Text: Psalm 141:1-10 (ESV)   1 O LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you! 2 Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice! 3 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! 4 Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies! 5 Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head; let my head not refuse it. Yet my prayer is continually against their evil deeds. 6 When their judges are thrown over the cliff, then they shall hear my words, for they are pleasant. 7 As when one plows and breaks up the earth, so shall our bones be scattered at the mouth of Sheol. 8 But my eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord; in you I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless! 9 Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me and from the snares of evildoers! 10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely   MY EYES ARE TOWARD YOU, O GOD, MY LORD   David has been maligned and slandered. How should he respond? He was tempted to use strong words and vile speech in return but he did not. David prays that he may be kept from such sins. That he won’t follow the evil ways of the wicked (v.1-4). O LORD, I call upon you; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to you! 2 Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice! 3 Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! 4 Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies!   If ever a godly person has a cause to rebuke him, David prays that he may receive it as a blessing. I is as if he has been anointed with oil. But, he will always remain opposed to evil (v.5). 5 Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head; let my head not refuse it. Yet my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.   People will be forced to take notice when God acts, for his punishments will leave the wicked completely shattered (v.6-7). 6 When their judges are thrown over the cliff, then they shall hear my words, for they are pleasant. 7 As when one plows and breaks up the earth, so shall our bones be scattered at the mouth of Sheol.   Even when the wicked is still actively on attack mode, David prays that he will be saved from the traps and deception they have set for him (v.8-10). 8 But my eyes are toward you, O GOD, my Lord; in you I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless! 9 Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me and from the snares of evildoers! 10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 140:1-13 ESV 1 Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, 2 who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually. 3 They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah 4 Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet. 5 The arrogant have hidden a trap for me, and with cords they have spread a net; beside the way they have set snares for me. Selah 6 I say to the LORD, You are my God; give ear to the voice of my pleas for mercy, O LORD! 7 O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle. 8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah 9 As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them! 10 Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into fire, into miry pits, no more to rise! 11 Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily! 12 I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy. 13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence. -Psa 140:1-13 ESV I SAY TO THE LORD, YOU ARE MY GOD The next four chapters belong to the time when David was fleeing from Saul. David was a fugitive who went to the Philistine city of Gath. But, he found no refuge there and narrowly escaped. Those events are recorded in 1 Samuel 21:10 - 22:1. Subsequently, David went to the cave at Adullam where many desperate men joined him later. David’s enemies used treacheries and slanders to attack him. These wicked men are like venomous snakes, asps and cunning hunters (v.1-5). 1 Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, 2 who plan evil things in their heart and stir up wars continually. 3 They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah 4 Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet. 5 The arrogant have hidden a trap for me, and with cords they have spread a net; beside the way they have set snares for me. Selah But, David’s confidence is in Yahweh, His God, God is his defender in whom he trusts for deliverance and salvation (v.6-8). 6 I say to the LORD, You are my God; give ear to the voice of my pleas for mercy, O LORD! 7 O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation, you have covered my head in the day of battle. 8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah David’s enemies will receive a fitting retribution. They would suffer the torments that they intended to inflict upon David (v.9-11). 9 As for the head of those who surround me, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them! 10 Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into fire, into miry pits, no more to rise! 11 Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily! David praises God confidently to see his justice in punishing the wicked and delivering the innocent to the afflicted and needy like himself. (v.12-13). 12 I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy. 13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence. ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 139:1-24 ESV 1 O LORD, you have searched me and known me! 2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. 3 You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. 4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether. 5 You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. 7 Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! 