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Christ Light Chapel, Ibadan (2026)

18/01/2026

"🙏 January 18: A Day of Gratitude 🙏

Dear God, thank You for today! 🌞 Grateful for Your love, care, and protection. Forgive me for my mistakes, and help me trust You more. 💖

As I rest, bring peace, healing, and angels watching over me. 💤 I love You, God! 🙏

17/01/2026

MORNING PRAYER 🙏

January 17

Good morning, Lord. I come before You with a grateful heart, knowing that even when my world feels noisy, uncertain, or overwhelming, You are still seated on Your throne. You are not shaken by what shakes me. You are not surprised by what surprises me. You are the One who was, who is, and who is to come.

Today, remind me that You reign. Help me release my worries, my plans, and my fears into Your hands. I don’t want to carry what was never meant for me to control. Teach me how to trust You fully.

When anxiety tries to rise, anchor me in Your peace. When doubt whispers, remind me of Your power. When I feel small, help me remember that I belong to a great and mighty King.

Thank You for watching over me, guiding me, and loving me with a love that never changes. May my life today reflect my worship—not just in words, but in how I trust You, obey You, and walk with You.

I begin this day resting in Your authority, confident in Your care, and thankful for Your presence.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

07/07/2025

*MORNING PRAYER*

JULY 7

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of a new day. As I rise this morning, I quiet my heart before You. Like the prophet Habakkuk, I want to take my place at the watchtower—to listen for Your voice, to look for what You are doing, and to wait with trust for Your perfect timing.

There are things I pray for, some with urgency and others that have been on my heart for a long time. And there are days when it feels like nothing is changing. But even in the waiting, Lord, remind me that You are faithful. Your plans are unfolding, even when I cannot yet see them.

Help me to watch and listen, to trust that even in silence, You are not absent. You are always working, even when Your hand is hidden and Your voice feels far away. Whether this season brings joy or stillness, answers or continued silence, may I rest in the truth that You are near, and You are good.

Let my hope be anchored not in immediate outcomes but in Your unchanging character. Strengthen me to live by faith today—to wait, to trust, and to walk with You in quiet confidence.

27/06/2025

TOPIC: REPENT FROM YOUR SIN
TEXT: ACTS 2:38

Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus
Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Memory Text:
1Jn 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
INTRODUCTION
Turn from the path of destruction; repent and return to God
Dear Friend,
Are you tired of living in sin, feeling empty and unfulfilled?
Do you yearn for a deeper connection with God and a sense of purpose?
According to Act 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;.
The three things to consider from the path of destruction or sin and returning to God

THE CONSEQUENCE OF SIN ROMANS 6:15- 23
Sin separate us from God and leads to spiritual death
It brings guilt, shame, and suffering, not only in this life but also the life to come
Note: the bible warns that the wages of sin is death but the gifts of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord
THE GIFT OF REPENTANCE
Repentance is a gift from God, allowing us to turn away from sin and towards him. It’s a change of heart, a transformation that brings new life and hope , Jesus said repent , for the kingdom of heaven has come near ( MATTHEW 4:17)
HOW TO REPENT
Acknowledge your sin: recognize your sin and take responsibilities for them and change from it.
Feel remorse: feel genuine sorrow for your sin and their consequence. Be sober and be ready to leave the way of sin and repent.
Turn away : turn away from sinful behaviors and attitudes
Seek forgiveness: seek forgiveness from God and others
Follow Jesus: follow Jesus Christ, the son of God, who died for your sin and rose again.

