Trusting God's Timing: Finding Refuge and Joy

Summary

### Summary

Today, we delved into Psalm 16, a mictum of David, which is often interpreted as something golden and precious. David's life, marked by his anointing as king and his tumultuous relationship with Saul, serves as a profound example of humility and trust in God's timing. Despite being hunted by Saul, David never took matters into his own hands but instead trusted God to elevate him at the right time. This teaches us the importance of humility and letting God handle our adversaries.

David's plea for safety in Psalm 16:1, "Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge," is a reminder that our ultimate protection comes from God. We live in a world fraught with dangers, both physical and spiritual, and it's easy to seek refuge in worldly solutions. However, true safety and peace come from taking refuge in God. David's life was a testament to this truth, as he continually sought God's protection and guidance.

The psalm also highlights the importance of fellowship with other believers. David found delight and encouragement in the company of the saints, and we too are called to be in community with one another. This fellowship sharpens us, encourages us, and helps us grow in our faith.

Moreover, David warns against the sorrows that come from chasing after other gods. Whether it's money, power, or any other worldly pursuit, these false gods will ultimately lead to sorrow and destruction. Instead, we are called to commit our lives to Jesus, who offers true joy and fulfillment.

Finally, David acknowledges that God has assigned him his portion and cup, including his sufferings. He trusts that God is sovereign and that even his sufferings have a purpose. This perspective allows him to find joy and security in God's plan, knowing that God will not abandon him.

### Key Takeaways

1. Humility and Trust in God's Timing: David's life exemplifies the importance of humility and trusting in God's timing. Despite being anointed as king, he never took matters into his own hands to dethrone Saul. Instead, he trusted God to elevate him at the right time. This teaches us to let God handle our adversaries and to trust His timing in our lives. [42:27]

2. True Refuge in God: In a world full of dangers, both physical and spiritual, our ultimate protection comes from God. David's plea in Psalm 16:1, "Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge," reminds us that true safety and peace come from taking refuge in God, not in worldly solutions. [49:36]

3. The Importance of Fellowship: David found delight and encouragement in the company of the saints. Fellowship with other believers sharpens us, encourages us, and helps us grow in our faith. Being in community is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. [59:53]

4. The Sorrows of Chasing False Gods: David warns against the sorrows that come from chasing after other gods, whether it's money, power, or any other worldly pursuit. These false gods will ultimately lead to sorrow and destruction. Instead, we are called to commit our lives to Jesus, who offers true joy and fulfillment. [01:02:25]

5. Finding Joy in God's Sovereignty: David acknowledges that God has assigned him his portion and cup, including his sufferings. He trusts that God is sovereign and that even his sufferings have a purpose. This perspective allows him to find joy and security in God's plan, knowing that God will not abandon him. [01:09:25]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[32:52] - Announcements
[35:13] - Opening Prayer
[36:00] - Introduction to Psalm 16
[40:18] - Understanding "Mictum"
[40:56] - David's Anointing and Saul's Jealousy
[42:27] - Humility and Trust in God's Timing
[44:06] - The Enemy's Attacks
[45:43] - The Protection of God
[49:36] - True Refuge in God
[50:37] - The Importance of Fellowship
[59:53] - Encouragement in Community
[01:02:25] - The Sorrows of Chasing False Gods
[01:09:25] - Finding Joy in God's Sovereignty
[01:17:03] - God's Counsel and Guidance
[01:18:05] - Putting the Lord First
[01:22:02] - Eternal Joy and Security
[01:26:02] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
[01:27:26] - Communion

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
- Psalm 16:1-11 (NIV)

### Observation Questions
1. What does David ask of God in Psalm 16:1, and what does this request signify about his relationship with God? ([49:36])
2. How does David describe his feelings towards the company of the saints in Psalm 16:3? ([59:53])
3. According to Psalm 16:4, what are the consequences of chasing after other gods? ([01:02:25])
4. In Psalm 16:5-6, how does David view his portion and cup, and what does this reveal about his trust in God's sovereignty? ([01:09:25])

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is humility and trust in God's timing important, as exemplified by David's refusal to harm Saul despite being anointed as king? ([42:27])
2. How does taking refuge in God differ from seeking refuge in worldly solutions, according to the sermon? ([49:36])
3. What role does fellowship with other believers play in our spiritual growth, based on David's delight in the company of the saints? ([59:53])
4. How does David's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over his portion and cup help him find joy and security, even in suffering? ([01:09:25])

