Scripture: Psalm 71:7 My life is an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection. Observation: This is a beautiful psalm about complete reliance on the Lord and the peace that comes from that. This verse is something for me to strive toward. Application: There were so many parts of this psalm…

Scripture: Psalm 51:17 The sacrifice you want is a broken spirit. A broken and repentant heart, O God, you will not despise. Observation: God wants us to see our own brokenness and go to him for forgiveness. Application: There seems to be a lot of pageantry associated with religion, but what God truly desires is…

Scripture: Psalm 20:1 In times of trouble, may the Lord respond to your cry. May the God of Israel keep you safe from all harm. Observation: When you really need it, may the Lord hear you and respond, keeping you safe. Application: I worry about my personal safety and that of my family more than…

Scripture: Matthew 17:5 But even as he said it, a bright cloud came over them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved son, and I am fully pleased with him. Listen to him.” Observation: This was a definite sign that Jesus was indeed who he said he was. The three men…

Scripture: Matthew 16:23 Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get away from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, and not from God’s” Observation: Jesus explained to Peter that Peter had the wrong perspective and consequently was working against God. Application: God’s…

Scripture:  Matthew 15:25, 28 But she came and worshipped him and pleaded again, “Lord, help me!” “Woman,” Jesus said to her, “your faith is great. Your request is granted.” And her daughter was instantly healed. Observation: This woman would not stop begging and asking Jesus to heal, even though Jesus and his disciples asked her…

Scripture: Matthew 13:12 (partial) To those who are open to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge… Observation: Those who really want to know more about Jesus will learn more. Application: If you really want to know more about Jesus and have a fuller understanding of him,…

Scripture: Matthew 11:28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Observation: Jesus wants us to go to him and to lean on him. He will give us comfort. Application: This sounds simple. But it takes full faith to really work.…

Scripture: Psalm 63:1 O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. Observation: David really wants God with every fiber of his being. All of him desires God. Application: Sure, I…

Scripture: Psalm 57:5 Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens! May your glory shine over all the earth. Observation: This is written amidst major turmoil. It was written about the time David met up in the cave with Saul, who was trying to kill him, and yet David listened to God and spared Saul.…

Scripture: Psalm 59:1 Rescue me from my enemies, O God. Protect me from those who have come to destroy me. Observation: David is calling out to God to protect him and keep him safe from his enemies. Application: I am also calling out to my Father to keep me safe from Satan. I feel like…

Scripture: Psalm 9:1-2 1I will thank you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. 2I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High. Observation: I will share with those I can how wonderful and powerful you…

Scripture: 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at a person’s thoughts and intentions.” Observation: God doesn’t judge the way humans do. We can only…

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:11 Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Rejoice. Change your ways. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. Observation: Paul reminds us that Jesus Christ is love. And that this love must be shown…