THE PROMISE OF FORGIVENESS HOSEA 14:4
1Jn 1:9 if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God promise to forgive those who repent and turn to him
TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY
Don’t wait any longer to experience the freedom and joy that comes from repentance
Pray to God, confessing your sin and asking for forgiveness
Seeking guidance from spiritual leaders or mentors
Join a community of believers who can support and encourage you to grow so that the things of the world will not draw you back from Jesus Christ presence.
CONCLUSION
Repentance is a journey, not a one-time event. Its process of turning away from sin and towards God. As you repent and follow Jesus you will experience a deeper connection with God, a sense of purpose and a life filled with hope and joy.
If you have encounter with Christ through this tract and your heart is broken to meet Christ just kneel down where you are or bow down your head and pray from your heart saying lord Jesus my heart have encounter with you today and I feel remorseful about my ways of life, today lord Jesus Christ give me new life of living and help me to focus on my genuine repentance and give me grace of your kingdom, thank you Jesus Christ my Lord (AMEN)
May God bless you as you take this step towards repentance and a deeper relationship with him?
For further encounter and fellowship with God,
You can connect with Pastor Samuel on the following for messages or calls
WHATSAPP NUMBER: 08140485531
CALL: 09025391429
EMAIL: [email protected]

02/05/2025

*NIGHT PRAYER*

MAY 2

Dear God,

As the stillness of night settles around me, I pause to rest in the comfort of Your presence. Thank You for walking with me through this day—the blessings, the challenges, and the quiet moments alike. Now, as I lay down to sleep, I release everything into Your loving hands. The thoughts that linger, the burdens I carry, and the concerns about tomorrow—I surrender them all to You.

Lord, calm my heart and quiet my mind. Cover my home with Your protection and let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Watch over my loved ones tonight. Let no harm come near, and may Your angels encamp around us as we sleep.

I entrust the coming day to You, knowing that whatever it may hold, You are already there. May it unfold according to Your perfect will. Help me to wake with renewed strength, ready to walk in faith, not fear.

Thank You for being my refuge, my peace, and my hope. Even in the darkness, You are light. Even in silence, You are near. I rest now in the embrace of Your everlasting arms. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

(At this moment, you are invited to talk to God about whatever is on your heart).

31/10/2024

And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing. - Ezekiel 34:26. The Lord shall shower his blessings upon you and your household in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. Good afternoon and happy Thursday, Shalom!!! 🎈

10/10/2024

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.- Matthew 16:19. Whatsoever you loose shall obey you and what bound shall yield to your instruction in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. Good night and sweet dreams

04/10/2024

🍞 *Morning Devotional*

🍷 *Everyday a different*
devotional to read, meditate and share!Friday - October 04, 2024

' _At evening time it shall be light.'- Zechariah 14:7_ - 🙏

*DEVOTIONAL:*

Oftentimes we look forward with forebodings to the time of old age, forgetful that at eventide it shall be light.
To many saints, old age is the choicest season in their lives. A balmier air fans the mariner's cheek as he nears the shore of immortality, fewer waves ruffle his sea, quiet reigns, deep, still and solemn.
From the altar of age the flashes of the fire of youth are gone, but the more real flame of earnest feeling remains. The pilgrims have reached the land Beulah, that happy country, whose days are as the days of heaven upon earth.
Angels visit it, celestial gales blow over it, flowers of paradise grow in it, and the air is filled with seraphic music. Some dwell here for years, and others come to it but a few hours before their departure, but it is an Eden on earth.
We may well long for the time when we shall recline in its shady groves and be satisfied with hope until the time of fruition comes. The setting sun seems larger than when aloft in the sky, and a splendour of glory tinges all the clouds which surround his going down. Pain breaks not the calm of the sweet twilight of age, for strength made perfect in weakness bears up with patience under it all. Ripe fruits of choice experience are gathered as the rare repast of life's evening, and the soul prepares itself for rest. The Lord's people shall also enjoy light in the hour of death. Unbelief laments; the shadows fall, the night is coming, existence is ending. Ah no, crieth faith, the night is far spent, the true day is at hand. Light is come, the light of immortality, the light of a Father's countenance. Gather up thy feet in the bed, see the waiting bands of spirits! Angels waft thee away. Farewell, beloved one, thou art gone, thou wavest thine hand. Ah, now it is light. The pearly gates are open, the golden streets shine in the jasper light. We cover our eyes, but thou beholdest the unseen; adieu, brother, thou hast light at even-tide, such as we have not yet. Good morning It's Friday

