Welcome to Day 2500 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2500 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 33:13-17 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2500

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2500 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 exploring Psalm 33, verses 13 through 17 from the New Living Translation. These verses are filled with incredible insights into the nature of God’s watchfulness over humanity, His wisdom in assessing our hearts, and the limitations of human strength. We’re invited to recognize that while we might rely on various sources for security or strength, ultimately, God alone is our true source of help and hope.

So, let’s start by reading these verses:

Psalm 33:13-17 (NLT)

13 The Lord looks down from heaven
and sees the whole human race.

14 From His throne He observes
all who live on the earth.

15 He made their hearts,
so He understands everything they do.

16 The best-equipped army cannot save a king,
nor is great strength enough to save a warrior.

17 Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory—
for all its strength, it cannot save you.

God’s Perspective on Humanity (Verses 13-14):

Starting with verses 13 and 14, we’re given an incredible image of God’s position and His all-seeing nature. “The Lord looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From His throne, He observes all who live on the earth.” Here, we’re reminded that God’s perspective is vastly different from ours. He sits enthroned above us, seeing everything—every action, every choice, every hidden motive. From His heavenly vantage point, He isn’t limited like we are by time, location, or understanding.

When we think about God “seeing” us, it’s important to remember that His vision is not just a surface-level glance. God is fully aware of each life, each heart, and every thought. He isn’t just watching; He’s profoundly aware and invested. In our fast-paced world, it can be easy to feel unnoticed or even insignificant, but these verses remind us that no one escapes God’s attention. He’s aware of the entire human race, yet He cares about each individual person.

This truth should be both humbling and comforting. To know that the Creator of the universe watches over us with care gives us assurance. We are not alone, unnoticed, or left to wander aimlessly. God sees each of us, and He is personally aware of what we face, what we need, and what weighs on our hearts.

God’s Knowledge of Our Hearts (Verse 15):

Verse 15 takes this even further by revealing that God doesn’t just observe us from a distance; He understands the depths of our hearts. The verse says, “He made their hearts, so He understands everything they do.” This is a profound truth. Since God crafted our hearts—our innermost being—He has an intimate understanding of who we are and why we act as we do.

When David says that God “understands everything we do,” it’s a reminder that God’s knowledge of us goes beyond mere observation. He sees beyond appearances, beyond the words we say, and even beyond the actions we take. He understands our motives, our struggles, our fears, and our hopes. There is nothing about us that is hidden from Him.

In one sense, this truth is comforting. God knows our intentions, even when we fail to live up to them. He knows the battles we fight, the desires we hold close, and the reasons behind our actions. Even when others misunderstand us or judge us, God knows the truth. In another sense, though, it’s also a call to humility. There is no pretending with God, no hiding behind masks or façades. He knows us fully, calling us to live honestly and with integrity before Him.

This is an invitation to trust God with our innermost thoughts and feelings. Knowing that He understands us completely, we can come to Him openly, without fear of being misjudged or misunderstood. He is the One who made our hearts, and He is the One who understands us like no other.

The Limits of Human Strength (Verses 16-17):

Verses 16 and 17 shift our attention to the limitations of human power and resources: “The best-equipped army cannot save a king, nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory—for all its strength, it cannot save you.” Here, David contrasts the power of human strength with the power of God. He’s addressing a common human tendency to rely on earthly sources of security—armies, strength, and resources—rather than placing our trust in God.

In ancient times, a strong army and well-trained warhorses symbolized power and protection. Kings depended on their armies, and warriors relied on their physical strength or warhorses to secure victory. But David reminds us that, in the end, these things are limited. No amount of physical strength, military power, or human effort can provide the security that only God can offer.

These verses call us to examine where we place our trust. Do we rely on our resources, abilities, or plans as our primary security source? While planning, effort, and strength have their place, they are ultimately insufficient when compared to God’s power. We are reminded that earthly resources have limits, no matter how impressive. Only God’s power is infinite and dependable.

In our context today, we may not rely on armies or warhorses, but we often look to other forms of “security.” This might be our financial stability, career, or personal skills. While these things can be valuable, they are not where our ultimate trust should lie. When we face challenges or uncertainties, it’s easy to turn to what seems most tangible or controllable. But David urges us to look beyond the temporary and trust in the One who holds all things in His hands.

