Wisdom-Trek ©

Putnam Church Message – 11/03/2024

Last week, our focus was having Christ as the center and source of our lives.

Today, we move on to the third and final section of the letter to the Colossians. If you remember when we started this series, the theme is: Jesus Christ is sufficient as our Lord, our Life, and our Leader. For baby Christians under attack from false teachers who were rejecting Christ’s person and reducing His power, this message was the perfect defense. In the first section of Colossians, Paul underscored the sufficiency of Christ as our Lord (1:1–2:23). In the second section, he highlighted the sufficiency of Christ as our Life (3:1–4:1). Now, in the remainder of the final chapter of this short but formidable book, Paul emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ as our Leader (4:2–18).

Paul ended the previous section by pointing out that we all have a “Master in heaven” (4:1). Now, he wraps up this letter by outlining several practical and personal ways that Christ’s leadership is to manifest itself in our lives.| Christ directs our paths, navigating us through ministry opportunities and obstacles (4:2–6).| Next week, we will learn that when we serve Him as bond-servants, we must depend on our fellow laborers, acknowledging that we all serve one Leader and have one goal: the widespread proclamation of His message, which is to build God’s Kingdom on earth (4:7–18). Only when we depend on Christ as our sufficient Leader will we be able to fulfill this goal.

Today’s passage is Colossians 4:2-6 on page 1835 of your Pew Bibles. We will explore The Big Deal About “Little” Things. I am reading from the NLT.

In our world of information overload, where tweets, posts, pins, and texts are thrown around like empty disposable wrappers, it’s easy to believe that words are unimportant, weak, meaningless, vaporous, and hollow. This notion is completely false! Contrary to the familiar expression, ‘talk is cheap,’| talk is not cheap. Words do matter —especially spiritual words.

As we’ll see in these five insightful verses from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, our speech has two dimensions: the vertical and the horizontal. Both dimensions represent powerful lines of communication—not worthless chatter or squandered syllables, but living, active, productive articulations. Our vertical speech is directed to God. Believers are to be committed to prayer. Rather than using prayer as a casual and relaxed type of communication, we are challenged to be devoted to practicing it. And our horizontal speech (our interpersonal communication) is equally significant because it occurs amid those who don’t have a relationship with God.

We’ll discover in examining this passage that the words we speak and the actions we take—even the seemingly little things—mean a lot and can accomplish far more than we imagine. Our words and actions may not seem all that significant in the moment, but we often later realize that lives have been changed by them. The apostle Paul certainly finds these things necessary. He underscores the importance of prayer for “insiders” (4:2–4) and the significance of our actions and words toward “outsiders” (4:5–6).

In these three verses, Paul addresses the vertical dimension by writing about words directed to God in prayer. He offers three pieces of sound advice that we can apply to our prayer lives. (Bulletin Insert)

First, be devoted in prayer (4:2). Prayer is to be active, not passive;| bold, not weak; |specific, not general; |attentive, not lazy;| continuous, not sporadic.| Hebrews 4:16 says, So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. We don’t come groveling, pleading, begging, or bargaining. Entering God’s presence boldly| but with proper humility, we acknowledge that He has the power to give us what we ask but the right to answer however He pleases. We can know that, however, He answers—“Yes,” “No,” “Wait,” or “Here’s something better”—He’s going to work everything out for our good, not for our harm (Rom. 8:28). And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. So with an attitude of thanksgiving—even for prayers God has not yet answered—we’re to exercise diligence and vigilance. We’re to pray with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

Second, be visionary in prayer (Col. 4:3–4). Paul doesn’t hesitate to ask the Colossians to pray for him and his fellow workers, giving some specifics unique to his particular circumstances and directly related to his eager desire to fulfill his calling to preach Christ with clarity. I find it interesting that Paul doesn’t ask them to pray for his physical release from prison. He doesn’t ask that they conduct an hour-by-hour prayer vigil until he’s released from his house arrest. Instead, he asks that doors of opportunity might be opened right where he has found himself. Though he was experiencing very limiting circumstances, Paul had a massive ministry vision. As I read the closing lines of the book of Acts, I have every reason to believe the Colossians did pray for this and that God granted it. Acts 28:30–31 says of Paul: For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense.[a] He welcomed all who visited him, 31 boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him. It seems that their prayers were answered!

Third, be specific in prayer (Col. 4:3–4). Note how specific Paul was in his request for the Colossians’ prayers. |He didn’t ask them to pray for missionaries in general,| but for himself and his co-workers specifically. |He didn’t ask them to pray for God to make Himself known across the globe |but to grant Paul open doors to proclaim the gospel in his particular circumstance.| He didn’t ask them to pray that God would open the hearts and minds of unbelievers worldwide to respond to His revelation| but to give Paul clarity of expression when he preached the word to those around him.

These few statements concerning the vertical words that can be expressed on behalf of insiders provide a pattern for us to follow when we pray for others who are engaged in the frontline battle for souls. Name the people for whom you’re praying. Ask for open doors. Pray for their specific situations, challenges, and opportunities. Ask that God would help them make the most of their limited resources and overcome setbacks. We need to pray continually, pray passionately, and pray specifically.

In Colossians 4:2–4, Paul reminded us that our words matter in our vertical orientation in prayer toward God on behalf of insiders. Now, in 4:5–6, he turns to how our words and actions make a difference on behalf of outsiders. In discussing our walk (4:5) and our talk (4:6), Paul addresses the two most observed aspects of our witness>to the lost.

Never forget that although those on the outside—that is, unbelievers who are without Christ—are lost, they don’t lack a keen sense of seeing and hearing. They’re very perceptive, discerning, and observant when it comes to how we who claim to know Christ behave and speak. Sometimes, the scrutiny with which they examine our lives is a little unfair. Christians typically don’t claim to be completely free from sin, just completely forgiven of it. Nevertheless, our works and our words can either draw a watching world closer to God or drive them farther away.

We need to pay attention to our walk and conduct ourselves with wisdom toward those on the outside. The words translated as “make the most of every opportunity” in (4:5) is the Greek word peripateō, which refers to all the actions of a person’s daily life. Only God can see our hearts,| so people will size us up and evaluate the quality of our faith through how we conduct ourselves.

This is why Paul calls us to “live wisely,” which is one of the great words of Scripture. The Greek term sophia, which we translate as “wisdom,” means “the capacity to understand and function accordingly.” In Colossians alone, it’s used six times. In one instance, Paul refers to worldly human “wisdom” stemming from false religion and asceticism (2:23)—the antithesis of the “spiritual wisdom” found only in Christ (1:9, 28; 2:3; 3:16; 4:5).

When we live our lives under the leadership of Christ alone, who is our source of true spiritual wisdom, we will experience numerous positive effects: (Bulletin)

Wisdom will help us know when to speak and when to be silent.

Wisdom will give us insight into how to relate to others with tactfulness.

Wisdom will equip us to discern the best course of action with skeptics and critics.

Wisdom will grant us opportunities to give advice and counsel amid people’s struggles.

In short, conducting ourselves with wisdom will help us make the most of every opportunity. We won’t squander our encounters with those who desperately need Christ. It will make our lives winsome, persuasive, and convincing—>even before we open our mouths to share the saving truths of the person and work of Jesus Christ. But when we live foolishly and hypocritically, we can turn outsiders away.

Still addressing the issue of how we conduct ourselves in the horizontal dimension to those on the outside, Paul next discusses our talk (4:6). We can’t win people to Christ merely by being kind, smiling pleasantly, and living as we should. We need to have winning words coupled with our wise walks. Paul puts it this way: Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone. We understand the “gracious” part. Our words should be thoughtful, charming, and winsome—not rude, arrogant, or caustic. This has to do with the manner of our speech, not the content. Of course, some people will be offended by the gospel message no matter how lovingly we present it. People often do not like being told they are lost sinners in need of a Savior and that they are helpless to save themselves. Yet, in our words and actions, we should strive to present the truths of the gospel “with grace.” As Paul says elsewhere, 32 Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles[a] or the church of God. 33 I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved. (1 Cor. 10:32–33).