11/08/2024

THEME: UPLIFTMENT FOR RESTORATION
TOPIC: LIFTED UP AND RESTORED
TEXT: PSALM 30:1-5, ISAIAH 40:28-31
Preacher : Prophet Samuel Ademola
Introduction
Have you ever felt like you're stuck in a pit, unable to climb out? Or like you're wandering in a desert, searching for an oasis? We all need upliftment and restoration at times. Today, let's explore how God can lift us up and restore us.
Upliftment Psalm 30:1-5
In Psalm 30, David writes about God lifting him up from the depths. Verse 1 says,
"I will extol you, Lord, for you have lifted me up."
God can lift us up from:
Emotional depths (v. 2): He heals our broken hearts and binds up our wounds.
Physical struggles (v. 3): He delivers us from death and preserves our lives.
Spiritual darkness (v. 4): He brings us out of darkness and into His marvelous light.
Note: David's experience teaches us that God is our Deliverer, Healer, and Savior. He lifts us up, and we can extol Him for His greatness.
Restoration Isaiah 40:28-31
In Isaiah 40, we find a promise of restoration. Verse 28 says,
"The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth."
God restores us by:
Giving strength to the weary (v. 29): He renews our strength, so we can mount up with wings like eagles.
Increasing power for the weak (v. 29): He empowers us to run without growing weary.
Renewing our strength like eagles (v. 31): We can soar to new heights, above our challenges.

What Is Upliftment And Restoration?
Upliftment:
Upliftment refers to the act of being lifted up or raised from a state of depression, despair, or difficulties. It involves:
Emotional elevation: Being lifted out of negative emotions like sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety.
Spiritual revitalization: Experiencing renewed faith, hope, and connection with God.
Mental encouragement: Receiving inspiration, motivation, and confidence to overcome challenges.
Upliftment brings a sense of relief, joy, and empowerment, enabling individuals to move forward with renewed purpose and enthusiasm.
Restoration:
Restoration refers to the process of being made whole, healed, or renewed. It involves:
Spiritual renewal: Being restored to a right relationship with God.
Emotional healing: Being healed from past wounds, traumas, or painful experiences.
Physical rejuvenation: Experiencing improved health, strength, and well-being.
Mental clarity: Gaining a fresh perspective, renewed focus, and clear thinking.
Restoration brings a sense of completeness, wholeness, and revitalization, enabling individuals to live a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Note: In the context of the sermon, upliftment and restoration are intertwined, as God lifts us up from difficult circumstances and restores us to a state of wholeness and new life.
Those That Experience God’s Upliftment And Restoration In The Bible
Here are some examples of individuals who were uplifted and restored by God in the Bible:
David: After facing depression and despair, David was uplifted and restored by God (Psalm 30:1-5, Psalm 40:1-3).
Job: Despite losing everything, Job was restored by God with double what he had before (Job 42:10-17).
Peter: After denying Jesus, Peter was restored by God and became a key leader in the early church (John 21:15-19, Acts 2:14-41).
Paul: From being a persecutor of Christians to becoming a powerful apostle, Paul's life was transformed by God's restoration (Acts 9:1-31, Galatians 1:11-24).
The prodigal son: This parable illustrates God's restoration and upliftment of those who return to Him (Luke 15:11-32).
Hannah: After years of infertility and sorrow, Hannah was uplifted and restored by God with the birth of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:1-28).
Hezekiah: When faced with death, Hezekiah was restored by God with an additional 15 years of life (2 Kings 20:1-11, Isaiah 38:1-22).
These additional examples demonstrate God's consistent desire to uplift and restore individuals and communities, no matter how broken or lost they may be.

