A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 68

Text: Psalm 21

SUSTAINING THE SPIRIT OF JOY

How wonderful it is to possess a joyful spirit. Many fear that joy is often too short-lived. It need not be so. Let us consider how we can sustain the spirit of joy. The psalmist David shares with us how he sustained his joy in the Lord.

"The king shall have joy in Your strength, O LORD;
And in Your salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!
You have given him his heart's desire,
And have not withheld the request of his lips.
For You have met him with the blessings of goodness;
You set a crown of pure gold upon his head.
Psalm 21:1-3

1. Taking time to list the blessings of the LORD

a) The Strength that God gives

b) The Salvation that God grants

c) The Satisfaction of the desires of the heart (good and holy desires in mind)

d) The Series of blessings of goodness that God continues to pour out

2. Taking time to dwell on these things

The result is obvious! "The king shall have JOY!" Let us be challenged to emulate the fine example of the psalmist David. We too will find our spirit of joy being sustained most significantly.

SIGNIFICANT RESULTS OF A CLOSE RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

Dwelling on the Lord and counting His blessings suggests that there is a close relationship with Him. What results may be expected if this close relationship is sustained? Let us ponder this wonderful text.

"He asked life from You, and You gave it to him-
Length of days forever and ever.
His glory is great in Your salvation;
Honour and majesty You have placed upon him.
For You have made him most blessed forever;
You have made him exceedingly glad with Your presence.
For the king trusts in the LORD, and through the mercy
Of the Most High he shall not be moved."
Psalm 21:4-7

This text is self-explanatory. We need only to highlight the blessings that come out of a deep relationship of trust. Long life, honour and majesty, exceeding gladness are some of the happy results of a life that is committed to walking with the Lord closely. We are given every encouragement to seek a close relationship with the Lord!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~