Welcome to Day 2607 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2607 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 57:7-11 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2607

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2607 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, I’ll be your companion and guide along the trail of wisdom, encouragement, and truth, as we explore the riches of God’s Word together. Thank you for joining me once again as we continue our meaningful journey through the Psalms.

Today, we’re concluding our exploration of Psalm 57, looking specifically at verses 7 through 11. Psalm 57 is a powerful prayer penned by David from the depths of a dark cave while fleeing King Saul’s relentless pursuit. Yet, despite being cornered and threatened, David’s words shift dramatically from fear to faith, from despair to praise, demonstrating profound confidence and joy in God.

Let’s begin today by reading Psalm 57:7-11 from the New Living Translation:

7 My heart is confident in you, O God;
my heart is confident.
No wonder I can sing your praises!
8 Wake up, my heart!
Wake up, O lyre and harp!
I will wake the dawn with my song.
9 I will thank you, Lord, among all the people.
I will sing your praises among the nations.
10 For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens.
Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
11 Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens.
May your glory shine over all the earth.

• A Heart of Confidence and Praise (Verse 7)

David begins this concluding portion of Psalm 57 with profound confidence:

“My heart is confident in you, O God; my heart is confident. No wonder I can sing your praises!”

Notice David repeats, “My heart is confident,” emphasizing his unwavering trust and stability in God. His circumstances haven’t changed—he’s still hiding in a cave, still hunted, still facing imminent danger—but his heart has changed dramatically. Fear and uncertainty give way to unshakable confidence in God’s presence, protection, and promise.

In ancient Israelite culture, the “heart” represented the center of thought, emotion, and spiritual life. When David says his heart is confident, he means that at his deepest core, he is secure in God’s promises, completely assured of God’s sovereign care.

This internal assurance naturally produces praise: “No wonder I can sing your praises!” Praise, for David, isn’t forced or contrived; it’s the genuine overflow of his confident heart. Even in a cave—surrounded by darkness, isolation, and uncertainty—David’s soul is secure enough to rejoice.

Illustration:
Imagine an experienced sailor caught in a storm at sea. Waves crash violently, winds howl, yet he confidently steers his ship because he trusts his compass and his experience. Despite the chaos around him, he remains steady. David is like that sailor. His storm hasn’t subsided, yet he confidently steers his heart toward praise, trusting fully in God’s faithfulness.

Application:
When storms of life threaten you, can you confidently say, “My heart is secure in God”? Confidence in God doesn’t depend on circumstances—it comes from knowing Him personally and trusting His character deeply.

• Awakening Praise to God (Verse 8)

David continues passionately:

“Wake up, my heart! Wake up, O lyre and harp! I will wake the dawn with my song.”

This verse beautifully expresses David’s energetic resolve to worship. Notice the repeated call: “Wake up!” David isn’t passive; he actively stirs himself toward praise. It’s as though he’s commanding his own soul and musical instruments to shake off lethargy and burst forth into joyful worship.

His vivid declaration—“I will wake the dawn with my song”—illustrates David’s eagerness. Instead of waiting passively for circumstances to improve, he actively welcomes the new day with joyful anticipation, praise, and thanksgiving, confident God’s mercies are fresh every morning.

Ancient Israelites commonly greeted each morning with praise and prayer, acknowledging God’s provision and faithfulness anew. David’s words resonate deeply with this cultural practice. Even while hiding in darkness, David anticipates the dawn, trusting that darkness always gives way to God’s light.

Illustration:
Consider birds singing enthusiastically before sunrise. Even before daylight appears, they greet the coming morning with joyous song. Similarly, David chooses praise before deliverance—he anticipates God’s intervention with eager expectation.

Application:
Do we actively stir ourselves toward praise, even during difficult times? Choosing praise at the beginning of each day—before circumstances change—sets our hearts and minds firmly upon God’s faithfulness.

• Declaring God’s Praise Publicly (Verse 9)

David now expands his vision beyond personal praise to public testimony:

“I will thank you, Lord, among all the people. I will sing your praises among the nations.”

This verse shows David’s deep conviction that God’s faithfulness deserves public, widespread recognition. He doesn’t confine his gratitude to private worship. Instead, David eagerly desires to proclaim God’s goodness publicly, even among nations who do not yet know God.

From an ancient Israelite perspective, publicly praising God wasn’t merely gratitude—it was evangelism, testifying to surrounding nations of Yahweh’s power and faithfulness. David saw clearly that his personal story of rescue would inspire others to trust God. Therefore, his praise moves naturally from private intimacy to public proclamation.

Illustration:
Imagine someone miraculously rescued from danger—perhaps from a devastating storm. Their first reaction often isn’t quiet gratitude alone but enthusiastic storytelling, publicly sharing their incredible rescue. David’s reaction mirrors this excitement. He eagerly wants everyone to know God’s miraculous intervention.

Application:
Do we keep our praise hidden, or do we openly share God’s faithfulness, kindness, and deliverance with those around us? Like David, our stories of God’s intervention can profoundly encourage and inspire others.

• Celebrating God’s Unfailing Love and Faithfulness (Verse 10)

David then expresses the magnitude of God’s faithful love:

“For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.”

