Summer Road Trip ‘08
Day Forty-seven
Looking Forward
Psalm 47:1
“Come, everyone, and clap your hands for joy! Shout to the LORD with joyful praise!”

The forty-seventh Psalm is known as a Messianic Psalm. It is a song of praise to Jesus Christ, the “Sent One”, the Messiah. It is a forward looking Psalm; one that speaks of how things will be.

We can live with the assurance that what God says will be – will be! That is the best reason I know to praise God! No matter how unpleasant the present may seem, no matter how fearful we may become of the near future – God is in control and He reigns. He is in control!

“For the Lord Most High is awesome. He is the great King of all the earth.”

Enjoy the Journey!
Pastor Paul

Summer Road Trip ‘08

Day Forty-six

The Destination

Psalm 46:5

“God himself lives in that city; it cannot be destroyed.””

The journey can be so overwhelming that we forget the destination. There was an old country song that began, “This world is not my home I’m just a passin’ thru’…” Truer words were never spoken (or sung). We are headed to a city where God lives and so will we!

We can “see the glorious works of the Lord” here on earth, but they are nothing compared to what’s ahead for every Child of God.

It is good to take time each day to quietly remember where we are headed and then live our day as if we really believe that’s where we’re going!

“Be silent, and know that I am God!” (vs.10)

Enjoy the Journey!
Paul

Summer Road Trip ‘08
Day Forty-five

Wedding Song

Psalm 45:1&6

“Beautiful words stir my heart. I will recite a lovely poem about the king,

...Your throne, O God, endures forever and ever.”

Today we’re stopping for a wedding. The Psalm transcends earthly love and points directly to Jesus Christ, “Your throne, O God,” Psalm 45 is a prophetic (future focused) song that illustrates the love of a bride for her husband. In the New Testament Jesus is described as the groom and His church (you and be as Christ followers) are described as Jesus’ bride. (As Christ loved the church – Ephesians 5:25)

It's good to stop and write a love song to Jesus. There is power in focusing your love, attention – and words – on God. When we focus on Jesus’ beauty, strength, and acts of love toward us it’s hard not to break out in song.

Whenever you are feeling the weight of the day and the worries of this life, stop and focus on the beauty and love that Jesus gives to you. Such an attitude is transforming.

Enjoy the Journey

Pastor Paul

Summer Road Trip ’08

Fuel

Day Forty-four

Psalm 44:3

“It was by your mighty power that they succeeded;”

Never ever forget that your power is from God and not yourself. You rise and fall by God’s strength. Yes, you can travel for a while on your own strength, but not for long. Your victories and successes are all from God.

“Only by your power can we push back enemies;” (vs.5)

Don’t face today without God. Don’t attempt to resist Satan’s temptations on your own; rely on God.

Enjoy the Journey,

Pastor Paul

Summer Road Trip ’08
Headlights
Day Forty-three
Psalm 43:3

“Send out your light and your truth; let them guide me.”

It’s easy to get discouraged on the journey; the road can be treacherous at times.

We are not left on our own in the darkness; we have a Light. God’s Word and God’s presence in our lives will guide us. God’s guidance always leads us to His altar, the place where we worship Him. It’s the place where we find real joy.

When you are feeling discouraged take time to worship God. Take time to remember who God is and rehearse what He has done for you. He is your own safe haven in the storm.

Enjoy the Journey,

Paul