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Day 2413 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 7:1-5 – Daily Wisdom

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Welcome to Day 2413 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 7:1-5

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2413

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2413 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 will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re delving into Psalm 7:1-5 from the New Living Translation. This Psalm is a passionate prayer of David, expressing his plea for God’s justice and deliverance in the face of false accusations and persecution. Let’s explore these verses together and uncover their profound insights for our spiritual journey.

Psalm 7:1-5 (NLT):

1 I come to you for protection, O Lord my God. Save me from my persecutors—rescue me! 2 If you don’t, they will maul me like a lion, tearing me to pieces with no one to rescue me. 3 O Lord my God, if I have done wrong or am guilty of injustice, 4 if I have betrayed a friend or plundered my enemy without cause, 5 then let my enemies capture me. Let them trample me into the ground and drag my honor in the dust. Interlude

A Cry for Protection:

David begins this Psalm with a desperate plea for protection: “I come to you for protection, O Lord my God. Save me from my persecutors—rescue me!” (verse 1). In this opening verse, David seeks refuge in God, recognizing that only God can provide the protection and deliverance he desperately needs. David’s use of “O Lord my God” signifies a personal relationship with God, highlighting his deep trust and reliance on Him.

David’s plea for rescue is urgent because he feels the imminent threat of his enemies. He understands that without God’s intervention, his persecutors will “maul me like a lion, tearing me to pieces with no one to rescue me” (verse 2). The vivid imagery of being mauled by a lion emphasizes the severity of the danger he faces and his utter helplessness without God’s protection.

These verses serve as a powerful reminder to seek God’s protection in times of trouble. When we face threats or persecution, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, we can turn to God, our protector, and trust in His ability to rescue us from harm. David’s example encourages us to cultivate a personal relationship with God, one that is rooted in trust and reliance on His strength and deliverance.

A Declaration of Innocence:

In verses 3-5, David boldly declares his innocence: “O Lord my God, if I have done wrong or am guilty of injustice, if I have betrayed a friend or plundered my enemy without cause, then let my enemies capture me. Let them trample me into the ground and drag my honor in the dust.” This declaration reflects David’s confidence in his own integrity and his willingness to face the consequences if he is found guilty of wrongdoing.

David addresses specific accusations: wrongdoing, injustice, betrayal, and plundering. By listing these potential sins, he is essentially opening himself up to God’s scrutiny and judgment. He is willing to accept whatever consequences come his way if he is guilty. This level of transparency and accountability before God is a testament to David’s character and desire for righteousness.

David’s appeal is a plea for justice and a declaration of his commitment to living a life that honors God. He is confident that he has not wronged others and that any accusations against him are baseless. This confidence allows him to boldly ask God to vindicate and protect him from his enemies.

For us, David’s example is a call to live with integrity and to be willing to stand before God with a clear conscience. It encourages us to examine our lives, confess and repent of any wrongdoing, and strive for righteousness. When we face false accusations or unjust persecution, we can take comfort knowing that God is our ultimate judge and defender.

Trust in God’s Justice:

David’s declaration of innocence and his plea for protection are rooted in his trust in God’s justice. He knows God is a righteous judge who will vindicate the innocent and bring justice to the oppressed. This trust in God’s justice allows David to confidently place his situation in God’s hands and seek His intervention.

For us, trusting in God’s justice means believing He will right the wrongs we face and defend us against false accusations and unjust persecution. It means relinquishing our desire for revenge and allowing God to be our defender and judge. This trust frees us from the burden of seeking justice and will enable us to rest in God’s righteous and fair judgment.

Lessons for Our Journey:

As we reflect on Psalm 7:1-5, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

  1. Seek God’s Protection: In times of trouble and persecution, turn to God for protection and deliverance, trusting in His strength and ability to rescue us from harm.
  2. Live with Integrity: Strive to live a life that honors God, be willing to stand before Him with a clear conscience, and accept accountability for our actions.
  3. Trust in God’s Justice: Believe in God’s righteous judgment and trust that He will vindicate the innocent and bring justice to the oppressed.
  4. Cultivate a Personal Relationship with God: Develop a deep, personal relationship with God rooted in trust and reliance on His protection and deliverance.

