Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for November 19, 2023

Thanksgiving Message

A Psalm for Thanksgiving 2023

Psalms 115:1-18

1. Introduction

• context of burden/difficulty and the “summary statement” of verse 1
• Because the LORD alone is your protector and provider, praise Him now and forever.

2. The Substance of the Taunt of the Nations 2

• based on perceived abandonment and absence

3. The Scorching Deconstruction of Idolatry 3-8

• where our God is and what He does
• contrasted with idols and the principle: becoming what we worship

4. The Summons to Trust the LORD for Protection 9-11

• He is their help and shield in antiphonal praise

5. The Summons to Trust the LORD for Provision 12-15

• reflection on the LORD’S memory
• repetition and recognition of blessing

6. The Summons to Praise the LORD Perpetually 16-18

• do it now while you’re alive and anticipate doing it forever

7. So What?

• Make the connection to Christ: recalling a greater victory.
• Mind the mindfulness of the LORD.
• LORD, put this psalm on my lips and in my life this week.
• “Lord, I believe Thou hast prepared, unworthy though I be, for me a blood-bought free reward, a golden harp for me. ‘Tis strung and tuned for endless years and formed by power divine, to sound in God the Father’s ears no other name but Thine.”