Submitted by Pastor Richard Boettner, Rock Port Baptist Church

I am writing just one month into our New Year 2025. Our coldest days are behind us and slowly daylight is starting to increase. I encourage you to read and study God’s Word during the winter months and continue to grow and learn of Jesus Christ.

For Scripture study, I will focus on Psalm 139, one of my personal favorite psalms written by David, and set to music in his day, as well as in many modern worship songs. I would encourage you to read it for yourself as you read this article. This psalm especially helps me to develop an inner spiritual life that pleases God. It also points to God’s fulness which was revealed in Jesus Christ, the Son of David.

Consider the following points from this psalm:

1) God knows everything (vs. 1-3) “You are aware of all my ways.” This keeps me stable and near to God, rather that a fatalistic approach to life where things just happen, and seem like good luck or misfortune.

2) God knows me completely (vs. 4-12) “You have encircled me; You have placed Your hand on me.” This is where God becomes all present and always caring. Nothing happens without His permission. His presence will turn a dark situation into light. “Your right hand will hold on to me” is a reference to the ongoing care of Jesus, who is presently at the right hand of God and hears all of my prayers and knows all of my needs. He brings the comfort of God through His Holy Spirit.

3) God created me in a special and personal way (vs. 13-16) “I have been remarkably and wondrously made.” It is wonderful that God knows everything, but without His love it would not be a knowledge I would want or find helpful. People in this world with superior knowledge might make me feel inferior or incompetent. The world around me might be trouble, but God has a purpose. I might feel unloved and worthless, but God continues to give me meaningful labor and purpose each day. His creation enables me to see my life from beginning to end, with destiny and fulfillment.

4) God’s vast knowledge will renew my spirit (vs. 17,18) “If I counted Your thoughts they would outnumber the sand.” This metaphor reminds us of how infinite God’s thoughts are, and way beyond our ability to understand. This truth leads me to humility and worship, and expressing gratitude for the thoughts I do have from God. I choose then to obey what I can do, not worry about what I cannot do.

5) God helps me resist evil (vs. 19-22) “Your enemies swear by You falsely.” The problem of evil in the world was present in David’s day, and we experience it, too. David longs righteously and fervently for the eradication of all evil, but he waits patiently for God to take care of it. We can also stand with courage when a situation is not right and seek to correct it.

6) God provides clarity and guidance (vs.23,24) “Lead me in the way everlasting.” These final two verses are a great prayer, to ask God for a pure heart, and clear steps to take in my life. May He do that for each one of us.

Feel free to contact me with questions or comments at rockportbaptistchurch.com.