Applying These Lessons:

Applying these lessons to our daily lives can transform our relationship with God and others. Seeking God’s protection in times of trouble deepens our trust in His strength and deliverance. Living with integrity encourages us to strive for righteousness and to be willing to stand before God with a clear conscience.

Trusting in God’s justice frees us from the burden of seeking our revenge and allows us to rest in His righteous judgment. Cultivating a personal relationship with God helps us develop a deep trust and reliance on Him, knowing He is our protector and defender.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 7:1-5, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Seek God’s protection, live with integrity, trust in His justice, and cultivate a personal relationship with Him. By doing so, we align ourselves with this Psalm’s timeless wisdom and navigate life’s complexities with faith and assurance.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 7 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

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 2412 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 6:1-10 – Daily Wisdom

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Welcome to Day 2412 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 6:1-10

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2412

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2412 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 will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re delving into Psalm 6:1-10 from the New Living Translation. This Psalm is David’s heartfelt prayer, expressing deep sorrow and an emotional plea for God’s mercy and deliverance. Let’s explore these verses together and discover their profound insights for our spiritual journey.

Psalm 6:1-10 (NLT):

1 O Lord, don’t rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your rage. 2 Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. 3 I am sick at heart. How long, O Lord, until you restore me?

4 Return, O Lord, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love. 5 For the dead do not remember you. Who can praise you from the grave?

6 I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears. 7 My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.

8 Go away, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my weeping. 9 The Lord has heard my plea; the Lord will answer my prayer. 10 May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame.

A Cry for Mercy:

David begins this Psalm with a heartfelt cry to God: “O Lord, don’t rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your rage. Have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. I am sick at heart. How long, O Lord, until you restore me?” (verses 1-3).

Here, David is acutely aware of his own frailty and the weight of God’s discipline. He pleads for mercy, recognizing that he is weak and in desperate need of God’s compassion and healing. This plea is for physical healing and spiritual and emotional restoration.

David’s cry, “How long, O Lord, until you restore me?” echoes a deep sense of longing and urgency. It reminds us that in times of distress, it’s natural to feel impatient and to question how long our suffering will last. Yet, this questioning also reveals a trust in God’s ability to restore and heal.

These verses serve as a powerful reminder to turn to God in our moments of weakness and seek His mercy and healing. When we feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face, we can come before God with honesty and vulnerability, trusting in His compassion and unfailing love.

A Plea for Deliverance:

David continues his prayer in verses 4 and 5 with a plea for deliverance: “Return, O Lord, and rescue me. Save me because of your unfailing love. For the dead do not remember you. Who can praise you from the grave?”

In these verses, David appeals to God’s unfailing love as the basis for his plea for rescue. He understands that only through God’s intervention can he be saved from his dire situation. David’s reference to the dead not remembering God or praising Him from the grave highlights his desire to continue living a life that honors and glorifies God.

This plea underscores the importance of God’s presence and deliverance in our lives. It reminds us that our ability to worship and praise God is rooted in His sustaining grace and love. When we find ourselves in desperate situations, we can call upon God to rescue us, confident that His love for us is unwavering.

This means recognizing our dependence on God’s deliverance and seeking His help in times of need. It’s about trusting that His love will carry us through and enable us to live lives that reflect His glory and goodness.

Expressions of Deep Sorrow:

In verses 6 and 7, David vividly expresses his sorrow and anguish: “I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears. My vision is blurred by grief; my eyes are worn out because of all my enemies.”

These verses capture the depth of David’s emotional and physical exhaustion. His continuous weeping and blurred vision from grief paint a powerful picture of his profound distress. The mention of his enemies adds to the weight of his sorrow, as he feels surrounded and overwhelmed by those who oppose him.

David’s raw honesty in expressing his pain serves as a model for us. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to pour our hearts to God and acknowledge the depth of our suffering. God invites us to bring our pain and sorrow to Him, knowing He is a compassionate and understanding Father.

This means embracing the freedom to be honest with God about our struggles and emotions. It’s about trusting that He cares deeply for us and is present with us in our moments of deepest sorrow.