Conclusion:

Psalm 33:13-17 reminds us of a profound truth: God sees us, knows us, and understands us like no one else. His perspective is higher than ours, His knowledge is more profound, and His power is unmatched. These verses encourage us to recognize the limitations of human strength and resources and to place our trust entirely in God.

Knowing God looks upon us from heaven with awareness and understanding should bring us peace and security. We don’t have to strive for His attention or worry that He has forgotten us. He is always watching, caring, and ready to provide what we truly need.

Moreover, understanding that God crafted our hearts and knows every detail of our lives calls us to live in openness and honesty before Him. No part of us is hidden from Him; because of that, we can trust Him with our deepest struggles, desires, and fears.

Finally, these verses challenge us to evaluate where we place our trust. Human strength and resources have their place, but they are not what ultimately sustains us. Whether it’s physical strength, financial security, or any other form of earthly power, none of it can replace the strength and security that God provides. Only He is our true source of salvation and victory.

So, as we go about our day, let’s hold onto these truths. Let’s live with the assurance that God sees us and knows us fully, and let’s place our trust in His unchanging power rather than in temporary human resources.

Thank you for joining me today on this journey through Psalm 33. Until next time, my friends, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His love fill your heart with peace.

Reflect…

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

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

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

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

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

Welcome to Day 2499 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2499 – The Big Deal About ‘Little’ Things – Daily Wisdom – Colossians 4:2-6

Putnam Church Message – 11/03/2024

Jesus Christ, Our Leader – The Big Deal About “Little” Things- Colossians 4:2-6

Last week, our focus was having Christ as the center and source of our lives.

Today, we move on to the third and final section of the letter to the Colossians. If you remember when we started this series, the theme is: Jesus Christ is sufficient as our Lord, our Life, and our Leader. For baby Christians under attack from false teachers who were rejecting Christ’s person and reducing His power, this message was the perfect defense. In the first section of Colossians, Paul underscored the sufficiency of Christ as our Lord (1:1–2:23). In the second section, he highlighted the sufficiency of Christ as our Life (3:1–4:1). Now, in the remainder of the final chapter of this short but formidable book, Paul emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ as our Leader (4:2–18).

Paul ended the previous section by pointing out that we all have a “Master in heaven” (4:1). Now, he wraps up this letter by outlining several practical and personal ways that Christ’s leadership is to manifest itself in our lives.| Christ directs our paths, navigating us through ministry opportunities and obstacles (4:2–6).| Next week, we will learn that when we serve Him as bond-servants, we must depend on our fellow laborers, acknowledging that we all serve one Leader and have one goal: the widespread proclamation of His message, which is to build God’s Kingdom on earth (4:7–18). Only when we depend on Christ as our sufficient Leader will we be able to fulfill this goal.

Today’s passage is Colossians 4:2-6 on page 1835 of your Pew Bibles. We will explore The Big Deal About “Little” Things. I am reading from the NLT.

 ² Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. ³ Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. ⁴ Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should.

⁵ Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. ⁶ Let your conversation be gracious and attractive^[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone.

In our world of information overload, where tweets, posts, pins, and texts are thrown around like empty disposable wrappers, it’s easy to believe that words are unimportant, weak, meaningless, vaporous, and hollow. This notion is completely false! Contrary to the familiar expression, ‘talk is cheap,’| talk is not cheap. Words do matter —especially spiritual words.

As we’ll see in these five insightful verses from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, our speech has two dimensions: the vertical and the horizontal. Both dimensions represent powerful lines of communication—not worthless chatter or squandered syllables, but living, active, productive articulations. Our vertical speech is directed to God. Believers are to be committed to prayer. Rather than using prayer as a casual and relaxed type of communication, we are challenged to be devoted to practicing it. And our horizontal speech (our interpersonal communication) is equally significant because it occurs amid those who don’t have a relationship with God.

We’ll discover in examining this passage that the words we speak and the actions we take—even the seemingly little things—mean a lot and can accomplish far more than we imagine. Our words and actions may not seem all that significant in the moment, but we often later realize that lives have been changed by them. The apostle Paul certainly finds these things necessary. He underscores the importance of prayer for “insiders” (4:2–4) and the significance of our actions and words toward “outsiders” (4:5–6).

