Watch & See

Watch & See | Psalm 5

J Hager, Pastor of Care

Key Takeaways

• Start the day by surrendering to God and offering him all areas of our life as "living sacrifices."

• Recognize and resist spiritual desolation (movement away from God's will).

• Freedom is not the absence of restrictions, it's the implementation of the right restrictions.

• Remaining in the "larger story" of God's perspective will help us from living only in our own "smaller story."

• Trust in God's protection and mercy.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  J talks about "consolation" (movement towards God) and "desolation" (movement away from God) as spiritual states. Can you share a time when you experienced either of these? How did it affect your relationship with God?

• Question 2

  David prepares a "sacrifice" each morning. What do you think this means for us today? What might we need to sacrifice to align our hearts with God?

• Question 3

  How does technology sometimes act as a "fig leaf" in our lives, preventing us from fully engaging with God? What boundaries might we need to set?

• Question 4

  David prays not just for himself but for all who take refuge in God. How can we cultivate a prayer life that extends beyond our own needs?

• Question 5

  In the sermon, J draws a parallel between Superman and Jesus. How does this comparison help you understand Christ's role in your life?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : Preparing Our Hearts for God

READING :

Psalm 5:1-3

DEVOTIONAL :

Just as David prepared a sacrifice each morning, we too are called to offer ourselves to God at the start of each day. This isn't about ritual, but about surrendering our hearts, minds, and plans to the Lord. What parts of your life do you need to sacrifice to God today? Consider how you can make space for God first thing in the morning, before reaching for your phone or diving into your to-do list. Reflect on how this act of surrender might change your perspective and align your heart with God's will for the day ahead.

Day 2 : Finding Refuge in God's Love

READING :

Psalm 5:11-12, Romans 8:31-39

DEVOTIONAL :

David speaks of taking refuge in God and being covered by his favor like a shield. Paul echoes this, assuring us that nothing can separate us from God's love. In a world full of challenges and uncertainties, God's love is our ultimate protection. How have you experienced God's love as a refuge in your life? Reflect on times when you've felt God's protection, even in difficult circumstances. Today, consciously rest in God's love, allowing it to shield you from fear, anxiety, and the pressures of the world.

Day 3 : Discerning God's Will in Daily Life

READING :

Romans 12:1-2, Colossians 3:1-4

DEVOTIONAL :

The sermon mentioned Ignatius of Loyola's concept of discerning God's will by assessing whether we're moving towards or away from God. Paul encourages us to renew our minds and set our hearts on things above. Today, practice this discernment. In your decisions, big or small, ask yourself: "Will this choice move me closer to God or further away?" Pay attention to the inner movements of your soul. How can you actively align your choices with God's will and put on your new self in Christ?

Day 4 : Finding Hope in Suffering

READING :

Romans 8:18-25, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

DEVOTIONAL :

The sermon touched on the concept of "hard consolation" - trusting God even when we can't feel his presence. Paul speaks of the groaning we experience as we await full redemption, and the eternal glory that outweighs our present sufferings. If you're in a season of hardship, how can you cultivate hope? Reflect on how your suffering might be drawing you closer to God and shaping your character. Consider how you can view your current struggles in light of God's larger story of redemption.

Day 5 : Living in God's Larger Story

READING :

Ephesians 2:4-10, Colossians 1:15-20

DEVOTIONAL :

The sermon emphasized the importance of living in God's "larger story" rather than our own "smaller story" of ego and personal desires. These passages remind us of the grand narrative of God's redemptive work in Christ. How does seeing yourself as part of this larger story change your perspective on your life and purpose? Reflect on how you can shift your focus from your own plans to God's kingdom purposes. Consider one way you can "look up" to Christ today, allowing his story to shape your actions and attitudes.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name.

All: For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.

Psalm 40:4-5

Confession of Sin

Father, in our weakness we often distract ourselves from you instead of running to you. When we feel Your discipline or face sorrow, we doubt Your love. We grow weary with groaning but do not pray with hope. We fear rejection more than sin. Have mercy on us, Lord. Heal us. Forgive our despair and our distance. Remind us that you hear, you see, and you receive us in grace.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Psalm 6