Assurance of God’s Response:

David’s tone shifts in verses 8 and 9 as he declares his confidence in God’s response: “Go away, all you who do evil, for the Lord has heard my weeping. The Lord has heard my plea; the Lord will answer my prayer.”

In these verses, David’s assurance of God’s hearing and responding to his prayers brings a sense of hope and strength. He boldly addresses his enemies, confident that God has heard his cries and will act on his behalf. This declaration of faith highlights David’s trust in God’s faithfulness and justice.

This assurance encourages us to have confidence in God’s responsiveness to our prayers. When we bring our concerns and pleas to Him, we can trust He hears us and will answer according to His perfect will. This trust in God’s faithfulness strengthens us to face our challenges with hope and courage.

A Prayer for Justice:

David concludes this Psalm with a prayer for justice in verse 10: “May all my enemies be disgraced and terrified. May they suddenly turn back in shame.”

This closing verse reflects David’s desire for his enemies to be held accountable for their actions. He prays that they will experience disgrace and fear, ultimately leading them to turn back in shame. David’s plea for justice underscores his trust in God’s righteous judgment.

For us, this verse serves as a reminder to trust in God’s justice and to bring our concerns about wrongdoing and opposition to Him. It’s about believing God will address injustice and act according to His righteousness. This trust frees us from the burden of seeking revenge and allows us to rest in God’s sovereign judgment.

Lessons for Our Journey:

As we reflect on Psalm 6:1-10, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

  1. Seek God’s Mercy: In moments of weakness and distress, we can turn to God with honesty and vulnerability, seeking His mercy and healing.
  2. Trust in God’s Deliverance: Recognize our dependence on God’s intervention and trust in His unfailing love to rescue us from our dire situations.
  3. Be Honest About Our Sorrow: Embrace the freedom to express our pain and sorrow to God, knowing that He cares deeply for us and is present with us in our suffering.
  4. Have Confidence in God’s Response: Trust that God hears our prayers and will respond according to His perfect will, bringing hope and strength to face our challenges.
  5. Trust in God’s Justice: Bring our concerns about injustice and opposition to God, believing He will address them according to His righteous judgment.

Applying These Lessons:

Applying these lessons to our daily lives can transform our relationship with God and others. Seeking God’s mercy in our moments of weakness deepens our dependence on His grace. Trusting in His deliverance helps us navigate life’s challenges with faith in His unfailing love.

Being honest about our sorrow allows us to experience God’s comfort and presence in our suffering. Having confidence in God’s response strengthens our hope and courage, enabling us to face our trials with assurance. Trusting in God’s justice frees us from the burden of revenge and allows us to rest in His righteous judgment.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 6:1-10, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Seek God’s mercy, trust in His deliverance, be honest about your sorrow, have confidence in His response, and trust in His justice. By doing so, we align ourselves with this Psalm’s timeless wisdom and navigate life’s complexities with faith and assurance.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 6 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

 

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 2411 – Theology Thursday –Love Potion: Number 5 – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible

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Welcome to Day 2411 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – Love Potion: Number 5 – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2411

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2411 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 twelfth 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, Love Potion: Number 5.

When was the last time you heard a sermon on Numbers 5:11-31?

One of the things I enjoy telling people in conversations about Bible study is that “if it’s weird, it’s important.” This passage certainly qualifies in both respects. The strangeness of the passage is easily detectable, but only careful Bible study makes its importance apparent.

Numbers 5:11-31 describes a water ritual to determine the guilt or innocence of a woman suspected of adultery. A husband is to bring the wife under suspicion to the priest, along with a required grain offering that will “bring iniquity to remembrance.” The priest, in turn, prepares a jar of water mixed with dust from the Tabernacle (5:16-17). To this mixture is added the curses against her written “in a book” (5:23). Either the curses were written and erased, so that the erasures are swept into the water mixture, or the ink is washed off into the water mixture. The woman is compelled to drink the concoction after saying “Amen, Amen” in response to the priest’s invocation of blessing or cursing upon her, depending on her innocence or guilt. If she is guilty, the ingested mixture will cause pain and sterility; if there is no such reaction, she is deemed innocent (5:27-31).

