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Day 2472 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 25:1-7 – Daily Wisdom

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Welcome to Day 2472 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 25:1-7

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2472

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2472 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 going to dig into Psalm 25:1-7 from the New Living Translation. This is a psalm of David—a prayer for guidance, mercy, and forgiveness. As we’ll see, David’s heart is fully turned toward God, and he expresses his deep dependence on the Lord for direction and forgiveness in the face of difficulties.

Let’s begin by reading the passage:

Psalm 25:1-7 (NLT):

1 O Lord, I give my life to you.
2 I trust in you, my God!
Do not let me be disgraced,
or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.

3 No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced,
but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.

4 Show me the right path, O Lord;
point out the road for me to follow.
5 Lead me by your truth and teach me,
for you are the God who saves me.
All day long I put my hope in you.

6 Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love,
which you have shown from long ages past.
7 Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.
Remember me in the light of your unfailing love,
for you are merciful, O Lord.

Surrender and Trust (Verses 1-2):

Psalm 25 opens with a powerful declaration of surrender: “O Lord, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God!”

This opening verse reveals David’s posture toward the Lord—one of complete submission and trust. He doesn’t just ask for help or guidance; he gives his entire life to God. There is a deep sense of surrender here, as David acknowledges that his life is not his own. He recognizes that the only safe place to entrust his life is in the hands of the Lord.

David’s trust in God is not just intellectual—it is personal. He says, “I trust in you, my God!” This is not the detached faith of someone who merely believes in a distant deity. This is the deep, relational trust of someone who knows God personally and has experienced His faithfulness. David trusts that God is for him and that God will protect him.

But in this declaration of trust, David also expresses a fear: “Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.” Here, we see David’s vulnerability. He knows that life is full of challenges and opposition. He has enemies, people who would rejoice in his downfall. His prayer is that God would protect him from shame and disgrace.

It’s a reminder that while we place our trust in God, life’s difficulties don’t just vanish. Trusting in God doesn’t mean that we won’t face hardships, but it does mean that we can be confident that God is with us in those hardships. David’s trust is that God will not abandon him to his enemies or allow him to fall into disgrace.

The Security of Trusting in God (Verse 3):

Verse 3 continues this thought: “No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.”

Here, David contrasts two types of people: those who trust in God and those who deceive others. For those who trust in God, disgrace is not the final outcome. Trusting in God provides a foundation of security. God does not fail those who trust in Him. No matter how difficult or painful the circumstances may be, those who rely on God will not be left in shame or humiliation.

In contrast, disgrace is the destiny of those who deceive others. Deception, manipulation, and dishonesty may seem to work for a time, but they ultimately lead to shame. David is showing us that a life built on lies and deception is like a house built on sand—it may stand for a while, but it will collapse. Integrity and trust in God are the foundation of a secure and unshakable life.

This verse is an encouragement for us to trust in God with all our hearts, even when things seem uncertain. Trust is not just about saying we believe in God; it’s about aligning our lives with His truth and walking in integrity, knowing that He will not let us down.

Seeking God’s Guidance (Verses 4-5):

In verses 4 and 5, David turns to the theme of guidance. He prays, “Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.”

These verses reflect David’s desire to follow God’s direction in his life. He asks the Lord to show him the right path, to point out the road he should take. David understands that he doesn’t have the wisdom to navigate life independently—he needs God’s guidance.

This is a crucial part of our walk with the Lord. We often want to make decisions on our own, relying on our understanding or the wisdom of the world. But here, David shows us the right posture: a humble request for God’s direction.

He also asks to be led by God’s truth. God’s truth is what keeps us on the right path. Without it, we can easily be led astray by our own desires, by the pressures of society, or by the deceptions of the enemy. God’s Word and His truth are the compass that keeps us moving in the right direction.

David’s prayer reflects his total dependence on God: “All day long I put my hope in you.” This is not a one-time request for guidance; it’s a constant posture of trust and dependence. David looks to God for guidance every moment of the day, placing his hope in the Lord’s ability to lead him.

How often do we pause to ask God for direction in our lives? Like David, we need to develop a posture of constant dependence on God’s guidance, trusting He will show us the way.

Remember Your Compassion, Forget My Sins (Verses 6-7):

As David continues his prayer, he turns to God’s mercy and forgiveness in verses 6 and 7: “Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord.”

David calls on God to remember His compassion and love—qualities that have been evident throughout Israel’s history. He appeals to God’s long track record of faithfulness, knowing that the Lord’s love is not just a fleeting emotion but a steadfast commitment that endures through all generations.

