Underwood Unplugged

Actually, Love doesn't run out.

Human love runs out all the time. When she stops loving you back. When you don't get what you want from him.

When it's no longer convenient, human love often throws in the towel, calls it a day, and hits the road.

But Psalm 136 kind of love? Well, that love endures forever.

The writer walks us through a concise history of creation and Israel - the Old Testament up to this point, really - and recognizes God's love through all of it.

Take a walk through your life, and think about the evidence of God's love for you throughout your life...

Birth - every breath is from Him.

Growth - He sustains, protects, helps, teaches.

Family - Some families are a blessing, and other families make us long for God as a loving Father.

On our staff - just like at The Chapel - we have a staff member share the "Top Ten" things/people/events that God has used to influence and shape who they are today.

What are your top ten?

As I count down the events of my life - God's love endures through all of it.

I have to admit, I read this Psalm a few days ago, and was stunned at first. It doesn't fit in well with the 13 Psalms that follow after it.

That's because someone ELSE wrote it.

David didn't write Psalm 137. One of God's people Israel wrote it, sometime after the time of exile/banishment (586 B.C.) to Babylon.

The fact that this song is listed in the Book of Psalms, though, means that God wants to say something to us here.

I suppose it reminds me of a few things...

(1) We can indeed bring our troubles and questions to God.

Sometimes, I try to internalize or forget my troubles. That hardly works, and it doesn't make things go away. We have got to talk things out with God. Write them out. Work them out. Talk plainly and openly with God. Here's a song of a brokenhearted, angry, bitter man or woman who has all but given up hope. His enemies are mocking him. But he still talks to God. He still thinks about God's blessing on Jerusalem, which leads me to thought #2.

(2) The Jews still have a special place in God's story.

Sure, this is an Old Testament Psalm. Sure, this is set in Babylonian exile and written by a Jew 2600 years ago. What in the world does this have to do with today? Well, I think I should learn to grasp a faith that stands up in the midst of suffering. I should appreciate the heritage of the Christian faith that goes way back to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus is a descendant of a Jewish King who wrote most of these Psalms.

But God is not done with Israel yet. Not to get into the book of Revelation, but there will be a new Jerusalem someday... What this writer is longing for will be restored and enhanced beyond his dreams.

(3) Revenge belongs to God.

Maybe this person in exile doesn't have the strength or resources to take revenge - but it's clear he wants it. We must let God take care of paying people back. Our culture basically breeds us to believe that we have to stand up for ourselves, fight back, and give them what they deserve.

In all actuality, they will get what they deserve. God is just. God is a judge. God will not tolerate it.

So let Him take care of things.

Until then, it's okay to let Him know how you feel about it.

Well, today I read Psalms 137-139 several times, and it was really good. I am starting to notice more when I miss reading a Psalm. It reminds me and inspires me to praise God and think about Him throughout the day...

I think it's interesting that God made David bold and "stouthearted" after he called on God.

I should be praying for more boldness in certain areas of my life.

I love the reminder that God has a great purpose for my life (Psalm 138:8). I guess Rick Warren didn't make that idea up all by himself.

Isn't it permissible to tell people that God has a purpose for their lives?

And God will complete - pursue - enable - fulfill that purpose as long as we are living to praise Him. It all fits together so well. God's love endures forever, fulfilling His purposes.

Psalm 139 hit me on so many levels.

If you wonder about your value, your worth, your esteem... or if God really pays attention to you - read this Psalm.

God knows every thought, every word, every action, every concern of my life. He knows "all my ways."

It's almost too deep for me to comprehend.

Sometimes, I get sentimental and reflect on my life. Usually, it's when I'm going through stuff or deciding what to throw away.

God is sentimental about my past, present, and future. He knows it all.

"All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be" (139:16).

Might as well talk with Him more about the future, eh?

Might as well ask Him for wisdom at each crossroad.

Might as well trust Him with any of the "obstacles" that come my way in life.

Might as well read this chapter a few more times.

"Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me, and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting." (139:23-24)

Here's a Psalm I'd like to look at from two different angles.

The Personal Angle: If I'm ever in a bind, facing enemies in any circumstances, this is a great Psalm begging God for help and defense. "Rescue me... Protect me... Keep me...." - and then a list of things I'd like to see happen to my enemy, just David being honest.

The Theology Angle: Yeah, a list of things I'd like to see happen to my enemy. David doesn't mince words:

"Let burning coals fall upon them;
may they be thrown into the fire,
into miry pits, never to rise." (Psalm 140:10).

Question: Here's a guy wishing destruction upon His enemy... but aren't Christ-followers supposed to LOVE our enemies?

See, here's where a lot of people might say, "Well, I guess the Bible contradicts itself. I'm done reading this."

But I'd just like to list a few ways this is worked out, both logically AND biblically.

(1) I think David establishes the fact that his enemies are ALSO God's enemies. These are wicked people, full of violence, malice, slander, and all sorts of junk. They should not be allowed to do evil things. Basically, David is taking God's side, wanting to see evil stopped.

(2) When we talk about "loving our enemies," we sometimes must think about what it really means to show love. If we love them, wouldn't we want what's best for them? Love sometimes means confronting an enemy with the truth. Point out the consequences of their actions. We benefit from a legal system that is set up to correct destructive behavior, and hopefully restore the person to what they could/should be.

(3) When Jesus talks about loving our enemies, he specifically mentions praying for them who persecute you, which is exactly what David prays. In the Old Testament, the "burning coals" that David wants to see on his enemy's head are often used as symbols of repentance - Is he praying that his wicked enemy would be turned towards repentance and see the error of his ways? I think so.

(4) Let's give David credit for allowing God to take revenge if He wants. David is not taking matter into his own hands, he's leaving it up to God. Pretty impressive, knowing our human emotions and anger and wanting to make things even.

At the end of the day, I hope when I think of my enemies, I pray for them. I'm not the kind of guy who likes to have enemies, necessarily, but I would like to know what to do with them when I do. =)

Psalm 141 is another reminder of God's goodness in the midst of praise.

Many religions are based on our attempts to "be good" or do enough good things that whatever "god" that religion speaks of will approve.

But we really CAN NOT be good without God's help.

"Let not my heart be drawn to evil..." (Psalm 141:3)

Only God can help you get clean, come clean, be forgiven, and be honest.

"Let the wicked fall into their nets while I pass by in safety."

We always need to confess our sin and be clean. We always need God's help and protection from sin.

I will fix my eyes on Christ and focus on His standards and His help.

Psalm 142 summarizes one of the most powerful, meaningful, and common prayers in all of history...

"HELP!?!!"

I wish I had known more about this Psalm at other times in my life.

Sometimes asking God for help is the very last thing we do.

We wait until we're desperate - as maybe David did in this particular song.

I think we often take Philippians 2:15 too strongly, where Paul says, "Do everything without complaining or arguing."

Actually, here's David, the chosen KING of Israel, in the midst of a praise collection, saying, "I pour out my complaint before Him (God."

Do these two verses contradict each other?

It's one thing to complain to God and "pour out your trouble" in private, in the context of an honest, raw, relationship with God.

It's quite another thing to be known as a complainer, preventing your testimony from shining like a star (Philippians 2:14).

But when it's just you and God, let him have it.

Seriously.

I do that. But it's all in a spirit of humility, not accusing or blaming God for my situation. Just being honest with my feelings and my circumstances and asking for God's help.

He loves that. He sees me admit that it's out of my control. He sees that I trust Him. He sees that I am, for at least THIS moment, really dependent. Really is a prayer we should pray more often.

"The enemy pursues me,
he crushes me to the ground;
he makes me dwell in darkness
like those long dead.
So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed."
(Psalm 143:3-4)


Tell it to God. Tell Him everything you feel, even the frustration, the fear, the anger. I have heard it said many times, "God can handle it." Just be yourself.

Here is a psalm of David where we see that he's worn out, attacked, and "like those long dead."