Since the instructions in Numbers 5 were given by God (5:11), the water ordeal is a means of divination, whereby it is expected that God will use the ritual to answer a question human beings cannot. That the Israelites could use such divination comes as no surprise, as the high priest had the Urim and Thummim at his disposal, and various biblical characters utilize the casting of lots for discerning the mind of God on a matter (Josh 18:6-8: Prov 16:33: Acts 1:26).

This passage provides a useful starting point for discussing why biblical characters were permitted to practice divination at all, when elsewhere such methods are condemned (e.g., Deut 18:9-14). But let’s instead focus on one practical implication of this passage.

Students of the Bible know that adultery was punishable by death in ancient Israel (Lev 20:10-11). Surprisingly, death is not the penalty for the guilty woman in Numbers 5:11-31. The normal word for adultery (na’af)— the word used in connection with the death penalty—does not occur in this passage, further distancing it from being a capital crime. Why these discrepancies?

The answer lies in the fact that the guilty woman was not discovered in the act of adultery (5:13). Since this is the case, the community and, particularly, the angry husband, is effectively prohibited by the law of the water ordeal from taking matters into their own hands. This would serve as a protection for women suspected of adultery, or who might be the target of someone’s animosity or jealousy. The point is that secret adultery can and will be punished only by God.

 

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 2410 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 5:7-12 – Daily Wisdom

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Welcome to Day 2410 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 5:7-12

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2410

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2410 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 will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Today, we’re delving into Psalm 5:7-12 from the New Living Translation. In this part of the Psalm, David continues his prayer, focusing on God’s steadfast love, guidance, protection, and justice. Let’s walk through these verses together and uncover the rich insights they offer.

Psalm 5:7-12 (NLT):

7 Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house; I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe. 8 Lead me in the right path, O Lord, or my enemies will conquer me. Make your way plain for me to follow.

9 My enemies cannot speak a truthful word. Their deepest desire is to destroy others. Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with flattery.

10 O God, declare them guilty. Let them be caught in their own traps. Drive them away because of their many sins, for they have rebelled against you.

11 But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. 12 For you bless the godly, O Lord; you surround them with your shield of love.

Worship and Awe:

David begins this segment of the Psalm with a profound acknowledgment of God’s unfailing love: “Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house; I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe” (verse 7). This verse highlights David’s awareness that it is only through God’s steadfast love that he can come into His presence and worship.

David’s response to God’s love is one of reverence and awe. Worship, for David, is not a casual act but one filled with deep respect and amazement at God’s goodness and grace. This teaches us that our worship should stem from understanding God’s unfailing love for us. Recognizing His grace and mercy should fill us with awe and gratitude, prompting us to approach Him with a heart full of reverence.

In our own lives, it’s important to remember that worship is a response to God’s love. When we gather to worship, whether in a church setting or our personal devotions, we should do so with a heart that is deeply aware of His love and grace. This awareness transforms our worship from a routine activity into a profound encounter with the divine.

Seeking Guidance:

David continues in verse 8 with a plea for guidance: “Lead me in the right path, O Lord, or my enemies will conquer me. Make your way plain for me to follow.” This request underscores David’s dependence on God for direction and protection. He acknowledges the presence of his enemies and recognizes that without God’s guidance, he is vulnerable to their attacks.

This verse highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance in our daily lives. Just as David needed God’s direction to navigate the threats he faced, we, too, need God’s wisdom to navigate the challenges and decisions we encounter. Asking God to lead us on the right path and make His way plain for us is a powerful prayer demonstrating our trust in His sovereignty and wisdom.

For us, seeking God’s guidance means regularly turning to Him in prayer, studying His Word, and being attentive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit. It’s about inviting God to direct our steps and trusting His path is best for us, even when we don’t fully understand where it will lead.

The Nature of Enemies:

In verses 9 and 10, David describes the nature of his enemies and calls for God’s justice: “My enemies cannot speak a truthful word. Their deepest desire is to destroy others. Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with flattery. O God, declare them guilty. Let them be caught in their own traps. Drive them away because of their many sins, for they have rebelled against you.”