But as David asks God to remember His compassion, he also pleads with God to forget something: “Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth.” This is a heartfelt plea for forgiveness. David knows that he has sinned in the past, especially in his younger years, and he is asking God to not hold those sins against him.

We can all relate to this prayer. There are things in our past—whether recent or long ago—that we regret. Times when we acted out of rebellion, immaturity, or selfishness. David’s prayer is one that we, too, can pray: that God would not remember our sins but would instead see us through the lens of His unfailing love.

David concludes this section with a declaration of God’s mercy: “Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord.” This is the gospel in a nutshell. God, in His mercy, does not treat us as our sins deserve. Instead, He remembers us through the lens of His unfailing love. He forgives, restores, and redeems us because of His great mercy.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on Psalm 25:1-7, we see the heart of a man who is deeply dependent on God for guidance, forgiveness, and mercy. David’s prayer is one of total surrender, trust, and humility before the Lord. He understands that his life belongs to God, and he places his full confidence in God’s ability to lead him, protect him, and forgive him.

David’s example invites us to adopt the same posture in our own lives—to give our lives to God in trust, to seek His guidance in all things, and to rely on His mercy for the forgiveness of our sins. We can rest in the truth that God’s unfailing love has been shown throughout history and continues to be available to us today.

Thank you for joining me on today’s trek through Psalm 25. As we continue our journey through life, may we always seek the wisdom and guidance of the Lord, knowing He is faithful to lead us and merciful to forgive.

Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, walking in truth, and living in the light of God’s love.

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!

 

Day 2471 – Theology Thursday – Who Wrote the Book of Proverbs? – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible

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Welcome to Day 2471 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – Who Wrote the Book of Proverbs – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible.

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2471

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2471 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 twenty-fourth 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, our lesson is: Who Wrote the Book of Proverbs?

Who Wrote the Book of Proverbs?

The first book of Proverbs announces, “These are the proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel” (compare Prov 10:1; 25:1). By its own testimony, though, the book of Proverbs had many authors: “These are the sayings of the wise [literally, wise ones]” (Prov 24:23). This same idea—that the proverbs in the book were written by several sages—is reiterated in Proverbs 1:6 and 22:17.

But old traditions die hard, and the authorship of these proverbs is still debated. What role did Solomon actually play in writing this Wisdom literature?

Solomon Had a Pen Name?

In some passages of Proverbs, the sages who wrote the book are named. Proverbs 30 was written by Agur, son of Jakeh (30:1), but we know nothing else about him. Some believe Agur is a pen name for Solomon. However, there is little evidence to support this. The name may also be translated more commonly as “the assembler,” which may point to an anonymous collector of proverbs who also wrote chapter 30.

Proverbs 31:1 informs us that King Lemuel wrote the famous chapter about the virtuous woman. In this verse, we learn that Lemuel was taught proverbs by his mother. There is little else known about this elusive king. Jewish tradition views the writer as yet another pen name of Solomon, but there is no reliable proof for this connection.

In the Tradition of Solomon

Proverbs 25:1 provides another insight into authorship: “These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied.” The word translated “copied” can also mean “transcribed.” This suggests that some of the proverbs (perhaps chapters 25-29) were produced by scribes living in the days of Hezekiah (ca. 715-687 bc), after the lifetime of Solomon.

At least one anonymous sage did contribute to Proverbs. Portions of Proverbs 22-23 come from an Egyptian wisdom text composed before Solomon’s lifetime, The Instruction of Amenemope.-

In addition, Proverbs 1:25 appears to be quoting Jeremiah 20:7 and certain portions of Zechariah 7. However, just because there may have been later additions to the book of Proverbs doesn’t mean the entire book is dated later than Solomon. There is also the possibility that Jeremiah and Zechariah were drawing on Proverbs.

In the Tradition of Egypt

Because Proverbs 22-23 draws on an ancient Egyptian wisdom text that pre-dates Solomon, it seems likely that he may be one of the authors (Prov 1:1; 10:1). In addition, the literary patterning in large sections of Proverbs (10:1-22:16) mirrors ancient Egyptian wisdom literature, in which Egyptian scribes gave collections of sayings a formal title and prologue.

So, who wrote these proverbs? Solomon—but he had good (or wise) company.

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!

Day 2470 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 24:1-10 – Daily Wisdom

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Welcome to Day 2470 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 24:1-10

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2470

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2470 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’ll be diving into Psalm 24:1-10 from the New Living Translation—a powerful psalm that celebrates the sovereignty of God as King of all the earth.