9 If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10 even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” 12 even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you. 13 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. 17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! 18 If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you. 19 Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God! O men of blood, depart from me! 20 They speak against you with malicious intent; your enemies take your name in vain. 21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you? 22 I hate them with complete hatred; I count them my enemies. 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! -Psa 139:1-24 ESV SEARCH ME, O GOD, AND KNOW MY HEART! God is all knowing. He knows all about the psalmist’s life - what he does, what he thinks, where he goes and what he says (v.1-4). Because of the realization that God is all around him, the psalmist sometimes feels helpless (v.5-6). A person may be tempted to run away from such an overpowering presence, but no escape is possible. Surely, this may bring fear to rebels. But, it brings comfort to believers (v.7-8). Wherever he goes, God is present with him (v.9-10). Whether in darkness or in light, God sees him constantly (v.11-12). Being the Creator, God has perfect knowledge of those he created. He knows their innermost thoughts as well as their physical characteristics, and has a detailed knowledge of their lives that are yet to be (v.13-16). As the psalmist contemplates about the wonderful works of God, he finds they are too vast to understand and too numerous to count. When he awakes after his meditation he knows that God is still with him (v.17-18). Through his meditation, the psalmist has grown so close to God. As a result, he sees the wicked as God sees them and hates evil as God hates it. His heartbeat is as God’s heartbeat. He therefore prays that God will act in righteous judgment (v.19-22). Nevertheless, he also looks at her heart. He is also aware that he himself is not perfect. He honestly prays that God will show him his sin, cleanse him, and lead him into a life of holiness (v. 23-24). ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

God’s Word for Today 25 Apr 2024 I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart;     before the gods I sing your praise; 2 I bow down toward your holy temple     and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness,     for you have exalted above all things     your name and your word. 3 On the day I called, you answered me;     my strength of soul you increased. 4 All the kings of the earth shall give you thanks, O LORD,     for they have heard the words of your mouth, 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD,     for great is the glory of the LORD. 6 For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly,     but the haughty he knows from afar. 7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,     you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies,     and your right hand delivers me. 8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me;     your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever.     Do not forsake the work of your hands. -Psa 138:1-8 ESV GREAT IS THE GLORY OF THE LORD David, showing his love to God,  contrasted all lifeless gods how useless they are and how great is the only true God. This God loves his people, answers their prayers and gives them the strength to face life’s difficulties with boldness (v.1-3). I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart;     before the gods I sing your praise; 2 I bow down toward your holy temple     and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness,     for you have exalted above all things     your name and your word. 3 On the day I called, you answered me;     my strength of soul you increased. The rulers of other nations ought also to honor this God. In God’s sight,  their status doesn’t matter. That is, their high position does not make them any better than the poor and lowly (v.4-6).  4 All the kings of the earth shall give you thanks, O LORD,     for they have heard the words of your mouth, 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD,     for great is the glory of the LORD. 6 For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly,     but the haughty he knows from afar. God is not respecter of persons. This truth encourages the psalmist. It is because those who are in positions of power are most abusive and wicked. They even try to kill him. However, he knows that God in His plan and steadfast love will save him (v.7-8). 7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,     you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies,     and your right hand delivers me. 8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me;     your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever.     Do not forsake the work of your hands. Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast   Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify  Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast  Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-googlepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audible Follow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio #gospellightfilipino #godswordfortoday #bookofPsalms