David uses powerful poetic language to communicate the vastness of God’s love and faithfulness. “As high as the heavens” and “reaches to the clouds” are ancient Hebrew expressions representing infinite magnitude. David wants his listeners—and us—to grasp the immeasurable greatness of God’s loving commitment.

The Hebrew concept of “unfailing love” (chesed) signifies God’s steadfast, covenantal love—a love that never wavers, regardless of circumstances. David anchors his confidence and praise firmly on this unchanging reality: God’s love and faithfulness are infinite, secure, and dependable.

Illustration:
Think of the sky—endless, expansive, seemingly infinite. No matter how far we travel, we never reach its end. God’s love and faithfulness are like this—infinite, boundless, immeasurable. David invites us to gaze upward, recognizing the vastness of God’s goodness.

Application:
When facing difficulties, do we measure God’s love by circumstances or by His unchanging character? Recognizing the infinite nature of God’s faithfulness provides profound stability during uncertainty.

• Exalting God’s Glory Universally (Verse 11)

Finally, David concludes Psalm 57 with an exalted praise:

“Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.”

This final verse beautifully summarizes David’s ultimate desire—God’s glory exalted universally. David’s heart isn’t consumed by personal safety alone; his highest longing is God’s greatness, majesty, and glory revealed to everyone.

This universal perspective aligns deeply with ancient Israel’s understanding of God’s purpose—that all nations would recognize His greatness and sovereignty. David joyfully submits his circumstances—both triumphs and trials—into God’s sovereign plan, believing everything will ultimately magnify God’s glory.

Illustration:
Consider climbing to the summit of a majestic mountain at sunrise. From that vantage, the sun’s glory fills the entire landscape. David similarly sees beyond his immediate struggle, confidently knowing that ultimately, God’s glory will brilliantly fill the earth.

Application:
In our trials, do we focus solely inward, or do we, like David, maintain a broader vision—that through our circumstances, God’s glory and greatness can be powerfully revealed?

• Conclusion:

Psalm 57:7-11 vividly demonstrates moving from fear to faith, darkness to dawn, from crisis to confidence. David’s journey inspires us profoundly—to confidently trust God’s infinite faithfulness, actively praise Him before we see results, boldly proclaim His goodness publicly, and passionately desire His glory above everything else.

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. Until our next journey together, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His peace fill your heart completely.

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 2606 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – Baptism as Spiritual Warfare. I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible.

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2606

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2606 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 51^st 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: “Baptism as Spiritual Warfare.”

The pastor had been preaching a series of messages through 1 Peter. When it was time for 1 Peter 3:14-22, he sincerely announced, “We’re going to skip this section since it’s just too strange.” He was right and wrong that day. As odd as it is, this passage is one of the most compelling in the New Testament —if you understand what it’s saying.

But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. And now the antitype—that is, baptism—saves you, not be means of a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience on the basis of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

The theme of 1 Peter is that Christians must withstand persecution and persevere in their faith. To understand how our odd passage fits with that theme, we need to get our heads around the concept of “types” and typology —a kind of prophecy that occurs in the Bible.

We’re most familiar with prophecies directly from the mouth of a prophet. But a “type” is an unspoken prophecy; it is an event, person, or institution that foreshadows something that will come. For example, Paul tells us that Adam was a type of Christ. He foreshadowed or echoed something about Jesus, namely that His work on the cross would affect all people just as Adam’s disobedience had a global effect (Rom 5:14).

First Peter 3:14-22 uses typology. The passage presumes that events associated with Genesis 6 typify or foreshadow the gospel and the resurrection. The episode of Genesis 6:1-4, where angelic beings (the “sons of God”) cohabited with human women—the catalyst to the wickedness that brought the judgment of the flood—was especially significant. For Peter, these events were commemorated during baptism.

Peter was evidently familiar with Jewish tradition about Genesis 6. Jewish writers just prior to the New Testament era taught that God sent Enoch (Gen 5:21-24) to inform the fallen sons of God that they were doomed for what they had done. These angelic beings were, according to Jewish traditions, held in a prison under the earth.

Peter saw a theological analogy in these ideas. Just as Jesus was the second Adam for Paul, Jesus is the second Enoch for Peter.

Enoch descended to the imprisoned fallen angels to announce their doom. First Peter 3:14-22 has Jesus descending to these “spirits in prison,” these fallen angels. He then tells them they were defeated, despite His crucifixion. God’s plan of salvation and ruling His kingdom was still intact. In fact, it was right on schedule. The crucifixion actually meant victory over every demonic force opposed to God. This victory declaration is why 1 Peter 3:14-22 ends with Jesus risen from the dead and set at the right hand of God—above all angels, authorities, and powers.

How does this relate to baptism? It explains the logic of the passage. Two words in verse 21 need reconsideration in light of this backdrop. The word most often translated “appeal” (éTepótnua, eperötemd) in verse 21 is best understood as “pledge” here. Likewise, the word “conscience” (ouveíônouç, suneidsis) does not refer to the inner voice of right and wrong here. Rather, the word refers to an attitude or decision that reflects one’s loyalty.