Characteristics Of Upliftment And Restoration
Here are some common characteristics of upliftment and restoration in the Bible:

Upliftment:
Hope: Renewed sense of purpose and direction (Psalm 30:1-5)
Encouragement: Comfort and strength in times of need (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
Faith: Trust in God's power and promises (Hebrews 11:1-40)
Joy: Return of happiness and gladness (Psalm 30:11-12)
Strength: Renewed physical, emotional, or spiritual energy (Isaiah 40:28-31)
Courage: Boldness and confidence in the face of challenges (Joshua 1:6-9)
Forgiveness: Release from guilt, shame, or condemnation (Psalm 103:8-14)

Restoration:
Healing: Physical, emotional, or spiritual wholeness (Isaiah 53:5, Jeremiah 30:17)
Redemption: Rescue from bo***ge, sin, or destruction (Galatians 3:13-14, Psalm 103:4)
Renewal: Transformation of heart, mind, or spirit (Romans 12:1-2, 2 Corinthians 5:17)
Reconciliation: Mended relationships with God or others (2 Corinthians 5:18-20, Matthew 5:23-24)
Revival: Renewed passion, enthusiasm, or commitment (Psalm 51:10-12, Revelation 2:4-5)
Recovery: Regaining lost ground, status, or influence (Job 42:10-17, Acts 9:20-31)
Peace: Inner calm, serenity, and contentment (Isaiah 26:3-4, Philippians 4:6-7)
Note: These characteristics of upliftment and restoration can serve as a guide for understanding God's work in our lives and the lives of others.
The Mystery Of Upliftment And Restoration
The mysteries of upliftment and restoration are the profound and often unseen ways in which God works to lift us up and restore us. Here are some of these mysteries:

Upliftment:
God's sovereignty: His ability to work all things together for good (Romans 8:28)
Unseen strength: God's power to strengthen us in our weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
Divine timing: God's perfect timing in lifting us up (Psalm 126:1-6)
Spiritual growth: The process of being transformed into Christ's image (2 Corinthians 3:18)
Faith's role: The mysterious connection between faith and upliftment (Hebrews 11:1-40)

Restoration:
God's redemption plan: His plan to restore humanity through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:4-10)
Inner healing: The mysterious process of emotional and spiritual healing (Psalm 147:3)
Divine exchange: Trading our brokenness for God's wholeness (Isaiah 61:3)
Restoration of purpose: Rediscovering our purpose and passion (Jeremiah 29:11)
God's glory: The mysterious connection between restoration and God's glory (Isaiah 60:1-3)
Note: These mysteries remind us that upliftment and restoration are not just human experiences but are deeply rooted in God's nature and work. They encourage us to trust in His sovereignty, timing, and power to transform our lives.
Provoking God For Upliftment And Restoration
Here are some ways to provoke God for upliftment and restoration:
Prayer: Consistent and fervent prayer can provoke God's intervention (Luke 18:1-8).
Fasting: Combining prayer with fasting can demonstrate desperation and sincerity (Matthew 4:2).
Worship: Genuine worship can provoke God's presence and power (2 Chronicles 20:20-22).
Faith: Exercising faith and trust in God's promises can release His power (Hebrews 11:1-40).
Obedience: Obeying God's commands and living a righteous life can provoke His blessing (Deuteronomy 28:1-14).
Gratitude: Practicing gratitude and thanksgiving can attract God's favor (Psalm 100:4-5).
Humility: Humbling ourselves and acknowledging dependence on God can provoke His grace (James 4:6-10).
Perseverance: Persistent effort and perseverance can provoke God's assistance (Galatians 6:9).
Forgiveness: Extending forgiveness and releasing bitterness can provoke God's healing (Mark 11:25).
Seeking wise counsel: Seeking guidance from spiritual leaders or mentors can provoke God's wisdom (Proverbs 11:14).
Note: Remember, provoking God is not about manipulating Him but about aligning ourselves with His will and principles, allowing Him to work in our lives.

Understanding And Commanding Upliftment And Restoration
Understanding and commanding upliftment and restoration requires a deep connection with God and a clear understanding of His principles. Here are some keys to help you understand and command upliftment and restoration:

Understanding:
Know your identity: Recognize your value and worth in God's eyes (Psalm 139:13-14).
Acknowledge your need: Understand your dependence on God for upliftment and restoration (Psalm 51:1-12).
Study God's Word: Familiarize yourself with scriptures on upliftment and restoration (Psalm 30:1-5, Isaiah 61:1-3).
Seek spiritual guidance: Consult with spiritual leaders or mentors for wisdom and direction (Proverbs 11:14).