God’s Word for Today 24 Apr 2024 By the waters of Babylon,     there we sat down and wept,     when we remembered Zion. 2 On the willows there     we hung up our lyres. 3 For there our captors     required of us songs, and our tormentors, mirth, saying,     “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!” 4 How shall we sing the LORD's song     in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem,     let my right hand forget its skill! 6 Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth,     if I do not remember you, if I do not set Jerusalem     above my highest joy! 7 Remember, O LORD, against the Edomites     the day of Jerusalem, how they said, “Lay it bare, lay it bare,     down to its foundations!” 8 O daughter of Babylon, doomed to be destroyed,     blessed shall he be who repays you     with what you have done to us! 9 Blessed shall he be who takes your little ones     and dashes them against the rock! -Psa 137:1-9 ESV WHEN WE REMEMBER ZION The Israelites who sang this song were captives in Babylon. They were working in a slave camp beside one of Babylon’s rivers. As a torment for their victims, the Babylonian slavedrivers created some amusement for themselves by asking the downcast slaves to sing some of the merry and glorious songs of Zion.(v.1-3).  By the waters of Babylon,     there we sat down and wept,     when we remembered Zion. 2 On the willows there     we hung up our lyres. 3 For there our captors     required of us songs, and our tormentors, mirth, saying,     “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!” This cruel insult from their oppressors had grieved them greatly because their beloved Jerusalem is in ruins. How can they forget?  Jerusalem means so much to them. And singing glorious songs that would now be a mockery? They would rather be struck dumb and forget their skills than do such a thing (4-6). 4 How shall we sing the LORD's song     in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem,     let my right hand forget its skill! 6 Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth,     if I do not remember you, if I do not set Jerusalem     above my highest joy! At the time of Jerusalem’s destruction, the Edomites had encouraged the Babylonians (7). 7 Remember, O LORD, against the Edomites     the day of Jerusalem, how they said, “Lay it bare, lay it bare,     down to its foundations!” Undoubtedly,  the Babylonians were the ones mainly responsible for the merciless slaughter of God’s people. The psalmist announces a retribution on the Babylonians. That they might be punished by similar infliction of barbarism that they did upon them. (v.8-9). 8 O daughter of Babylon, doomed to be destroyed,     blessed shall he be who repays you     with what you have done to us! 9 Blessed shall he be who takes your little ones     and dashes them against the rock! Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast   Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify  Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast  Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-googlepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audible Follow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio #gospellightfilipino #godswordfortoday #bookofPsalms

Please read the text: Psalm 136:1-26 (ESV)   FOR HIS STEADFAST LOVE ENDURES FOREVER   In the Jewish tradition, Psalms 136 was sung after the Hallel at the Passover Feast. As a reminder, Psalms 113 to 118 form a collection called the Hallel or Praise songs. Israelites sang the Hallel at various annual festivals, the most important of which was the Passover.   In each verse from verse 1 to 26, the leader sings of the greatness of God, and the congregation replies that this is seen in his loyal love to his people, a love that will never end.   Israel’s God is good, and He is the only true God (v.1-3). Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. 2 Give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever. 3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his steadfast love endures forever;   He has perfect wisdom and he created all things (V.4-9). 4 to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures forever; 5 to him who by understanding made the heavens, for his steadfast love endures forever; 6 to him who spread out the earth above the waters, for his steadfast love endures forever; 7 to him who made the great lights, for his steadfast love endures forever; 8 the sun to rule over the day, for his steadfast love endures forever; 9 the moon and stars to rule over the night, for his steadfast love endures forever;   He saved his people from bondage in Egypt (V.10-15) 10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt, for his steadfast love endures forever; 11 and brought Israel out from among them, for his steadfast love endures forever; 12 with a strong hand and an outstretched arm, for his steadfast love endures forever; 13 to him who divided the Red Sea in two, for his steadfast love endures forever; 14 and made Israel pass through the midst of it, for his steadfast love endures forever; 15 but overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea, for his steadfast love endures forever;   He gave them victory over their enemies (V.16-20) 16 to him who led his people through the wilderness, for his steadfast love endures forever; 17 to him who struck down great kings, for his steadfast love endures forever; 18 and killed mighty kings, for his steadfast love endures forever; 19 Sihon, king of the Amorites, for his steadfast love endures forever; 20 and Og, king of Bashan, for his steadfast love endures forever;   And, He guided them into Canaan (v.21-22). 21 and gave their land as a heritage, for his steadfast love endures forever; 22 a heritage to Israel his servant, for his steadfast love endures forever.   All this was not because his people deserved his blessings, was it? No, but because he exercised his steadfast love towards them (v.23-26). 23 It is he who remembered us in our low estate, for his steadfast love endures forever; 24 and rescued us from our foes, for his steadfast love endures forever; 25 he who gives food to all flesh, for his steadfast love endures forever. 26 Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Please read the text: Psalm 135:1-21 (ESV)   PRAISE THE LORD!   