Baptism, then, is not what produces salvation; it is an oath of loyalty to the risen savior—a public avowal of who is on the Lord’s side in the cosmic war between good and evil. It is also a visceral reminder to the defeated fallen angels. Every baptism is a reiteration of their doom in the wake of the gospel and the kingdom of God.

Early Christians understood the typology of this passage and its link back to the fallen angels of Genesis 6. Early baptismal formulas included a renunciation of Satan and his angels for this very reason. Baptism was and is spiritual warfare.

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 2605 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2605 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 57:1-6 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2605

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2605 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, I’ll guide you through the Scriptures, exploring ancient wisdom for our daily lives. I’m so glad you’re joining me today on our journey as we continue our trek through the Psalms—poetic expressions that reveal deep truths, powerful emotions, and a profound trust in God’s faithful care.

Today, we begin an exploration of Psalm 57, focusing specifically on verses 1 through 6. Psalm 57 is a remarkable Psalm, written by David during one of the most perilous and uncertain times of his life. Hiding from King Saul in a cave, David felt surrounded, vulnerable, and in imminent danger. Yet even amid fear and uncertainty, David turns to God, expressing unwavering confidence in His protection, mercy, and faithfulness.

Let’s begin by reading Psalm 57:1-6 from the New Living Translation:

1 Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy!
I look to you for protection.
I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings
until the danger passes by.
2 I cry out to God Most High,
to God who will fulfill his purpose for me.
3 He will send help from heaven to rescue me,
disgracing those who hound me.
My God will send forth his unfailing love and faithfulness.
4 I am surrounded by fierce lions
who greedily devour human prey—
whose teeth pierce like spears and arrows,
and whose tongues cut like swords.
5 Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens!
May your glory shine over all the earth.
6 My enemies have set a trap for me.
I am weary from distress.
They have dug a deep pit in my path,
but they themselves have fallen into it.

• Seeking Shelter Under God’s Wings (Verse 1)

David begins this Psalm with an urgent, heartfelt plea:

“Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy! I look to you for protection. I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings until the danger passes by.”

Notice the repetition, “Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy!” This reveals David’s desperation and urgency. He isn’t casually praying—he’s pleading deeply for God’s mercy, help, and protection.

David’s imagery of hiding “beneath the shadow of your wings” is powerful and deeply comforting. This image would have resonated strongly with the ancient Israelites, who often used the metaphor of God’s protective wings. It pictures God as a compassionate parent—like a mother bird sheltering vulnerable chicks under her wings from danger, predators, or harsh weather.

David doesn’t deny the reality of his danger; he fully acknowledges it. Yet even as he hides physically in a cave from Saul, spiritually and emotionally, he hides himself within God’s presence—knowing true protection comes not from stone walls but from the Almighty God.

Illustration:
Imagine a mother eagle perched high on a mountain ledge, wings spread wide to shelter her young from storm and danger. Those baby eagles find refuge, safety, and warmth beneath those wings. David sees God exactly like this—an intimate, powerful protector.

Application:
Have you experienced moments when you desperately needed shelter from life’s storms—fear, uncertainty, or danger? David’s prayer reminds us: in those moments, run quickly to God’s presence. Under His protective wings, we find refuge, peace, and safety.

• Trusting God’s Purpose and Faithfulness (Verses 2-3)

David continues confidently:

“I cry out to God Most High, to God who will fulfill his purpose for me. He will send help from heaven to rescue me, disgracing those who hound me. My God will send forth his unfailing love and faithfulness.”

These verses highlight David’s deep faith in God’s sovereignty and personal purpose. Even amid confusion and fear, David confidently asserts, “God will fulfill his purpose for me.” He knows his circumstances are not accidental or outside God’s control. Instead, he trusts God is at work—even in this dark, uncertain moment—to accomplish something good and purposeful.

David specifically mentions two powerful attributes God sends: “unfailing love and faithfulness.” In Hebrew, these are “chesed” and “emet,” words loaded with deep meaning. “Chesed” signifies steadfast, covenantal love, loyalty, and kindness, while “emet” refers to truth, dependability, and trustworthiness. David trusts fully that God’s faithful love and truthfulness will prevail, even in his crisis.

Illustration:
Think of a skilled craftsman carefully creating a beautiful masterpiece from seemingly random materials. Initially, the materials seem messy, confused, or without purpose. But the craftsman knows precisely what he’s creating—every step intentional and purposeful. David trusts God as that master craftsman, knowing even the chaos and fear will somehow contribute to a beautiful purpose.

Application:
When circumstances confuse or overwhelm us, do we trust confidently that God is actively working His purposes for good? Remember: God’s faithful love and dependability are unchanging, even in life’s darkest caves.

• Facing Fierce Enemies (Verse 4)

David honestly describes the intense threats surrounding him:

“I am surrounded by fierce lions who greedily devour human prey—whose teeth pierce like spears and arrows, and whose tongues cut like swords.”

Here, David uses vivid, intense imagery—enemies as fierce lions, devouring, piercing, cutting. These enemies weren’t casual annoyances; they were dangerously aggressive, intent on David’s destruction.

Yet notice carefully—David doesn’t diminish the danger nor exaggerate. He clearly sees enemies realistically, acknowledging their strength. Yet this honest realism doesn’t lead to despair; instead, it underscores the magnitude of his trust in God’s protection.

