Joel Nagel
6.29.2020
Psalm 128-134
Summary
The 15 Psalms that follow the longest Psalm in the bible are called the Songs of Ascents (see subheading under each Psalm). These were the songs that people would sing as they travelled with their families to Jerusalem for festivals like Passover or Tabernacles. I’m preaching about these Psalms on Sunday so I’m including a longer video for Saturday and Monday from my message (spoiler alert!) and a poster to help you pray through these Psalms and have a super epic prayer time.
Key Verses:
“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. – Psalm 131:1
“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! – Psalm 133:4
As your group of traveling worshippers got closer and closer to Jerusalem the focus of the last few song of ascents is on humility. It must have taken so much humility for Jerusalem to stay peaceful with all of these extra people from all over Israel and beyond. These songs were a great reminder to not think too highly of one’s self and to value unity.
Vision of God
When I think about the wisdom of God it makes me wonder if I’ve ever done anything “right”? And yet he loves me and even believes in me. I want to be less opinionated and be a better learner. When I’m thinking about what I think or saying what I think, I’m probably not learning!
Vision of Others
Psalm 133 goes on to describe unity as oil running down Aaron’s beard (a spiritual anointing) and dew on arid Mount Zion (spiritual refreshment). Humility and unity are so wonderful! But they come at a great price. They can’t be faked or forced. A lot of times we mistake shallow relationships for unity. True unity (refreshing and anointing!) means really listening, talking and praying through differences, seeking understanding and truly loving others.
Go with God
I want to build more relationships in my life based on true unity. I’m reading books to learn different points of view and having conversations where I’m doing less talking. But I’ve got a lot of work to do!
Jesus
Jesus was God – there was nothing too wonderful or marvelous for him to understand. yet, he chose to die for us so we could truly united to God. True unity takes sacrifice!
2020 Bible Vision 