The Everlasting Love And Righteousness Of God Psalm 103:17-18 Series

The Everlasting Love and Righteousness of God Psalm 103:17-18

Psalm 103:17-18 (NLT): "But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him. His salvation extends to the children’s children of those who are faithful to his covenant, of those who obey his commandments!"

Introduction

Today, we delve into a passage that speaks volumes about God's everlasting love and righteousness. Psalm 103:17-18 reminds us of the enduring nature of God's love and His faithfulness across generations. These verses not only encourage us but also challenge us to live in a manner worthy of such divine favour.

Point 1: The Everlasting Love of God

"But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him."

The Hebrew word for "love" here is "hesed," which signifies steadfast, covenantal love. It's a love that is loyal and unending.

Lamentations 3:22-23 (NLT) - "The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning."

In the midst of sorrow and despair, Jeremiah, the author of Lamentations, finds hope in the steadfast love and endless mercy of God. Despite the suffering and destruction around him, he remembers that God's love and faithfulness are unchanging and renewed every day. This passage reassures us that no matter what challenges we face, God’s love and mercy are always available to us.

Imagine waking up every morning to a new sunrise, each day a fresh start. God’s mercies are like that sunrise, unfailing and new each day.

"A holy life will produce the deepest impression. Lighthouses blow no horns; they only shine." - D.L. Moody

Imagine the unwavering loyalty of a faithful dog to its owner, magnified infinitely. God's love is even more faithful and steadfast.

A.W. Tozer said, "God’s love is an unchangeable love." This emphasizes the permanence and reliability of God's love for us.

Point 2: The Fear of the Lord

"But the love of the Lord remains forever with those who fear him."

To "fear" God is not about being scared but having a deep reverence and awe for Him. It's about recognising His power, majesty, and holiness.

Proverbs 9:10 (NLT) - "Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment."

Consider how a child respects a wise and loving father, not out of fear of punishment, but out of reverence and love.

Proverbs 9:10 emphasizes that true wisdom begins with a reverential awe of God. This "fear" is not about being afraid but about recognising God's greatness and our dependence on Him. Knowing God intimately leads to good judgment and understanding in all areas of life.

Think of a skilled craftsman who respects his tools and the rules of his craft. In the same way, respecting and knowing God equips us to navigate life wisely.

"The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, and they that lack the beginning have neither middle nor end." - John Bunyan

Charles Spurgeon said, "The fear of God is the death of every other fear; like a mighty lion, it chases all other fears before it." This highlights the positive impact of fearing God.

Point 3: God's Righteousness to Future Generations

"His salvation extends to the children’s children..."

God's righteousness and salvation are not limited to one generation. His faithfulness continues through the lineage of those who follow Him.

Deuteronomy 7:9 (NLT) - "Understand, therefore, that the Lord your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand generations and lavishes his unfailing love on those who love him and obey his commands."

This verse from Deuteronomy highlights God's faithfulness and His enduring covenant with His people. God’s commitment to His promises spans generations, demonstrating His unwavering love and reliability.

Think of a family heirloom passed down through generations, symbolising enduring value and legacy. God's righteousness is a spiritual heirloom.

John Piper states, "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him." Our satisfaction in God affects future generations.

God’s faithfulness is even more profound and enduring.

Point 4: Faithfulness to God's Covenant

"...of those who are faithful to his covenant..."

Being faithful to God's covenant means living according to His commandments and maintaining a relationship with Him.

Exodus 19:5 (NLT) - "Now if you will obey me and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure from among all the peoples on earth; for all the earth belongs to me."

Illustration: Consider the loyalty and commitment seen in a marriage covenant, reflecting mutual faithfulness and devotion.

In this verse, God is calling the Israelites to obedience and faithfulness. If they follow His commands, they will be His treasured possession. This covenant relationship is based on mutual commitment and devotion.

Timothy Keller said, "The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope." This underscores our covenant relationship with God.