A sermon idea based on Psalm 113.
Psalm 113:1-9 NRSV
[1] Praise the LORD! Praise, O servants of the LORD; praise the name of the LORD.
[2] Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time on and forevermore. [3] From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the LORD is to be praised. [4] The LORD is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens.
[5] Who is like the LORD our God, who is seated on high, [6] who looks far down on the heavens and the earth? [7] He raises the poor from the dust, and lifts the needy from the ash heap, [8] to make them sit with princes, with the princes of his people. [9] He gives the barren woman a home, making her the joyous mother of children. Praise the LORD!
Angle
The relevant topic I would be addressing, based on this text…
God is continually looking out for the unnoticed and working on behalf of the least, the last, and the lost. He pays special attention to those whom society seems to forget most easily.
Anchor
Information about the text that matters to the message…
History is usually written by the winners. Its record favors the powerful. But scripture, over and over, indicates that God’s heart is attentive to the plight of those who are disadvantaged and less fortunate.
This psalm is another such song that honors and worships God because of his tendency to come alongside those who seem most defenseless. The psalmist names the poor, the needy, and the barren woman, all of whom experience a unique kind of suffering that often goes misunderstood by people around them.
Application
The big call-to-action in the message…
When you praise God as the one who is powerful, holy, and good, also remember to praise him as the one who is attuned to the needs of those who are so often forgotten. And then, in his steps, look for opportunities to come alongside those who need your ministry in their lives.
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About the Cover Art: Photo by Tess WB on Unsplash.
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