Illustration:
Imagine walking through a dense jungle, surrounded by unseen predators. You hear their growls, sense their threat, feel deeply vulnerable. Yet you walk securely because you trust the guide who knows exactly how to protect and lead you through. David’s situation mirrors this precisely. Enemies surround him, but his trust in God guides him confidently.

Application:
Facing danger or opposition, do we allow fear to paralyze us, or do we, like David, honestly acknowledge danger yet confidently trust God’s protection?

• Exalting God’s Glory Amid Danger (Verse 5)

Suddenly, David lifts his eyes upward, praising God even amid trouble:

“Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens! May your glory shine over all the earth.”

David doesn’t wait until the crisis ends to praise God. He praises right in the middle of distress. This intentional focus on God’s greatness reshapes his perspective—he moves from fear to worship.

Ancient Israelites deeply understood that praising God elevated their spirits, realigning their hearts with God’s sovereignty and greatness, diminishing fears.

Illustration:
Think of facing a troubling storm—then suddenly seeing the brilliant sun break through clouds. Everything changes instantly—the storm seems smaller compared to the powerful beauty of sunlight. Similarly, David’s praise elevates his perspective above immediate troubles to the glorious power and majesty of God.

Application:
When life’s storms come, do we fix our eyes downward on the danger, or upward on God’s greatness? Praise lifts our spirits, changes perspective, and deepens trust.

• God’s Justice Prevails (Verse 6)

David concludes this section affirming divine justice:

“My enemies have set a trap for me. I am weary from distress. They have dug a deep pit in my path, but they themselves have fallen into it.”

This verse describes poetic justice. Enemies intended harm, digging traps and pits. Yet ultimately, they fell into their own traps. Ancient Israelites deeply believed God’s justice always prevailed—that evil ultimately defeated itself.

Illustration:
Imagine someone maliciously digging a pit to harm another, then accidentally stumbling in themselves. Their wickedness backfires, precisely as David describes.

Application:
When wronged or falsely accused, can we entrust justice confidently to God’s righteous hand, knowing evil will ultimately collapse beneath its own weight?

• Key Insights from Psalm 57:1-6:

1. God provides intimate, compassionate protection in crisis.
2. God actively works purposeful good, even amid confusion and fear.
3. Honest acknowledgment of danger magnifies our trust in God’s power.
4. Praise reshapes perspective, elevating our spirits above fears.
5. God’s justice ultimately prevails; evil collapses on itself.

• Conclusion:

Psalm 57:1-6 provides deep insight into responding faithfully amid fear, uncertainty, or danger. Like David, let’s run quickly to God’s presence, trusting fully in His compassionate care, purposeful goodness, powerful protection, and faithful justice.

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

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 2604 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2604 – The Road to Jerusalem: Jerusalem: The End of the Road or Just the Beginning

Putnam Church Message – 04/06/2025

Sermon Series: The Road to Jerusalem

Message 1: Jerusalem: The End of the Road or Just the Beginning?

 

Last week, we finalized our Old Testament Orientation series. Our focus was on What We Know: Preparing for the New Testament. We wrapped up with a complete overview of the series.

This week is the first of three Easter messages about The Road to Jerusalem. Today, we will explore Jerusalem: The End of the Road or Just the Beginning? The passage we will be covering today is Luke 19:11-27. This is the Parable of the Ten Servants.

Opening Prayer

Let’s start by reading verses 11-13:
¹¹ The crowd was listening to everything Jesus said. And because he was nearing Jerusalem, he told them a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin immediately. ¹² He said, “A nobleman was called away to a distant empire to be crowned king and then return. ¹³ Before he left, he called together ten of his servants and divided among them ten pounds of silver,^[a] saying, ‘Invest this for me while I am gone.’

 

 

Introduction

There is a sense of excitement when you get close to reaching your destination. Whether you are traveling by car and you see the city limits sign, or traveling by air and the airplane begins its descent, or traveling by boat and you sight land in the distance: whatever your mode of travel, it always feels good when you reach the end. No matter how long the trip is or how tired you are or worn out from the road, your adrenaline kicks in, and you experience a lift as you near your destination.

That is how the disciples must have felt in today’s passage. For over three years now, they have been following Jesus. For six months, they have been heading towards Jerusalem. Now, at last, they were near Jerusalem. They were in Jericho, only seventeen miles away. The end of the road was in sight.

During this time, the disciples have come to understand that Jesus is the Messiah, that he is the Promised One, the Great Deliverer prophesied about in the Scriptures. He is the One who God sent to deliver his people. The crowds are swelling, more and more disciples are joining the band, and now they are heading to Jerusalem, the Holy City, with Jesus the Messiah in their midst. Talk about excitement growing as you near your destination!

But this is more than just an adrenaline boost at the end of a journey. In all their excitement and enthusiasm, the disciples fully believe that the kingdom of God is about to come immediately. They believe Jesus will enter Jerusalem and take his rightful place as King. They have seen his power and his miracles. They know that he is well able to deliver them from the Romans. The people are already rallying to his side, and they expect nothing less than complete liberation from their enemies.