Psalm 24 is often associated with the entrance of the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem, which represented the presence of God dwelling with His people. But it also speaks to larger truths about God’s ownership of the world, His holiness, and the triumph of His eternal kingship.

Let’s begin by reading the entire psalm, and then we’ll unpack its rich meaning together.

Psalm 24:1-10 (NLT):

1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.
The world and all its people belong to him.
2 For he laid the earth’s foundation on the seas
and built it on the ocean depths.

3 Who may climb the mountain of the Lord?
Who may stand in his holy place?
4 Only those whose hands and hearts are pure,
who do not worship idols
and never tell lies.
5 They will receive the Lord’s blessing
and have a right relationship with God their savior.
6 Such people may seek you
and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob.

7 Open up, ancient gates!
Open up, ancient doors,
and let the King of glory enter.
8 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord, strong and mighty;
the Lord, invincible in battle.
9 Open up, ancient gates!
Open up, ancient doors,
and let the King of glory enter.
10 Who is the King of glory?
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies—
he is the King of glory.

The Earth is the Lord’s (Verses 1-2):

Psalm 24 opens with a majestic declaration of God’s ownership over the entire earth: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.”

This statement sets the foundation for the entire psalm. It reminds us that everything we see, touch, and experience in this world ultimately belongs to God. The natural world—the mountains, oceans, skies, and forests—all are His creation. But it doesn’t stop there. Everyone who walks the earth, regardless of background, nationality, or belief, also belongs to God.

David, the psalmist, attributes this ownership to God being the Creator of all things: “For he laid the earth’s foundation on the seas and built it on the ocean depths.” This reflects the truth found in Genesis—that in the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth, bringing order to the chaotic waters. The entire universe came into being by His word, and therefore, all creation is subject to His authority.

What a humbling truth! We often fall into the trap of thinking that we own our possessions, our lands, or even our lives. But Psalm 24 reminds us that it all belongs to the Lord. We are stewards of what He has created. This mindset shifts how we view our resources, relationships, and the environment. We are called to care for and honor what God has entrusted to us because it is all His.

Who May Enter the Lord’s Presence? (Verses 3-4):

David then moves from this grand declaration of God’s sovereignty over creation to a question that penetrates to the heart of our relationship with Him: “Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place?”

This question reflects the ancient practice of ascending to the temple, which was often located on a hill or mountain. For David, it was Mount Zion, where the Ark of the Covenant was brought to rest. But the more profound question is about approaching God Himself. Who is worthy to stand before the Lord in His holiness?

Verse 4 gives the answer: “Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies.”

This verse highlights the importance of both outward actions (“hands”) and inward motives (“hearts”). God desires not only external righteousness but also internal purity. It is not enough to simply go through the motions of religious duty. True worshipers are those whose lives are characterized by integrity, honesty, and undivided devotion to God.

David also calls out two specific areas where purity is required: avoiding the worship of idols and living in truth. Idolatry is not just about bowing to physical statues—it’s about anything that takes the place of God in our hearts. It could be money, power, success, or relationships. When we allow anything to become more important than God, we are engaging in idolatry. Similarly, living in truth means being honest in our dealings with others and with ourselves.

This verse challenges us to examine our own lives. Are our hands and hearts pure? Do we worship God with sincerity and truth, or are we holding on to idols and falsehoods? The call to holiness is clear, but as we’ll see in the next verses, God also provides the means for us to live in His presence.

The Blessing of the Righteous (Verses 5-6):

In verses 5 and 6, David continues by describing the blessings that come to those who live righteously: “They will receive the Lord’s blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. Such people may seek you and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob.”

Here, we see a beautiful promise: the Lord will bless those who seek purity and truth. The greatest blessing is the privilege of being in a right relationship with God—the Creator of the universe, the Shepherd of our souls. This relationship is not something we earn through our own efforts, but it is a gift from God, our Savior. He is the one who makes it possible for us to stand in His presence.

The phrase “Such people may seek you and worship in your presence” reminds us that those who pursue righteousness have the incredible privilege of drawing near to God. Worship is not just an outward ritual—it is a heart response to the majesty and holiness of God. When we live lives of integrity, we are invited into a deeper relationship with the Lord, where we can seek Him, know Him, and experience His presence.

The King of Glory (Verses 7-10):

The final section of Psalm 24 takes a dramatic turn as David calls for the gates of the city to be opened wide: “Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter.”