Commanding:
Speak God's Word: Declare scriptures on upliftment and restoration over your life (Isaiah 55:10-11).
Exercise faith: Trust in God's power and promises to uplift and restore you (Hebrews 11:1-40).
Use your authority: Command upliftment and restoration in Jesus' name, using your authority as a believer (Mark 11:23-24).
Receive and act: Receive God's upliftment and restoration, and take action to walk in it (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Some example commands:
"I command upliftment and restoration in my life, in Jesus' name!"
"I receive God's healing and restoration, and I walk in wholeness!"
"I speak life and resurrection power over my circumstances, in Jesus' name!"
Note: Remember, commanding upliftment and restoration is not a one-time event but a continuous process of seeking God and walking in His principles.

The Benefits Of God’s Upliftment And Restoration
The benefits of God's upliftment and restoration are numerous and profound. Here are some of them:

Upliftment:
Renewed hope and purpose
Increased faith and confidence
Improved mental and emotional well-being
Enhanced spiritual growth and maturity
Stronger resilience and perseverance
Greater joy and peace
More effective ministry and service to others
Deeper understanding of God's love and grace
Increased fruitfulness and productivity
Greater glory and honor to God

Restoration:
Healing of emotional and spiritual wounds
Recovery of lost ground and opportunities
Reconciliation of relationships
Renewal of passion and enthusiasm
Restoration of identity and purpose
Return of joy and happiness
Increased sense of fulfillment and satisfaction
Greater trust and dependence on God
Deeper understanding of God's redemption plan
More effective witness and testimony to others
Combined benefits:
Complete transformation and renewal
Unshakeable confidence in God's goodness
Unwavering trust in His sovereignty
Unrelenting passion for His kingdom
Unshakeable joy and peace in all

circumstances
Increased impact and influence for His glory
Deeper intimacy and connection with God
Greater sense of belonging and purpose
More effective use of spiritual gifts and talents
Eternal legacy and impact for His kingdom
Note: Remember, God's upliftment and restoration are not limited to these benefits, and His work in our lives is always exceeding abundantly above all we can ask or think! (Ephesians 3:20)

Conclusion
God can uplift us from the darkest places and restore us to new life. Let's trust in His power and presence. May He lift you up and restore you today.

Application:
When you're feeling down, remember God can lift you up.
When you're weak, God can give you strength.
When you're lost, God can guide you and restore you.

Prayer:
Dear God, lift us up from our struggles and restore us to new life. Give us strength, power, and renewed hope. In Jesus' name, Amen.