In Colossians 4:6, Paul illustrates his point, saying that our speech should be attractive, which means “seasoned with salt.” In the ancient world, as today, salt was used as a preservative to keep food from spoiling. But this doesn’t seem to be Paul’s primary focus. Though a positive response to the gospel does preserve the eternal lives of believers, Paul’s main emphasis in the metaphor here is that we respond to each person appropriately.| It is the quality of our speech that’s in view. Paul probably has in mind another everyday use of salt—as a seasoning to add zest to food. Skilled cooks will tell you that salt isn’t supposed to be used to add flavor to tasteless, bland food but to enhance the natural flavor of food. Thus, Paul likely means our words should be lively, zestful, attractive, thought-provoking, winsome, and humorous. I like how William Barclay puts it:

We’ve considered the power of seemingly “little” things—our talk and our walk. Paul has prompted us in COLOSSIANS 4:2–6 to give more thought to the words we speak and the things we do. These may, at times, seem insignificant to us, but our daily words and actions expressed under the leadership of Christ are a big deal in our vertical and horizontal relationships. As we wrap up this section, let me share four specific principles we can all apply in our lives.

First, strengthen your commitment to pray. Be devoted. Be visionary. And be specific. Honestly, I don’t know of any work harder than prayer—devoted, passionate, focused prayer. Passive, purposeless prayer is easy. It’s simple to lip-sync prayers, mumbling mere words while our minds are in neutral. It is challenging to shift our hearts and minds into four-wheel drive and plow through specific prayer requests with power and compassion! It’s easy to occasionally belt out prayers when people around us expect us to pray. But how difficult it is to be committed to prayer behind the scenes when nobody is looking, offering up requests to Someone we can’t see and hear. It takes faith. It takes perseverance. And it takes commitment. Commit to praying more tomorrow than you did yesterday and more next week than you do this week. Then, build from there.

Second, ask God for greater wisdom in your walk. James says, If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (Jas. 1:5). And Paul reminds us that Jesus Christ Himself is the wisdom of God (1 Cor. 1:24). We are given wisdom by means of the Holy Spirit who indwells us. We can pray something like this: “Lord, by your Holy Spirit and according to the character of Jesus Christ, help me to be wise in my walk. Enable me to be sensible in my interactions with people, to cultivate tact, and to think before I respond.”

Third, pay closer attention to “outsiders.” I don’t mean we nitpick their words and actions that don’t conform to our Christian standards. We’re wrong to expect unbelievers to live like Christians, but they are right to expect Christians to live like Christ. Remember that they’re watching you. They’re listening to you. They’re curious about your faith and whether it’s real to you. If your commitment to Christ isn’t real to you, it won’t be worth considering for them. It won’t be challenging to them if it isn’t changing you.

Fourth, work on becoming more winsome and friendly. Your words do matter. Think before you speak. Banish cynicism and sarcasm. Don’t be a grump or a prude. Listen to yourself and try to imagine how your manner of speech is coming across to others. Is it bland and boring or zesty and interesting? Are you salty? Is it all about you and your life, or is...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2498 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before..

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’re exploring Psalm 33, verses 6 through 12. These verses are rich with awe, reminding us of the power and sovereignty of God in creation, in the direction of human history, and in the lives of those who trust Him. David, the psalmist, calls us to look beyond ourselves and into the greatness of God, whose plans and purposes are solid and unchanging.

I’ll start by reading Psalm 33:6-12 from the New Living Translation.

and the heavens were created.

He breathed the word,

and all the stars were born.

and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs.

and let everyone stand in awe of Him.

It appeared at His command.

and thwarts all their schemes.

His intentions can never be shaken.

whose people He has chosen as His inheritance.

Let’s dive into verses 6 and 7, where David speaks about God’s role as Creator. Verse 6 begins, “The Lord merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born.” Here, we’re reminded that God’s power is unmatched. Creation wasn’t a struggle or a lengthy process for Him—God simply spoke, and everything came into being. In a single breath, all the stars in the heavens burst into existence, vast and uncountable, each one a testament to His power and glory. This speaks to the ease with which God can do things that, to us, are utterly incomprehensible.

Imagine the scale of this. Every star, every planet, every galaxy—God created them effortlessly. His words have the power to shape reality. This is a powerful reminder for us to trust His word. When He speaks, it carries weight, authority, and the power to bring things to pass.

Verse 7 continues: “He assigned the sea its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs.” God not only created the world but also established its boundaries and order. The seas, powerful and relentless, obey Him. He has set the boundaries for the oceans and keeps them within their limits. This detail isn’t just about the physical boundaries of creation; it’s a reminder that God’s power is vast, yet precise. He governs every detail of the universe, large and small.

In a world that often feels chaotic, it’s comforting to remember that God has ordered creation with care and intention. He is in control, not only over the great expanses of the universe but also over the smallest details of our lives. When we feel overwhelmed or out of control, we can look to the One who holds everything together.

Moving on to verses 8 and 9, David calls us to a posture of reverence: “Let the whole world fear the Lord, and let everyone stand in awe of Him. For when He spoke, the world began! It appeared at His command.” David encourages us to respond to God’s greatness with humility and awe. “Fear” in this context isn’t about being scared; it’s about having a deep respect and honor for God’s power and holiness. It’s about recognizing our place in relation to Him and acknowledging His authority over all things.

This awe, or “fear,” comes from recognizing that God is not like us—His power is beyond anything we can comprehend. Standing in awe of God is a natural response when we realize just how great He is and how small we are in comparison. David paints this beautiful image of creation coming into being at the mere command of God. There was nothing, and then God spoke, and suddenly, there was light, sky, earth, and everything in between. His word alone brought everything into existence. It’s a reminder of the authority and power contained within God’s word and character.

For us, standing in awe of God is a way of life. It means constantly being aware of His greatness, His holiness, and His love. When we live with that awareness, it changes how we approach our day-to-day lives. We begin to see that nothing is beyond His reach or His care.

Verses 10 and 11 turn our attention from creation to human affairs, showing us that God’s sovereignty isn’t limited to the natural world but extends to the plans and schemes of nations and people. Verse 10 says, “The Lord frustrates the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes.” This verse is a reminder that no human agenda can ever overpower God’s purposes. Nations rise and fall; rulers come and go, yet God’s will remains unchallenged. No plan made by humans can ever derail His divine purposes.

Throughout history, we’ve seen empires rise with plans of conquest, power, and domination, only to ultimately fall. No matter how great they seem, human plans are fragile in the grand scheme of God’s purposes. He is the ultimate ruler over every nation and every leader. While human schemes may seem strong and unbreakable at times, God is sovereign over them all.

In verse 11, David contrasts human plans with God’s intentions, saying, “But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken.” This verse is deeply comforting. Unlike human plans, which are temporary and unstable, God’s plans are firm and unchanging. His intentions are eternal, standing through every season, every age, and every circumstance. Whatever God has set in motion, no one can undo.

This truth should bring us immense peace. In a world of constant change and uncertainty, we can rest knowing that God’s purposes are stable. No force, no leader, and no power can alter what He has established. His promises, His word, and His love for us are all part of a plan that will never be shaken.

Finally, in verse 12, David expresses a blessing: “What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord, whose people He has chosen as His inheritance.” This verse highlights God’s unique relationship with His people—a relationship of choice, protection, and blessing. Here, David reflects on the joy, or blessedness, of belonging to God, of being counted as part of His people.

To be “chosen as His inheritance” is a profound concept. God, the Creator of the universe, has chosen to call people His own. This choice isn’t based on our merit or worthiness but on His love and grace. It’s a gift, a privilege, and a calling. Recognizing that we are God’s chosen brings a deep sense of purpose and joy. We belong to the Creator, the One whose plans are firm and whose love is unfailing.

This relationship with God is a source of joy, not because life will be without challenges, but because we know that we are held in His sovereign hands. Being part of God’s people means living under His protection, experiencing His love, and knowing that our lives have eternal significance. This is the joy David speaks of—the joy of security, purpose, and love that only God can provide.

