GOD LIGHTS UP OUR LIVES | Psalm 27:1, 4-5, 13-14

GOD LIGHTS UP OUR LIVES | Psalm 27:1, 4-5, 13-14 by Pastor Narry Santos January 15, 2023 This Sunday, we begin with our new series on “Burning Brighter in a Darker World (Studies on God’s ‘Light’ in Selected Psalms).” This series helps us see God as light, what God’s light does for us, and what God’s light of the Word does to our path. Our message today highlights the truth that God lights up our lives. Using Psalm 27, how does God light up our lives? I. GOD AS LIGHT GIVES US CONFIDENCE IN HIS PROTECTION (27:1, 5, 13) David describes God this way: “The Lord is light & my salvation” & “The Lord is the stronghold of my life” (27:1). Light signifies understanding, joy, life, guidance, protection, & well-being. Stronghold signifies strong, safe place, & defense. The result of God’s light as protection is this confident (despite the attacks of David’s enemies): “whom shall I fear?” & “of whom shall I be afraid?” (27:1; see v. 13). Let’s live in confidence of God’s protection in 2023. II. GOD AS LIGHT GIVES US COMFORT IN HIS PRESENCE (27:4) David desires to be in God’s presence: “One thing I ask from the Lord, that this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life” (27:4). David uses 4 words to show God’s presence—“house,” “temple,” dwelling, & “sacred tent”—to affirm that where God is where he wants to be, to enjoy God’s beauty (graciousness) & to seek Him (inquire for divine answer). Let’s live in the comfort of God’s presence in 2023. III. GOD AS LIGHT GIVES US CLARITY IN HIS PROVIDENCE (27:11, 14) David prays for God’s providential guidance & direction: “Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path” (27:11; see 25:4-5). This attitude, which desires to know God & see His face (27:8) goes with the posture of waiting: “Wait for the Lord; be strong & take heart & wait for the Lord” (27:14; see Isa. 40:31). Waiting with hope gives assurance that God’s answer will eventually come. Let’s live with the clarity of God’s providence in 2023.