Paul talks about the real blessings and burdens of marriage. Being wed to another human being gives us ample opportunity to practice godly virtues. But whether or not we are married, we are called to godliness. Here we consider the real-life applications of our faith, whether we are married or single.

These psalms describe humanity and all of creation praising God for Who He Is! All other gods are figments of human imagination. When we praise the Lord for Who He Is, we join in the unending chorus of all creation.

God's people had been exiled, at least in part, because their leaders had embraced ungodliness instead of righteousness. In these psalms, leaders are reminded that God is not a fool, and will not be mocked, even if we fool ourselves or others. At the same time, the righteous are encouraged in godliness, because godly virtues will never grow old.

Sex is the most intimate of human connections. Used according to God's design, it's a great blessing. Taken out of marriage, it causes great harm. Here we are encouraged to lead pure and decent lives in all we say and do.

In this fourth book of the psalms, our focus shifts to God as an eternal king. It is likely that many, if not all of these psalms were written after the monarchies of Israel and Judah had fallen. Living under other rulers, God's people long for the righteous reign of God.

A fitting end to the third book of the psalms, this is an easter psalm. It rejoices in God's victory for His people. We sing it today, mindful of all the promises Jesus fulfilled for us.

Sexual scandals, such as the one in this chapter, have caused untold damage to the Church. Victims are further victimized when we tolerate such evil, and outsiders are fair when they lose faith in those caught up in such scandals. As Christians, we must confront sexual immorality in our ranks, while repenting of the evils of our age, and pursuing godliness in our relationships.

This solitary psalm of David in the third book of the psalms is a plea that God would preserve Him. Even though David was soiled with sin and had nothing to offer God, he knew God loved Him. When we are brought low, we too can pray to God, knowing that He loves to lift us up!

Paul uses a pretty gross analogy to help us understand how the world views us. Our faith isn't just a little different than worldly ways. It is completely incompatible with worldly wisdom. But that's ok if our theology far surpasses the so-called "wisdom" of today.