Psalm 33:6-12 reminds us of the magnificence of God, from the creation of the heavens and the earth to His involvement in the affairs of nations and individuals. These verses call us to worship, reverence, and trust in God’s plans above all else. They remind us that God’s word is powerful, His plans are unshakable, and His love for His people is a source of joy and security.

As we meditate on these truths, let’s remember that our God, who created the stars with a word, is also the One who guides our lives with love and purpose. Let’s stand in awe of Him, placing our trust in His sovereign plan, and rejoicing in the blessing of being His chosen people.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Psalm 33. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His love fill your heart with joy.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2497 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before..

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we dive into Psalm 33, specifically verses 1 through 5. In these opening verses, we find a powerful call to praise, a reminder of the beauty of God’s word, and a celebration of His love and faithfulness. This psalm begins with exuberance, inviting all who trust in God to lift their voices and celebrate His goodness. It’s a psalm filled with joy, urging us to recognize the beauty of God’s work and His unfailing love.

Let’s begin by reading Psalm 33:1-5 together in the New Living Translation:

it is fitting for the pure to praise Him.

make music for Him on the ten-stringed harp.

play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.

and we can trust everything He does.

the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.

We begin in verse 1 with a beautiful call to worship: “Let the godly sing for joy to the Lord; it is fitting for the pure to praise Him.” This verse is an invitation, almost a command, for the people of God to lift their voices in joy and celebration. The term “godly” here refers to those who seek to live in harmony with God’s will, who aim to walk in righteousness and humility. For these individuals, it is “fitting” to praise the Lord. David reminds us that singing and praising God isn’t just an obligation; it’s the natural response of a heart in tune with Him.

Think about it: when we experience something amazing, don’t we feel an urge to share it with others? It’s similar with our relationship with God. When we truly recognize His goodness and faithfulness, our hearts naturally overflow with gratitude, and we want to express it. This is what David is encouraging us to do—to let our lives be an offering of praise to God.

In verse 2, he urges us to “praise the Lord with melodies on the lyre; make music for Him on the ten-stringed harp.” Music has a powerful way of expressing emotions that words alone often cannot. The psalmist here mentions instruments—the lyre and harp—encouraging us to make our praise as expressive as possible. God delights in our creativity, and using music, song, and even art as expressions of our gratitude and love is a wonderful way to connect with Him.

This invitation isn’t just about organized worship or a specific style of music; it’s about authenticity in our praise. Whether we have musical talent or not, the important thing is that our hearts are sincerely focused on God. God is honored when we lift our praise to Him with a genuine spirit.

Verse 3 continues the theme: “Sing a new song of praise to Him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy.” David calls us to “sing a new song.” This doesn’t necessarily mean creating something entirely new each time but instead approaching our praise with a fresh, renewed spirit. Every day brings new blessings, experiences, and reasons to be thankful. Singing a “new song” reminds us to stay present in our relationship with God, to avoid letting our worship become stale or routine.

The call to play “skillfully” also emphasizes that we should give our best in worship. Whether through music, art, or prayer, God deserves our best effort. While God welcomes our praise regardless of our skill level, approaching worship thoughtfully and with intentionality can make our time with Him even more meaningful. Worship should be heartfelt, not rushed or distracted. When we give God our full attention, our worship glorifies Him and renews our spirit.

Finally, the call to “sing with joy” reminds us that worship is a celebration. Praise isn’t just about somber reflection—it’s also about rejoicing, lifting our voices with gladness, and acknowledging the goodness of God. This joy flows from our awareness of who God is and what He has done for us. Worship becomes a celebration when we focus not on ourselves, but on the greatness of God.

Verse 4 shifts from the call to praise to a statement of why God deserves this praise: “For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything He does.” This verse is a powerful reminder that God’s word is the foundation upon which we can build our lives. God’s words are not empty promises; they are reliable and enduring.

In a world where trust is often hard to come by, the trustworthiness of God’s word stands in stark contrast. God’s promises are not subject to change based on circumstances or emotions; they are steadfast and sure. Whatever God says, He will accomplish. We see this reflected in the natural world around us, in the testimonies of those who have walked with Him, and in the countless ways He meets our needs.

David also adds that “we can trust everything He does.” This trust isn’t limited to understanding all of God’s actions but is rooted in the assurance that everything He does is for our good and His glory. Sometimes, we may not understand why certain events happen or why prayers seem unanswered. Yet, David reminds us to trust God’s wisdom and goodness, knowing He sees the whole picture even when we don’t.

When we look back at our lives, we often see God’s hand in ways we didn’t recognize in the moment. This is why we can confidently trust in His word and His actions. Faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does.

In verse 5, David continues by saying, “He loves whatever is just and good; the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.” Here, we get a glimpse into the character of God. God loves “whatever is just and good.” He delights in justice and righteousness in all that is pure and upright. This tells us that God’s actions are always aligned with His nature. He is a God of integrity, who never contradicts Himself or acts outside of His character.

Knowing this about God should inspire us to pursue justice and goodness in our own lives. When we align ourselves with what God loves, we are not only honoring Him but also living in a way that brings more light, kindness, and compassion to the world around us.

David also writes that “the unfailing love of the Lord fills the earth.” This phrase carries an immense promise. God’s love isn’t limited to one nation, people, or era. His love reaches every corner of the earth and is available to everyone. The word “unfailing” here reminds us that God’s love does not waver. It is consistent and dependable, providing us with a solid foundation even when life around us is uncertain.

Imagine what a difference it makes to know that God’s love fills the earth. It means that wherever we are, whatever we’re facing, we are not beyond the reach of His love. It’s a love that pursues us, meets us in our joys and struggles, and never lets us go. When we understand the vastness of God’s love, our natural response is to praise Him.

Psalm 33:1-5 reminds us of the privilege and joy of praising God. These verses call us to lift our voices in worship, not out of obligation, but as a genuine response to His goodness. They remind us of the trustworthiness of God’s word, His character’s reliability, and His love’s unfailing nature.

In these few verses, David paints a picture of a life of worship that celebrates God’s faithfulness and acknowledges His love and justice. This is a call to let our lives be a song of praise, to give God our best, and to rejoice in the knowledge that His word is true and His love is unshakeable.

Let’s keep these truths close to our hearts as we go about our day. Let’s remember to sing a new song, to give thanks for His guidance, and to trust in His unfailing love. Worship isn’t limited to a time or place; it’s a way of living that flows from a heart in awe of God.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Psalm 33. Until our next trek together, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His love fill your heart with joy.

 

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2496 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

 

Today is the twenty-ninth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today’s lesson is: He, Him, Me, Myself, and I.

How strange would it sound if a friend described what they did this morning like this? “After she got out of bed, she took a shower and then made a quick breakfast for herself—just some coffee and a bagel. I was in such a hurry that I didn’t even finish my bagel and just took the coffee with me!”

Be honest. You would probably wonder if your friend needed medication. Although your friend was describing what she did this morning, the first few details sounded like she was talking about someone else. If the information was about her and spoken by her, why not use “I” and “my”—what we call “first person” pronouns in grammar? Why would she refer to herself in the third person? We just don’t talk or write like that.

Neither would the biblical writers—but that is exactly what we read in many biblical passages.

Consider the first four verses of the book of Ezekiel:

The first two verses use the first person (“I”), which leads us to believe that Ezekiel himself is writing. But then there is a switch to the third person in verse three, as though the writer was not the famous prophet (“to Ezekiel”; “him”)- Then it’s back to the first person (“I”) again in verse four. What’s going on? Can’t Ezekiel decide if he’s writing or not?

There’s no multiple personality disorder here. The switch between grammatical persons is simply the tell-tale sign of an editor. Someone other than Ezekiel inserted verse three to make it clear that the prophet wasn’t crazy: The prophet saw God and was led by the Spirit to describe what follows in the book.

Who had the authority to edit the Bible like this? The short answer is whomever God moved to do so under inspiration. The longer answer is that, in the case of the prophetic writings, someone accepted by the believing community of Israel to be a member of the prophetic class or tradition served as editor of the preaching and teaching of the prophets.