—4:2–4—

In these three verses, Paul addresses the vertical dimension by writing about words directed to God in prayer. He offers three pieces of sound advice that we can apply to our prayer lives. (Bulletin Insert)

First, be devoted in prayer (4:2). Prayer is to be active, not passive;| bold, not weak; |specific, not general; |attentive, not lazy;| continuous, not sporadic.| Hebrews 4:16 says, So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. We don’t come groveling, pleading, begging, or bargaining. Entering God’s presence boldly| but with proper humility, we acknowledge that He has the power to give us what we ask but the right to answer however He pleases. We can know that, however, He answers—“Yes,” “No,” “Wait,” or “Here’s something better”—He’s going to work everything out for our good, not for our harm (Rom. 8:28). And we know that God causes everything to work together^[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. So with an attitude of thanksgiving—even for prayers God has not yet answered—we’re to exercise diligence and vigilance. We’re to pray with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

Second, be visionary in prayer (Col. 4:3–4). Paul doesn’t hesitate to ask the Colossians to pray for him and his fellow workers, giving some specifics unique to his particular circumstances and directly related to his eager desire to fulfill his calling to preach Christ with clarity. I find it interesting that Paul doesn’t ask them to pray for his physical release from prison. He doesn’t ask that they conduct an hour-by-hour prayer vigil until he’s released from his house arrest. Instead, he asks that doors of opportunity might be opened right where he has found himself. Though he was experiencing very limiting circumstances, Paul had a massive ministry vision. As I read the closing lines of the book of Acts, I have every reason to believe the Colossians did pray for this and that God granted it. Acts 28:30–31 says of Paul: For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense.^[a] He welcomed all who visited him, ³¹ boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him. It seems that their prayers were answered!

Third, be specific in prayer (Col. 4:3–4). Note how specific Paul was in his request for the Colossians’ prayers. |He didn’t ask them to pray for missionaries in general,| but for himself and his co-workers specifically. |He didn’t ask them to pray for God to make Himself known across the globe |but to grant Paul open doors to proclaim the gospel in his particular circumstance.| He didn’t ask them to pray that God would open the hearts and minds of unbelievers worldwide to respond to His revelation| but to give Paul clarity of expression when he preached the word to those around him.

These few statements concerning the vertical words that can be expressed on behalf of insiders provide a pattern for us to follow when we pray for others who are engaged in the frontline battle for souls. Name the people for whom you’re praying. Ask for open doors. Pray for their specific situations, challenges, and opportunities. Ask that God would help them make the most of their limited resources and overcome setbacks. We need to pray continually, pray passionately, and pray specifically.

—4:5–6—

In Colossians 4:2–4, Paul reminded us that our words matter in our vertical orientation in prayer toward God on behalf of insiders. Now, in 4:5–6, he turns to how our words and actions make a difference on behalf of outsiders. In discussing our walk (4:5) and our talk (4:6), Paul addresses the two most observed aspects of our witness>to the lost.

Never forget that although those on the outside—that is, unbelievers who are without Christ—are lost, they don’t lack a keen sense of seeing and hearing. They’re very perceptive, discerning, and observant when it comes to how we who claim to know Christ behave and speak. Sometimes, the scrutiny with which they examine our lives is a little unfair. Christians typically don’t claim to be completely free from sin, just completely forgiven of it. Nevertheless, our works and our words can either draw a watching world closer to God or drive them farther away.

We need to pay attention to our walk and conduct ourselves with wisdom toward those on the outside. The words translated as “make the most of every opportunity” in (4:5) is the Greek word peripateō, which refers to all the actions of a person’s daily life. Only God can see our hearts,| so people will size us up and evaluate the quality of our faith through how we conduct ourselves.

This is why Paul calls us to “live wisely,” which is one of the great words of Scripture. The Greek term sophia, which we translate as “wisdom,” means “the capacity to understand and function accordingly.” In Colossians alone, it’s used six times. In one instance, Paul refers to worldly human “wisdom” stemming from false religion and asceticism (2:23)—the antithesis of the “spiritual wisdom” found only in Christ (1:9, 28; 2:3; 3:16; 4:5).

When we live our lives under the leadership of Christ alone, who is our source of true spiritual wisdom, we will experience numerous positive effects: (Bulletin)

• Wisdom will help us know when to speak and when to be silent.
• Wisdom will give us insight into how to relate to others with tactfulness.
• Wisdom will equip us to discern the best course of action with skeptics and critics.
• Wisdom will grant us opportunities to give advice and counsel amid people’s struggles.