David paints a vivid picture of his enemies’ deceitful and destructive nature. Their words are filled with lies and flattery, aimed at causing harm and leading others astray. This description highlights the destructive power of deceitful speech and the harm it can cause.

David’s plea for God to declare his enemies guilty and to let them be caught in their own traps reflects his desire for divine justice. He recognizes that his enemies are not just opposing him, but they are rebelling against God. This calls for God’s intervention and judgment.

These verses remind us of the destructive nature of deceit and the importance of truthfulness. They also encourage us to trust in God’s justice when we face opposition or deceit from others. Instead of seeking revenge, we can bring our concerns to God, trusting Him to deal with those who act unjustly.

Rejoicing in Refuge:

David shifts his focus in verses 11 and 12 to those who take refuge in God: “But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. For you bless the godly, O Lord; you surround them with your shield of love.”

These verses are a beautiful declaration of the joy and protection that come from taking refuge in God. David calls for those who seek shelter in God to rejoice and sing joyful praises forever. This joy stems from the assurance of God’s protection and the blessing that comes from loving His name.

The imagery of God spreading His protection over His people and surrounding them with His shield of love is deeply comforting. It assures us that when we seek refuge in God, we are protected and blessed with His love and joy.

This means that in times of trouble or uncertainty, we can find joy and security in God’s presence. Taking refuge in Him involves trusting in His protection and resting in His love. It also means rejoicing and praising Him for His faithfulness and goodness.

Lessons for Our Journey:

As we reflect on Psalm 5:7-12, several key lessons emerge that we can apply to our own lives:

  1. Worship with Reverence: Recognize God’s unfailing love and approach Him with a heart full of reverence and awe. Let your worship be a profound response to His grace and goodness.
  2. Seek God’s Guidance: Regularly turn to God in prayer, seeking His direction for your life. Trust that His path is the best one for you, even when it’s unclear where it will lead.
  3. Trust in God’s Justice: When faced with deceit and opposition, bring your concerns to God and trust in His justice. Avoid seeking revenge and rely on God to deal with those who act unjustly.
  4. Rejoice in God’s Refuge: Find joy and security in God’s presence, especially in times of trouble. Trust in His protection and love, and let your heart be filled with praise for His faithfulness.

Applying These Lessons:

Applying these lessons to our daily lives can transform our relationship with God and others. Worshiping with reverence deepens our connection with God and reminds us of His unfailing love. Seeking His guidance helps us navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and trust in His sovereignty.

Trusting in God’s justice frees us from the burden of seeking revenge and allows us to rest in His righteous judgment. Rejoicing in God’s refuge fills our hearts with joy and peace, even under challenging circumstances, as we trust in His protection and love.

Conclusion:

As we conclude our exploration of Psalm 5:7-12, let’s carry these lessons with us on our journey. Worship reverently, seek God’s guidance, trust His justice, and rejoice in His refuge. By doing so, we align ourselves with this Psalm’s timeless wisdom and navigate life’s complexities with faith and assurance.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of Wisdom-Trek. May these insights from Psalm 5 inspire and strengthen you as you continue your trek through life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom, cherish each moment, and continue making a positive impact on the world around you.

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 2409 – Our Fiery Ordeal – A Job Description for Shepherds – 1 PETER 5:1-4

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Welcome to Day 2409 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2409 – A Job Description for Shepherds – Daily Wisdom

Putnam Church Message – 06/23/2024

Our Fiery Ordeal – A Job Description for Shepherds.

1 Peter 5:1-4

Last week, Peter encouraged us to understand that trials and tests in life are God’s classroom for purifying and refining us to be more like Christ. We realize that God is faithful, and we need to rest in Him.

Today’s passage is 1 Peter 5:1-6, on page 1892 of your Pew Bibles. We will focus on those with leadership positions within a local church, but it also applies to all of us as we partner to further God’s Kingdom on earth. I will read it from NLT today to give us a better perspective of this passage.

 1 And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: 2 Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. 3 Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. 4 And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor.