A picture of a prophetic class emerges during the time of Elijah and Elisha. The prophets lived together in an organized community. The group was known as “the sons of the prophets” (2 Kgs 2:3, 5, 7, 15) and included married couples (2 Kgs 4:1). Such communities began at least as early as the time of Samuel (1 Sam 10).

The prophetic community in Elijah and Elisha’s era was large. During the time of Elijah, there were at least 100 prophets hidden by Obadiah from Ahab and Jezebel (1 Kings 18:4). And during Elisha’s period, 50 “sons of the prophets,” which isn’t even the whole group, are mentioned (2 Kgs 2:7).

The “sons of the prophets” served God under the leadership of a main prophet, who did most of the public speaking. We have several specific examples of this: Baruch (Jer 36), and Gehazi (2 Kgs 5:20). and Elisha (2 Kgs 2:5). Any of the unnamed prophets within the community could have been tasked with gathering the written words of their teacher, the main prophet, and putting them into a scroll or book. Writing down, organizing, and editing the prophet’s words could have occurred entirely after the leading prophet’s death, under the Spirit’s guidance. This process is similar to the way the Gospels were produced. We don’t know for sure how it worked, but we do know that more than one hand was responsible for what we have today. That these people served God in this way, without recognition, is a lesson to us all.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2495 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before..

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we continue through Psalm 32, focusing on verses 6 through 11. In the previous verses, David laid out the blessing of forgiveness and the power of confession. Now, in verses 6 through 11, he shifts to address what this forgiveness leads to: the assurance of God’s protection, the joy of being guided by His wisdom, and the steadfast love God extends to those who trust in Him.

Psalm 32 is a “maskil,” a teaching psalm, and here, David instructs us on how to respond to God’s grace. These verses encourage us to draw close to God, to lean on Him during difficult times, and to trust in His faithfulness. Let’s read these verses together in the New Living Translation, then unpack them individually.

that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment.

You protect me from trouble.

You surround me with songs of victory.

I will advise you and watch over you.

that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.”

but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.

Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!

Verse 6 opens with an invitation and a sense of urgency. David says, “Therefore, let all the godly pray to You while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment.” The phrase “while there is still time” implies that we shouldn’t take for granted the opportunity we have now to come to God. In a world full of distractions, David calls the godly—the faithful, those who seek God’s heart—to pray and stay close to God.

When David speaks of the “floodwaters of judgment,” he’s referring to the overwhelming consequences of living apart from God’s wisdom and protection. He uses the image of floodwaters as a symbol of the chaos, difficulty, and, sometimes, the natural consequences of our own choices. But David’s message is one of hope and urgency: we’re encouraged to seek God and to do so while we have the chance. In the New Testament, we see this echoed in Jesus’ call to abide in Him, to come to Him for refuge and peace.

David’s plea here reminds us that God is always near, ready to hear us when we call on Him. It’s never too late to pray, to ask for forgiveness, or to seek His wisdom. We should make the most of this grace and seek God’s guidance while we can.

In verse 7, David continues, “For You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory.” This verse shifts from the urgency of seeking God to a powerful statement of faith. David declares that God is his “hiding place,” a safe and secure refuge where he can find protection from trouble.

The imagery of a “hiding place” speaks to the comfort and security that comes from knowing God is with us. David, a warrior who faced many battles, understood the need for protection but also knew that true safety didn’t come from physical defenses or his own strength. His safety was in the presence of God, who surrounded him with “songs of victory.”

These songs aren’t just a victory celebration after a battle; they’re a reminder during the struggles. God’s presence gives us strength and assurance even in our most challenging moments. We don’t have to face trials alone; God is our refuge and shield, surrounding us with His faithfulness and giving us a reason to rejoice.

In verse 8, the tone changes slightly as God speaks directly: “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” Here, God Himself promises to lead us on the “best pathway.” This assurance is incredible—God doesn’t just offer generic guidance; He promises a pathway that’s uniquely designed for each of us.

God’s guidance is both intimate and personal. He shows us the way and “watches over” us. God cares deeply about each step we take. He is both the Guide and the Guardian, watching over our journey and ensuring we are never alone or lost.

Then, in verse 9, God gives us a gentle warning: “Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.” This verse challenges us to have a willing heart, and to follow God out of trust rather than stubbornness. God doesn’t want us to follow Him out of fear or because we’re forced. Instead, He desires willing hearts that come to Him freely and eagerly.

The image of a horse or mule that needs control reminds us that stubbornness can hinder our journey with God. When we resist His guidance, we make things more complicated for ourselves. But when we trust Him and follow willingly, He leads us with gentleness, showing us the best way forward.

Verse 10 brings a contrast that deepens our understanding of God’s love: “Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.” David is clear—choosing to live apart from God brings sorrow and pain. This isn’t because God delights in punishing anyone, but because a life lived outside His wisdom naturally leads to regret, pain, and heartache.

But look at the promise for those who trust in the Lord: “unfailing love surrounds” them. This is a love that is constant, unwavering, and secure. God’s love is described as “unfailing” because it doesn’t depend on our circumstances, actions, or worthiness. It’s simply who God is—faithful and steadfast.

This verse calls us to examine where we place our trust. When we choose to trust God, we are choosing to be surrounded by His unfailing love. It’s a love that sustains us through every trial and gives us a firm foundation when everything around us is uncertain. In a world that offers many alternatives for security and happiness, David reminds us that only God’s love is unfailing.

Finally, we come to verse 11, where David wraps up this psalm with an appeal to rejoice: “So rejoice in the Lord and be glad, all you who obey Him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!” This verse is both a celebration and an invitation. David calls on everyone who obeys God to rejoice, to experience the joy that comes from living in harmony with God’s will.

When David says, “Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure,” he’s inviting us to live with an open heart, free from the weight of unconfessed sin and shame. A pure heart isn’t a perfect heart; it’s a heart that’s been cleansed by God, trusts in His forgiveness, and walks in His ways.

The joy David describes here is not a superficial happiness; it’s a deep, abiding gladness that flows from knowing we are forgiven, loved, and guided by God. This joy comes from a life lived in God’s presence, embracing His truth and walking in His light.

When we rejoice in the Lord, we acknowledge His goodness and celebrate our freedom through His forgiveness. It’s a joy that radiates from a place of peace and assurance, rooted in the knowledge that we are held and cherished by our Creator.

Psalm 32:6-11 paints a beautiful picture of the life God calls us to—a life marked by prayer, a willingness to follow, and a deep trust in His unfailing love. We’ve seen how God is our hiding place, Guide, and loving Father who surrounds us with His grace. David’s words remind us that we have every reason to rejoice, to celebrate the forgiveness and love we receive from our Heavenly Father.

So, as we end today’s Wisdom-Trek, let’s take David’s invitation to heart. Let’s draw close to God in prayer, seek His guidance, and trust in His unfailing love. Let’s be willing followers, eager to walk in the path He has prepared for us. And above all, let’s live with joy, knowing that we are forgiven and surrounded by His love.

If you’re listening today and feeling weighed down by anything in your life, remember that God is waiting for you with open arms. Come to Him in honesty and trust. Embrace the freedom and joy that only He can provide.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Psalm 32. Until our next trek together, may God’s wisdom, love, and peace fill your heart and guide your steps.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Putnam Church Message – 10/27/2024

Last week, we learned that guided experience is the best teacher, as our mentor, the Apostle Paul, taught us to take off our old, dirty, stinking habits and put on the new, fresh habits of a new life in Christ.

Today’s passage is Colossians 3:15-4:1 on page 1835 of your Pew Bibles. Our focus today is having Christ as the center and source of our lives. I am reading from the NLT.

In English, a brief but meaningful expression helps us characterize a person’s values, loves, priorities, and passions, telling us what that person is all about. If a person dearly loves music, we say, “Music is his life.” If someone finds fulfillment in training and motivating athletes, we say, “Coaching is her life.” For a woman whose work means everything to her, who finds great joy in her career, we might say, “Her job is her life.” Of a prolific author who cranks out one book after another, we might say, “Writing is his life.” Since I enjoy almost everything I do, I would say that life is my life!