This psalm of descriptive praise extols God for His greatness and for blessing His people. Like Psalms 134, it calls on the priests to praise the Lord. There is a call to the worshippers to gather in the temple to praise God because he has chosen the nation Israel to be his people (v.1-4). Praise the LORD! Praise the name of the LORD, give praise, O servants of the LORD, 2 who stand in the house of the LORD, in the courts of the house of our God! 3 Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing to his name, for it is pleasant! 4 For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession.   God’s choice of Israel is particularly significant, because anything God does is deliberate. It is as sure and certain as his acts in the creation and control of nature (v.5-7). 5 For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods. 6 Whatever the LORD pleases, he does, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps. 7 He it is who makes the clouds rise at the end of the earth, who makes lightnings for the rain   He demonstrated his special care for the people of Israel by rescuing them from Egypt, conquering their foes and giving them Canaan for their homeland (v.8-14). 8 He it was who struck down the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and of beast; 9 who in your midst, O Egypt, sent signs and wonders against Pharaoh and all his servants; 10 who struck down many nations and killed mighty kings, 11 Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan, 12 and gave their land as a heritage, a heritage to his people Israel. 13 Your name, O LORD, endures forever, your renown, O LORD, throughout all ages. 14 For the LORD will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants.   By contrast the so-called gods of other nations are merely useless and lifeless pieces of stone or metal (v.15-18). 15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of human hands. 16 They have mouths, but do not speak; they have eyes, but do not see; 17 they have ears, but do not hear, nor is there any breath in their mouths. 18 Those who make them become like them, so do all who trust in them.   All Israelites should therefore offer thankful worship to their covenant God (v.19-21). 19 O house of Israel, bless the LORD! O house of Aaron, bless the LORD! 20 O house of Levi, bless the LORD! You who fear the LORD, bless the LORD! 21 Blessed be the LORD from Zion, he who dwells in Jerusalem! Praise the LORD!   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 134:1-3 ESV 1 Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who stand by night in the house of the LORD! 2 Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the LORD! 3 May the LORD bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth! -Psa 134:1-3 ESV COME, BLESS THE LORD, ALL YOU SERVANTS OF THE LORD This is the last of the fifteen Psalms called Songs of Ascents. And, it is closely connected with the two preceding Psalms [132 & 133]. It is an exhortation to the priests and Levites who kept nightly watch in the temple, to serve zealously in praising the Lord. It seems to consist of two parts: 1. An exhortation, probably from the high priest, to those priests and Levites who kept watch in the temple by night, to spend their time profitably, and duly celebrate the praises of God.[v.1-2] Priests were on duty round the clock at the temple. They served as guards, offered sacrifices and carried out other priestly functions during the daylight hours. The psalmist exhorted them to praise God even during the night. They are to lift their hands unto the Lord. Lifting up the hands in prayer was a common posture that symbolized the petitioners offering praise up to God and receiving blessings from Him. The second part is the prayer of the priests and Levites for the high priest, who seems now to be going to his rest.[v.3] The pilgrim then asked God to bless these special servants of His. The reference to God being the Maker of heaven and earth recalls and highlights His greatness (see Psalms 115:15). That, He alone is worthy of praise and worship. This verse is also an appropriate book end to the collection of the 15 ascent psalms, from Psalms 120 to Psa 134. ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 133:1-3 ESV 1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! 2 It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! 3 It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life forevermore. -Psa 133:1-3 ESV WHEN BROTHERS DWELL IN UNITY This refers to the priests and Levites having returned from captivity, and are united in the service of God in the sanctuary. They enter God's temple and pour out their benediction. And, here, the beautiful order and harmony of the temple service had been pointed out. Unity is good and pleasant. “Unity is, according to this scripture, a good thing and a pleasant; and especially among brethren-members of the same family, of the same Christian community, and of the same nation. And why not among the great family of mankind? On the other hand, disunion is bad and hateful. The former is from heaven; the latter, from hell.”[Clarke’s Commentary] How the pleasantness of it is illustrated? It’s as the holy anointing oil, which was strongly perfumed, and diffused its odors, to the great delight of all the bystanders, when it was poured upon the head of Aaron. This has an undeniable application as a symbol of the Holy Spirit’s infilling. Brethren dwelling together in unity is possible only when such fruits of the Holy Spirit as love, joy, peace, goodness, longsuffering, kindness, faithfulness, self-control, etc. (Gal 5:22,23) are found among them, isn’t it? Where these are present, one finds a little breath of heaven on earth. Blessed indeed is such unity. What’s the result? It sets the blessing from God. It is God's prerogative to command the blessing, man can only beg a blessing. Blessings according to the promise are commanded blessings, for he has commanded his covenant forever. Blessings that take effect are commanded blessings, for he speaks and it is done. There is ‘life’ where love is.[John 13:35] ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