This is a triumphant moment—a proclamation of the arrival of the King of glory. But who is this King of glory? David answers in verse 8: “The Lord, strong and mighty; the Lord, invincible in battle.”

Here, we see a powerful image of God as a victorious warrior. He is not only the Creator and Sustainer of all things but also the mighty King who fights on behalf of His people. The Lord is invincible in battle—no enemy, force, or power can stand against Him. His strength and might are beyond comprehension.

David repeats this call in verse 9, reinforcing the urgency and significance of the moment: “Open up, ancient gates! Open up, ancient doors, and let the King of glory enter.”

This repetition emphasizes the importance of recognizing and welcoming the King of glory into our lives. We must open the gates of our hearts to allow God’s presence to enter in. And again, David asks, “Who is the King of glory?” The answer is given in verse 10: “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies—he is the King of glory.”

This title, “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies,” reminds us of God’s vast power and authority. He commands not only earthly forces but also the armies of heaven. His reign is supreme, and His victory is certain.

Conclusion:

Psalm 24 is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty, holiness, and kingship. From the opening declaration that “The earth is the Lord’s” to the triumphant entry of the King of glory, this psalm calls us to recognize the majesty of our Creator and to respond with lives of purity and worship.

We are invited to climb the mountain of the Lord, to stand in His holy place—but only with clean hands and pure hearts. And as we seek to live lives of integrity and truth, we are promised the blessing of a right relationship with God.

Finally, Psalm 24 challenges us to open the gates of our hearts to the King of glory. He is strong, mighty, and invincible in battle. He is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, and He desires to reign in our lives.

As we conclude today’s trek, I encourage you to reflect on these truths. Let’s strive to live lives of purity and truth, trusting in God’s strength and welcoming His presence into every part of our lives.

Thank you for joining me today on this journey through Psalm 24. Until next time, may you continue to seek wisdom, live with purpose, and walk in the light of God’s truth.

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!

 

Day 2469 – Jesus Christ, Our Lord – Crowning Christ as Lord of All –Colossian 1:15-23

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Welcome to Day 2469 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2469 – Crowning Christ as Lord of All – Daily Wisdom

Putnam Church Message – 09/22/2024

Jesus Christ, Our Lord – Crowning Christ as Lord of All Colossians 1:15-23

Last week, we began the letter of Colossians and ended the first 14 verses encouraging us to pray for three specific items that all believers need. Pray for knowledge, Pray for God-honoring lives, and Pray for strength.

Today’s passage is Colossians 1:15-23, on page 1832 of your Pew Bibles. This section is titled Christ is Supreme. I am reading from the NLT.

15 Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.
He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation,[e]
16 for through him God created everything
in the heavenly realms and on earth.
He made the things we can see
and the things we can’t see—
such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world.
Everything was created through him and for him.
17 He existed before anything else,
and he holds all creation together.
18 Christ is also the head of the church,
which is his body.
He is the beginning,
supreme over all who rise from the dead.[f]
So he is first in everything.
19 For God in all his fullness
was pleased to live in Christ,
20 and through him God reconciled
everything to himself.
He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth
by means of Christ’s blood on the cross.

21 This includes you who were once far away from God. You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. 22 Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault.

23 But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News. The Good News has been preached all over the world, and I, Paul, have been appointed as God’s servant to proclaim it.

The hymn that comes to mind with this passage is also our closing hymn today. “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.” It is referred to as the “Diadem” or  “National Anthem of Christendom.” All hail the power of Jesus’ name! Let angels prostrate fall. Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown him Lord of all. Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown him Lord of all!

The writing of such God-exalting hymns has gone on for millennia. Throughout the Old Testament, we find songs composed to praise and thank the Lord for His marvelous works. The book of Psalms is an entire inspired collection of ancient hymns that many churches still set to music and sing in worship services. For two thousand years, gifted Christian songwriters and composers have been writing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs for worshiping the Lord through music (see Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16).

As we turn our attention to Colossians 1:15–20, we find embedded in this little letter one of the earliest distinctly Christian hymns written in praise of Christ. Like “The Diadem,” its purpose was to “hail the power of Jesus’ name” and to “crown Him Lord of all.” Its words are packed with deep reverence for Christ and profound theological truth. It focuses on His unique person and work, underscoring the absolute sufficiency of Christ as Lord.

—1:15–20—

Most scholars today agree that Colossians 1:15–20 contains a first-century hymn to Christ. Many Bibles structure these verses in the form of poetry, with the indentation of separate stanzas. This is how it is listed in the NLT. This hymn was either written by Paul or, more likely, adapted by Paul from a hymn previously written by another apostle, prophet, or early church leader.