Every worker knows the necessity of keeping their tools in a good state of repair… If the worker loses the edge, he knows there will be a more significant drain on his energies, or his work will be poorly done. It reminds me of Ecclesiastes 10:10: Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed.

The shepherding of shepherds’ hearts goes back to Jesus Himself, who invested three years preparing his disciples to carry on His work after His departure. The tried-and-tested Apostle Paul encouraged the young ministers Timothy and Titus to stay hard at the work of the ministry after he was gone.

At this point in his letter, Peter turns from a general readership to those responsible for spiritual leadership in the churches. He now fine-tunes his words to the shepherds, or “elders,” of those churches, lest they “neglect their responsibilities” or themselves.

In many churches worldwide, the pastor’s position is considered the local church’s leader. While I understand how and why this has occurred in most local churches, the word pastor only appears once in the Bible. Pastor is one of the church’s speaking gifts from the Holy Spirit as found in Ephesians 4:11. Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. All other times church leaders are mentioned, Scripture refers to them as ‘Elders’ and ‘Deacons.’  In nearly every instance, it references a plurality of elders within a local congregation, no matter how small. One of the elders may have the gift of a pastor and/or teacher. Still, each of the elders will have an area of responsibility to assist the function of the local church. We have structured Putnam’s boards or teams to fit this Biblical example. It is not that the pastor’s gift is more important. All spiritual gifts are equally crucial for the smooth operation of the local body of believers. Peter’s discussion of elder leadership appears in the context of how Christians can endure the fiery ordeal of unjust treatment, trials, and tribulations in this life as they look with hope toward the next. Peter argues that strong, spiritual leadership is essential to thriving both in the church and this world. When leaders, let’s call them shepherds, model holiness and hope to those in their charge, the whole church can look to the Chief Shepherd, who provides hope in hurtful times.

— 5:l-2a —

Peter begins his address with “And now.” It may appear that suddenly shifting into low gear and plowing through issues of church leadership seems a little out of place in his fast-paced treatment of the practical Christian life. But in Peter’s mind, how believers live their lives in a hostile and unholy world is closely tied to the function of leaders who serve as shepherds to guide their flocks.

In these first couple of verses, I see two effective principles for those called to leadership in ministry. The first is that pride of position must be absent. Notice how the apostle Peter refers to himself. Although he was an eyewitness of Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection, he says, I, too, am an elder. (5:1). And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. He shares his readers’ destiny. He also serves with them on the same ministry team. They’re in this together.

Any leadership position can lead to pride, and it takes a mature and humble person not to succumb to that temptation.  It can be especially prevalent in  ministry leadership for several reasons:

  • Elders/Shepherds speak and serve on behalf of God.
  • Elders/Shepherds address groups of people (some quite large) regularly.
  • People make major life decisions based on Elder/Shepherd teaching.
  • Elders/Shepherds are trusted by most—and held accountable by few.

All these things can easily lead to pride—and a terrible fall. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.

This makes Peter’s humble identification with other church leaders so insightful. If Peter, one of the original twelve disciples and the earliest spokesman for the church, would identify himself as a “fellow elder,” all of us in ministry ought to follow suit with a humble view of any position we hold.

The second effective principle is that the heart of a shepherd must be present (5:2a). The very first imperative in this passage is “shepherd,” which translates poi|mai|nõ “Care for the flock.” The word is used figuratively in ancient literature and the New Testament for any general leadership role or particular position. Besides the figurative use of this term, many analogies in Scripture compare God’s relationship to His people with that of a shepherd to His flock. The related noun poimën is the basis for our English word “pastor,” which is only one of the gifts for the church, as I previously read in Ephesians 4:11.

In 5:2, Peter doesn’t tell the elders to “shepherd your own flock” but to: Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Throughout this passage, the flock is seen as those entrusted to the care of the elders, not as their own followers. The ultimate Shepherd is God. However, the elders should serve as faithful under-shepherds, looking to the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, as their inspiration and model. Peter uses the image of a “shepherd” intentionally. The role of a shepherd certainly includes teaching, but it’s not the same as being only a teacher. It includes administration, but it’s more than being an organizer. It includes having a heart for evangelism, but it involves more than preaching the good news. Peter addresses some of the specific attitudes and responsibilities required of shepherds of God’s flock in 5:2b-3.

