October 3, 2018 Psalm 5 New Living Translation (NLT) Until the world is completely redeemed and renewed under Christ’s future rule, Christ’s followers will have to stand against the evil schemes of Satan—the author of temptation, deception, wickedness, and rebellion against the word and will of Almighty God. In our Psalm today, David has tasted all kinds of distressing and evil situations at the unrighteous hand of Satan and his demonic spirits. When he is focused on the Lord, David understands the power of praise and worship to take down the spirit that opposes his God. Do you understand the power of praise? In Psalm 22:3, a song by David, he reveals what he has learned from the Lord, “You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel (people chosen by God). When David praised the Most High with words and actions of Truth, he found the power of the Lord with him for every battle against evil. When he allowed himself to be tempted and deceived by Satan, he found himself powerless and lacking heart for the battle. Satan is the great deceiver; Scripture calls him the father of lies who comes as an angel of light. People just don’t always know when Satan is using them. For that reason it is essential for people to know the word of God or Truth. Otherwise, people do not realize they have opened the door through sin and disobedience to God’s Word; thereby, allowing Satan to gain a foothold in their thoughts and actions. The only One who can save people from the power of Satan is Christ the Anointed One. Satan and his demons know the Truth. It’s why one day Satan will commission the Antichrist—a human representative filled with Satan—to deceive people from knowing the Truth that Christ alone can save them. So, when you are in a spiritual battle, praise the One who can save you and ask for HELP! Psalm 5 For the choir director: A psalm of David, to be accompanied by the flute. 1 O Lord, hear me as I pray; pay attention to my groaning. 2 Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to no one but you. 3 Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. 4 O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness; you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked. 5 Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence, for you hate all who do evil. 6 You will destroy those who tell lies. The Lord detests murderers and deceivers. 7 Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house; I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe. 8 Lead me in the right path, O Lord, or my enemies will conquer me. Make your way plain for me to follow. 9 My enemies cannot speak a truthful word. Their deepest desire is to destroy others. Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with flattery. 10 O God, declare them guilty. Let them be caught in their own traps. Drive them away because of their many sins, for they have rebelled against you. 11 But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. 12 For you bless the godly, O Lord; you surround them with your shield of love. Prayer: Lord, I will praise you in the morning, afternoon, and in the evening for in you I take refuge from Satan who seeks to destroy your children. I will not fear. Continue to protect and deliver me from evil. In Jesus’ name. Amen.