In short, conducting ourselves with wisdom will help us make the most of every opportunity. We won’t squander our encounters with those who desperately need Christ. It will make our lives winsome, persuasive, and convincing—>even before we open our mouths to share the saving truths of the person and work of Jesus Christ. But when we live foolishly and hypocritically, we can turn outsiders away.

This story has often been told about Dr. Will H. Houghton, who pastored the Calvary Baptist Church in New York City and later served as president of Chicago’s Moody Bible Institute till his death in 1946. |When Dr. Houghton became pastor of the Baptist Tabernacle in Atlanta, a man in that city hired a private detective to follow Dr. Houghton and report on his conduct. After a few weeks, the detective was able to report to the man that Dr. Houghton’s life matched his preaching. As a result, that man became a Christian.

Still addressing the issue of how we conduct ourselves in the horizontal dimension to those on the outside, Paul next discusses our talk (4:6). We can’t win people to Christ merely by being kind, smiling pleasantly, and living as we should. We need to have winning words coupled with our wise walks. Paul puts it this way: Let your conversation be gracious and attractive^[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone. We understand the “gracious” part. Our words should be thoughtful, charming, and winsome—not rude, arrogant, or caustic. This has to do with the manner of our speech, not the content. Of course, some people will be offended by the gospel message no matter how lovingly we present it. People often do not like being told they are lost sinners in need of a Savior and that they are helpless to save themselves. Yet, in our words and actions, we should strive to present the truths of the gospel “with grace.” As Paul says elsewhere, ³² Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles^[a] or the church of God. ³³ I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. (1 Cor. 10:32–33).

In Colossians 4:6, Paul illustrates his point, saying that our speech should be attractive, which means “seasoned with salt.” In the ancient world, as today, salt was used as a preservative to keep food from spoiling. But this doesn’t seem to be Paul’s primary focus. Though a positive response to the gospel does preserve the eternal lives of believers, Paul’s main emphasis in the metaphor here is that we respond to each person appropriately.| It is the quality of our speech that’s in view. Paul probably has in mind another everyday use of salt—as a seasoning to add zest to food. Skilled cooks will tell you that salt isn’t supposed to be used to add flavor to tasteless, bland food but to enhance the natural flavor of food. Thus, Paul likely means our words should be lively, zestful, attractive, thought-provoking, winsome, and humorous. I like how William Barclay puts it:

It is all too true that Christianity, in the minds of many, is connected with a kind of sanctimonious dullness and an outlook in which laughter is almost a heresy.… Christians must commend their message with the charm and wit in Jesus himself. There is too much of Christianity, which stodgily depresses people, and too little of Christianity, which sparkles with life.

Does your life sparkle in front of others? Are you salty, causing them to thirst for the Kingdom of God?

Application: COLOSSIANS 4:2–6 (Bulletin)

Our Talk and Our Walk Are Important

We’ve considered the power of seemingly “little” things—our talk and our walk. Paul has prompted us in COLOSSIANS 4:2–6 to give more thought to the words we speak and the things we do. These may, at times, seem insignificant to us, but our daily words and actions expressed under the leadership of Christ are a big deal in our vertical and horizontal relationships. As we wrap up this section, let me share four specific principles we can all apply in our lives.

First, strengthen your commitment to pray. Be devoted. Be visionary. And be specific. Honestly, I don’t know of any work harder than prayer—devoted, passionate, focused prayer. Passive, purposeless prayer is easy. It’s simple to lip-sync prayers, mumbling mere words while our minds are in neutral. It is challenging to shift our hearts and minds into four-wheel drive and plow through specific prayer requests with power and compassion! It’s easy to occasionally belt out prayers when people around us expect us to pray. But how difficult it is to be committed to prayer behind the scenes when nobody is looking, offering up requests to Someone we can’t see and hear. It takes faith. It takes perseverance. And it takes commitment. Commit to praying more tomorrow than you did yesterday and more next week than you do this week. Then, build from there.

Second, ask God for greater wisdom in your walk. James says, If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (Jas. 1:5). And Paul reminds us that Jesus Christ Himself is the wisdom of God (1 Cor. 1:24). We are given wisdom by means of the Holy Spirit who indwells us. We can pray something like this: “Lord, by your Holy Spirit and according to the character of Jesus Christ, help me to be wise in my walk. Enable me to be sensible in my interactions with people, to cultivate tact, and to think before I respond.”

