Finding Yourself in the Psalms

Psalm 139

Psalm 139:19-24 A Psalm of Loyal Response to God

4 stanzas of 6 verses each
139:1-6 God’s Omniscience (A Psalm of God’s Knowldege)
139:7-12 God’s Omnipresence (A Psalm of God’s Presence)
139:13-18 God’s Omnipotence (A Psalm of God’s Power)
139:19-24 David’s Loyalty (A Psalm of God’s Purifying Examination)
Some have said there is a FOURTH ATTRIBUTE here – HOLINESS
I. David’s difficulty. 139:19-22
A. David’s thoughts return to his predicament. “Slay the wicked.” (139:19) B. There is a difference between David and those who oppose God
1. They are bloodthirsty.
2. They speak evil of the Lord (139:20)
3. They take His Name in vain (139:20)
4. They rise up against God (139:21) C. David has nothing but hatred for them
II. David’s Defense. 139:23-24
A. An invitation for God to EXAMINE him.
1. Same word used in 139:1
2. Indicates nothing hidden from God (139:15)
3. David is ready for God’s scrutiny
4. The outcome is not in doubt – David’s heart is right.
a. Ps 57:7 b. Ps 108:1
c. Psalm 112:1-8
B. The blessing of a pure heart
1. We should be on our guard for self deception. a. Jer. 17:5-10
b. Prov 28:16
c. Prov 16:25 “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man. . .”
2. When we live an examined life, we are free from the judgment of others. a. 1 Cor 2:10, 15