It's been a while since I've felt like that, but I have been there. I do remember times when I felt a total loss of hope, questioned God's involvement, and felt crushed like this.

We have to commend and even imitate David's gut-level honesty. But true, dependent, and even "successful" faith requires much more than just being honest with God.

It requires that I turn to God, trust God, and call on God.

David does all of these things in this Psalm. God really loves to hear prayers like this. From the often-quoted 2 Chronicles 7:14 to many passages about God waiting to respond to the prayers of His people... God is a God who responds when we cry out.

David reminds himself of God's great works, his unfailiing love, and His presence every morning.

I can be honest about the despair and my situation.

But I must also be honest and acknowledge that God is here, He cares, and He responds. Don't be afraid to ask God for deliverance, as David directly calls on God to help and save him from his enemy!

Psalm 144, here are a few thoughts.

I'm writing at 9:38pm, at least glad to get a Psalm in today. Ever have a day like that? Where you finally get around to doing the thing that is a priority for you every day? Anyhow...

"Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord."

Yes, David truly viewed God as his own, personal source of strength.

God is described as powerful, responsive, and waiting for us to call on Him for protection.

When was the last time God was actually my "Rock"?

I know I like calling Him that, because it sounds powerful, "masculine," and unshakeable.

God is my Refuge, my Defender, and my Leader.

You see some of David's "war language" - as God prepares Him to fight the enemy. I wonder if too often we have focused on the lovingkindness and forgiveness of God, and forget the fierce and unrivaled power God has.

Shame on us for trying to fight ANY battle in our own strength. Israel did that a lot, and it is easy to blame them.

You could say each day is a battle, and for many of us, it is. But what specific battles is God interested in fighting with us? David mentions the foreigners who would oppose him, and the way they bring lies and deceit. Is he saying that God is interested in fighting the battle for Truth? The battle for His people and anyone who would call on Him?

Regardless of who is fighting, I want to know that God is on my side. Don't you?

The one condition for this incredible help and blessing from God is this - Is He your God? "Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord." Does He know that He's your God? Does my life reflect that He is?

That's my goal. That's also where all blessing, strength, and victory can be found in this life.

I'm starting to notice some great recurring themes after just six chapters.

For example...
- God deserves praise for His great works.
- God deserves prasie for His care and compassion.
- Those who trust in God will find that God is present and ready to help.
- God will destroy the wicked.


But here, in Psalm 145, something new jumps out that maybe I didn't see before.

Here it is:

"Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.
One generation will commend your works to another;
they will tell of your mighty acts.
They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
They will tell of the power of your awesome works,
and I will proclaim your great deeds.
They will celebrate your abundant goodness,
and joyfully sing of your righteousness." (Psalm 145:3-7)

Plain and simple, here's what jumps out at me....

All these common truths - the great things God has done - really must be shared with the next generation.

What is my generation doing to pass it on to the next?

Unfortunately, I see a lot of my generation complaining about the previous generation. Some are trying to create our own generation's type of church. Some have given up on Christianity altogether. Some find it too easy to blame the past. While much of my own thought processes resonate with the emerging or postmodern church movements, I think the best church movements or leaders take time to listen to what God has done. We should value previous generations for the good things God has done and has to say through them.

In reality, we all need to be looking NOW at what legacy we are going to leave.

Will yours be a legacy that points to the greatness of God?
Even if you don't have children, will you still make an effort to pass something on to the next?
Are we looking now at what God IS currently doing, and preparing to share that with others?

I have an 18-month old daughter who seems to enjoy holding hands and saying "Ayyy-mennnn!" when we are done praying. As much fun as that is, I am also committed to sharing with her and her month-old brother some of the terrific things God has done in our lives.

Psalm 145 is a reminder to listen to the previous generation, and pass something on to the next.

In the meantime... "I will meditate on your (God's) wonderful works!"

Psalm 146 says a lot about God's character. While the other Psalms I've read this week seem to focus on his greatness, his power, and how He is worthy of praise... this one spotlights a God who will rescue.

"Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save."

Men - even the most valiant of men - and women - will let you down. Is my hope completely in God? Is it first and foremost in God?

If you read through this Psalm, you have to realize that all the "frustrations" of life are not beyond God's care.

Physical pain?
Loneliness?
Depression?
Widowed?
Rejected?

Doesn't matter. God loves you, and He wants to rescue you out of whatever situation you're in. He really does offer a better way.

Again, here's a Psalm that focuses a little bit on Israel - and that all the generations of Zion should praise this "God of Jacob."

Man's plans - and lives - will ultimately come to an end. God is officially here, and ready to respond to the needs of his people. Are you one of them?

Today I'll just jot down a few thoughts on Psalm 147. I know, you thought I wouldn't get around to it on Saturday. Well, here goes...

After you read the Psalm... consider these thoughts...

- It's pretty clear that Israel is special to God. Not "was," but "is." God still favors them, and here is a song that reminds the Jews of their special place in God's heart and promises.

- Notice all of the present tense verbs. God builds, heals, determines, gathers, covers, provides, sustains, calls... God is very active today in the way the world works and grows. This song is another one where God gets the credit for all the ways that our needs are met.

- God is not impressed with the strength of man or of beasts. What impresses God is a heart that is open to Him. 147:11 - The Lord delights in those who fear him - explained by - those who trust in God's unfailing love. How can I get better at trusting God, giving him credit, reverence, trust...

- If God cares so much for creation, shouldn't I? Why don't I recycle?

- These words include God's sustaining care and also God's powerful judgment. Why are people so quick to grasp a God of love and grace, but not a God of righteousness and truth? Probably because most of us don't want to play by His rules or live by His laws...

But that's exactly where chapter 147 ends - God has given His people His word - the law - and it is a blessing. Isn't it?

How has the Bible been a blessing in your life lately? It's waiting...

All of creation = made by God.

All of creation = known by God.

All of creation = is a song of praise to God.

In Psalm 148, it's pretty clear that all that exists is here to glorify the ONE who created it.

Angels and the spiritual realm.
Sun, moon, stars, planets.
Sea creatures, mountains, wild beasts..
Even the weather?

Yep.

David ends with the praise that comes from people. This backward journey through Psalms is helping me think more about worship, and if I'm WILLING to give God the credit, attention, and love that His greatness deserves.

Here David mentions Israel again, calling them, "a people close to His (God's) heart."

How great is our God?

I suppose it doesn't matter what you or I think. God is far greater than anything or anyone in heaven or on earth. It's reality. But He wants us to praise Him. He wants to bring us joy and be close to us. Amazing.

Here's a shorter review of a nine-verse psalm.

Psalm 149.

Do you ever wonder if God is happy about your life?

Sometimes, I know God chooses to love me, forgive me, and think about me. Other times, I feel ashamed and distant from Him, and assume he doesn't approve of me.

After three verses about people who spend time praising God in songs, dancing, and instrumental music... David tells us clearly that "the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation."

While the rest of the psalm talks about the greatness of praise and worship and understanding God's Word (The "double-edged sword"), we've got to let these words soak in...

"the Lord takes delight in his people."

God enjoys thinking about me. He wants me to interact with Him. He loves it when I turn to Him and recognize His greatness. His works. Remember things He has said. When I get creative about expressing my love and thanks to Him.

He just loves that.

As a Christ-follower I really admire said last week, "I'm just a guy who Jesus loves."

What if that statement became the foundation for how I think about myself?
Where I find my self value?
Who I live to please?
How I view God in response?

If I take the time to praise God and show Him my love, he really enjoys me - DELIGHTS in me. Gotta love that!

Well, it has been a while since I've posted an "Unplugged" devotional. So I'm here with a tribute and a new direction.