Jesus has already told his disciples something very different will happen when they reach Jerusalem. He has told them numerous times that he will suffer and die when he gets to Jerusalem. But somehow, they could not take it in. Luke later tells us that when Jesus spoke about these things: “But they didn’t understand any of this. The significance of his words was hidden from them, and they failed to grasp what he was talking about.” (Luke 18:34)

The parable we are looking at this morning is the last recorded teaching of Jesus before he entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. And Luke not only tells us the parable. He also tells us why Jesus told this parable. We read in verse 11: “The crowd was listening to everything Jesus said. And because he was nearing Jerusalem, he told them a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin immediately. ” (Luke 19:11)

The disciples thought that Jerusalem was the end of the road for them. Jesus now tells them it is just the beginning. He has work for them to do. The disciples won’t understand much of this until after Christ has suffered, died, and rises again, but afterward, they will remember his teaching, and then they will understand.

 

 

1. The main characters of the parable
2. The King(12)

First of all, we have the King. Look at verse 12: “He said, “A nobleman was called away to a distant empire to be crowned king and then return. ” (Luke 19:12) So we have the nobleman who travels to a distant empire to receive the power to rule and then to return as King. The fact that it is a distant empire implies that an interval of time takes place. Remember, the reason Jesus is telling this parable is because the people thought that the kingdom of God in all of its fullness was going to appear immediately, and that was simply not true.

The King represents Christ, who will not complete the kingdom right away as the disciples suppose, but instead, he will go away for a while and then return. When Christ returns, he will bring the kingdom in its fullness. In the meantime, the disciples will experience the kingdom of God within their own hearts as righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Just like the Israelites were a nation of priests who brought all nations back to God, we, as believers, extend that calling to bring all nations into God’s Kingdom, which will be finalized when Christ returns. The Global Eden that is established is God’s kingdom.

1. The servants(13)

Next, we have the servants. Look at verse 13: “Before he left, he called together ten of his servants and divided among them ten pounds of silver,^[a] saying, ‘Invest this for me while I am gone.’” (Luke 19:13) The King has ten servants, and each is entrusted with the same amount of money. Each servant is given one pound of silver. A pound of silver is not a particularly large sum of money. It is worth $400 today, although that would have been three months’ wages for a laborer back then.

The nobleman tells the servants to “invest it” until he returns. He expected them to turn what they had been given into profit. Notice that they are putting the money to work for him, not themselves. In other words, this money is given as a trust. It is not their money to do with as they want.

How about the servants? The servants are a little trickier to identify because we have two different types of servants here. In the verses to come, Jesus describes two servants, each of whom returns a profit and a third of whom does not. The third servant appears in the parable as one who loses his kingdom reward.

Jesus portrays a similar situation to what Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 3, where our works are tested at the last day. Paul writes: ¹⁴ If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. ¹⁵ But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames. (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)

1. The subjects(14)

And then, finally, we have the subjects. Look at verse 14: “But his people hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, ‘We do not want him to be our king.’” (Luke 19:14) The subjects form a larger group than the servants. The subjects are those who live in the master’s region and fall under his jurisdiction as King.

Notice Jesus says they hated the King. In the original language, it is even stronger than that. In the original, it implies that their hatred was habitual. They were continually hating him. They hated him so much that they even sent a delegation after him, saying, “We don’t want you to be our King! We don’t want you to rule over us.”

The subjects appear to represent unbelievers who do not profess faith in Christ. They are certainly not hypocrites, at least as far as faith in Christ is concerned. They may or may not be openly antagonistic towards Christianity but make no claims of Christian faith for themselves.

You might wonder about some of the more minor characters in the parable? What about the delegation in verse 14 or the bystanders in verse 24? One mistake people often make with the parables is trying to find a correspondence to each detail in the parable. But parables weren’t meant to line up every detail with something else. Sometimes, the details are necessary to carry the story along and hold the parable together. Therefore, it is not essential to determine the precise meaning of the silver, the number of servants, and so on.

It is interesting, however, when you look at the delegation in verse 14. The delegation part of the story would have reminded the listeners of Herod Archelaus, who ruled over Judea after Herod the Great died. Archelaus first had to travel to Rome to receive his authorization to rule. The people didn’t want him as their King, and they sent a delegation after him saying so. So, the delegation in verse 14 is an example of Jesus inserting a real-life, contemporary detail into the parable to make it more striking and memorable to his listeners.

So then, these are the leading players in Jesus’ parable:

1) Jesus Christ, who goes away and returns as King;

2) Those who claim to serve and follow him

3) Those who make no such claim at all.

 

1. Five lessons to learn

What are the lessons Jesus would have us draw from his parable? Here are five lessons Jesus would have us learn from the parable of the ten minas.

1. Christ will return as King over all(15a)

First of all, Christ will return as King over all. Look at the beginning of verse 15a: “After he was crowned king, he returned.” (Luke 19:15). Notice that Christ himself will return. He will not send a representative to his place. He will not come just as a spiritual presence in the world. His return is different from his resurrection, and it is different from the giving of the Holy Spirit. The Bible teaches the visible, personal, bodily return of Jesus Christ.

The Bible tells us that Christ will return as King. He has always been King, but all will acknowledge his Lordship this time. Philippians 2:9-11, Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, ¹⁰ that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, ¹¹ and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

There is a message for the disciples in this parable, too. Jesus will not return immediately, as the people supposed. Jesus teaches an interval of time in the parable. The master goes to a distant country and then returns.