Peter also refers to the responsibility of shepherding to Watch over it (the flock) willingly. The Greek word here is episkopeõ. The related noun episkopos refers to an “overseer” (traditionally “bishop”) in the qualifications for that office (1 Tim. 3:2; Titus 1:7), but the term can also refer to the same group of church leaders as “elders” (Acts 20:17, 28). When the original apostles exercised direct oversight in the churches, the offices of elder, pastor, and overseer were synonymous. After the apostles departed, the office of a senior overseeing elder developed to help stabilize church authority. In later centuries, this position would develop into the episcopacy, the authority of a single bishop over several churches. During the New Testament period, however, elders and overseers, of which at least one would have the gift of a pastor or teacher, were all a calling with the same responsibility to shepherd the flock. All three of these terms—“elders,” “shepherd,” and “overseers”—are used together in Acts 20:17, 28. Paul called the “elders” of the church of Ephesus to meet him in Miletus, then instructed them, “So guard yourselves and God’s people. Feed and shepherd God’s flock—his church, purchased with his own blood[a]—over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders.[Elders] (Acts 20:28).

 

— 5:2b-3 —

After encouraging the leaders of the churches he wrote to, Peter gives three practical attitudes with which earthly shepherds are to exercise oversight. He structures each of these in the same form, including a negative quality and a corresponding positive attitude.

The first attitude is one of willingness—“ Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly” (5:2b). Grudgingly or Compulsion implies doing something by force. Peter knew it could become a chore for elders to motivate themselves to maintain the high-energy ministry requirements.

I do have a confession to make. Over the years, I have struggled with the attitudes of many full-time paid pastors. Whether it is an air of self-importance because they think their vocation is a call from God that is somehow more holy and special than any other vocation, or that their Biblical knowledge sets them above others and feeling that people should show them respect without earning it, or having a victim mentality because of the pressures on their vocation. Some of these mindsets have been propagated within the church for centuries and are also inferred or taught in many Bible Colleges and Seminaries. This is not what we see in the early New Testament churches or written in Scripture. No matter your vocation or current life season, your life is a high calling if it is done for the Glory of God. We all have struggles and trials of various kinds, and we are responsible before God to maintain a Biblical mindset.  Yes, there are positions within a local church| that take on more of a leadership or shepherding role. Still, we are all called to use whatever spiritual gifts God has given us to strengthen and encourage the local congregation and the universal church. So, as an elder or shepherd in a church, your attitude needs to be one of willingness to serve. If we are not willingly serving, Peter’s words imply that a change needs to be made. This starts with a change of heart and attitude.

 

The second attitude for shepherds is eagerness— not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. (5:2c). Peter contrasts genuine excitement for ministry with financial motivation. The term “what you will get out of it” implies a motivation of greed.

It means focusing on what the flock can do for them, rather than what they can do for the flock. Titus 1:10-11 illustrates the same idea with a concrete example: Many rebellious people engage in useless talk and deceive others. This is especially true of those who insist on circumcision for salvation. 11 They must be silenced, because they are turning whole families away from the truth by their false teaching. And they do it only for money. One qualification for elders is that they are free from the love of money (1 Tim. 3:3; 6:10).

God’s elders/shepherds should have an attitude of self-sacrificial zeal—not merely a willingness to serve but an authentic enthusiasm that springs from the heart. This principle flies in the face of the excessive professionalism typical in the ministry today. Degrees, résumés, popularity, and references don’t qualify a person for ministry. Instead, an eagerness to serve— occasionally at significant personal cost—is vital to a well-rounded shepherd and well-grounded ministry.