God’s Word for Today 18 Apr 2024 -Psa 132:1-18 ESV MY RESTING PLACE FOREVER  As they arrive at the temple, it is a fitting occasion to recall the beginnings of the temple. David, with much difficulty, eagerly brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem with the aim of building God a house for it later (see 2 Samuel 6:3-13; 2 Samuel 7:1-3;  Psalms 24).  Remember, O LORD, in David's favor,     all the hardships he endured, 2 how he swore to the LORD     and vowed to the Mighty One of Jacob, 3 “I will not enter my house     or get into my bed, 4 I will not give sleep to my eyes     or slumber to my eyelids, 5 until I find a place for the LORD,     a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob.” Previously, the ark had been stationed at Kiriath-jearim, also known as Baale-judah. Here, it is called ‘the fields of Jaar’. David therefore went from Bethlehem (Ephrathah) to Kiriath-jearim to collect the ark and bring it to Jerusalem ( see 2 Samuel 6:2,2 Samuel 6:14-19; 1 Chronicles 13:5; 1 Chronicles 13:5).  6 Behold, we heard of it in Ephrathah;     we found it in the fields of Jaar. 7 “Let us go to his dwelling place;     let us worship at his footstool!” 8 Arise, O LORD, and go to your resting place,     you and the ark of your might. 9 Let your priests be clothed with righteousness,     and let your saints shout for joy. Although David wanted to build God a house in Jerusalem, God wanted to do something far greater for David. God wanted to build David a house in Jerusalem; not a house of stone, but a line of royal descendants to rule from Zion where the living God dwelt ( cf. 2 Samuel 7:4-16).  10 For the sake of your servant David,     do not turn away the face of your anointed one. 11 The LORD swore to David a sure oath     from which he will not turn back: “One of the sons of your body     I will set on your throne. 12 If your sons keep my covenant     and my testimonies that I shall teach them, their sons also forever     shall sit on your throne.” 13 For the LORD has chosen Zion;     he has desired it for his dwelling place: 14 “This is my resting place forever;     here I will dwell, for I have desired it. God would give his people all they needed for healthy lives, physically and spiritually (v.15-16).  15 I will abundantly bless her provisions;     I will satisfy her poor with bread. 16 Her priests I will clothe with salvation,     and her saints will shout for joy. He would give the Davidic king power, prosperity, victory and glory (17-18). 17 There I will make a horn to sprout for David;     I have prepared a lamp for my anointed. 18 His enemies I will clothe with shame,     but on him his crown will shine.” Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast   Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify  Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast  Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-googlepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audible Follow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio #gospellightfilipino #godswordfortoday #bookofPsalms

God’s Word for Today 17 Apr 2024 O LORD, my heart is not lifted up;     my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things     too great and too marvelous for me. 2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul,     like a weaned child with its mother;     like a weaned child is my soul within me. 3 O Israel, hope in the LORD     from this time forth and forevermore. -Psa 131:1-3 ESV I HAVE CALMED AND QUIETED MY SOUL “Some think that David composed this Psalm as a vindication of himself, when accused by Saul's courtiers that he affected the crown, and was laying schemes and plots to possess himself of it. Others think the Psalm was made during the captivity, and that it contains a fair account of the manner in which the captives behaved themselves, under the domination of their oppressors.”[Clarke Commentary] David expressed his disinterest about cravings of the world. He might be accused of being proud and ambitious. But, he was consciously aware that he is not ambitious and greedy for ‘things too great and too marvelous’ for him. He vehemently expressed that he distanced himself from lofty ambition of advancing himself, to any position or status of the state, rank and honor. As quoted in Dr. Constable’s Expository Notes, "The godly knows that true godliness begins in the ’heart’ that is not proud (cf. Proverbs 18:12), with eyes that do not envy (cf. Psalms 18:27; Psalms 101:5; Proverbs 16:5), and with a walk of life (MT, ’I do not walk’ for NIV, ’I do not concern myself’) that is not preoccupied with ’greatness’ (cf. Jeremiah 45:5) and with accomplishments (’wonderful,’ i.e., ’difficult’ or ’arduous’; cf. Deuteronomy 17:8; Deuteronomy 30:11)." [Note: VanGemeren, p. 803.] Why? He has ‘calmed and quieted’ his soul. He is as a ‘weaned’ child not to crave wildly for his mother’s milk anymore. ‘A little child thus clinging to its mother - laying its head gently down on the bosom - languishing - looking for nourishment - would be a most tender image of meekness and gentleness.’[Barnes Notes] There is an apparent reflection to the teachings of Jesus, who set a little child in the midst of the overtly ambitious apostles. They were quarreling about who was going to get the chief seats in the Kingdom of God. And, He emphatically taught them, saying,“ “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3,4). The human soul needs “weaning” from all of its anxious ambitions and worldly things, doesn’t he?  Then and only then, he can enjoy the tranquillity of a heart in tune with God’s will. The psalmist here affirms that he is indeed weaned from such fleeting things. Like the merchantman in the New Testament parable seeking goodly pearls, and when he discovered the `pearl of great price,’ sold everything for it. Instead of being restless, Israel should ‘hope ‘ in God, now and always.   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast   Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify  Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast  Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-googlepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audible Follow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio #gospellightfilipino #godswordfortoday #bookofPsalms