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to trust God's timing instead of taking matters into your own hands. How did that experience shape your faith? ([42:27])
2. In what ways do you currently seek refuge in worldly solutions rather than in God? What steps can you take to shift your trust to God? ([49:36])
3. How can you actively participate in fellowship with other believers to encourage and sharpen one another? Share specific actions you can take this week. ([59:53])
4. Identify any "false gods" in your life, such as money, power, or other pursuits. How can you commit these areas to Jesus and seek true joy and fulfillment in Him? ([01:02:25])
5. Think about a current struggle or suffering you are facing. How can you view this situation through the lens of God's sovereignty and purpose? ([01:09:25])
6. How can you cultivate a heart of thankfulness and joy in God's presence, even amidst challenges? ([01:18:51])
7. What practical steps can you take to ensure that God is always before you, guiding your decisions and actions? ([01:18:05])

Devotional

Day 1: Trusting in God's Timing
David's life is a powerful example of humility and trust in God's timing. Despite being anointed as king, David did not forcefully take the throne from Saul. Instead, he waited patiently, trusting that God would elevate him at the right time. This teaches us the importance of letting God handle our adversaries and trusting His timing in our lives. David's humility and patience are a testament to his deep faith in God's plan, even when circumstances seemed dire. We, too, are called to exhibit such humility and trust, knowing that God's timing is perfect and His plans for us are good. [42:27]

1 Peter 5:6-7 (ESV): "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."

Reflection: Is there a situation in your life where you are struggling to wait on God's timing? How can you practice humility and trust in God's plan for you today?

Day 2: Finding Refuge in God
In a world full of dangers, both physical and spiritual, our ultimate protection comes from God. David's plea in Psalm 16:1, "Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge," reminds us that true safety and peace come from taking refuge in God, not in worldly solutions. David's life was a testament to this truth, as he continually sought God's protection and guidance. We are encouraged to seek refuge in God, trusting that He is our ultimate protector and source of peace. [49:36]

Psalm 91:1-2 (ESV): "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

Reflection: What are some worldly solutions you have been relying on for safety and peace? How can you shift your focus to seeking refuge in God instead?

Day 3: The Importance of Fellowship
David found delight and encouragement in the company of the saints. Fellowship with other believers sharpens us, encourages us, and helps us grow in our faith. Being in community is essential for our spiritual growth and well-being. Just as David found strength and joy in the fellowship of other believers, we too are called to be in community with one another. This fellowship helps us to stay grounded in our faith and provides us with the support we need to navigate life's challenges. [59:53]

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."

Reflection: How can you actively engage in fellowship with other believers this week? What steps can you take to encourage and support someone in your faith community?

Day 4: The Sorrows of Chasing False Gods
David warns against the sorrows that come from chasing after other gods, whether it's money, power, or any other worldly pursuit. These false gods will ultimately lead to sorrow and destruction. Instead, we are called to commit our lives to Jesus, who offers true joy and fulfillment. Chasing after worldly pursuits may seem appealing, but they cannot provide the lasting joy and peace that come from a relationship with Jesus. We are encouraged to examine our lives and ensure that we are not placing anything above our commitment to Christ. [01:02:25]

Jeremiah 2:13 (ESV): "For my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water."

Reflection: Are there any "false gods" in your life that you have been chasing? How can you refocus your heart and mind on Jesus, who offers true joy and fulfillment?

Day 5: Finding Joy in God's Sovereignty
David acknowledges that God has assigned him his portion and cup, including his sufferings. He trusts that God is sovereign and that even his sufferings have a purpose. This perspective allows him to find joy and security in God's plan, knowing that God will not abandon him. We, too, can find joy and security in God's sovereignty, trusting that He is in control and that our sufferings have a purpose. By embracing this perspective, we can experience peace and joy, even in the midst of trials. [01:09:25]

Romans 8:28 (ESV): "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."