09/05/2024

THE HEART-CRY FOR REVIVAL
TEXT PSALM 80:1-2
INTRODUCTION
The word revival is a common phenomenon and a household word among todays Christian and church leaders. Though the machination of the devil, we all seem to have lost the true meaning of revival. We advertise three days revival, seven days revival and many do call themselves revivalists, yet, there is tangible spiritual change or measurable biblical growth in both lives of revival attendees and the so called revivalist.
From the knowledge from biblical times and church history, revival is much more different from what we claim it to be today. We most first know what revival means before we can develop a heart-cry for it. By GOD grace I we like to define “revival” and proffer how to develop a heart-cry that we arouse spiritual awakening for biblical revival in individual lives and in the corporate life of our church
WHAT IS REVIVAL?
Revival is spiritual awakening leading to spiritual birth, renewal, or restoration of growth.
Only what has once lived but now dead or stunted need to be revived. That is a drowned person with so life still in him can be revived.
Something that has no life is difficult to revive
Someone that has no life such revivification effort may yield no good result.
When a nearly dead person fully responds to life, he is said to be revived (Ephesian 2:5, Hosea 6:2, Psalm 80:2-3).
Therefore “revival is rekindling into flame the vital spark of God (godliness) in us which has been nearly extinguished by sin, selfish pursuit, and worldliness.
When we speak of revival, we mean regaining that “vital godliness” which the devil as stolen away from us and the church. This vital godliness must subsist upon a discovery of spiritual truth that is found only in JESUS CHRIST john 14:6. It does not come through musical excitement, gathering of a big crowd, huge offering, the knocking of the pulpit, bouncing up and dance emotionally and restlessly, calling down fire that will not response like the days of prophet Elijah and Baal worshipper (John 6:63)
Revival is a life time commitment to pursue, with all your vigor godly objective biblical doctrine, and heavenly centre-goals.
During the time of king ASA, the nation of Israel, because of their ungodly lifestyle which is similar to what happen in the life of many Christians and the church of today, experience a great spiritual decline and was destitute of three basic things according to 2 chronicles 16:3
They were without the true God. They were worshiping idols and were very godly even why living on the good land which JEHOVAH provided them
They were without a teaching priest
They were without law 2 chronicles 15:1-19
THE SPARKS OF REVIVAL
REPENTANCE 2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 105,106 And 106, Isaiah 63:7-19, Acts 3:19
CONFESSION OF SIN Romans 3:23, James 5; 16, Proverb 28:13
INCREASED KNOWLEDGE IN GOD’S WORD Ezra 7:11&25; 9:3-4; 10:1-3
HOLINESS Matthew 5:8, Hebrews 12:14
INFILLING OF THE HOLY GHOST Ezekiel 37, John 21, and Acts 1:25 Acts 4:21-31
INTERCESSORY PRAYER
GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY Isaiah 44:28& 45:1, Ezra 1:1, Eph 2:8, Galatians 4:4
ASSURANCE OF REVIVAL Gen 26:17-18, Ezra 10:1-3
REVIVAL THROUGH PRAYERS Ezra 7:10, 8:21-23
THE NEHEMIAH CONCEPT
Nehemiah was a high ranking officer at the Persian court. He came to Jerusalem having heard that the city was in ashes, the temple destroy, and the world broken down with major position mounting from the surrounding nations against the rebuilding of the land. Nehemiah develops a heart cry for revival of the people of God, and the rebuilding and the restoration of devastated city of Jerusalem. And the spiritual revival broke out in Jerusalem
This discovery gave the entire nation and instantaneous heart cry for spiritual rebirth “revival”
The spiritual awakening “revival” from the word of God and good leadership of Nehemiah also birthed a heartfelt repentance in individuals, families, and the entire nation that even lead to change relations among the post exilic members
This is what biblical revival we achieve in our lives, homes, the church and our nation when our hearts genuinely cries for it
AGENT OF REVIVAL
Considering the above example of biblical revival from church history and biblical records (king Asa, Martin Luther, and Nehemiah) we can summarize that the following are the agent from biblical revival and the will also develop in us how a heart-cry for it.
Regular study of GODs word that will culminate the discovery of GOD’s plan and way for your life, family, and the corporate church.
Power of the Holy Spirit for a righteous living and Christ motivated boldness
Spiritual enlighten from GODLY, but selfless, heaven-bound Christian leaders
Discoveries a spiritual lag in your life or a leadership deficiency in your church and standing with the boldness and wisdom of the HOLY SPITIT to work with GOD in order to effect HIS plan and will (Act 4:31 to 33)
BENEFIT OF REVIVAL
Whenever there is biblical revival the following are some of the blessing:
Biblical revival brings salvation to soul (not just the kind of sensual excitement that will usually have in the church today). Rather than having, are the best, what we have in church sensual excitement and money- trading
Biblical revival animates us and made the word of GOD come alive in us. It causes us to hunger daily for the word and motivate us to grow by it to spiritual maturity
Revival people live a life of commitment as expose through the lifestyle and teaching of our lord Jesus Christ and do not live for the ephemeral, sensual and material thing of this temporal world
CONCLUSION
We can therefore conclude from the examples already cited from Biblical times, church History, and the Nehemiah concept t5hat:
True revival is Biblical- based
Biblical (spiritual) Revival develops from a heart-cry (burning desire) to please God and perform his will in spite of opposition from the world around us
Biblical (spiritual) Revival changes individuals and makes them conform to the image of Christ in their daily lives