This idiom is clearly a hyperbole—an exaggerated claim not intended to be taken literally. But it’s still a very meaningful>descriptor. When something represents what we call “our life,” that something occupies a place in our heart and mind like nothing else. We think of it in the daytime and dream about it at night. We never grow weary of it. It consumes our time and energy—and often our money! It’s our passion, our driving force, our consuming interest … our life!

 

If you were to ask the apostle Paul to fill in the blank, “_________ is my life,” there’s no question what he would answer. Without taking a breath.| Without hesitation. He answers it for us in Philippians 1:21: “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” In Colossians 3:4, as Paul was looking forward to the future coming of Christ, he remarked that Christ “is our life.” Paul’s answer would have been clear, reflecting his life choices. His inner passion for Christ>and the external outworking of that passion were so much in harmony that nobody who knew him would have had to pause to answer that question. His life provided the answer: “Wherever I may be, whatever I may be doing, whenever it may be happening, however I may feel, Christ is my life.”

Could you say that about yourself? More importantly, if your spouse, children, parents, employer, co-workers, or employees were to fill in the blank for you (“_________ is your life”), would “Christ” occupy that place? As we work through Colossians 3:15–4:1, I want us to think about the idea of having Christ as the center and source of our lives. Along the way, we’ll see how: (Bulletin)

Christ is our life and can rule, fill, permeate, and be displayed in various areas. Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.  (3:15).

The message of Christ is to fill our lives (3:16–17).

The presence of Christ is to permeate our homes (3:18–21).

The life of Christ is to be displayed in our work (3:22–4:1).

Wherever, whatever, whenever, however … Christ is our Life.

 

 

Isaiah 9:6 prophesied that the coming Messiah would be called “Prince of Peace.” Christ’s entire life and ministry were characterized by imparting peace to others. Although Isaiah 9 looks forward to the universal peace that will be established on earth when the Messiah takes His throne and reigns in His kingdom, even now, as He sits at the Father’s right hand in heaven and intercedes for His people, He imparts peace to us. Christ said, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27). In Philippians 4:6–7, Paul describes the very personal and practical implication of our relationship with the Prince of Peace: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” I suggest reading these verses every morning when you rise – it is a great way to begin each day.

We can’t establish lasting world peace or relieve the suffering and anguish of this fallen world. Nor can we prevent chaos from happening in and around our lives. However, we can experience the reality of the peace Christ imparts today. The peace given to us by Christ is this:

An inner quietness in the midst of swirling chaos

A calm sense of tranquility in the center of tribulation

A feeling of harmony amid the world’s blaring discord

An experience of ease and rest in our hearts and minds

That’s the kind of incomprehensible peace Christ gives.

When Christ becomes our Life, His peace—not our circumstances—determines our attitudes and actions. Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” Focus on the verb rule. It’s a translation of a Greek word rarely used in the New Testament: brabeuō. It literally means to “be in control of someone’s activity by making a decision.” It is a choice!

Two things will happen when the peace of Christ—the peace He gives us—governs how we interpret our experiences and respond to our challenges. First, our relationships with others in the body of Christ will be healthier as we refuse to let minor things bother us. We’ll infuse our relationships with peace. Second, we’ll have gratitude even amid challenging circumstances. When our natural tendency might be to complain about things that happen to us, we’ll “be thankful,” knowing that God is in control (3:15). In fact, thankfulness will become an abiding characteristic at the core of our lives (3:16–17).

Paul turns from the peace of Christ to the Word of Christ, the message of His love,> grace, mercy, and salvation. When Christ is our Life, we’ll be immersed in His Word. Paul says, Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. (3:16). The phrase “in all its richness, fill your lives” conveys an image of permanent residence. God’s Word shouldn’t be like a friend who pops by for an occasional visit or a relative who stays in the guest room temporarily. God’s Word is to move in,| take residence, |and become an integral part of our lives.| The Message translation paraphrases this expression thus: “Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives” (3:16, msg).

The idea is that every aspect of our lives should be informed by and infused with the Word. Turn it loose. This would include instances of formal “teaching and admonishing one another with all the wisdom he gives”—things like personal Bible reading and study, family devotions, participation in church, listening to sound preaching, and tuning into good broadcasts and podcasts. But Paul also describes the deep permeation of the Word manifested in “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. (3:16; cf. Eph. 5:19).

Besides teaching one another through worship songs, we must let the Word fill our entire lives. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord>Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. (Col. 3:17). As we open our mouths, we should ask ourselves, “Is what I’m saying consistent with the message of Christ? Is it honoring to Him?” |Before we take any actions—even things that seem neutral or insignificant—we should consider, “Am I demonstrating my allegiance to Christ?”

When Christ is our Life, His peace will be the decisive factor in what we think, feel, say, or do (3:15). The truth of His Word will saturate everything we say and do (3:16–17). Christ also impacts the relationships in our homes, as Paul demonstrates by addressing wives, husbands, children, and fathers (3:18–21).

Regarding the role of a wife’s submission to her husband’s headship, Christ is the perfect example. Though equal in nature to the Father, sharing in the same divinity, power, glory, and authority, the Son submitted to the Father’s>will to accomplish God’s plan of redemption, humbling Himself in obedience (Phil. 2:5–8). This is the kind of humble submission wives are called to imitate. Note that Paul is speaking here only about the marriage relationship (wives and husbands), not about the general relationship between men and women. Wives are not told to submit to every man they encounter but to their husbands in the family unit. Let me add one more clarification: Paul is not condoning passive submission to domestic abuse. Wives who are stuck in abusive relationships with their husbands should seek help from supportive church leadership or legal authorities.

At this point, we must emphasize that we all have equal dignity in Christ, so Paul’s statement has nothing to do with inferiority. In Galatians 3:28, Paul says, There is no longer Jew or Gentile,[a] slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. Such a statement was profoundly countercultural in the first century. It was a time when many Jews felt superior to Gentiles, while Gentiles frequently looked on Jews with suspicion and disdain. Sometimes, slave traders considered slaves to be mere pieces of property, like cattle, whose value was directly linked to their physical strength, health, or skills. And many men wrongly believed that women were physically, mentally, and emotionally inferior to them. Paul’s statements in Colossians 3 concerning husbands and wives—as well as his remarks regarding servants and masters—suggest that in the eyes of God, all are equal. While different groups of people play distinct and complementary roles in an orderly society, God shows no partiality.

As wives fulfill their unique roles in the family “as is fitting for those who belong to the Lord.” (3:18), husbands are called to exceed the world’s expectations in two ways. First, they are to love their wives (3:19). Some husbands reading this might think, Whew! I got off easy this time. Not so! Paul is not referring to the passion of romantic love or the warm affection of a two-way relationship. He uses the term agape, the kind of love that seeks the highest good of the other, even at the price of one’s own comfort, safety, and benefit. This is unconditional, self-sacrificial love, the quality of love that God shows His undeserving children.

Second, husbands are instructed never treat them harshly (3:19). How natural it would be for husbands to become resentful of their wives if they poured all their time, energy, and emotions into such selfless love, only to discover that there’s no equal return on the investment! But this is exactly what husbands are called to do. Whether a man’s wife submits to, honors, or cherishes him, the husband’s responsibility is to love and honor his wife regardless, with nothing less than true agapē. In Ephesians 5:25, Paul went even further: For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her.

In the first century, not unlike the present, it was common for husbands to treat their wives harshly or to ignore and neglect them until they needed them to meet their needs. What Paul advocated stood in stark contrast to what was happening around them. The Christian man’s love for his wife—like the Christian woman’s submission to her husband—often went against the grain of personal preference, natural tendencies, and cultural expectations.  |When Christ is the Life of our families, |the marriage relationship will reflect mutual love, respect, and unity,| as will the parenting relationship. Children must be obedient to their parents. In light of what Paul has just said, children should already have a model to follow in their godly mother who shows deference and submission to the leadership of her husband. This may be one of the reasons God has ordered the husband-wife relationship this way—to provide an everyday example of what respect for authority is supposed to look like.

