TRUSTING THAT THE LORD HEARS AND ANSWERS PRAYER

Text: Psalm 31
18 March 2007

(I) DEADLY STRUGGLES IN LIFE

1. Troubles in life (Psalm 31:7a, 9)

2. Adversity (Psalm 31:7b)

3. Grief (Psalm 31:10)

4. Slander of many (Psalm 31:13)

5. A broken vessel (Psalm 31:12)

(II) DANGEROUS ROAD OF DESPAIR

1. Words spoken in haste (Psalm 31:22)

2. Despair in life (Psalm 31:22)

(III) DETERMINATION TO EXERCISE TRUST IN GOD

1. Initial Trust

“In You, O LORD, I put my trust…” Psalm 31:1a

2. Tempted and Tested

Refusal to turn aside (to idols)

“I have hated those who regard useless idols;
But I trust in the LORD.”
Psalm 31:6

3. Continued trust

“But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD;
I say, ‘You are my God’ ”
Psalm 31:14

4. Greatness of confidence and trust in God

“Oh, how great is Your goodness, Which You have laid up for those who fear You,
Which You have prepared for those who trust in You,
In the presence of the sons of men!”
Psalm 31:19

(IV) DEFINITE REWARD FOR THOSE WHO TRUST GOD

1. Renewed trust in a God who hears and answers prayer

“…Nevertheless You heard the voice of my supplications
When I cried to You.”
Psalm 31:22

2. Renewed trust in what God would do for those who trust Him:-

a) Rock of refuge ( Psalm 31:2 )

b) Fortress of Defence ( Psalm 31:2 )

c) Lead and guide ( Psalm 31:3 )

d) Deliver from the enemy ( Psalm 31:15-16 )

e) Protection and Preservation ( Psalm 31:20 )

3. Rejoicing in this trust in the Lord

a) A call to bless the name of the Lord ( Psalm 31:21 )

b) A call to love the Lord ( Psalm 31:23 )

c) A call to be courageous in trusting God ( Psalm 31:24 )