Tuesday, July 16 – Psalms 23, 24 – Additional reading, “Lift Him Up”, p. 341 EGW

1. What are the four ways David describes how God restores? Psalms 23:2, 3

2. Why does David live with the assurance that he is protected from evil? Psalms 23:4,

3. How does David describe those drawn near to God? Psalms 24:4

4. What does David declare to be the essential requirement to enter the Kingdom of Heaven? Psalm 24:4

5. What are the three ways that David describes God as the “King of Glory?” Psalms 24:8-10

The placement of Psalms 23 and 24, side by side, in the biblical text illustrates the profound role of the Messiah. Psalm 23 beautifully portrays the Messiah as our caring and protective Shepherd, leading and watching over us with love and compassion. On the other hand, Psalm 24 presents the majestic image of the Messiah as our righteous and victorious King, reigning with authority and glory.

Both Psalms are structured into three distinct sections, each contributing to the rich and multifaceted portrayal of the Messiah’s role in our lives.

Psalm 23 is a threefold testimony: “I will lack nothing” (verse 1), “I will fear no evil” (verse 4), and “I will dwell” (verse 6).

Psalm 24 declares God as King over all (verses 1-2), outlines the requirements to dwell with the King (verses 4-6), and describes who the King is (verses 8-10).

In Psalms 23 and 24, we discover Jesus’s leadership roles, the significance of following him, and the concept of death being a constant part of life. Psalm 23 also references the wilderness experience, such as “I shall not want,” similar to Deuteronomy 2:7, and “He leads me in the right paths,” similar to Exodus 15:13.

In contrast, Psalm 24 powerfully conveys the message that the earth and everything in it, including humanity, belong to God. This psalm expresses the profound concept of divine sovereignty over creation and humankind, highlighting the fundamental belief that everything belongs to God.

“God wants His people to cleanse their hands and purify their hearts. Will it make them unhappy to do this? Will it bring unhappiness into their families if they are kind and patient, courteous and forbearing? Far from it. The kindness they manifest toward their families will be reflected upon themselves. This is the work that should be carried forward in the home. If the family members are not prepared to dwell in peace here, they are not prepared to dwell in the family that shall gather around the great white throne. Sin always brings darkness and bondage, but right doing will bring peace and holy joy.” LHU 341

May the Lord bless you and keep you all the days of your life.