Children also have a perfect example of submission and obedience to parents in the life of Christ. He “was obedient to them” to His earthly parents, Joseph and Mary (Luke 2:51). This is ironic, isn’t it? God the Son incarnate, who created the whole universe and everything in it—including Joseph and Mary—voluntarily submitted to His own creatures to fulfill a greater purpose in the plan of God. Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord. (Col. 3:20).

The ultimate responsibility for carrying out discipline when children step out of line falls on the father as the head of the home. No dad is called to be a harsh, unloving, iron-fisted dictator. Nor is he to relinquish his authority and become a passive, timid, permissive parent who fails to provide leadership or exercise discipline when necessary. Fathers and mothers are to set standards, provide guidance, and discipline their children with patience, kindness, and love.

Paul warns Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. (3:21). The Greek term erethizō means “to arouse” or “to provoke,” mainly in a bad sense. The idea is that through overbearing actions, a father can push a child over the edge, failing to impart wisdom and actually goading the child into anger, resentment, and bitterness! He can do this by being overly critical or disciplining too harshly or too often. A wise father will balance instruction and discipline with fun and laughter. He will never tire of telling his children, “I love you,” and reinforcing it with affectionate actions.

 

 

When Christ is our Life, His peace fills our hearts (3:15), His Word permeates our every moment (3:16–17), and His presence transforms our families (3:18–21). In 3:22–4:1, Paul explores how the power of Christ also impacts our work.

In light of his first-century context, Paul addressed the pervasive institution of slavery and how servants and masters were to live under the mutual lordship of Christ. Before we seek to apply his principles to the twenty-first-century context of employment, let me make a couple of comments about Paul’s treatment of slavery in his first-century context.

First, Paul probably had in mind something akin to domestic servants—day-to-day workers in a household. (Downton Abbey) There would be a logical connection between Paul’s discussion of family life and that of household servants. To leave the issue of...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2493 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before..

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’re diving into the richness of Psalm 32:1-5. This passage reveals a heartfelt message from David about the profound joy of forgiveness and the relief that comes from confessing our sins to God.

Psalm 32 offers a close look at the nature of repentance, confession, and the freeing power of God’s forgiveness. In these first five verses, David’s words are clear and transparent as he recounts the blessings of forgiveness and the weight lifted when we openly turn to God with our sins. Let’s read these verses together in the New Living Translation and then explore each of them to grasp the life-giving truths they hold.

whose disobedience is forgiven,

whose sin is put out of sight!

whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt,

whose lives are lived in complete honesty!

my body wasted away,

and I groaned all day long.

My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

and stopped trying to hide my guilt.

I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.”

And You forgave me! All my guilt is gone.

David opens Psalm 32:1 by celebrating the “joy” that comes from forgiveness: “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight!” Here, David doesn’t just mention forgiveness; he emphasizes the deep happiness, peace, and liberation that follow it. The word “joy” tells us that there’s something more to forgiveness than just a clean slate—it’s an experience that brings a renewed sense of freedom and wholeness.

This joy, David says, is for those “whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight.” He uses two distinct terms—disobedience and sin—to cover the range of human failings. Disobedience reflects deliberate actions against God’s law, while “sin” represents falling short, missing the mark of what God intends for us. David shows us that, whether intentional or unintentional, God can completely forgive any wrongdoing.

In verse 2, David continues, “Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!” This is a beautiful reminder that God doesn’t just forgive us in a surface-level way; He clears the entire record of our guilt. It’s as if our wrongs were never recorded, never held against us.

This isn’t a license to live as we please but rather a call to embrace honesty. David says the blessed life is marked by “complete honesty.” True joy comes when we bring everything into the light, not hiding or disguising who we are or what we’ve done. When we’re honest with God, we can experience His forgiveness’s full, freeing power.

This passage encourages us to ask ourselves: Are we living in the joy of forgiveness? Do we understand that God not only forgives but clears our record of guilt? This is the foundation of a vibrant relationship with Him—knowing we are fully forgiven and restored.

In verses 3 and 4, David describes the impact of hiding sin rather than confessing it: “When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long.” David’s words here show us the toll that unconfessed sin can take—not just on the soul, but on the body and mind.

David doesn’t hold back in describing the physical and emotional effects of hiding sin. He says his “body wasted away,” and he “groaned all day long.” This paints a vivid picture of the exhaustion and burden of carrying guilt and shame. Sin has consequences and can affect every part of our lives—our minds, emotions, and even our physical health.

In verse 4, David says, “Day and night Your hand of discipline was heavy on me. My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.” Here, David acknowledges that his suffering wasn’t merely a natural consequence of guilt but also a result of God’s discipline. God’s “hand” was heavy on him, and this discipline, though difficult, was actually an act of love.

When we stray from God’s path, He sometimes allows us to experience discomfort as a way to draw us back. God’s hand of discipline isn’t meant to harm us but to lead us to repentance, to guide us back to the joy and freedom found in His presence.

David’s words here serve as a warning and an encouragement. Unconfessed sin can drain us, but God’s discipline is designed to restore us. When we feel weighed down by guilt or shame, it’s an invitation to come back to Him, to bring everything into the open, and to let go of the burdens we were never meant to carry.

In verse 5, we reach the turning point of David’s experience: “Finally, I confessed all my sins to You and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, ‘I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.’ And You forgave me! All my guilt is gone.”

David says, “Finally.” This implies that he struggled, perhaps for a long time, before he reached the point of confession. However, the results were immediate once he decided to bring his sins before God. David confesses “all” his sins, holding nothing back. There’s no more hiding, no more covering up. He’s completely open with God and fully transparent.

David’s confession wasn’t simply a verbal admission but a surrender. He acknowledges his rebellion, admitting that he chose to go against God’s ways. In doing so, he releases his guilt, and God’s response is immediate and complete forgiveness.

This verse is a powerful reminder of the freedom that comes with confession. When we try to hide our sins, we carry a weight that drains us. But when we come to God honestly, He lifts that weight, forgives us, and removes all guilt.

It’s important to note that David doesn’t say he earned forgiveness or that he deserved it. He simply confessed, and God, in His mercy, forgave him. This is the beauty of God’s grace—it’s given freely to those who come to Him with a humble and repentant heart.

This release of guilt isn’t just an emotional relief; it’s a spiritual cleansing that restores our relationship with God. It’s a chance to start anew, unburdened and free to live in His grace.

Psalm 32:1-5 takes us on a journey—from the joy of forgiveness to the toll of hidden sin, and finally, to the freedom that confession brings. David’s transparency in these verses reminds us that God isn’t looking for perfection but honesty. He wants us to come to Him openly, acknowledging our shortcomings and trusting in His mercy.

Perhaps there’s something in your life that you’ve been hiding, a sin or burden you’ve kept concealed. David’s words here invite us to bring it all to God. We don’t need to fear His judgment when we come with a humble heart, because His response is always one of mercy and grace.

Confession isn’t just about admitting wrongdoing—it’s about stepping into the freedom God offers. When we confess, we say, “Lord, I trust You to heal me, restore me, and carry what I can’t.” It’s a step toward the joy and peace only God can provide.

In these verses, David experienced firsthand the relief that comes with confession. He understood that God’s forgiveness is complete and that, when God forgives, our sins are no longer counted against us. They’re “put out of sight,” removed as far as the east is from the west.

This is the kind of freedom God offers to each of us today. So, let’s embrace it. Let’s live with open hearts, quick to confess and quick to receive the joy of forgiveness. Let’s be honest with God, knowing that He’s a loving Father who delights in forgiving His children and setting them free.

Thank you for joining me today as we journeyed through the first five verses of Psalm 32. We’ve seen how David’s story is not just a personal testimony but an invitation for each of us. God’s forgiveness isn’t reserved for a select few—it’s available to all who come to Him honestly and humbly.

If you’re carrying a burden of guilt or shame, remember that God’s hand isn’t heavy on you to condemn you; it’s there to guide you back to the peace and freedom that comes with confession. Don’t let pride or fear keep you from experiencing the joy that David describes. Confess, and let God lift the weight.