Third, pay closer attention to “outsiders.” I don’t mean we nitpick their words and actions that don’t conform to our Christian standards. We’re wrong to expect unbelievers to live like Christians, but they are right to expect Christians to live like Christ. Remember that they’re watching you. They’re listening to you. They’re curious about your faith and whether it’s real to you. If your commitment to Christ isn’t real to you, it won’t be worth considering for them. It won’t be challenging to them if it isn’t changing you.

Fourth, work on becoming more winsome and friendly. Your words do matter. Think before you speak. Banish cynicism and sarcasm. Don’t be a grump or a prude. Listen to yourself and try to imagine how your manner of speech is coming across to others. Is it bland and boring or zesty and interesting? Are you salty? Is it all about you and your life, or is it all about Christ and the new life? Answer the questions they’re asking, not the issues you’re personally interested in. Be gracious in your words and actions. Learn how to meet and accept people where they are and speak a language they can understand.

Our vertical and horizontal communications are important. “It is a Big Deal About ‘Little’ Things.”

Next week will be our final message will be our series in the letter to the Colossians. The third section is Jesus Christ, Our Leader, and the message is titled A Friendly Farwell. Invest time reading Colossians 4:7-18 for next week’s message.

Welcome to Day 2498 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2498 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 33:6-12 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2498

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2498 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 exploring Psalm 33, verses 6 through 12. These verses are rich with awe, reminding us of the power and sovereignty of God in creation, in the direction of human history, and in the lives of those who trust Him. David, the psalmist, calls us to look beyond ourselves and into the greatness of God, whose plans and purposes are solid and unchanging.

I’ll start by reading Psalm 33:6-12 from the New Living Translation.

Psalm 33:6-12 (NLT)

6 The Lord merely spoke,
and the heavens were created.
He breathed the word,
and all the stars were born.

7 He assigned the sea its boundaries
and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs.

8 Let the whole world fear the Lord,
and let everyone stand in awe of Him.

9 For when He spoke, the world began!
It appeared at His command.

10 The Lord frustrates the plans of the nations
and thwarts all their schemes.

11 But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever;
His intentions can never be shaken.

12 What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord,
whose people He has chosen as His inheritance.

God’s Power in Creation (Verses 6-7):

Let’s dive into verses 6 and 7, where David speaks about God’s role as Creator. Verse 6 begins, “The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born.” Here, we’re reminded that God’s power is unmatched. Creation wasn’t a struggle or a lengthy process for Him—God simply spoke, and everything came into being. In a single breath, all the stars in the heavens burst into existence, vast and uncountable, each one a testament to His power and glory. This speaks to the ease with which God can do things that, to us, are utterly incomprehensible.

Imagine the scale of this. Every star, every planet, every galaxy—God created them effortlessly. His words have the power to shape reality. This is a powerful reminder for us to trust His word. When He speaks, it carries weight, authority, and the power to bring things to pass.

Verse 7 continues: “He assigned the sea its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs.” God not only created the world but also established its boundaries and order. The seas, powerful and relentless, obey Him. He has set the boundaries for the oceans and keeps them within their limits. This detail isn’t just about the physical boundaries of creation; it’s a reminder that God’s power is vast, yet precise. He governs every detail of the universe, large and small.

In a world that often feels chaotic, it’s comforting to remember that God has ordered creation with care and intention. He is in control, not only over the great expanses of the universe but also over the smallest details of our lives. When we feel overwhelmed or out of control, we can look to the One who holds everything together.

The Call to Awe (Verses 8-9):

Moving on to verses 8 and 9, David calls us to a posture of reverence: “Let the whole world fear the Lord, and let everyone stand in awe of Him. For when He spoke, the world began! It appeared at His command.” David encourages us to respond to God’s greatness with humility and awe. “Fear” in this context isn’t about being scared; it’s about having a deep respect and honor for God’s power and holiness. It’s about recognizing our place in relation to Him and acknowledging His authority over all things.

This awe, or “fear,” comes from recognizing that God is not like us—His power is beyond anything we can comprehend. Standing in awe of God is a natural response when we realize just how great He is and how small we are in comparison. David paints this beautiful image of creation coming into being at the mere command of God. There was nothing, and then God spoke, and suddenly, there was light, sky, earth, and everything in between. His word alone brought everything into existence. It’s a reminder of the authority and power contained within God’s word and character.