Like most great hymns of the faith, Paul’s hymn in Colossians 1 centers on the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. This passage is one of the most extraordinary statements in all of Scripture regarding the authority, supremacy, headship, and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. For a church struggling with forms of false teaching that were shifting the attention from the central truths of the gospel of Christ toward mythical, mystical, and mysterious speculations, Paul used this memorable hymn to refocus all eyes on Jesus. (Bulletin)

I see six realms in this hymn in which Christ is supreme. I’ll treat these topically to see what Paul asserts regarding Christ rather than moving through the passage in strict order.

First, Christ is supreme in eternity (1:15, 17). Paul establishes Christ’s eternal relationship with the Father, affirming that God the Son “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God.” (1:15). God, who is by nature utterly transcendent and unable to be looked at by finite mortals, has made known His attributes, character, power, will, and works through His Son. Hebrews 1:3 conveys a parallel idea: The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God. He is equal to the Father. The point for Paul’s original readers—and us—is clear: To truly know God, we must focus on God the Son, through whom the transcendent Godhead has been revealed.

Christ also “existed before anything else” (Col. 1:17). Before planets, before galaxies, before matter and energy, before time and space—as far back as our finite minds can hope to imagine—God the Son was already there. Theologians call this the “coeternality” of the Son with the Father. Although not addressed in this Christ hymn, the Holy Spirit, too, is coeternal with the Father and Son. Never was the eternal Father without His eternal Son and eternal Spirit. All things visible and invisible originate from the Father, through the Son, and by the Holy Spirit.

Second, Christ is supreme in creation (1:15–17). Not only is Christ the visible image of the invisible God.” but He is “supreme over all creation,[e]” (1:15). Paul explains, “for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth.” (1:16). Paul notes that He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. In short, nothing—from subatomic particles to massive galaxies—exists apart from His creative power. This thought is similar to a statement in the opening lines of the Gospel of John: “God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.” (John 1:3).

Paul then adds, “He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.” (1:17). This statement is true both literally and figuratively. All things in heaven and earth are literally held together by Christ’s supreme authority over all creation. The author of Hebrews puts it this way: “he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command” (Heb. 1:3). Figuratively, all things hold together as a meaningful whole because of Christ. That is, they find their ultimate meaning and purpose in Him, because all things were created not only “by Him” and “through Him” but also “for Him.”

Third, Christ is supreme in the church (Col. 1:18). Having presented a clear picture of Christ’s absolute supremacy over time and space (1:15–17), Paul brings the cosmic and abstract down to an area more tangible for his readers. Remember, believers have been rescued “from the domain of darkness” and transferred into “the kingdom of the Son he loves” (1:13). We are no longer subject to sin and the evil forces of the world. We who are in the church are now under Christ…the head of the church (1:18).

Although Paul doesn’t elaborate on the image of the “body of Christ” here, he does so in other writings, especially in letters to the Corinthians and the Ephesians. In Ephesians, the portrayal of the headship of Christ over the body emphasizes not only His sole authority over the church but also the unity of the members with one another (see Eph. 1:22–23; 4:15–16; 5:23). The unity of the body of Christ isn’t comparable to the unity of a man-made society like a club or organization. Instead, the Holy Spirit baptizes believers into spiritual union with Christ (1 Cor. 12:13), joining them all into one spiritual body, united to Christ as the head. Note that Christ—and Christ alone—is the head of the church. Not a pastor or a pope. Not a council or a congregation. Not elders or deacons or bishops. Not an archbishop or a monarch. Though Christ has established undershepherds to carry out His earthly ministry (Eph. 4:11–12; 1 Pet. 5:1–3), He is the “Chief Shepherd” (1 Pet. 5:4). The church must never surrender the headship of the church to anyone but Christ alone.

Fourth, Christ is supreme in resurrection (Col. 1:18). Paul doesn’t mean that Christ was the first one to experience a restoration to bodily life after dying. In the Old Testament, the prophet Elisha prayed to the Lord to restore life to a dead child (2 Kgs. 4:32–37). And during His earthly ministry, Jesus also raised the dead as a sign of the coming kingdom (Matt. 11:5; Mark 5:35–43; Luke 7:11–17; John 11:41–44). However, in each of these cases, those restored to mortal bodies were again subject to death. Their resurrections were temporary resuscitations.