As we end today’s Wisdom-Trek, I encourage you to meditate on these verses and consider how God’s forgiveness has impacted your life. Let’s walk in the joy and freedom that come from being forgiven and let go of any burdens we’re holding onto.

Until next time, my friends, may God’s peace and forgiveness be with you on your journey toward wisdom.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2492 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before..

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, as we continue our exploration of Psalm 31. Today’s passage, Psalm 31:19-24, takes us from a place of distress to one of praise and confidence in God’s goodness.

In the previous verses, we saw how David poured out his heart to God, pleading for mercy and rescue amid his pain and danger. In these final verses of the psalm, David shifts his focus. He celebrates God’s goodness, faithfulness, and protection, encouraging all who trust in the Lord to take courage and place their hope in Him.

Let’s read Psalm 31:19-24 from the New Living Translation, and then we’ll break it down verse by verse.

You lavish it on those who come to You for protection, blessing them before the watching world.

He kept me safe when my city was under attack.

David begins this final section of the psalm with a powerful declaration of God’s goodness: “How great is the goodness You have stored up for those who fear You. You lavish it on those who come to You for protection, blessing them before the watching world” (verse 19). After pouring out his heart in the earlier verses, expressing his fears, pain, and distress, David now turns to praise, acknowledging the abundant goodness of God.

God’s goodness isn’t something that’s merely experienced in the abstract or on rare occasions. It’s stored up, waiting for those who fear the Lord and come to Him for protection. There’s an image here of God’s goodness as a treasure, something He’s carefully reserved and prepared for those who seek refuge in Him. This isn’t a meager or stingy supply—it’s lavish, overflowing, and abundant.

David also mentions that this blessing is given “before the watching world.” God’s faithfulness to His people is evident to others. When we trust in the Lord, His goodness and favor in our lives serve as a testimony to those around us. The way God cares for His people shines like a beacon, showing His greatness to the world.

Verse 20 continues this theme: “You hide them in the shelter of Your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in Your presence, far from accusing tongues.” This is such a beautiful image of God’s protection. David describes God’s presence as a shelter, a place where we can find safety from our enemies and those who would seek to harm us.

It’s not just physical enemies that David refers to, though. He also speaks of being protected from “accusing tongues.” Words can be incredibly powerful—they can wound, accuse, and destroy. But in God’s presence, we are shielded from these attacks. His protection is complete, not only guarding us from physical harm but also from the emotional and spiritual damage that can come from lies, gossip, and slander.

This is a reminder for us today that when we seek refuge in God, He doesn’t just offer us temporary relief or surface-level comfort. His protection is deep, shielding us in ways we might not even see. When we rest in Him, we are truly safe.

In verses 21 and 22, David moves from acknowledging God’s goodness to expressing his deep gratitude for how God has personally delivered him: “Praise the Lord, for He has shown me the wonders of His unfailing love. He kept me safe when my city was under attack.”

David’s response to God’s protection is one of praise. He recognizes that God’s love is not just a general, distant love but something deeply personal. God’s love is “unfailing,” meaning it never falters, no matter the situation. God kept him safe even when David’s city was under attack—whether that refers to a literal battle or the overwhelming pressures he felt.

This shows us that David’s relationship with God wasn’t just about seeking help in times of trouble; it was also about recognizing and celebrating the ways God had already shown up in his life. Gratitude is essential to faith. When we take the time to reflect on how God has been faithful in the past, it strengthens our trust in Him for the future.

In verse 22, David reflects on a moment of panic: “In panic I cried out, ‘I am cut off from the Lord!’ But You heard my cry for mercy and answered my call for help.” This is such a relatable verse. In moments of fear and distress, it’s easy to feel like God is far away, as though He’s not hearing our prayers or that we’ve somehow been separated from His presence.

But David acknowledges that even in those moments when he felt “cut off,” God was still listening. He heard David’s cry for mercy and responded. This is a reminder that God is never truly distant from us. Even when our emotions tell us that He’s far away, the truth is that He’s always near, always listening, and always ready to respond when we call out to Him.

How often do we find ourselves in situations where panic sets in, and we feel disconnected from God? David’s experience encourages us to believe God is attentive to our cries for help, even in our darkest moments. He hears us, even when we think He doesn’t, and He responds with mercy and love.

David’s personal reflections lead him to call out to others in verses 23 and 24: “Love the Lord, all you godly ones! For the Lord protects those who are loyal to Him, but He harshly punishes the arrogant.”

This is an invitation and a declaration. David calls all of God’s people—those who are faithful and godly—to love the Lord. Why? Because the Lord protects those who are loyal to Him. David has experienced God’s protection firsthand, and now he’s encouraging others to recognize that same truth. If we are loyal to God, if we remain faithful to Him, He will be our protector.

But David also warns that the arrogant—those who rely on themselves or oppose God—will face consequences. God is a God of justice, and while He is merciful and loving to those who seek Him, He also holds the proud and wicked accountable.

Finally, David closes with this powerful exhortation in verse 24: “So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord!” What a fitting conclusion to this psalm. David has moved from distress and fear to trust, gratitude, and now encouragement.

This call to be strong and courageous echoes throughout Scripture. We see it when God speaks to Joshua as he prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:9). We see it again when Paul encourages the Corinthians to stand firm in their faith (1 Corinthians 16:13). And here, David reminds us that courage and strength are not found in our own abilities but in putting our hope in the Lord.

When we place our hope in God, we can confidently face any situation. We can be strong, knowing that He is our refuge, and we can be courageous, knowing He will never abandon us.

As we wrap up our reflection on Psalm 31:19-24, we see a beautiful journey of faith. David began this psalm in deep distress, crying out to God for mercy and deliverance. But through it all, his heart remained fixed on the goodness and faithfulness of God. He knew that, no matter the circumstances, God’s love was unfailing, and His protection was sure.

These final verses remind us that God’s goodness is stored up for us, His people. He is our refuge, our shelter, and the One who hears our cries for help, even in our moments of panic and fear. And because of this, we are called to love Him, trust Him, and be strong and courageous as we place our hope in Him.

I encourage you to meditate on these verses in the coming days and to consider how God’s goodness and love have been at work in your life. No matter what you may be facing, remember that God is with you, protecting you, and guiding you every step of the way.

Thank you for joining me today on this leg of our Wisdom-Trek. Until next time, may God’s peace and strength guide you on your journey toward wisdom.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

 

 

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2491 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

 

Today is the twenty-eighth lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church.

The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God’s redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it’s also a book that seems strange to us. While God’s Word was written for us, it wasn’t written to us. Today’s lesson is: Why the Ark of the Covenant Will Never Be Found.

I can still recall the thrill of first seeing Raiders of the Lost Ark. As a young adult, I had already been infected with the Biblical archaeology bug. This movie boosted my interest to a whole new level. As Providence would have it, I followed the path of Indiana Jones—at least on a cursory basis. I’m still fascinated by the ark, but I no longer believe it is lost and awaiting discovery. I have Jeremiah to blame for that.

The idea that the ark of the covenant survived Nebuchadnezzar’s invasion of Judah is based on the absence of any explicit reference to the ark being among the vessels of gold carried to Babylon (2 Chr 36:5-8). Likewise, the list of items brought back to Judah after the end of the exile makes no mention of the ark (Ezra 1:5-11). The simplest explanation is that the ark was among the “vessels of gold in the temple of the Lord” that Nebuchadnezzar cut to pieces (2 Kgs 24:13). No one would pay to see that movie.

From ancient times until the present day, people have resisted the idea that God would allow Nebuchadnezzar to destroy Israel’s holiest object. Testifying to the power of this resistance, there are nearly a dozen theories on how the ark survived.

Some of these theories are drawn from biblical events. Perhaps Hezekiah gave the ark to Sennacherib as part of his tribute payment (2 Kgs 18). Might it have been removed by faithful priests when Manasseh put an idol in the temple (2 Kgs 21:1-9)? Indiana Jones told millions that Pharaoh Shishak took the ark to the city of Tanis in Egypt when he invaded Jerusalem (1 Kgs 14:25- 28). Perhaps the most intricate theory involves Menelik I, the alleged son of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, taking the ark to Ethiopia. The Ethiopian royal chronicle, the Kebra Nagast, presents this idea so seriously that rulers of Ethiopia well into the 20th century had to prove their descent from Menelik I.