For us, standing in awe of God is a way of life. It means constantly being aware of His greatness, His holiness, and His love. When we live with that awareness, it changes how we approach our day-to-day lives. We begin to see that nothing is beyond His reach or His care.

God’s Sovereignty Over Nations (Verses 10-11):

Verses 10 and 11 turn our attention from creation to human affairs, showing us that God’s sovereignty isn’t limited to the natural world but extends to the plans and schemes of nations and people. Verse 10 says, “The Lord frustrates the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes.” This verse is a reminder that no human agenda can ever overpower God’s purposes. Nations rise and fall; rulers come and go, yet God’s will remains unchallenged. No plan made by humans can ever derail His divine purposes.

Throughout history, we’ve seen empires rise with plans of conquest, power, and domination, only to ultimately fall. No matter how great they seem, human plans are fragile in the grand scheme of God’s purposes. He is the ultimate ruler over every nation and every leader. While human schemes may seem strong and unbreakable at times, God is sovereign over them all.

In verse 11, David contrasts human plans with God’s intentions, saying, “But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken.” This verse is deeply comforting. Unlike human plans, which are temporary and unstable, God’s plans are firm and unchanging. His intentions are eternal, standing through every season, every age, and every circumstance. Whatever God has set in motion, no one can undo.

This truth should bring us immense peace. In a world of constant change and uncertainty, we can rest knowing that God’s purposes are stable. No force, no leader, and no power can alter what He has established. His promises, His word, and His love for us are all part of a plan that will never be shaken.

A Blessing for God’s People (Verse 12):

Finally, in verse 12, David expresses a blessing: “What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord, whose people He has chosen as His inheritance.” This verse highlights God’s unique relationship with His people—a relationship of choice, protection, and blessing. Here, David reflects on the joy, or blessedness, of belonging to God, of being counted as part of His people.

To be “chosen as His inheritance” is a profound concept. God, the Creator of the universe, has chosen to call people His own. This choice isn’t based on our merit or worthiness but on His love and grace. It’s a gift, a privilege, and a calling. Recognizing that we are God’s chosen brings a deep sense of purpose and joy. We belong to the Creator, the One whose plans are firm and whose love is unfailing.

This relationship with God is a source of joy, not because life will be without challenges, but because we know that we are held in His sovereign hands. Being part of God’s people means living under His protection, experiencing His love, and knowing that our lives have eternal significance. This is the joy David speaks of—the joy of security, purpose, and love that only God can provide.

Conclusion:

Psalm 33:6-12 reminds us of the magnificence of God, from the creation of the heavens and the earth to His involvement in the affairs of nations and individuals. These verses call us to worship, reverence, and trust in God’s plans above all else. They remind us that God’s word is powerful, His plans are unshakable, and His love for His people is a source of joy and security.

As we meditate on these truths, let’s remember that our God, who created the stars with a word, is also the One who guides our lives with love and purpose. Let’s stand in awe of Him, placing our trust in His sovereign plan, and rejoicing in the blessing of being His chosen people.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Psalm 33. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His love fill your heart with joy.

Reflect…

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

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

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

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

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

Welcome to Day 2497 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2497 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 33:1-5 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2497

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2497 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 dive into Psalm 33, specifically verses 1 through 5. In these opening verses, we find a powerful call to praise, a reminder of the beauty of God’s word, and a celebration of His love and faithfulness. This psalm begins with exuberance, inviting all who trust in God to lift their voices and celebrate His goodness. It’s a psalm filled with joy, urging us to recognize the beauty of God’s work and His unfailing love.

Let’s begin by reading Psalm 33:1-5 together in the New Living Translation:

Psalm 33:1-5 (NLT)

1 Let the godly sing for joy to the Lord;
it is fitting for the pure to praise Him.

2 Praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre;
make music for Him on the ten-stringed harp.

3 Sing a new song of praise to Him;
play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.

4 For the word of the Lord holds true,
and we can trust everything He does.

5 He loves whatever is just and good;
the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.

A Call to Praise (Verses 1-2):

We begin in verse 1 with a beautiful call to worship: “Let the godly sing for joy to the Lord; it is fitting for the pure to praise Him.” This verse is an invitation, almost a command, for the people of God to lift their voices in joy and celebration. The term “godly” here refers to those who seek to live in harmony with God’s will, who aim to walk in righteousness and humility. For these individuals, it is “fitting” to praise the Lord. David reminds us that singing and praising God isn’t just an obligation; it’s the natural response of a heart in tune with Him.

