This episode tells the story of the most important Adventist missionary most people have never heard of: George D. Keough. It covers the first ten years of his and his family’s mission experience in Egypt from 1908 to 1918, when he won extraordinary numbers of people to the Seventh-day Adventist message. It also examines how he achieved his remarkable success.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/mission-150-episode-32-an-extraordinary-mission-innovator-part-i/

4.3 The Lord Is a Refuge in Adversity

Read Psalm 17:7–9; 31:2–4; and 91:2–7. What does the psalmist do in difficult times?

The Psalms 17:7–9; 31:2–4; and 91:2–7 illustrate the psalmist’s response to difficult times and his conscious decision to seek refuge in God. Here are some thoughts on these passages:

Psalm 17:7–9: The psalmist prays to God, asking Him to listen to his prayer. He trusts that God is just and attentive to his plea. In the midst of difficulties, the psalmist turns to God as his only refuge.

Psalm 31:2–4: The psalmist asks God to stand by his side and be his rock of refuge. He calls out to God, who is his strength, capable of delivering him from the snares of the enemy. The psalmist places his trust in God and acknowledges the power of the Almighty in challenging times.

Psalm 91:2–7: The psalmist confesses his trust in God as a refuge. He uses imagery such as “shield,” “shadow,” “refuge,” “fortress,” “wings,” “faithfulness,” “shield,” and “buckler” to describe God’s protective and secure nature. The psalmist recalls God’s faithfulness in the past, deriving assurance that God will be a secure refuge in the future.

In difficult times, the psalmist does the following:

• Prayer and Communication with God: Actively turning to God, speaking to Him, and presenting concerns before Him.

• Emphasis on Trust: Emphasizing trust in God as a refuge and recognizing God’s power and faithfulness in difficult times.

• Remembrance of God’s Deeds: Recalling God’s actions in the past as a foundation for trust in the future.

The Psalms demonstrate that in challenging times, relying on God and consciously acknowledging Him as a refuge play a central role. This trust is built on the experience of a personal relationship with a powerful and loving God.

Read Psalm 17:8 and Matthew 23:37. What image is used, and what does it convey?

Psalm 17:8: 8 Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.

Matthew 23:37: 37 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”

In Psalm 17:8, the image used is “under the shadow of your wings.” This metaphor conveys the idea of comfort, security, and protection. It draws a parallel between God’s protection and the image of a bird mother hiding her chicks under her wings.

In Matthew 23:37, Jesus uses the same imagery when speaking about Jerusalem. He compares Himself to a hen who desires to gather and protect her chicks under her wings. This image expresses Jesus’ love, care, and desire to shield and guard the people of Jerusalem.

Both uses of this metaphor emphasize the loving and protective character of God and Jesus. In nature, wings are often a symbol of shelter and safety. The idea of finding refuge under the wings of God or Jesus conveys a strong sense of security and love. It suggests that God’s protection is not merely theoretical but is actively and empathetically provided, similar to a mother caring for her offspring.

However, how do we deal with times when misfortune strikes, and we seemingly cannot recognize God’s protection? Why do these experiences not mean that God is not with us?

Experiencing misfortune, pain, or seemingly lacking recognition of divine protection is a deeply human experience. In such moments, questions may arise about why God doesn’t intervene or why His protection isn’t clearly discerned. Here are some considerations:

1. God’s Ways Are Higher:

   • The Bible teaches that God’s thoughts and actions often surpass our understanding (Isaiah 55:8–9). In times of misfortune, we may not have the full perspective on God’s plan.

2. Reality of a Broken World:

   • In the world we live in, there is suffering and injustice. This doesn’t mean God is absent but reflects the reality of a world marked by sin and brokenness (1 John 5:19).

3. Trials and Growth:

   • The Bible speaks of trials and challenging times that shape and strengthen us (James 1:2–4). In these moments, we might not immediately recognize God’s protection, but it could be an opportunity for deepening our faith.