07/05/2024

*PSALM 1:1 - 6*
*Introduction*
the psalms, but it treats of them as if all experience pointed only in one direction. The moral problem which in other psalms troubles the ancient poets of Israel, when they see the Advil prospering and the good oppressed, has here no place. The poet rests calmly in the truth that it is well with the righteous.
THE BLESSED LIFE
(Psa 1:1-3.)
Consider:
I. The secret of the blessed life.
“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly,” &c. (Psa 1:1.)
Wherever blessedness is to be found, it is not in these directions. What a direct contradiction is this first verse to the world’s philosophy! To keep the law may be safe, but it is to walk in the common light of day; to follow one’s own counsels is to dwell in the purple light of pleasure. So argues the natural man; and here the Psalmist gives a flat denial to his argument. The world is wrong; the Psalmist is right. Blessed is the man who abstains from ungodly policy, iniquitous action, scornful use of things divine and holy. According to a custom which is generally recognised in Central Africa, whenever a caravan mistakes its way, and is obliged to retrace its steps and return to a road from which it has deviated, a bough is thrown across the wrong path, and a furrow is scratched in the ground by means of the feet, so that no succeeding caravan may fall into the same error. Thus the generations which have gone astray have declared that the ways of ungodliness and sin are ways of bitterness and disappointment, and they have left their emphatic and sorrowful testimonies as boughs and furrows across these false ways, to admonish us to seek another and a truer path.
But a merely negative goodness will not ensure us true blessedness, therefore the Psalmist proceeds to lay down the grand secret of blessedness in profound spiritual words. “But his delight is in the law of the Lord.” How truly profound! How superior to the superficial theories of happiness which human moralists have from time to time put forth! Which cote truly says: “Duty and happiness are vital acts, and must be put forth from vital principles.” The vital principle is here declared. “The philosophers’ discourses of this subject are but learned dotage . David saith more to the point in this short psalm than any or all of them put together; they did but beat the bush. God hath put the bird into our hands.”—
The secret of bliss is the right attitude of the soul to the truth of God.
1. A right relation of the will to the law of God. “But his will is in the law of the Lord.”—Luther. The bias of the will is toward Divine truth. The “ungodly” are self-willed, and walk after their own “counsel;” the “blessed” man consults the Divine will, and is ever longing for the path of God’s commandments. “The ‘will’ which is here signified is that delight of heart, and that certain pleasure, in the law, which does not look at what the law promises, nor at what it threatens, but at this only, that ‘the law is holy, and just, and good.’ Hence it is not only a love of the law, but that loving delight in the law which no prosperity, nor adversity, nor the world, nor the prince of it, can either take away or destroy; for it victoriously bursts its way through poverty, evil report, the cross, death, and hell, and in the midst of adversities shines the brightest.”—Luther, quoted by Spurgeon.
2. A right relation of the affections to the law of God. “His delight.” “The law is more than a mere rule, after which the man is to frame his outward life.”—Perowne. It fills with admiration and delight. But can the law of God thus excite the affections and rejoice the heart? Yes; for, as Festus sings—
“Law is love defined.”
The godly man beholds in the spiritual law the declaration of the Divine nature, which is essential love, and he delights in that law after the inner man.
3. A right relation of the intelligence to the law of God. “He meditates on the law day and night.” We must know the law if we are to perceive its beauty and appreciate its worth, and the more we know of it, the greater shall be our joy in it. Many skim the Bible as a novel, when they should ponder it, and master it, line by line, like a grammar. He who is ignorant of the Divine law, or misconceives it, cannot know true freedom and blessedness; but he whose eyes are opened to the deep things of the law, walks at liberty, and knows peace unspeakable.
Let us not seek bliss in things of time and sense, but let us labour to know the will of God, and to have our hearts harmonised with that will, and we shall find rest to our souls.
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