MAY 15, 2023
READ: Psalm 19 (Focus vs.1–6)
MEMORY VERSE
“Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one.” Isaiah 40:26
BACKGROUND
In 2021, a multination effort led to the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope—deployed nearly a million miles from Earth to better investigate the universe. This marvel will peer into deep space and examine the stars and other celestial wonders.
This is indeed a fascinating astronomical piece of technology, and if
everything works, it will provide us with amazing photos and information. But its mission isn’t new.
In fact, the prophet Isaiah described searching the stars when he said, “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one” (Isaiah 40:26).
“Night after night” they speak of our Creator who hurled this imperceptibly immense universe into existence (Psalm 19:2)—and with it the countless luminous bodies that silently grace our night sky (v. 3).
And it’s God Himself who decided how many of the shining objects there are: “He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name” (Psalm 147:4).
When mankind sends complicated, fascinating probes to explore the universe, we can enjoy with spellbound wonder the discoveries they make, because each observation points back to the One who made the solar system and everything beyond it.
Yes, the “heavens declare the glory of God” (19:1)—stars and all.
By: Dave Branon
INSIGHT
Psalm 19 speaks to ancient Israel of Yahweh’s power and serves as a defense of their monotheistic beliefs. The psalmist presents God as creator and controller of the would-be gods of the nations that surrounded them.
The psalms weren’t simply songs of worship but were teaching tools that helped Israel (and us) solidify her beliefs in the power and presence of God.
Commentator Tremper Longman states: “The psalmist calls our attention specifically to the sun, the most dominant of the heavenly bodies.
Using poetic personification, the poet points out that the sun lives in the sky. That is where God has placed its tent. Verse 5 then uses two similes to emphasize the passionate energy of the sun as it races across the sky. It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course.”
By: J.R. Hudberg
APPLICATION
How do the stars and the entire universe speak of God and His creative ways? What thoughts and emotions strike you as you think about His power?
PR’s (PASTOR RICHARD) TAKE
“In the beginning God created the Heavens and the Earth” Genesis 1:1 Case close!!!
Science isn’t disproving Faith it’s just catching up to it. pr
It has been said: “Shoot for the stars and if you miss them, you can land on the moon”. However, as believers who know the Creator of the stars and the moon, we go as high as he wants to take us. pr
PR’s RE-EMPHASIS (From Post)
The psalms weren’t simply songs of worship but were teaching tools that helped Israel (and us) solidify her beliefs in the power and presence of God. (Today’s Insight)
PRAYER
“Heavenly Father, thank You for creating such an amazing universe for me to enjoy.”
TODAY’s HYMN/WORSHIP/PRAISE/GOSPEL SONG
“GOD OF WONDERS” Chris Tomlin
Lord of all creation
Of water, earth, and sky
The heavens are Your tabernacle
Glory to the Lord on high
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
The Universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth
Early in the morning
I will celebrate the light
And as I stumble through the darkness
I will call Your name by night
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
Universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy
Lord of heaven and earth
Lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth
God of wonders, beyond our galaxy
You are holy, holy
Precious Lord, reveal Your heart to me
Father holy, holy
Universe declares Your majesty
You are holy, holy, holy, holy
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth
Hallelujah to the Lord of heaven and earth
READING THROUGH THE ENTIRE BIBLE THIS YEAR (DAILY)
2 Kings 22–23
John 4:31–54
