was declaring war on evil and death. Jesus would build His Church atop the powers or gates of hell—He would bury them.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Day 2510 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2510 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 35:11-21 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2510

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2510 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we continue our journey through Psalm 35, focusing on verses 11 through 21 from the New Living Translation. In this portion of the psalm, David shares his deep anguish over betrayal and unjust accusations. His words are raw and honest as he pleads with God for justice. Yet, even in his pain, David demonstrates trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty.

Let’s begin by reading Psalm 35:11-21 together, and then we’ll unpack it verse by verse.

Psalm 35:11-21 (NLT)

11 Malicious witnesses testify against me.
They accuse me of crimes I know nothing about.

12 They repay me evil for good.
I am sick with despair.

13 Yet when they were ill, I grieved for them.
I denied myself by fasting for them,
but my prayers returned unanswered.

14 I was sad, as though they were my friends or family,
as if I were grieving for my own mother.

15 But they are glad now that I am in trouble;
they gleefully join together against me.
I am attacked by people I don’t even know;
they slander me constantly.

16 They mock me and call me names;
they snarl at me.

17 How long, O Lord, will You look on and do nothing?
Rescue me from their fierce attacks.
Protect my life from these lions!

18 Then I will thank You in front of the great assembly.
I will praise You before all the people.

19 Don’t let my treacherous enemies rejoice over my defeat.
Don’t let those who hate me without cause gloat over my sorrow.

20 They don’t talk of peace;
they plot against innocent people who mind their own business.

21 They shout, “Aha! Aha!
With our own eyes we saw him do it!”

Facing False Accusations (Verses 11-12):

David begins this section with Verse 11 by expressing his frustration and heartbreak over false accusations: “Malicious witnesses testify against me. They accuse me of crimes I know nothing about.” This verse paints a picture of injustice, with witnesses intentionally lying to harm David. Being falsely accused is one of the most painful experiences, as it attacks both our character and our integrity.

In verse 12, David continues, “They repay me evil for good. I am sick with despair.” David isn’t just being mistreated; he’s being hurt by people he once treated well. The betrayal is personal and cuts deeply. His despair shows us how devastating it can be when those we’ve cared for or helped turn against us.

These verses remind us that even the most righteous people can face slander and injustice. But instead of seeking revenge, David brings his pain to God, trusting that God sees and will respond. When we experience similar trials, we can find comfort in knowing that God is aware of the truth, even when others misrepresent us.

The Pain of Betrayal (Verses 13-14):

David’s anguish intensifies in verses 13 and 14 as he recalls his past kindness toward those who now attack him: “Yet when they were ill, I grieved for them. I denied myself by fasting for them, but my prayers returned unanswered.” David’s care for these individuals was genuine. He mourned their suffering and even fasted on their behalf, showing deep compassion and concern. Yet, despite his heartfelt prayers and sacrifices, they now repay his kindness with cruelty.

In verse 14, David adds, “I was sad, as though they were my friends or family, as if I were grieving for my own mother.” This verse reveals the depth of David’s love and loyalty. He cared for these people as if they were part of his family, and now their betrayal feels like a personal attack on his soul.

This part of the psalm resonates with anyone who has experienced betrayal, especially from someone close. It’s a reminder that even when our kindness is met with hostility, God sees our efforts and our pain. David’s example encourages us to bring our heartbreak to God, trusting Him to bring justice and healing.

The Joy of the Wicked (Verses 15-16):

David then describes the behavior of his enemies in verses 15 and 16: “But they are glad now that I am in trouble; they gleefully join together against me. I am attacked by people I don’t even know; they slander me constantly.” His enemies not only betray him but delight in his suffering. They join forces to attack him, and their slander seems relentless. What’s even more painful is that some of these attackers are strangers, people with no reason to hate him.

In verse 16, David continues, “They mock me and call me names; they snarl at me.” This imagery conveys the intensity of the hostility David faces. These aren’t mild disagreements; his enemies are openly mocking and ridiculing him, like predators circling their prey.

This depiction reminds us that opposition often feels isolating, as if the whole world is against us. But David’s response isn’t to retaliate. Instead, he continues pouring his heart into God, trusting that God will vindicate him. His example encourages us to resist the urge to fight in anger and bring our struggles to the One who truly understands.

A Plea for God’s Intervention (Verses 17-18):

In verse 17, David cries out to God: “How long, O Lord, will You look on and do nothing? Rescue me from their fierce attacks. Protect my life from these lions!” This heartfelt plea reveals David’s frustration and his longing for God to act. He feels as though God is watching but not intervening, and he’s desperate for deliverance.

David’s honesty here is both relatable and inspiring. Sometimes in our lives, we wonder why God seems silent in the face of injustice or suffering. David’s prayer reminds us that it’s okay to bring these questions to God. He invites us to be honest about our struggles while still placing our trust in God’s timing and sovereignty.

In verse 18, David makes a vow: “Then I will thank You in front of the great assembly. I will praise You before all the people.” Even in his distress, David expresses confidence that God will deliver him. He promises to acknowledge God’s faithfulness publicly and to give Him the glory for his rescue. This shows us that praise and trust can coexist with our cries for help. Even as we wait for God to act, we can hold onto the assurance that He is worthy of our gratitude and worship.

The Deception of the Wicked (Verses 19-21):

David returns to describing his enemies in verse 19: “Don’t let my treacherous enemies rejoice over my defeat. Don’t let those who hate me without cause gloat over my sorrow.” He pleads with God not to let his enemies have the satisfaction of seeing him fall. Their hatred is baseless, and their desire to see him suffer is unjust. David’s plea highlights his dependence on God’s justice to silence those who oppose him.

In verse 20, David describes the wicked as relentless schemers: “They don’t talk of peace; they plot against innocent people who mind their own business.” This verse emphasizes the malicious intent of David’s enemies. They aren’t just passively opposed to him; they actively plan harm against the innocent. Their disregard for peace reveals the depth of their corruption.

Finally, in verse 21, David recounts their taunts: “They shout, ‘Aha! Aha! With our own eyes we saw him do it!’” This mockery is particularly painful because it’s based on lies. His enemies accuse him of things he hasn’t done, seeking to undermine his character and reputation. This unjust ridicule is a reminder of the devastating power of false accusations.

In these verses, David’s transparency reminds us that we can bring every aspect of our pain and frustration to God. Whether it’s betrayal, mockery, or false accusations, God hears and cares about what we’re going through.

Conclusion:

Psalm 35:11-21 gives us a window into David’s heart as he wrestles with betrayal, slander, and the silence of God. His words are raw and honest, yet they are also filled with faith. David doesn’t hide his pain or frustration, but he continually turns to God as his refuge and source of justice.

This passage reminds us that we can trust God with our deepest hurts. When we face injustice or opposition, we don’t need to take matters into our own hands. Like David, we can bring our struggles to God, knowing He sees, hears, and will act in His perfect timing.

As we reflect on these verses, let’s be encouraged to trust God amid life’s challenges. Let’s commit to praising Him even as we wait for His deliverance, and let’s hold onto the hope that He is faithful to rescue and vindicate His people.

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His peace fill your heart as you trust in Him.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!