3 CONFESSIONS OF THE TRUSTING SOUL
Psalm 16
Thematic Statement: How is it with your soul, brother? David gives us a yardstick here, by which to tell. His soul truly trusted God, and made three confessions. Does your soul make the same confessions?
v.1 “In You I put my trust”
Discuss “trust” vs. “faith” in modern usage—especially the inadequacy of the word “believe” in our culture. Our conception of “trust” is closer to what the Bible means when it talks about faith—a belief that enters into relationship.
Confessions made by the soul (v.2)—mind/emotions/will—this is deeper than a rote repetition of theological phrases. These confessions spring from the core of David’s being. They define who he is. Should define us as well.
Confession No. 1 (v.2)
“YOU ARE MY LORD”
- First and foremost: Is your relationship to God the most important issue in your life?
- Could talk about each word, almost
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- Addressed to the covenant God (“LORD” in caps)
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- “My Lord” My Adonai, my owner, my master
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- Your soul’s confession will work itself outward in OBEDIENCE
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- Contra the current popular trend, the OBJECT of the faith (“You”) is the important issue, not the mere presence of generic belief, regardless of how sincere you may be. Sincere belief in Muhammed will not get you the same afterlife as will faith in Jesus Christ!
Confession No. 2 (v.2)
“MY GOODNESS IS NOTHING APART FROM YOU”
- Total Depravity; discuss the fallen, sinful nature
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- The uselessness of works-based religion
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- Justification as a matter of imputation, not reward
Confession No. 3 (v.3)
“[The saints] ARE THE EXCELLENT ONES, IN WHOM IS ALL MY DELIGHT”
- We underestimate the importance of this attitude to our own peril. “If we walk in the light, we have fellowship with one another…” I John 1:7. READ 1 JOHN 2:9-11
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- Attitude toward the brethren indicative of your spiritual condition
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- Love for the Father means love for the Father’s children
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- Example of Jesus and Paul who literally poured themselves out for the people of God.
Are we deficient in any of these? Only one solution (due to the condition discussed above under Total Depravity). If we lack in any of these things, we cannot go and simply work real hard and stir them up. We cannot simply go and be determined to do better. Our soul will make these confessions only upon the reception of new life in Jesus Christ through faith. It’s not that we need to change, as much as it is we need to be changed.
[Repeat Thematic Statement]
