10 July 2006

Text: Psalm 119:89-96


SEVERE AFFLICTION
(Cf. Psalm 119:67, 71, 76)

1. Once again the subject of "affliction"
"I would have perished in my affliction"    Psalm 119:92

2. Cause of this present set of "affliction"
a) The wicked
"The wicked wait for me to destroy me"    Psalm 119:95

    i) "The proud have dug pits for me"    Psalm 119:85
    ii) "They persecute me wrongfully"    Psalm 119:86

b) Severity of affliction
"I would have perished…"    Psalm 119:92

"They nearly made an end of me"    Psalm 119:87

DRAWING MUCH NEEDED ENCOURAGEMENT

1. From knowledge of God's Word
a) That God's word is steadfast and therefore can be fully trusted
"Forever, O LORD,
Your word is settled in heaven"    Psalm 119:89

b) The profound greatness of God's word
"I have seen the consummation of all perfection;
But Your commandment is exceedingly broad"    Psalm 119:96

2. From knowledge of God Himself
a) Knowledge of God's faithfulness
"Your faithfulness endures to all generations"

b) God's faithfulness clearly displayed in creation
"You established the earth, it abides"    Psalm 119:90b

"They continue this day according to Your ordinances
For all are Your servants"    Psalm 119:91

3. From determination to hold fast to God's Word
a) Delighting in God's word
"Unless Your law had been my delight,
I would then have perished in my affliction"    Psalm 119:92

    i) Focus
    ii) Joy in God's word gives special strength    Nehemiah 8:10
    iii) Severe affliction can cause deep despair

b) Renewal of life through seeking God's word
"I will never forget Your precepts
For by them You have given me life"    Psalm 119:93

"I have sought Your precepts"    Psalm 119:94b

c) Pondering God's word
"But I will consider Your testimonies"    Psalm 119:95b

4. From Prayer
"I am Yours, save me…"    Psalm 119:94
a) Specific prayer for deliverance

b) The entire Psalm is actually a meditative prayer to God