Reflection: How can you find joy and security in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of your current struggles? What steps can you take to trust that God has a purpose for your sufferings?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Keep me safe. Oh God. The word for God is the covenantial name. It's not just. All God almighty. But it is. The covenantial name. He had a relationship. Through Abraham. His father. And so do we. We are children of Abraham. And it's through Jesus Christ. The Messiah. That made us. And gave us that relationship. With Jesus Christ. As we've believed upon him. And he says keep me safe. Oh Lord. For in you I take refuge." [46:12] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "We live. In a time. Where as believers. We are being hunted down. We're being hunted down by the enemy of our souls. Satan. Who is out to steal. Kill. And destroy. Everything that God is doing. Every sacred work he's doing. The work he's doing in us. He's out to discourage you. He's out to really. Short circuit your walk with the Lord. You know. If he can short circuit you. Where yeah you're going to heaven. But man you're no earthly good. You're no witness anymore. You've just compromised yourself. Nothing comes out of you. That contributes to the walk. That the Lord wants you to have." [44:06] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The sorrows of those will increase who run after other gods. Little g because they're not really God, but we, we elect them to be our God. We serve our God. Maybe it's alcohol. You can't say no to that God. He's, he is dominating your life. Alcohol, alcohol. Alcohol. Maybe it's drugs. And just intoxication in general. Maybe it's sexual stuff. You can't get past that internet, man. You got to go there. And it's ruined your marriage because now all you want is this perversion you see." [01:02:25] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Try Jesus. Commit to Jesus and you'll see. He saved my life, man. I'm telling you, he turned it around. He took my miserable stinking life. And I'm telling you, miserable and stinking is good words for it. Messed up. Cause I was serving these other gods. I didn't know there were gods. They were just passions, master passions in my life to be wasted all the time. Money can be another one of these gods that we're just serving. It's all just about money and money. He says, you're going to be sorrowful man in your life. Put God first, put Jesus first commit to him because he's good man." [01:03:48] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "You have made known to me the path of life. Young people understand this. God's the one that's going to show you things. There's a lot to learn in life. I'm still learning. I expect to always be learning from the Lord about life. And he's the one that will show you. He won't abandon you. Don't abandon him. And you will fill me. Fill me with joy in your presence. One day. You know what it's going to be? Afraid to die? Afraid to face the Lord in Christ? Don't be. Because what it's going to be is absolute joy. Unhindered joy before the Lord." [01:23:10] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "It's a good. Thing in life that humility. In situations rather than taking it on ourselves. Even though if we feel that this is where we are supposed to be. Let God be the one. That puts you into that position. And don't try to take it yourself. Don't play the games when someone attacks you. He says pray for your enemies. Love your enemies. You know. And it's a different way. And I guarantee. If you're a guy. You won't feel very macho doing it. Because our flesh wants to lash out. And show them. You know. They're messing with the wrong dude." [42:27] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The problem is. That sometimes we don't seek the Lord for refuge. We go to other things. We try to fix it ourself. And we get into bigger trouble. We're not staying close to God. We're not in his word. We're not praying. We're not talking to him. We're not letting him in. And being guided by the Lord. And then here comes trouble again. And it's almost you know. The same thing as what's been happening. What's happened to the Jews historically. Can happen in us." [50:37] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "I have set the Lord always before me. Circle the word always and circle the word before me. Does that do you understand? He's before me. I'm following him. He's not behind me. Hey, come on, Jesus. Here I go, man. He's before me. I'm walking in. I'm following his footsteps. I'm seeking him out for counsel. I'm asking him which way to go. See, that's this thing of having the Lord in your life. I have, I have set the Lord always before me because he is at my right hand. I will not be shaken." [01:18:05] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "I will praise the Lord who counsels me even at night when my heart instructs me. Have you ever done that? I see that being a great pattern in my life. I go through some kind of a struggle. Which way should I go? Lord, you know, and all that stuff. And you know, which way do you want me to turn? It's there's two ways or three ways or whatever. And I often find that if I just go sleep on it, you know, people will tell you, just go sleep on it. You know, there's count. There is wisdom in that, wouldn't you? In the Lord, because he counsels me at night." [01:17:03] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places. Surely I have a delightful inheritance. Oh, the boundary lines. My daughter in San Diego once wrote a song about boundary lines, because when she was growing up, I was, she thought I was awfully strict. She was 17 years old. I remember in a thing was about 26 years old, fell in love with her. He was supposed to be our friend. And he goes and goes for my daughter. And I'm like, and she thinks, Oh, this must be God. And she's in love with him and all that stuff. And I had to live a horrible year in my life." [01:13:30] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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