Paul McKenzie

Memory Verse, Sunday, March 1, Psalm 34:13-18 Review

See memory helps below.

As I read through this review with yesterday's contemplation in mind, this passage came to me: "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;" (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

Most who read this are, I hope, preparing to join their local congregation in public worship this morning. You may want to put into practice what you have been reading (and I hope trying to memorize) when you are there. Refrain your tongue. Listen to those who are of a broken heart. Ask those you see this question: "How is your heart?"

I heard that once in a broadcast by a solid Christian teacher. I've used that simple question several times since. After the initial, "hi, how's it going, good to see you" stuff, I'll ask that question, and then more times than not I get some very "heartfelt" responses.

We're too used to the "how's it going" mantra. It's just become a phrase meaning "I don't really want to know how it's going, I just want to say hi". For some reason, that little "how is your heart" question often cuts through the veneer and we really begin to hear a more spiritual aspect of a person's life.

But a warning: If you do ask that question, be ready to listen. For you are entering the territory of a broken heart. You're going to be confronted with "strongholds" that need to be put down by prayer and supplication. Don't be quick to give advice, and don't start comparing them to yourself, boasting of your "victories". But as one who knows that "but by the grace of God, there go I", point them to the Lord in prayer and mutual humility before God. Answer them with promises from the sure Word of God.

We are too quick to give worldly remedies, even when they are packaged with a "Jesus bow" on them. Most of the time, you'll find that it's not time for the "wrapping" but going to the throne of grace and seeking the gift of comfort that He gives.

And when we seek those gifts together, we learn how to love and care for one another, and make our boasts in the Lord, not in ourselves.

Let's close this meditation with the Words of 1 Peter 4:7-11. This is a "7-11" passage you may want to memorize:

"The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace:

"Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God, whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." (ESV)

So, be on the lookout this morning. How is your heart?

Today if you hear His voice, harden not your heart.

*KJV used*

Memory Helps

Nun: "Keep thy tongue from evil, And thy lips from speaking guile."

Samek: "Depart from evil, and do good; Seek peace, and pursue it."

Ain: "The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, And his ears are open unto their cry."

Pe "The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth."

Zade: "The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles."

Qoph: "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; And saveth such as be of a contrite spirit."