Now, for us, a reasonably lengthy interval has already passed. Will Christ return soon? I hope so! Some people may wonder why Christ hasn’t returned already. The Bible provides an answer. 2 Peter 3:9 tells us why: The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. That’s the first lesson we learn from this parable. Christ will return as King over all, but in His timing, not ours. Also, Paul writes in Romains 11:25 I want you to understand this mystery, dear brothers and sisters, so that you will not feel proud about yourselves. Some of the people of Israel have hard hearts, but this will last only until the full number of Gentiles comes to Christ.

1. When Christ returns, there will be an accounting(15b)

Secondly, when Christ returns, there will be an accounting. God gives us gifts and expects us to use them for his glory in building His Kingdom. He gives you your life and tells you: ‘Invest this for me while I am gone.’ And when he comes back, there will indeed be an accounting. Look at the rest of verse 15: he returned and called in the servants to whom he had given the money. He wanted to find out what their profits were.

One day, Christ will ask you: “What have you done with your life? How have you used the gifts I entrusted to you? What fruit have you born for me?” Notice that each servant appears individually before the Master to give an account of their actions. Each must produce evidence that they have faithfully handled what was entrusted to them.

The disciples thought Jerusalem was the end of the road, but it was just the beginning. And it’s the same for us. When you come to Christ, that’s not the end of the road – you are just getting started! God wants us to live a whole life of good works for Him in building His kingdom so it will be ready for Christ return.

Will Christians be accountable for how we lived at the last day? Scripture seems to indicate that is the case. Scripture teaches that Christians will be considered first! Notice, even in the parable, that the good servants are judged first, followed by the wicked subjects. Accountability for the believer, however, is far different than judgment for the non-believer. It is an evaluation of your life rather than condemnation for your sin.

1. The greater your faithfulness to Christ, the greater your reward(16-19)

The third lesson is this: the greater your faithfulness (loyalty) to Christ, the greater your reward. Many passages in Scripture teach that there will be rewards in God’s earthly kingdom, the Global Eden. The greatest reward will be the satisfaction of seeing Christ glorified through our lives, seeing people who have come to salvation, people who were helped along the way, and a life lived to the glory of God.

One of the wonderful things about the Christian life is that it is open to everyone equally, with no barriers. There is nothing to screen you out, unlike the Olympics, where only those with the best athletic ability can participate. You can have as much of Christ in your life as you want. The most significant rewards of heaven are open to every believer. It is not a matter of giftedness. It is a matter of faithfulness (loyalty) to Christ. How are our investments in the kingdom going?

Scripture also speaks of ruling power and authority as rewards, that somehow our faithfulness (loyalty) will be rewarded with even greater opportunities to govern and serve. In verses 16-19, The first servant reported, ‘Master, I invested your money and made ten times the original amount!’ “‘Well done!’ the king exclaimed. ‘You are a good servant. You have been faithful with the little I entrusted to you, so you will be governor of ten cities as your reward.’ (Luke 19:16-19) According to your faithfulness, you will be rewarded.

Notice the disproportion between the service and the reward. The first servant merely increased ten times. That was hardly anything for a king to get excited over. And yet he gives the servant charge over ten cities! God’s rewards far exceed any service we can possibly give to him, especially when you consider that even the little we have to begin with is a gift from him!

God is not obligated to give us any rewards. When a servant serves faithfully, he is merely discharging his duty. And so, God’s rich rewards are another example of God’s amazing grace. This should be a great encouragement to us. Be faithful to God in even the smallest things; he will reward you greatly.

It only makes sense when you think about it. Life works this way, even in the ordinary things. It is the faithful worker who gets the promotion. How much more does this apply to spiritual things in God’s kingdom!

1. A true believer will yield spiritual fruit in their life(20-26)

A fourth lesson is this: a true believer will yield spiritual fruit in their life. Let’s go back to the third servant in verses 20-21 parable: “But the third servant brought back only the original amount of money and said, ‘Master, I hid your money and kept it safe. ²¹ I was afraid because you are a hard man to deal with, taking what isn’t yours and harvesting crops you didn’t plant.’ (Luke 19:20-21)

First, notice that the third servant had no return on his investment. (no fruit) He hid the silver away and did nothing with it. The third servant is judged here for the lack of faithfulness. (loyalty) It’s not that he misused the silver or for wrong ends. He didn’t use it at all!

Secondly, notice how the third servant accuses God here. He calls the king “a hard man.” It is a word that means “severe or strict.” Many people think of God this way, but it is far from the truth. Romans 8:32 tells us: Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? God is loving, kind, and gracious. The master in the parable was not hard or severe. He rewarded the faithful servants beyond their wildest dreams! Don’t think unworthy thoughts of God.

Thirdly, notice how the third servant makes excuses for himself. He accuses the master of taking what isn’t yours and harvesting crops you didn’t plant.’ The servant says, “I was afraid to make any profit, because I thought you were going to keep it all for yourself.” Well, he was wrong there, wasn’t he? Just look how the master rewarded the other two servants! Still, the third servant tries to use this as an excuse for his lack of faithfulness.