Text: Psalm 130:1-8 (ESV)   1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD! 2 O Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy! 3 If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? 4 But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared. 5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; 6 my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning. 7 O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption. 8 And he will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.   WITH YOU THERE IS FORGIVENESS   A great sense of their own sinfulness overwhelms the travelers as they approach the temple.[v.1] There is no deeper pit than the black hole of despair. It is when the soul has painful realization that one’s sins have separated him from God. “The beginning of true personal religion is the sense of personal sin. An insufficient realization of that is the mother of heresies in the creeds and superficial deadness in the practice of Christianity.”[Alexander Maclaren] Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD!   They know that they badly need forgiveness. No person in a sinful condition can stand before the holy God in his holy presence at the temple (v.2-4). “The only hope is in God’s forgiveness, which in turn quickens the feeling of awe”[Wycliffe Bible Commentary 2 O Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy! 3 If you, O LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? 4 But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.   They wait for the assurance of God’s forgiveness with the same longing as watchmen on night duty waiting for the light of dawn (v.5-6). The repetition occurring in verse 5 is emphatic; implying, that he trusted in God even with the deepest affections of his soul. Verse 6 could be rendered, "My soul waiteth for the Lord from the morning watches to the morning watches." That is, "I wait both day and night." 5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; 6 my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning.   And at all times, they have unwavering confidence that God, in his stedfast love, will forgive them (v.7-8). 7 O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption. 8 And he will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psalm 129:1-8 (ESV)   1 “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth”— let Israel now say— 2 “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth, yet they have not prevailed against me. 3 The plowers plowed upon my back; they made long their furrows.” 4 The LORD is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked. 5 May all who hate Zion be put to shame and turned backward! 6 Let them be like the grass on the housetops, which withers before it grows up, 7 with which the reaper does not fill his hand nor the binder of sheaves his arms, 8 nor do those who pass by say, “The blessing of the LORD be upon you! We bless you in the name of the LORD!”   THE LORD IS RIGHTEOUS   Recalling their sorrows when they were in bondage, the travelers recall that the days of the nation’s ‘youth’ in Egypt where they suffered much. The backs of the people had been whipped and severely bruised as slaves. (v.1-3). “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth”— let Israel now say— 2 “Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth, yet they have not prevailed against me. 3 The plowers plowed upon my back; they made long their furrows.”   But, God is righteous. He’ll save them from slavery and set them free. 4 The LORD is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked.   However, the enemy hated and troubled them. The traveler prays that God will turn back their enemies. That, He will make them wither as stalks of grass and die under the sun (v.5-7). 5 May all who hate Zion be put to shame and turned backward! 6 Let them be like the grass on the housetops, which withers before it grows up, 7 with which the reaper does not fill his hand nor the binder of sheaves his arms,   The destruction of the enemy is overwhelming. They’re left without friends, and have no one to help them. This caused them to bless God. (v.8). 8 nor do those who pass by say, “The blessing of the LORD be upon you! We bless you in the name of the LORD!”   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 128:1-6 ESV 1 Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways! 2 You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you. 3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. 4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD. 5 The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life! 6 May you see your children's children! Peace be upon Israel! -Psa 128:1-6 ESV BLESSED IS EVERYONE WHO FEARS THE LORD Blessedness is always a result of fearing God (v.1,4). 1 Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways! 4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD. Wherever God dwells, whether in the sense of dwelling in the family or in the sense of dwelling in Jerusalem, his people there will enjoy his fullest blessing. First, he would be blessed in his labor (v.2). Labor isn’t a curse but a blessing. 