The resurrection of Christ, however, was the first of its kind. He was raised in a glorious, incorruptible body that could never again suffer death. “Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.” (1 Cor. 15:20). Later in 1 Corinthians 15, Paul compares the present body with the future resurrection body, demonstrating the qualitative difference between the two: Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever. 43 Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. They are buried in weakness, but they will be raised in strength. (1 Cor. 15:42–43).

Because Christ’s resurrection is superior to death, death has lost its sting (1 Cor. 15:55). Because He is our head, we are united with Him in all things, including the experience of our own glorious resurrection. In Philippians 3:21, Paul says, He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control. This means we should no longer fear death. If we are in Christ—united to Him by the Holy Spirit through faith—we have absolute confidence in our own resurrection. Because of the supremacy of Christ in resurrection, we, too, have victory over death.

Fifth, Christ is supreme in redemption (Col. 1:19–20). In these last two verses of the Christ hymn, Paul describes in two statements the person of Christ in relation to His work of redemption. First, For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ, (1:19). Second, because of who He is—fully divine and fully human— and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. (1:20).

Since the fall of Adam, all of humanity has been in disharmony with God. However, because of Christ’s substitutionary death in our place—the righteous for the unrighteous—we have been reconciled with God (see 2 Cor. 5:18–21). In our helpless, hopeless state, God took the initiative to make peace by means of Christ’s blood on the cross. (Col. 1:20). Our whole being—body and soul—is saved by the work of Christ.

Sixth, Christ is supreme in everything (1:18). At the heart of the Christ hymn, Paul makes the ultimate statement for Christ’s all-supremacy: So he is first in everything. Because of who Christ is and what He has done, we can surrender everything to Him. Over little things and big things, over the past, present, and future, and over things seen and unseen—Jesus Christ is Lord. He is to have first place in everything.

—1:21–23—

The resounding chorus of the Christ hymn reached its climax in 1:20. With the profound lyrics still echoing in the air, Paul picks up the theme of Christ’s work of reconciliation and turns it into a personal challenge for his readers and for us. The hymn of Colossians 1:15–20 has spoken generally of “all things,” “the church,” and “the dead.” Now Paul moves from the general to the particular, from the universal to the personal, with one little phrase: This includes you.

All of us, being sinful by nature and by choice, need reconciliation. It isn’t enough to think Christ has abstractly reconciled heaven and earth through His incarnation, death, and resurrection. This reconciliation must be made personal and practical. The Colossians experienced this when they received reconciliation with God by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. Those who were once far away from God manifested in wickedness (1:21). Paul didn’t have to make a list of their sins; You were his enemies, separated from him by your evil thoughts and actions. But when the reconciliation Christ accomplished| became theirs through His sacrificial death for them, |their transformation from sinful to holy had begun. The purpose of their salvation was not only forgiveness of sins<(1:14). Yet now he has reconciled you to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body. As a result, he has brought you into his own presence, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before him without a single fault. <(1:22).

Whatever the specific danger threatening some among the Colossian church, Paul saw the need to add a sobering warning to this positive statement. He says, But you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. (1:23). At first glance, this conditional phrase seems to suggest that if they failed to continue steadfastly in faith and hope, then they would lose their salvation and forfeit their reconciliation with God, once again becoming alienated and hostile toward the One who had redeemed them. Does this mean that our salvation is ultimately based on our own faithfulness?

It is true that an “if” phrase can sometimes indicate that kind of conditional relationship, as in the statement every child dreads: “If you eat your vegetables, then you can have ice cream.” The implication is clear: If you don’t eat the green food, no dessert for you! However, an “if” phrase can also be used to demonstrate the genuineness of something, as in the declaration, “If you can play this rhapsody by Franz Liszt, then you’re a real pianist.” Playing the music doesn’t make you a pianist; being a true pianist is evidenced by playing a difficult piece. This is how Paul is using the “if” phrase here. He’s saying that if the Colossians persevere in their original faith and hope, it will prove they are truly members of the body of Christ. Paul set the record straight with the Christ hymn in 1:15–20 and a personal application in 1:21–23. Jesus Christ was sufficient as their supreme Lord.

Application: COLOSSIANS 1:15–23

We Need to Stand Firm in the Faith

After proclaiming the absolute superiority of Christ over everything (1:15–20), Paul places a burden on his readers; you must continue to believe this truth and stand firmly in it. Don’t drift away from the assurance you received when you heard the Good News.  (1:23). As we are reminded in Jude 1:24, God is ultimately responsible for preserving us: He is referred to as “Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault.” It is not us but God. However, He has also called us to faithfulness and perseverance in order that we might receive the abundant blessings of the Christian life.

