April 18, 2018: SOAP #3058: 1Samuel 20-21; Psalm 34; Matthew 5

Scripture:  Psalm (NIV) 34:4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.  5 Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.  6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles.  7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.  8 Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.

Observation:   The Psalmist “sought” the Lord.  He looked with the purpose of finding.  He did not just walk along and happen upon the Lord.  He was actively looking.
-People who look to God with expectation find their faith rewarded.  They are not just giving God a quick glance.  They will keep looking until they know God is looking back and they move on rejoicing that the God of the universe saw and heard them.
-Even the poor man who had called on many others for help, only to be ignored and passed by, found that the LORD heard him and answered his prayers.

Application:   This passage reminded me of a time I joined Samoan brothers in Turtle Bay, Hawaii.  They were looking for the eggs from sea urchins.  I heard them talk, I watched them, then they gave me a taste I will long remember.  I just took a very small taste as I wanted to be sure they had enough for their celebration later that night.  Ha!

I cannot be satisfied hearing someone else describing their relationship with God, as exciting as their experience may be.  I must try it for myself.  I must seek, I must look, I must call for myself.  I must “take a bite” and “taste” it for myself!

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, my faith is in Your Word, and the truth of Your Word is experienced in my life.    Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!