2 You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you. Moreover, there is a metaphor of fruitfulness as vine and olive shoots. These refer to his wife and children, respectively.[v.3] 3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. The fear of the Lord is the backbone that provides stability. And ultimately, as families that fear God today are blessed, so is the next generation that follows and the city of Jerusalem.[v.5-6] 5 The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life! 6 May you see your children's children! Peace be upon Israel! ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 127:1-5 ESV 1 Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. 2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. 3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. 5 Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. -Psa 127:1-5 ESV THE LORD BUILDS THE HOUSE The travelers have to take note that God is in-charge in building the city of Jerusalem or a family. In both cases, they must acknowledge the sovereign rule of God. Their days, maybe, are filled with worry and they have sleepless nights. And, these could affect them adversely. Thus, they have to recognize God and Him alone as the builder (v.1-2) 1 Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. 2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. Moreover, these travelers should be encouraged to trust in God by reminding themselves that their large and healthy family is a blessing from God. Their children provide stability, strength and honor in society (v.3-5) 3 Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. 4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. 5 Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. Today, let’s not forget that Jesus is the builder of our lives and family.[1 Cor 3:11]Apart from Him we are nothing.[John 15:5,16]. God is indespensable. Otherwise, we are building in vain. ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

God’s Word for Today 11 Apr 2024  When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion,     we were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter,     and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations,     “The LORD has done great things for them.” 3 The LORD has done great things for us;     we are glad. 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD,     like streams in the Negeb! 5 Those who sow in tears     shall reap with shouts of joy! 6 He who goes out weeping,     bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy,     bringing his sheaves with him. -Psa 126:1-6 ESV THE LORD HAS DONE GREAT THINGS FOR US Jerusalem was plundered and the land was threatened for a while. But, God won’t allow it to happen for a long time. Israel rejoiced in God’s loving deliverance in an unexpected fashion (v.1-2a).   When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion,     we were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter,     and our tongue with shouts of joy; The nations recognized that it is the work of God.[v.2b-3] The deliverance could be attributed to God alone. then they said among the nations,     “The LORD has done great things for them.” 3 The LORD has done great things for us;     we are glad. However, their problems were not over as yet. Hard work is what they need to do if they were to restore the land. They relied on God to provide water in the dry Negeb region. 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD,     like streams in the Negeb! But, they recognized that they would have to work hard and long before they could enjoy the fruits of the land again. (v.5-6). 5 Those who sow in tears     shall reap with shouts of joy! 6 He who goes out weeping,     bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy,     bringing his sheaves with him. The lesson for the travelers, even for us,  is that we must persevere if we are to enjoy God’s blessing. God promises to provide the rain but we have to be industrious to prepare the land and sow the seeds. Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast   Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify  Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast  Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-googlepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audible Follow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio #gospellightfilipino #godswordfortoday #bookofPsalms

God’s Word for Today 10 Apr 2024 Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,     which cannot be moved, but abides forever. 2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem,     so the LORD surrounds his people,     from this time forth and forevermore. 3 For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest     on the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous stretch out     their hands to do wrong. 4 Do good, O LORD, to those who are good,     and to those who are upright in their hearts! 5 But those who turn aside to their crooked ways     the LORD will lead away with evildoers!     Peace be upon Israel! -Psa 125:1-5 ESV THE LORD SURROUNDS HIS PEOPLE As the worshipers approach Jerusalem, they recall some of the hardships that the city has gone through. They reflect these as typical of their experiences as God’s chosen people. Like the formidable city of Jerusalem, they are completely secured and fully protected (v.1-2). Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,     which cannot be moved, but abides forever. 2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem,     so the LORD surrounds his people,     from this time forth and forevermore. There were times that Jerusalem came under the rule of its enemies. But, God would never allow these enemies to control it for long. These happens as God’s chastisement when His people lost their devotion to him (v.3).  