Both of these aspects of perseverance are needed. We rest in the security of our salvation by grace through faith, and we take responsibility to walk with integrity before God by the power of the Spirit, knowing that God is working His power in and through us. But what specifically should we do to stand firm in the faith, according to Paul’s message in Colossians 1:15–23? Let me suggest a couple of practical instructions that true believers in Christ can adhere to in their desire to continue steadfastly in faith and hope.

First, make Christ first in everything. Think of how it would completely revolutionize our lives if we began each day with the words “Christ is supreme over …” If the significance of this reality isn’t sinking in, let me give you some specific examples of the “everything” over which Christ is to take the first place:

  • our plans and decisions
  • our words and actions
  • our thoughts and emotions
  • our food and drink
  • our homes and families
  • our careers and pastimes
  • our churches and ministries
  • our schedules and disruptions
  • our priorities and passions
  • our hardships and struggles
  • our victories and successes

Christ has this world under control—every moment of every day. Remind yourself of that truth. If you’ve come to Christ by grace through faith, trusting in Him alone as Savior, why wouldn’t you submit to Him alone as Lord of every aspect of your life?

Second, refocus your attention on Christ. Note that the center of the hymn in Colossians 1:15–20 is Him, not us. It isn’t God’s creatures, but the Creator. It isn’t salvation, but the Savior. Christ and Christ alone should be the focus of our attention in worship. In Colossians 1:21–23, the emphasis is on “the faith” and “the hope of the gospel.” This isn’t a general faith or a subjective trust in ourselves, but the faith—the truth about the person and work of Jesus Christ. It’s what Jude called “urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people.” (Jude 1:3). And this isn’t vague hope, blind optimism, or wishful thinking, but the hope—the promise of salvation through the person and work of Christ. He must be the focus of our attention.

How easy it is for us to become inward-focused and concerned about our own wants, needs, and desires! And how often we become distracted by things around us that attract our attention and command our allegiance! Even in our churches, we can buy into ministry models that focus on pastors, musicians, programs, or productions that draw attention to themselves rather than point to the faith and hope of Jesus Christ.

When we make Christ first in everything and refocus our attention on Him, we can stand firm in the faith and be presented holy, blameless, and beyond reproach before Him (Col. 1:22).

Next week, we will continue our series in the letter to the Colossians. The first section is Jesus Christ, Our Lord, and the message is titled ‘A Precise Explanation of Ministry’ Invest time reading Colossians 1:24-29 for next week’s message.

Day 2468 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 23:1-6 – Daily Wisdom

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Welcome to Day 2468 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 23:1-6

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2468

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2468 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 are diving into one of the most cherished and well-known passages in all of Scripture—Psalm 23.

This psalm, written by David, is often called “The Shepherd’s Psalm,” and for good reason. It paints a beautiful picture of God as our caring and protective shepherd, guiding us through the ups and downs of life. Whether you’re familiar with these verses or hearing them for the first time, I believe Psalm 23 holds timeless truths that can bring peace and reassurance to our souls.

Today, we will focus on Psalm 23:1-6 from the New Living Translation. We’ll walk through these six powerful verses, reflecting on the profound truths they convey, and how they apply to our lives. So, let’s begin by reading the passage in full.

Psalm 23:1-6 (NLT):

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
4 Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.

5 You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

The Lord is My Shepherd (Verse 1):

The psalm begins with one of the most profound declarations in all Scripture: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” In just a few words, David paints a powerful picture of God’s relationship with His people. He identifies the Lord as his shepherd, who watches over, protects, and provides for him.

In the ancient world, shepherds were responsible for the safety and well-being of their sheep. They guided their flocks to food and water, protected them from danger, and ensured they didn’t wander off into harm. David, having been a shepherd himself in his youth, understood the responsibilities of a shepherd and knew the intimate care required for the sheep.

David acknowledges that he is under God’s care by calling God his shepherd. He trusts that the Lord will meet all his physical and spiritual needs. The phrase “I have all that I need” reflects a sense of complete contentment. When God is our shepherd, we lack nothing. We may not always have everything we want, but we will always have everything we need.

This verse invites us to consider the same truth in our own lives. When we allow the Lord to shepherd us, to guide and direct us, we can trust that He will provide for us in every situation. We can rest in the assurance that we are cared for by the Creator of the universe.