And what is the master’s response to all this? Look at verses 22-23: ^22: “‘You wicked servant!’ the king roared. ‘Your own words condemn you. If you knew that I’m a hard man who takes what isn’t mine and harvests crops I didn’t plant, ²³ why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’ (Luke 19:22-23)

The master judges the servant according to his own words. He gives the servant the benefit of the doubt here.

What did the master do with this third servant? Look at verses 24-26: ²⁴ “Then, turning to the others standing nearby, the king ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one who has ten pounds.’ “‘But, master,’ they said, ‘he already has ten pounds!’  “‘Yes,’ the king replied, ‘and to those who use well what they are given, even more will be given. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. (Luke 19:24-26)

This is a paradoxical saying. The parable’s context refers to using what God has given to you. When we apply it spiritually, we could say it this way: “Everyone who bears fruit for Christ will be given more, but the one who bears no fruit, even what he has, will be taken away.” The law of planting and harvesting is at work here. It’s a sobering thought. If you are not living faithfully for Christ, utilizing your talents and abilities, and all that God has given you, no matter how small they may appear in your mind, then what you do have may be taken away. Use what God has given to you, no matter how insignificant or mundane they may seem at times.

Don’t misunderstand. We are not saved by our good works or anything we produce for Christ. We are saved by faith and faith alone, loyal to the one true God. However, those who are genuinely saved will produce fruit for God. The one who is not faithful (loyal) to Christ has no assurance of salvation. All that God has given us – life, love, and opportunity – could one day be taken away if it is not used in kingdom building.

1. Those who do not submit to Christ will be condemned(27)

And then, finally, the fifth lesson: those who are not loyal to Christ will be condemned. In verse 14, we read about the subjects who hated the nobleman. Now, many do not follow Christ and would claim that they do not hate him. They would say they are neutral. They feel very little of anything towards him. But Jesus said there is no middle ground. You cannot serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. Jesus said, “Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me. (Matthew 12:30) And so those who do not love and serve God have placed themselves on the other side of the great chasm in sheol.

The subjects’ words sum up this world’s rebellion in verse 14: “We don’t want this man to be our king!” (Luke 19:14) There are so many who do not want Jesus to be their King, their Lord. And yet he is King. He is Lord. He is King of kings and Lord of lords!

Even if he were a hard, severe, unfair ruler, he would still be King, and we would still have to deal with him as such. But Jesus is so different from how the third servant described the master. Jesus is a loving, wise, gracious, and just King.

You cannot rebel against God without consequences. Verse 27 ends the parable on a somber note. After dealing with the three servants, the master finally addresses the subjects’ fate: And as for these enemies of mine who didn’t want me to be their king—bring them in and execute them right here in front of me.’ (Luke 19:27) Yes, Christ is a loving and kind king who gave his life so that you might be saved. But he is also a just judge who must punish sin and deal with rebellion. And those who are not loyal to Christ will be condemned on the last day. There will be no excuses, no defense, no escape.

CONCLUSION: Jesus and his disciples were at long last approaching Jerusalem. The disciples thought it would all end there. The kingdom of God was going to come with power, and they would enter into rest. Jesus told this parable to correct that kind of thinking. Yes, the kingdom will come fully when Christ returns. But in the meantime, we are to work, serve, and use the lives God has given us for his glory.

The lessons from Jesus’ parable are clear: Christ will return, and there will be an accounting. Those faithful (loyal) to Jesus will be rewarded beyond measure, but those who have wasted what God has given them will be judged and found wanting. The kingdom will come, but not yet. Jerusalem is not the end of the road. It is just the beginning.

Closing Prayer

Next week, we will be the second of a three-week Easter Series called ‘The Road to Jerusalem.’ Next week’s message will be: The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. Our core passage for next week is Luke 19:28-40

Welcome to Day 2603 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2603 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 56:8-13 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2603

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2603 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, I’ll guide you along the path of wisdom, encouragement, and strength as we journey together through God’s Word. Thank you again for joining me as we continue exploring the Psalms—rich in wisdom, authenticity, and hope.

Today, we’re completing our exploration of Psalm 56 by focusing specifically on verses 8 through 13. Psalm 56 is one of those deeply personal Psalms written by King David in a time of great fear and vulnerability. Captured by enemies in Gath, David faced overwhelming danger, yet his honest emotions and unwavering faith in God provide profound insight into how we can respond to fear, pain, and uncertainty today.

Let’s start by reading Psalm 56:8-13 from the New Living Translation:

8 You keep track of all my sorrows.
You have collected all my tears in your bottle.
You have recorded each one in your book.
9 My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help.
This I know: God is on my side!
10 I praise God for what he has promised;
yes, I praise the Lord for what he has promised.
11 I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?
What can mere mortals do to me?
12 I will fulfill my vows to you, O God,
and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help.
13 For you have rescued me from death;
you have kept my feet from slipping.
So now I can walk in your presence, O God,
in your life-giving light.

• God’s Tender Compassion (Verse 8)

David begins this section with a beautiful and comforting image of God’s intimate care:

“You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.”