Several years ago, I ran an email devotional called "FUSION", where I loved to write and share thoughts on life, God, and relationships. FUSION was a weekly discipline and really a blast to write, and I wrote for more than a year. Tim Cooper, a close friend of mine, wrote a daily e-mail where he'd just read a chapter of Scripture and share how it touched his heart. For over 200 days, Tim's e-mail encouraged people and challenged his heart from God's Word.

After a week's sojourn for a class in Denver, I've found a renewed interest in writing and expressing thoughts from God's word. Since it's been a while from my last post, maybe nobody will read but me, and that's okay. I want this to be some thoughts and prayers between me and God first anyway. Here goes...

Today, I'm starting a devotional countdown through the book of Psalms. I pledge to "average" one Psalm a day, as I read backwards through the book of Psalms.

PSALM 150...

"Praise the Lord.
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.
Praise him for his acts of power;
praise him for his surpassing greatness."

This song tells us where and why to praise God. Where do you praise God? Do you have a holy place (sanctuary, church, temple, etc.) to sing or pray or think about Him? How much of my life actually brings praise to God? How often do I put some form of Christian music or worship music in my CD player?

Last week, at the Denver Seminary bookstore, I asked the cash register guy if they had the latest David Crowder CD. David Crowder Band is a younger group that does great band worship. The cash guy said, "Actually, I don't listen to Christian music much." I can relate with that. I have gone through times in my life when I thought all Christian music sounded the same or lacked quality. Okay, I still believe that...

But every generation needs to express praise to God through music. For David (King David, not David Crowder), the praise would come with the trumpet, the harp, the lyre, the tambourine, the flute, and the cymbals -- every instrument that is fit to praise a King.

Psalm 150 - the last chapter. David has been through some incredible highs, and some depressing and painful lows. I suppose I'll work my way back through them.

At the end of it all, God still deserves praise. God's "acts of power" and his "surpassing greatness" should still compel me to sing.

I find that my best moments in worship are when I actually think about something God has done in my life...

- I think about what a great blessing it is to be a father, and have a healthy new baby boy named Luke, and how much I don't deserve God's blessing like this.

- I think about the tremendous opportunity I have to learn about the Bible and then teach and encourage others, and how unworthy I am to speak on God's behalf.

- I think about specific mighty acts of God, starting with raising Jesus from the dead. Wondering about how God can imagine and create things like eternity, creation, and love. Remembering friends and family whose lives have been changed by God in such dramatic ways.

Sometimes, these moments sneak up on me like espionage. I'll be standing there, singing, probably thinking about how the song sounds or what words come next, when God will bring to mind someone special in my life. Maybe one of you reading this...

- I think about people he's used in my life to bring me great encouragement. Sometimes, I'm brought to great emotion in worship because I miss those people - they aren't here in Delaware with us. Sometimes, I'm brought to great feeling in my singing because I see God changing lives around me, and using people right here in Delaware to touch people's lives.

I wonder what things David was thinking about. Those "acts of power" from God. Was he thinking about victories God had given Him - like defeating Goliath and the Philistines? Was he thinking about God's blessing and forgiveness on David's family in spite of sins like adultery and murder? Was he thinking in general about God's creation and how He rules the earth with love and truth?

At the end of the day, what are the things that you should be praising God about? Acts of power in your life? Surpassing greatness that you've seen in Him or His creation?

Here's a man who has written most of 150 chapters, and he's still passionate about praising God. If my heart is really focusing on God and what He has to show me, He will never stop amazing me, blessing me, teaching me, and bringing my heart into emotional worship.

He concludes, "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord."

Every breath is a gift. Every moment is an opportunity for you and me to seize the best of the connected-to-God life.

God, as I begin this journey through the Psalms, I first want to thank you for today. I praise you for the things you have done, for who you are, and for your great acts of love. I praise you for the people you've brought into my life. I praise you for the things you have brought me through and for the power of your love.

I praise you because you are in control and you respond to the cries and needs of your children. I praise you because you hold the past, the present, and the future. I praise you with whatever music is in my stereo and my heart.

Please give me the strength, the courage, the wisdom, and the love so that I can praise you in all I do and say today.

Let everything that has breath praise you.