We live in a tumultuous time, where many of the institutions that long provided safety and security are passing away. How do God's people process such loss, especially when our beloved nation, church or denomination is being rent asunder? By relying on God, we find solace  in His grace and not the things of this world.

Paul is broken-hearted by the outpouring of love and concern of his children in the faith. They are dismayed at the thought he would be arrested and likely killed for the faith in Jerusalem. Pleading with them to encourage, instead of discourage him, they weep, and pray, and Paul continues on his way.

David warns those who act like they are God that they will answer to the true God in the end. It's convenient for some to act as if there is no God, but disastrous in the end.

David exalts the cause of the poor and oppresed over those who afflict them in this section of the psalms. David himself was oppressed and opposed for decades, so he relates to the oppressed as one of them. He also warns oppressors that God will judge all in the end, so we heed his warning when we find ourselves in positions of power or influence.

As Paul begins his journey to Jerusalem, we see his sacrificial spirit. He gave everything for Christ and continues to pour his love and faith into the faithful. This he does with tears, knowing that he is unlikely to see most of the people he loves on this side of eternity.

In this psalm of praise we reflect, on the unique place of humanity in God's design. The stars, in all of their majesty and power, even if they burn for billions of years, will one day pass away. But God has endowed human creatures with an immortal soul, so that by His grace, we may live forever.

The weak often suffer at the hands of the strong. The poor are victimized by the rich. How do we reconcile God's care for the innocent in a world where the innocent often suffer? We wrestle with this difficulty in these psalms.

A stable and fruitful season of ministry unfolds for Paul in Ephesus. He teaches and preaches for years, planting the Word deeply in the lives of God's people and cultivating their spiritual growth. But all good things must come to an end, and he sets his heart on Jerusalem and Rome, where he intends to preach the gospel in the halls of power.

There is great difficulty for a person of integrity and faith to live among the wicked. We are constantly harranged and opposed. But we can take heart in our earthly struggles, knowing that we have God's favor as a shield.

Psalms three and four give voice to our cries for mercy. There are times that try men's souls, and leave us questioning God, His love and goodness. Here we learn to share our burdens with the Lord, Who promises ultimately to save us.