4. God’s Presence Despite Feelings:

   • Our feelings are not always the most reliable indicator of God’s presence. Even if we can’t feel or recognize His protection, it doesn’t necessarily mean God isn’t there. God promises never to leave us (Hebrews 13:5).

5. God Acts Through Human Instruments:

   • Sometimes, God’s protection may come in the form of help and support from other people. In difficult times, we should be open to the possibility that God’s work is happening through others.

6. Faith Amidst Doubt:

   • Faith doesn’t always mean having all the answers. At times, we must move forward in trust, even when we don’t fully understand.

7. Eternal Perspective:

   • The Bible encourages us to adopt an eternal perspective (2 Corinthians 4:16–18). What we experience here is temporary, but God’s faithfulness and protection are eternal.

It’s crucial to emphasize that experiencing difficulties doesn’t necessarily mean that God has abandoned us. On the contrary, amid challenges, we can develop a deeper reliance on God and experience His faithfulness in new ways.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-the-lord-hears-and-delivers-4-3-the-lord-is-a-refuge-in-adversity/

4.2 Assurance of God’s Care

Read Psalm 40:2–4; 50:15; 55:23; and 121. How is God involved in our daily affairs?

These Psalms provide profound insights into God’s care for His people and His involvement in their daily affairs.

Psalm 40:2–4: The psalmist describes how the Lord lifted him from a deep pit and provided a firm foundation. This rescue signifies divine care in personal challenges. The psalmist emphasizes that true happiness comes not from worldly achievements but from a relationship with God.

Psalm 50:15: In this verse, God urges people to call upon Him in times of trouble. God’s willingness to listen and respond to the cries of His people demonstrates His involved care and interest in the daily concerns of individuals.

Psalm 55:23: The psalmist stresses the importance of casting one’s burdens on the Lord, as God cares for His people. This statement illustrates that the burdens of believers don’t need to be carried alone; God actively stands by their side.

Psalm 121: This psalm celebrates God’s all-encompassing power and care in the lives of believers. Various images, such as protection from stumbling, God’s constant vigilance, and comprehensive preservation from all evil, illustrate profound care from God. Metaphorical expressions like the shadow and the right hand of God emphasize His closeness and strength accompanying His people.

In summary, these Psalms highlight God’s loving care in all aspects of life. Believers are encouraged to trust in this care and to bring their concerns, joys, and sorrows to God in prayer. The essence is a deep confidence that God is present and lovingly cares for His people in every situation.

What can you do concretely to better experience the reality of God’s care? How can you better collaborate with God for Him to work in and for you?

1. Prayer and Communication:

   • Deepen your prayer time to consciously communicate with God. Share your thoughts, worries, joys, and gratitude with Him.

   • Take time to be still and listen for God’s response. This can happen through meditation, studying the Bible, or simply in moments of silence.

2. Trust and Faith:

   • Develop a profound trust in God’s love and care for you. Believe in His promises and His ability to work in all areas of your life.

   • Regularly reflect on past experiences where God’s care was evident, and remember His faithfulness.

3. Studying God’s Word:

   • Read the Bible regularly to better understand God’s character and His promises. Scripture is a crucial source for recognizing God’s love and care.

   • Look for Bible verses related to God’s care and meditate on them.

4. Practicing Gratitude:

   • Cultivate an attitude of gratitude toward God. Be thankful for His care in both small and significant aspects of life.

   • Keep a gratitude journal, recording things you’re thankful for daily.

5. Community with Believers:

   • Seek fellowship with other believers to strengthen faith and share experiences.

   • Pray together and share testimonies of God’s care with one another.

6. Self-Reflection and Humility:

   • Practice self-reflection and humility by acknowledging your dependence on God’s care.

   • Be willing to accept God’s guidance in your life, even if it differs from your own plans.