Rest, Peace, and Restoration (Verses 2-3):

In verses 2 and 3, David elaborates on the blessings that come from having the Lord as our shepherd. “He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength.” These verses speak of God’s provision of rest, peace, and restoration.

Sheep, like us, need rest. A good shepherd ensures the flock is well-fed and watered, providing peaceful places to rest. David describes God leading him to “green meadows” and “peaceful streams,” imagery that evokes a sense of tranquility and care. In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, this is a beautiful reminder that God provides not just for our physical needs but for our need for peace and rest as well.

“He renews my strength” speaks to God’s ability to refresh and restore us when we’re weary. Life can be exhausting, and there are times when we feel depleted—physically, emotionally, or spiritually. But when we come to the Lord, He renews us. He gives us the strength we need to continue the journey.

In addition to renewing our strength, God “guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.” The shepherd’s role is to lead the sheep on safe and proper paths—paths that will protect the sheep and reflect the shepherd’s care and wisdom. Likewise, God guides us in the way we should go. When we follow His leading, we bring honor to His name. Our lives, lived obedient to Him, reflect His goodness and faithfulness.

Comfort in the Darkest Valleys (Verse 4):

As much as Psalm 23 speaks of peace and rest, it also acknowledges that life will not always be easy. In verse 4, David writes, “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”

Dark valleys are an inevitable part of life. We will face challenges, pain, loss, and uncertainty. But in these moments, we are not abandoned. David declares that he will not be afraid even in the darkest valley. Why? Because the Lord, his shepherd, is with him. The presence of God makes all the difference.

Notice that David doesn’t say we avoid the dark valleys. Instead, he acknowledges that we walk through them. Life’s difficulties must be faced, but we do not face them alone. God’s presence is a source of comfort and protection. The rod and the staff were tools of a shepherd—used both to defend the sheep from predators and to guide them back on track if they strayed. In the same way, God protects and guides us through life’s darkest moments.

The assurance of God’s presence should bring us comfort and confidence. No matter what we are going through or how deep the valley or how dark the night is, we can trust that God is with us, leading us, protecting us, and giving us the strength to keep moving forward.

A Feast in the Presence of Enemies (Verse 5):

In verse 5, David shifts from the imagery of the shepherd to that of a host: “You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.”

This is a striking image. As the gracious host, God prepares a feast for David—not in the absence of his enemies, but in their presence. Despite the opposition and threats around him, David enjoys the abundance and blessing of God. This speaks to the victory and peace that God provides, even amid conflict or adversity. When we trust in God, we can experience His provision and blessing, no matter the circumstances.

The act of anointing the head with oil was a sign of honor and blessing in ancient times. By anointing David, God is showing favor and care. And the image of the cup overflowing with blessings reminds us that God’s provision is not just enough—it is abundant. When we walk with God, His blessings overflow in our lives, spilling over into every area.

Goodness, Unfailing Love, and Eternity (Verse 6):

Psalm 23 concludes with a beautiful promise in verse 6: “Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.”

Here, David expresses confidence in God’s ongoing care. God’s goodness and unfailing love, or mercy, will pursue him throughout his life. This is not a passive kind of love; it is active and relentless. God’s goodness and love will chase after us, following us wherever we go. We can trust that, no matter what life brings, God’s love will be with us every step of the way.

The psalm ends with the ultimate hope: “I will live in the house of the Lord forever.” This speaks to both the present and the future. In the present, David finds joy and fulfillment in being in God’s presence. But it also points to our eternal hope as believers—to dwell with God forever in His heavenly kingdom.

This final verse reminds us that our relationship with God is not limited to this life. His care, love, and provision extend beyond the here and now into eternity. As we follow Him, we have the assurance that we will one day live with Him forever, in His house, enjoying His presence and peace for all time.

Conclusion:

Psalm 23 is a psalm of trust and assurance. In these six short verses, David reminds us of the faithful care of the Lord—our shepherd, guide, and protector. We can trust God to provide for our needs, to lead us in the right paths, to be with us in the darkest valleys, and to bless us abundantly, even in the presence of our enemies. His goodness and love will pursue us all the days of our lives, and we have the hope of dwelling with Him forever.

As you reflect on Psalm 23, I encourage you to take comfort in the truth that God is with you, guiding and protecting you each step of the way. No matter what you are facing, you are not alone. Your shepherd is leading you, and His goodness and love are always with you.

Thank you for joining me on this leg of our journey through the Psalms. Until next time, may you continue to seek God’s wisdom, live with purpose, and walk in the peace and assurance of God’s unfailing love.

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!