Think about it: when we experience something amazing, don’t we feel an urge to share it with others? It’s similar with our relationship with God. When we truly recognize His goodness and faithfulness, our hearts naturally overflow with gratitude, and we want to express it. This is what David is encouraging us to do—to let our lives be an offering of praise to God.

In verse 2, he urges us to “praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre; make music for Him on the ten-stringed harp.” Music has a powerful way of expressing emotions that words alone often cannot. The psalmist here mentions instruments—the lyre and harp—encouraging us to make our praise as expressive as possible. God delights in our creativity, and using music, song, and even art as expressions of our gratitude and love is a wonderful way to connect with Him.

This invitation isn’t just about organized worship or a specific style of music; it’s about authenticity in our praise. Whether we have musical talent or not, the important thing is that our hearts are sincerely focused on God. God is honored when we lift our praise to Him with a genuine spirit.

A New Song of Joy (Verse 3):

Verse 3 continues the theme: “Sing a new song of praise to Him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.” David calls us to “sing a new song.” This doesn’t necessarily mean creating something entirely new each time but instead approaching our praise with a fresh, renewed spirit. Every day brings new blessings, experiences, and reasons to be thankful. Singing a “new song” reminds us to stay present in our relationship with God, to avoid letting our worship become stale or routine.

The call to play “skillfully” also emphasizes that we should give our best in worship. Whether through music, art, or prayer, God deserves our best effort. While God welcomes our praise regardless of our skill level, approaching worship thoughtfully and with intentionality can make our time with Him even more meaningful. Worship should be heartfelt, not rushed or distracted. When we give God our full attention, our worship glorifies Him and renews our spirit.

Finally, the call to “sing with joy” reminds us that worship is a celebration. Praise isn’t just about somber reflection—it’s also about rejoicing, lifting our voices with gladness, and acknowledging the goodness of God. This joy flows from our awareness of who God is and what He has done for us. Worship becomes a celebration when we focus not on ourselves, but on the greatness of God.

The Trustworthiness of God’s Word (Verse 4):

Verse 4 shifts from the call to praise to a statement of why God deserves this praise: “For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything He does.” This verse is a powerful reminder that God’s word is the foundation upon which we can build our lives. God’s words are not empty promises; they are reliable and enduring.

In a world where trust is often hard to come by, the trustworthiness of God’s word stands in stark contrast. God’s promises are not subject to change based on circumstances or emotions; they are steadfast and sure. Whatever God says, He will accomplish. We see this reflected in the natural world around us, in the testimonies of those who have walked with Him, and in the countless ways He meets our needs.

David also adds that “we can trust everything He does.” This trust isn’t limited to understanding all of God’s actions but is rooted in the assurance that everything He does is for our good and His glory. Sometimes, we may not understand why certain events happen or why prayers seem unanswered. Yet, David reminds us to trust God’s wisdom and goodness, knowing He sees the whole picture even when we don’t.

When we look back at our lives, we often see God’s hand in ways we didn’t recognize in the moment. This is why we can confidently trust in His word and His actions. Faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does.

God’s Justice and Love (Verse 5):

In verse 5, David continues by saying, “He loves whatever is just and good; the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.” Here, we get a glimpse into the character of God. God loves “whatever is just and good.” He delights in justice and righteousness in all that is pure and upright. This tells us that God’s actions are always aligned with His nature. He is a God of integrity, who never contradicts Himself or acts outside of His character.

Knowing this about God should inspire us to pursue justice and goodness in our own lives. When we align ourselves with what God loves, we are not only honoring Him but also living in a way that brings more light, kindness, and compassion to the world around us.

David also writes that “the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.” This phrase carries an immense promise. God’s love isn’t limited to one nation, people, or era. His love reaches every corner of the earth and is available to everyone. The word “unfailing” here reminds us that God’s love does not waver. It is consistent and dependable, providing us with a solid foundation even when life around us is uncertain.

Imagine what a difference it makes to know that God’s love fills the earth. It means that wherever we are, whatever we’re facing, we are not beyond the reach of His love. It’s a love that pursues us, meets us in our joys and struggles, and never lets us go. When we understand the vastness of God’s love, our natural response is to praise Him.