It’s important to note that the experience of God’s care is personal and individual. Each person may find different ways to deepen this experience and cultivate a more active collaboration with God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-the-lord-hears-and-delivers-4-2-assurance-of-gods-care/

Lesson 4: The Lord Hears and Delivers

In the fourth lesson, we explore the Psalms as powerful expressions of worship, prayer, and relationship with God. The Psalms offer a rich range of emotions and experiences, from deep despair to exuberant praise. We will examine the different types of Psalms, explore their structure and meaning, and understand how they shape our understanding of God’s character and care for us. Let’s dive into the rich world of the Psalms and be inspired by their timeless wisdom.

4.1 You discern my going out and my lying down

Read Psalm 139:1–18. How is God’s power (V. 1–6), presence (V. 7–12), and goodness (V. 13–19) poetically described? What does God’s greatness reveal about His promises?

Poetic Descriptions:

• God’s Power (Verses 1–6): The Psalm begins by acknowledging God’s comprehensive knowledge of the psalmist. God knows every thought and word even before they are spoken, portraying divine power that transcends space and time. The phrases “You have searched me” and “You know my sitting down and rising up” underscore God’s all-encompassing power and wisdom.

• God’s Presence (Verses 7–12): The Psalm continues to describe God’s presence as omnipresent. It states that even in the farthest places, whether darkness or the grave (Sheol), God is there. Metaphors like the wings of the morning and the uttermost parts of the sea emphasize that no place is beyond God’s reach. This poetic depiction highlights God’s closeness to humanity, irrespective of spatial or geographical boundaries.

• God’s Goodness (Verses 13–19): God’s goodness is emphasized in the creation and formation of humans in the womb. The psalmist praises God for the marvelous ability to know and shape each individual uniquely. The words “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” express gratitude and admiration for God’s goodness. The certainty that God knows and loves the psalmist in every aspect leads to profound trust and joy.

God’s Greatness and Promises: The greatness of God, manifested in His power, presence, and goodness, lends weight and depth to God’s promises. The assurance that God knows every aspect of our lives and is powerful beyond space and time strengthens confidence in God’s promises of help and deliverance. The close relationship with God, deepened by the awareness of His comprehensive knowledge and care for us, fortifies faith in His promises.

The psalmist recognizes in God’s greatness not only a majestic reality but also a source of hope and comfort, strengthened by God’s promises.

Some may find the idea that God knows everything about them – even their darkest secrets – to be a somewhat daunting thought. Why, then, is the Gospel our only hope?

The fact that God knows everything about us, including our darkest secrets, can be intimidating for some when associated with feelings of shame, guilt, or fear of punishment. In this regard, the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, may appear as our only hope. Here are some reasons why the Gospel is a source of hope in the midst of this awareness:

1. God’s Love and Forgiveness: The Gospel proclaims God’s love for humanity despite their sins. Jesus Christ came to save humanity by dying on the cross for sins. Through faith in Him and accepting His forgiveness, people can have a relationship with God. The Gospel teaches that God’s love and forgiveness are greater than any sin, offering hope for a fresh start.

2. Redemption and Liberation: The Gospel includes the message of redemption and liberation from the power of sin. Jesus Christ provides the possibility of inner transformation by freeing people from the slavery of sin. Through faith in Him, people can find a new identity in Christ and lead a life shaped by God’s grace and strength.

3. Grace and Acceptance: The Gospel emphasizes God’s unconditional grace. It teaches that acceptance by God is not based on personal achievements but on His grace. This brings a deep sense of acceptance, even in the midst of imperfection and weaknesses.

4. Hope for Eternal Life: The Gospel offers hope for eternal life through the resurrection of Christ. It promises that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life with God. This perspective transcends the limitations of the present world and provides a hopeful view of eternity.

5. Relationship with God: The Gospel offers the possibility of a personal relationship with God. Through Jesus Christ, people have access to God as their heavenly Father. This relationship provides comfort, guidance, and the assurance that God, who knows everything about us, accepts us lovingly.

In summary, the Gospel is the source of our hope because it provides a positive response to the daunting realization of our sinfulness. It offers a path to forgiveness, transformation, and communion with a loving God who accepts us despite our flaws.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-the-lord-hears-and-delivers-4-1-my-frame-was-not-hidden-from-you/