The third attitude for successful ministry is humbleness— Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. (5:3). With the phrase “lord it over the people,” Peter echoes Jesus’ warning against a domineering leadership attitude:

25 But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matt. 20:25-28)

The idea of “servant leadership” finds its basis in this warning against “lording leadership.” Admittedly, “servant leadership” is an overworked expression often misunderstood. However, it does summarize Jesus’ teaching on the importance of resisting authoritarian approaches to shepherding. Jesus didn’t exhibit that attitude—neither should we. We must be team leaders and members—fellow learners, sharers, and partners in the same work. We can only be “good examples” when we’re engaged in the same service we expect from others serving with us. Elders/Shepherds who lead like Christ exemplify servanthood.

— 5:4 —

Concerning the role of leaders in the church, Peter points out two practical principles: pride of position must be absent (5:1), and the heart of a shepherd must be present (5:2a). He then illustrates the shepherd’s heart with three essential attitudes: willingness (5:2b), eagerness (5:2c), and humbleness (5:3). Granted, shepherding the flock of God can involve hard work! Many other vocations also involve hard work. This is why Peter ends his address to the elders, shepherds, and those who possess the gift of the pastors/teachers of the churches with a reminder of their eternal reward. If Christ’s shepherds faithfully discharge their duties with the proper attitudes, they will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor from Christ upon His return.

As the “Chief Shepherd,” Jesus serves as the model of how His earthly shepherds are to serve. We are all involved in the ministry of right living, showing the Kingdom of God through us, and Christ Himself is the perfect model of ministry.

As he has done throughout this letter, Peter wraps up his discussion on leadership by pointing to Christ as the source of true hope in hurtful times. When the going gets difficult in ministry—and as with many areas of life, there are times when it’s borderline unbearable—we can be motivated to go on. Christ Himself continued in His ministry despite horrendous obstacles and hostile reactions, but the result of His sacrificial service was magnificent. We, too, can be assured of our future reward for faithful service at the judgment seat of Christ (1 Cor. 3:10-14).

 

APPLICATION: 1 PETER 5:1-4

Some Advice for Shepherds

 

Allow me a few extra moments to address those who are serving now or will be in the future as an elder, in other ministry positions here at Putnam, and also in the worldwide body of Christ. Let me speak, shepherd to shepherd, elder to elder—as Peter did two thousand years ago. This is good advice for all of us as believers.

First, if you teach, remain a good student. Stay teachable. Read. Listen. Learn. Observe. Admitting when you’re wrong is just as important as standing firm when you’re right. Share the things you learn with those you teach. Not one of us in ministry is a know-it-all, so don’t set yourself up as one. Few things are worse than an arrogant teacher of the Bible!

Second, if you lead, delegate well. Think about what it would be like to listen to yourself. Exaggerating your leadership role is just as dangerous as underestimating your gift and service. No, |others won’t do things exactly like you would. No, delegation won’t always result in the quality of work you expect from yourself. But learn to let things go. If you don’t, you’ll model a horrible form of “lording leadership” >through your example, |and this will result in the kind of leadership husbands will take home with them, |bosses will implement in the office, |and other elders/shepherds/pastors will reflect in their own ministries.

Third, don’t take yourself too seriously. Laugh often—especially at yourself. Make yourself the brunt of your humor. Point out your own foibles and fumbles. Remind others and yourself that you’re only human, and that the almighty God, through the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, is working out His perfect plan through imperfect people empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Fourth, get some rest. Back off. Loosen up. Recharge your batteries. Refresh your personal life. Keep yourself from running at full throttle day after day. As an entrepreneur and business owner with the privilege of also serving in various church positions over the past 45 years, I have found it easy to view business as a modern-day equivalent of martyrdom. We repeated stupid statements like, “I’d rather burn out than rust out!” And our fat calendars and flat family lives reflected it. Looking back, I realize how stupid that statement was. Either way, you’re out. Don’t go there.

 

Fifth, take your days off when needed —an actual day off—once a week. And take your vacations. I still struggle with this one, as I love to work. In a way, it energizes me. But as I mature, I know how significant downtime is.  A burnt-out, exhausted, depressed, and unmotivated elder, spouse, or parent is not a healthy, wholesome shepherd.

Next week, we will continue in the third section of  the letter of 1 Peter called “Our Fiery Ordeal.” Our message is titled “A Formula That Brings Relief.” Invest some time reading 1 Peter 5:5-7 for next week’s message.