This verse is profoundly moving and deeply comforting. David vividly portrays God not as a distant observer but as intimately involved in every detail of our lives. He uses poetic language, reflecting an ancient custom where mourners collected tears in small bottles as a way of remembering their grief. David imagines God doing this very thing—not literally, of course, but symbolically. It shows that God sees, understands, and values our deepest pain.

In ancient Israelite culture, recording important events in a book signified permanence, remembrance, and value. David applies this practice metaphorically, affirming God’s close attention to our grief and struggles. Every tear is remembered, every sorrow acknowledged. This reveals God’s profound compassion and care.

Illustration:
Imagine a loving parent comforting a crying child after a painful experience. The parent carefully wipes each tear, holding the child close. Though tears themselves evaporate quickly, the child’s emotional pain is remembered, comforted, and cared for by the parent. David’s imagery suggests the same profound, intimate care from God.

Application:
Have you ever felt your struggles or sorrows were unseen or unnoticed? David reminds us clearly: God sees every tear, knows every sorrow, and values every struggle. This truth provides deep comfort, encouraging us to trust in God’s intimate compassion.

• God is on Our Side (Verses 9-11)

After describing God’s compassion, David confidently declares trust in God’s powerful protection:

“My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help. This I know: God is on my side! I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the Lord for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me?”

David transitions from deep sorrow into unwavering confidence. Notice how emphatic he is: “This I know: God is on my side!” David’s confidence is rooted not in wishful thinking but in God’s faithful promises. Twice he emphasizes his praise for what God has promised, showing how critical God’s Word was in strengthening his faith.

In ancient Israel, God’s promises weren’t casual—they formed the foundation of faith and confidence. David knew from history and personal experience that when God spoke, He acted. Therefore, he confidently declares, “Why should I be afraid?” His rhetorical question—“What can mere mortals do to me?”—reminds us vividly of God’s unmatched power compared to human threats.

Illustration:
Imagine soldiers behind a heavily fortified wall. Outside, enemies shout and threaten. Yet, because the soldiers know the strength of their fortification, they’re not afraid. David’s trust in God is exactly like that: he sees clearly the greatness of God’s power compared to the limited strength of his enemies.

Application:
When fear grips us—fear of people, circumstances, or uncertainties—can we confidently say, “God is on my side”? Remembering and trusting God’s promises transforms fear into confident peace, regardless of what we face.

• Gratitude and Commitment to God (Verse 12)

David then turns toward gratitude and commitment in response to God’s faithfulness:

“I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help.”

David’s vows represent his commitment to honor God after deliverance. In ancient Israel, vows were sacred promises made to God during distress—often including promises of thanksgiving sacrifices after receiving help. David is confident enough in God’s rescue that he already anticipates fulfilling these vows.

His words reflect deep gratitude. Rather than bitterness or anger at facing adversity, David chooses thanksgiving. He intentionally moves toward worship, gratitude, and honoring God, seeing deliverance not as owed to him but as a gracious act from God.

Illustration:
Think of someone who makes a promise during a severe illness: “If I recover, I’ll dedicate myself fully to serving others.” Once healed, that person joyfully fulfills their commitment, motivated by deep gratitude. David’s attitude is similar, ready and eager to honor God because of His goodness.

Application:
How do we respond after receiving God’s help or answered prayer? Do we quickly forget, or do we intentionally fulfill our commitments, expressing sincere gratitude through worship, praise, and obedient living?

• Walking in God’s Life-Giving Light (Verse 13)

Finally, David closes Psalm 56 with a profound acknowledgment of God’s saving grace:

“For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light.”

David celebrates deliverance vividly, describing two significant aspects of rescue: saving his life (“rescued me from death”) and protecting his path (“kept my feet from slipping”). Both images suggest God’s comprehensive care and protection.

Walking “in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light” is a beautiful metaphor for living closely connected to God. Ancient Israelites viewed light symbolically—representing God’s presence, holiness, guidance, and blessing. To walk in God’s life-giving light was to live continually aware of His goodness, guidance, and fellowship.

Illustration:
Imagine navigating a dangerous forest trail at night, stumbling, and unsure of the path. Suddenly someone hands you a bright lantern. Instantly, everything changes—you move confidently, clearly, safely. God’s presence and His Word provide similar illumination spiritually, enabling us to walk confidently, guided and protected by His wisdom.

Application:
Are we walking daily in the life-giving light of God’s presence and His Word? Staying close to God provides clarity, direction, security, and peace—no matter how dark the situation seems.

• Key Insights from Psalm 56:8-13:

1. God intimately sees, values, and remembers our sorrows and tears.
2. Trust in God transforms fear into confidence, knowing He is for us.
3. God’s promises strengthen our faith and encourage confident praise.
4. Gratitude and fulfilling commitments to God flow naturally from recognizing His faithfulness.
5. Walking daily in God’s presence brings peace, clarity, and life-giving direction.

• Conclusion:

Psalm 56:8-13 powerfully captures the journey from fear and sorrow to confident trust, gratitude, and spiritual peace. David’s authentic emotions, rooted deeply in God’s compassion and promises, model beautifully how we can respond today to our deepest fears and struggles.

May you find encouragement from David’s experience, confidently trusting God’s intimate care, walking daily in His presence, and resting securely in His promises.

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

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!