The psalmist declares, -How blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, Who walks in His ways.- Happiness and wellness come from fearing God. But what does it meant to fear God-

The Lord sent an angel to tell Joseph why he should not be afraid to take Mary as his wife. So far from being a reproach, Mary's unexpected pregnancy was God's solution to His people's problem of sin. Jesus has come to save us-

Our greatest security comes from resting in God. We must do our work but leave the results to God. Trusting in His provision specifically teaches us to value children as He values them, receiving them as strategic instruments for His redemptive purposes in the world.

God has delivered His people, but more deliverance is needed. The nation of Israel has been helped so many times, and we all anticipate the time when they will embrace Jesus as Messiah. May they soon say, -our mouth was filled with laughter and our tongue with joyful shouting.-

God protects and does good for the upright. But He also disciplines us so we would continue to trust Him and He judges those who choose iniquity over righteousness. The promise of this psalm is that -Those who trust in the LORD are as Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever.-

Under great threat from opponents, the psalmist celebrates the deliverance God provided for His people- -Our help is in the name of the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.-

The psalmist encourages us to wait expectantly upon the Lord -until He is gracious to us.- In the presence of scoffers, our comfort comes from the Lord.

Our God has preferred Jerusalem over all locations on earth and put His name on display in His temple. David therefore said, -I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord.' -

God takes care of His people individually and corporately. He is both powerful and attentive to the needs of His beloved, so we can say, -My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.-

The psalmist faces many difficulties from ungodly neighbors who lie about him and deceitfully use him. But he cried out to the Lord for deliverance and found the peace that comes in trusting God alone.