Other theories grew out of specific passages in ancient texts. 2 Maccabees 2:5 records Jeremiah hiding the ark in a cave before Nebuchadnezzar’s invasion. 2 Baruch 6:1-9 describes the ark being supernaturally swallowed up by the earth before the invasion, tucked away until the time of Israel’s restoration.

Jeremiah 3:16-17 makes all these hypotheses challenging to believe:

The passage plainly shows that the ark would be absent because of the exile. Jeremiah 3:16 also insists that “and there will be no need to rebuild the Ark”—wording that strongly suggests the ark would be destroyed in the impending disaster; if the ark weren’t destined for destruction, talk of rebuilding it would make no sense at all. Jeremiah 3:17 reinforces this point—the ark was God’s throne. He sat “between the cherubim” of the lid known as the “mercy seat” (Exod 25:18-22; Num 7:89). But the passage speaks of a day when Jerusalem itself will be called God’s throne. We read about this in Revelation 21:2-3: I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. A recovered ark of the covenant doesn’t fit this picture—it would be a disappointment.

The lessons that make up Theology Thursday on the Wisdom-Trek Podcast for the next couple of years will satisfy the statement, “I Dare You Not to Bore Me with the Bible.” I trust you’ll enjoy them—and, of course, not be bored.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2490 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before..

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’ll be diving into Psalm 31:9-18 from the New Living Translation. David continues his heartfelt prayer to God in this passage, crying out for mercy and deliverance. He’s deeply troubled—emotionally, physically, and spiritually—but what stands out is how, amid this pain, he continues to turn to God for refuge and rescue. We can all learn from David’s vulnerability before God, especially when we find ourselves in times of distress.

Let’s take a moment to read Psalm 31:9-18, and then we’ll break it down into smaller sections to see what lessons we can draw from David’s words.

David begins Verse 9 of the psalm with an intense cry for mercy: “Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am in distress. Tears blur my eyes. My body and soul are withering away.” Right away, we sense the depth of David’s anguish. He’s not just feeling a little down—he’s in a place of deep, overwhelming distress. His tears are so frequent that his vision is blurred, and his emotional pain is so intense that it’s affecting him physically. He says his body and soul are withering away, a vivid picture of someone who feels completely spent, both spiritually and physically.

This is a reminder that as human beings, we are not just spirits or bodies, but whole persons. When we are in deep emotional or spiritual distress, it can affect us physically. David isn’t ashamed to admit his weakness and weariness. Instead, he brings it before God, asking for mercy.

In verse 10, he continues: “I am dying from grief; my years are shortened by sadness. Sin has drained my strength; I am wasting away from within.” Here, David reflects on how his prolonged sorrow and grief have taken a toll on his life. It’s not just a momentary feeling—his sadness has affected him over a long period, even cutting his life short in his perception.

David acknowledges that sin has drained his strength. Whether he’s referring to his own sin or the effects of living in a sinful, broken world, it’s clear that sin’s consequences have left him feeling weak and depleted. He’s wasting away, not just outwardly but inwardly as well.

How often do we, too, feel this way when the burdens of life weigh us down? Sometimes, our sorrow feels unshakable, and our strength seems to disappear. But like David, we can come to God in those moments of weakness and ask for His mercy and strength.

David describes his isolation: “I am scorned by all my enemies and despised by my neighbors—even my friends are afraid to come near me. When they see me on the street, they run the other way” (verse 11). Not only is David dealing with deep internal pain, but he’s also facing rejection and abandonment from those around him. His enemies mock him, and even his neighbors and friends have turned their backs on him.

This is a powerful image of loneliness and isolation. It’s one thing to face personal struggles, but the pain is multiplied when those around you seem to abandon you. David’s situation is so bad that people literally avoid him on the street—they don’t want to be associated with him. He feels despised and rejected.

In verse 12, David goes further: “I am ignored as if I were dead, as if I were a broken pot.” He feels invisible, forgotten, and useless, like a broken piece of pottery that has no purpose anymore. This imagery of brokenness is profound—it shows how David feels discarded, as if his life no longer holds any value.

We’ve all experienced times when we’ve felt alone, abandoned, or broken. David’s words remind us that even in our darkest moments, when we feel forgotten or rejected by others, God is still present, and we can pour out our hearts to Him. He sees us, even when others do not.

David’s distress continues in verse 13: “I have heard the many rumors about me, and I am surrounded by terror. My enemies conspire against me, plotting to take my life.” Now, David isn’t just dealing with inner turmoil or social rejection—he’s also facing real external threats. His enemies are spreading rumors and lies about him, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Worse yet, they are plotting to take his life.

This is a situation of immense pressure. David feels surrounded by terror, and the danger is not just imagined—it’s real. His enemies are actively seeking to destroy him. We can sense the weight of the fear and danger he’s experiencing.

In our own lives, we may not face physical enemies in the same way David did, but we often feel surrounded by stress, fear, or the pressures of life. Whether it’s false accusations, misunderstandings, or just the overwhelming challenges of our daily responsibilities, we can relate to feeling as though the world is conspiring against us.

But once again, David doesn’t remain in this place of fear and despair. He turns to the One who can deliver him from this overwhelming situation.

In verse 14, we see a shift in David’s tone: “But I am trusting You, O Lord, saying, ‘You are my God!’” Amid his fear, isolation, and danger, David makes a conscious choice to trust in the Lord. He declares, “You are my God,” reaffirming his personal relationship with the Lord. This isn’t just a vague hope—it’s a deep, personal trust in God’s character and sovereignty.

In verse 15, David says, “My future is in Your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly.” What a profound statement of faith! Despite everything going on around him, David acknowledges that his future is ultimately in God’s hands. His life, his destiny, and his safety are all under God’s control.

This is a powerful reminder for us. No matter what challenges or dangers we face, our future is not determined by the circumstances around us. It’s in God’s hands. When we trust Him, we can find peace even amid chaos, knowing He is in control.

David asks God to rescue him from those who pursue him, and his confidence comes from his belief that God is more powerful than his enemies. He knows that no matter how relentless his enemies are, God’s power and protection are greater.

David’s prayer continues in verse 16: “Let Your favor shine on Your servant. In Your unfailing love, rescue me.” Here, David is asking for God’s favor and love to be upon him. He’s not relying on his own righteousness or abilities; instead, he’s calling on God’s unfailing love and grace to rescue him.

He also pleads in verse 17: “Don’t let me be disgraced, O Lord, for I call out to You for help. Let the wicked be disgraced; let them lie silent in the grave.” David is asking for vindication. He doesn’t want to be put to shame for trusting in God, and he prays that it will be his enemies—the wicked—who are disgraced instead.

David longs for justice, but he trusts God to bring that justice about. He’s not seeking personal revenge; instead, he’s asking God to silence the voices of those who oppose him and to bring about righteous judgment.

Finally, in verse 18, David concludes this section with another plea for justice: “Silence their lying lips—those proud and arrogant lips that accuse the godly.” David knows his enemies’ lies are powerful and destructive, but he also knows God is greater. He asks God to silence the false accusations and lies of the wicked.

As we reflect on this portion of Psalm 31, we see a man in deep distress—emotionally, physically, and spiritually—who still places his trust in God. David’s honesty about his pain and fear is an example to us. It’s okay to cry out to God when we’re hurting, and it’s okay to admit when we feel overwhelmed or abandoned.

But like David, we’re also reminded to place our trust in God, even when life seems out of control. We can declare, “You are my God,” and trust that our future is in His hands. God is our refuge, our deliverer, and the One who will bring about justice in His perfect timing.

I encourage you to meditate on this psalm this week and to bring your own fears and struggles before the Lord, knowing that He hears you and will never forsake you.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through Psalm 31. Until next time, may God’s peace and strength be with you as you continue your trek toward wisdom

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!