Conclusion:

Psalm 33:1-5 reminds us of the privilege and joy of praising God. These verses call us to lift our voices in worship, not out of obligation, but as a genuine response to His goodness. They remind us of the trustworthiness of God’s word, His character’s reliability, and His love’s unfailing nature.

In these few verses, David paints a picture of a life of worship that celebrates God’s faithfulness and acknowledges His love and justice. This is a call to let our lives be a song of praise, to give God our best, and to rejoice in the knowledge that His word is true and His love is unshakeable.

Let’s keep these truths close to our hearts as we go about our day. Let’s remember to sing a new song, to give thanks for His guidance, and to trust in His unfailing love. Worship isn’t limited to a time or place; it’s a way of living that flows from a heart in awe of God.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Psalm 33. Until our next trek together, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His love fill your heart with joy.

Reflect…

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

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

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

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

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

Welcome to Day 2496 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – He, Him, Me, Myself, and I – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible.

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script – Day 2496

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2496 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-ninth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

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

How strange would it sound if a friend described what they did this morning like this? “After she got out of bed, she took a shower and then made a quick breakfast for herself—just some coffee and a bagel. I was in such a hurry that I didn’t even finish my bagel and just took the coffee with me!”

Be honest. You would probably wonder if your friend needed medication. Although your friend was describing what she did this morning, the first few details sounded like she was talking about someone else. If the information was about her and spoken by her, why not use “I” and “my”—what we call “first person” pronouns in grammar? Why would she refer to herself in the third person? We just don’t talk or write like that.

Neither would the biblical writers—but that is exactly what we read in many biblical passages.

Consider the first four verses of the book of Ezekiel:

On July 31^[a] of my thirtieth year,^[b] while I was with the Judean exiles beside the Kebar River in Babylon, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God. ² This happened during the fifth year of King Jehoiachin’s captivity. ³ (The Lord gave this message to Ezekiel son of Buzi, a priest, beside the Kebar River in the land of the Babylonians,^[c] and he felt the hand of the Lord take hold of him.)

⁴ As I looked, I saw a great storm coming from the north, driving before it a huge cloud that flashed with lightning and shone with brilliant light. There was fire inside the cloud, and in the middle of the fire glowed something like gleaming amber.^[d]

The first two verses use the first person (“I”), which leads us to believe that Ezekiel himself is writing. But then there is a switch to the third person in verse three, as though the writer was not the famous prophet (“to Ezekiel”; “him”)- Then it’s back to the first person (“I”) again in verse four. What’s going on? Can’t Ezekiel decide if he’s writing or not?

There’s no multiple personality disorder here. The switch between grammatical persons is simply the tell-tale sign of an editor. Someone other than Ezekiel inserted verse three to make it clear that the prophet wasn’t crazy: The prophet saw God and was led by the Spirit to describe what follows in the book.

Who had the authority to edit the Bible like this? The short answer is whomever God moved to do so under inspiration. The longer answer is that, in the case of the prophetic writings, someone accepted by the believing community of Israel to be a member of the prophetic class or tradition served as editor of the preaching and teaching of the prophets.

A picture of a prophetic class emerges during the time of Elijah and Elisha. The prophets lived together in an organized community. The group was known as “the sons of the prophets” (2 Kgs 2:3, 5, 7, 15) and included married couples (2 Kgs 4:1). Such communities began at least as early as the time of Samuel (1 Sam 10).

The prophetic community in Elijah and Elisha’s era was large. During the time of Elijah, there were at least 100 prophets hidden by Obadiah from Ahab and Jezebel (1 Kings 18:4). And during Elisha’s period, 50 “sons of the prophets,” which isn’t even the whole group, are mentioned (2 Kgs 2:7).

The “sons of the prophets” served God under the leadership of a main prophet, who did most of the public speaking. We have several specific examples of this: Baruch (Jer 36), and Gehazi (2 Kgs 5:20). and Elisha (2 Kgs 2:5). Any of the unnamed prophets within the community could have been tasked with gathering the written words of their teacher, the main prophet, and putting them into a scroll or book. Writing down, organizing, and editing the prophet’s words could have occurred entirely after the leading prophet’s death, under the Spirit’s guidance. This process is similar to the way the Gospels were produced. We don’t know for sure how it worked, but we do know that more than one hand was responsible for what we have today. That these people served God in this way, without recognition, is a lesson to us all.

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!