3 For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest     on the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous stretch out     their hands to do wrong. God is just and righteous. Their security rests in the character of God. Surely God cares for the righteous and punishes their enemies (v.4-5). 4 Do good, O LORD, to those who are good,     and to those who are upright in their hearts! 5 But those who turn aside to their crooked ways     the LORD will lead away with evildoers!     Peace be upon Israel! Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast   Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify  Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast  Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-googlepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audible Follow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio #gospellightfilipino #godswordfortoday #bookofPsalms

Text: Psalm 124:1-8 (ESV)   1 If it had not been the LORD who was on our side— let Israel now say— 2 if it had not been the LORD who was on our side when people rose up against us, 3 then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their anger was kindled against us; 4 then the flood would have swept us away, the torrent would have gone over us; 5 then over us would have gone the raging waters. 6 Blessed be the LORD, who has not given us as prey to their teeth! 7 We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped! 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.   THE LORD WHO WAS ON OUR SIDE   These travelers were persecuted in the foreign lands where they dwelt. Once more, they recall the experience of David’s affliction as persecuted and sing one of his psalms that reflects their own experience. Their help was in the Lord entirely [v.1,2] If it had not been the LORD who was on our side— let Israel now say— 2 if it had not been the LORD who was on our side when people rose up against us,   Only through God’s grace and power have they been kept from much worse treatment. Their oppressors are as violent and destructive as a raging flood (v.3-5) as cruel as wild animals and as cunning as bird-trappers (v.6-7),   But, the travelers have the great Protector. He is the Creator on their side (v.6-8). 6 Blessed be the LORD, who has not given us as prey to their teeth! 7 We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped! 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth Let’s not forget that in most cases, God allows us to pass through hardships. He permits the enemy to attack us but ‘with the trials He would give us a way to bear and escape it.’ [1 Cor 10:13] Thus, we say, ‘If it had not been the LORD who was on our side”. The Lord is our help. In short, the battle is the Lord’s.   Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psalm 123:1-4 (ESV)  1 To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens! 2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he has mercy upon us. 3 Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt. 4 Our soul has had more than enough of the scorn of those who are at ease, of the contempt of the proud.   O LORD, HAVE MERCY UPON US   The pilgrims are persecuted. Though tempted to look for worldly help, he resolved to only seek God and his help. This was not an equivocal decision. To you I lift up my eyes, O you who are enthroned in the heavens!   How did he describe his trust unto God? 2 Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he has mercy upon us.   He perseveres for he believes God is merciful. He pleaded for mercy patiently. And, nobody can demand God’s mercy. 3 Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt.   The enemy is relentless. They had more than enough troubles. But he trusts God won’t tolerate their wicked works. 4 Our soul has had more than enough of the scorn of those who are at ease, of the contempt of the proud. Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Psa 122:1-9 ESV 1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!” 2 Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem! 3 Jerusalem—built as a city that is bound firmly together, 4 to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 There thrones for judgment were set, the thrones of the house of David. 6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! “May they be secure who love you! 7 Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!” 8 For my brothers and companions' sake I will say, “Peace be within you!” 9 For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good. -Psa 122:1-9 ESV LET US GO TO THE HOUSE OF THE LORD This psalm expresses the excitement of the pilgrim to worship. Like David, he is imagining himself as standing in Jerusalem to worship (v.1-2). 1 I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!” 2 Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem! He sees Jerusalem as a beautiful, well-built city. The tribes of Israel are united in their worship of God. He recognizes that God rules his people through the throne of David (v.3-5). 3 Jerusalem—built as a city that is bound firmly together, 4 to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 There thrones for judgment were set, the thrones of the house of David. He encourages everyone to pray that God will always preserve the city and prosper its people (v.6-8). 6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! “May they be secure who love you! 7 Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!” 8 For my brothers and companions' sake I will say, “Peace be within you!” He himself will do all he can for the city’s good (v.9). 9 For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good. Yes the Lord is the builder of the city. But, he is not a passive bystander. He is actively involved to enhance the good of the city’ ------------------------- Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram