15 January 2006

Deepening our Trust in God


Message Notes

(I) IN DANGER OF LOSING CONFIDENCE IN GOD

“How long. O you sons of men, will you turn my glory to shame?
How long will you love worthlessness and seek falsehood?” Psalm 4:2
“There are many who say,
‘Who will show us any good?” Psalm 4:6a

Wicked people can cause us to lose our confidence in God

1. They seek to turn “glory to shame”

2. They employ falsehood

3. They love worthlessness

4. They cast doubts

(II) DEEPENING OUR TRUST IN GOD THROUGH PRAYER

“Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness!
You have relieved me in my distress;
Have mercy on me and hear my prayers.” Psalm 4:1
“But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly;
The LORD will hear when I call to Him.” Psalm 4:3

1. Recall how God has heard prayers in the past

2. Refuse to give in to taunts and doubts when in prayer

3. Resolve to pray with knowledge and trust in the Lord’s mercy

(III) DEEPENING OUR TRUST THROUGH MEDITATION

“Be angry, and do not sin.
Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.” Psalm 4:4

1. Deal with the problem of anger

2. Deal with the problem of sin

3. Determine to practise meditation

(IV) DELIGHTING IN GOD’S BLESSINGS

You have put gladness in my heart, more than in the season
that their grain and wine increase.
I will both lie down in peace and sleep;
For You, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:7-8

1. The blessing of great gladness of heart

2. The blessing of peaceful rest

3. The blessing of safe-keeping

(V) APPROPRIATE RESPONSES

“Offer the sacrifices of righteousness,
and put your trust in the LORD.” Psalm 4:5

1. Determine to cultivate a righteous lifestyle

2. Determine to place full trust in the Lord