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Psalms-86

Precious Love: A Devotional Study on Psalms 86​

Introduction​

As we delve into Psalms 86, we encounter a meditation that explores and identifies the deep-rooted connections between God's love and His faithfulness. In the midst of chaos and upheaval, the psalmist uses poetic expression to cling to the blessed assurance of God's relentless love. In this study, we will explore the psalmist's meditation, and reflect on how we, too, can navigate the ups and downs of life by holding onto the treasure of God's love.

Section 1: God's Steadfast Love (verses 1-5)​

Devotional Thought: The psalmist begins by declaring God's love as steadfast, imperishable, and abundant. His love is not contingent upon our actions but is an integral part of who God is. In times of uncertainty and trouble, confidently cling to the knowledge that God's love is everlasting.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you understand and experience God's steadfast love?
  • How can you cultivate a deeper assurance of God's love in difficult times?

Section 2: God's Mercy (verses 12-17)​

Devotional Thought: The psalmist implores God to show Him mercy, acknowledging His sin and the weight of its consequences. It is in this place of confession and repentance that we find the depth of God's mercy. God is quick to forgive and restore, i.e., "blot out your transgressions," repaying us with love and faithfulness.

Reflection Questions:

  • What does repentance and confession look like in your life?
  • How can you receive and revel in the mercy and love that God offers in response to our confession?

Section 3: God's Protection (verses 18-22)​

Devotional Thought: The psalmist continues, pleading for God's protection, for the protection of His holy temple and His ancient glory. God is faithful to safeguard His people, and we can trust that He holds us in His perfect care, now and forevermore.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you experience God's protection in your life?
  • When fear or doubt arises, how can you cling to the reassurance of God's faithfulness in protection?

Section 4: God's Testimony (verses 16-17)​

Devotional Thought: The psalmist forges a clear link between God's love and His faithfulness, concluding that God's love and faithfulness are one and the same. This confluence creates a powerful testimony that we can rely upon, for His love is steadfast and never-ending, and His faithfulness is ever-present and always-true.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you internalize the fact that God's love and faithfulness are inseparable?
  • How can you warmly cling to this deeply interwoven connection in times of uncertainty and trouble?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our meditative journey through Psalms 86, let us bask in the treasure of God's love and faithfulness. The psalmist shows us that no matter the journey, no matter the circumstance, God's love and faithfulness stand steadfast and firm, always present and always true. May we hold on tightly to this assurance, enabling us to navigate turbulent times with confidence and joy.