LESSONS FROM SIXTY-NINE Scripture: Psalm 69:1-36 Ray O. Brooks

Introduction: A. This is a Psalm of . We do not know when he wrote it. Very likely in a time when he felt deserted by all. B. This is called a Messianic Psalm. It spoke prophetically of the suffering of , the Messiah. C. There are some great practical lessons for God's saints in every age.

I. LEARN THAT EVEN GOD'S MOST DEDICATED PEOPLE CAN COME INTO TERRIBLE SOUL - TRYING CIRCUMSTANCES. vs. 1-4

II. LEARN THAT GOD'S PEOPLE SHOULD BE VERY CONCERNED OVER HOW THEIR ACTIONS MAY CAUSE OTHERS TO STRAY. vs. 5,6

III. LEARN THAT ZEAL FOR GOD'S HOUSE CAN CAUSE GOD'S PEOPLE MUCH SUFFERING. vs. 7-12 A. Some from our own families. vs.7,8 B. Some from those who hate the thought of God v.9 C. To some the dedicated Christian becomes a byword. v.11 D. To the drunkards they become the subject of silly songs. v.12

IV. LEARN THAT SUCH TREATMENT WILL DRIVE GOD'S PEOPLE TO INTENSE PRAYER. vs. 13-18

V. LEARN HOW TERRIBLY WRONG GOD'S OWN SAINTS CAN BE TREATED. vs. 19-21 A. These verses are used in the to describe the treatment given Jesus on the cross. B. Could the Christian, the true Christian, expect any less?

VI. LEARN THAT IT IS ONLY HUMAN FOR GOD'S PERSECUTED PEOPLE TO ASK GOD TO DEAL WITH THOSE WHO TROUBLE US. vs. 22-28 A. The Lord Jesus Christ did not, but He is God living in human body, the only man who was ever fully surrendered to the will of the Father. B. In our weak human bodies, we seldom find the grace to do otherwise.

VII. LEARN THAT OUR GOD IS BETTER PLEASED WITH A LIVING SACRIFICE THAN WITH BURNT OFFERINGS. vs. 29-31 A. Samuel informed King Saul "It is better to obey than to sacrifice." B. Romans 12:1,2

III. LEARN THAT T A LIFE LIVED FOR THE LORD WILL GENERATE WIDE SPREAD PRAISE FOR OUR GOD. vs. 33,34

IX. LEARN THAT OUR GOD SHALL PREPARE A SPECIAL HABITATION FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIS NAME. vs. 35,36