Wow, we’re already halfway through camp! Today is such an important day. Let’s take what we learned yesterday about SOAP and try it out with Psalm 15.
Scripture - Check out Psalm 15. David is asking, “God, who get’s to be near you?”
Listen in the YouVersion Bible App
1 Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord?
Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?
2 Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right,
speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
3 Those who refuse to gossip
or harm their neighbors
or speak evil of their friends.
4 Those who despise flagrant sinners,
and honor the faithful followers of the Lord,
and keep their promises even when it hurts.
5 Those who lend money without charging interest,
and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.
Such people will stand firm forever.
Observe - Let’s take a few minutes to understand what Psalm 15 is saying.
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This psalm opens with a question about who can dwell with God (Psalm 15:1). The rest of the psalm is David's answer to his own question.
People who can enter God's presence are righteous (Psalm 15:2a), honest (Psalm 15:2b), clean tongued (Psalm 15:3a), loving (Psalm 15:3b), and caring (Psalm 15:3c). They hate evil (Psalm 15:4a) and fear God (Psalm 15:4b). People who experience God's presence have integrity (Psalm 15:4c), are generous (Psalm 15:5a), and protect the innocent (Psalm 15:5b).
In short, the people who can come close to God are those who genuinely serve him. God is looking for people who keep his law, reflect his character, and pursue holiness.
This prayer was most likely prayed as Israelites made trips to the temple during certain holy days (Deuteronomy 16:16). That's why David talks about staying in God's tent and hanging out on his holy hill (Psalm 15:1).
The hope is that this song will lead them to turn form their sins. If there is evil within them, they can make it right before getting to the temple.
Apply - How does this change us?
So, like those who first heard this psalm, we should also use this psalm to reflect on own hearts. Do we walk blamelessly, speak truthfully, refrain from gossip and insults, hate evil, and love well? Do we meet the qualifications laid out in Psalm 15 that will allow us to draw near to God?
Obviously, none of us are perfect. That’s why we need Jesus! Anyone to truly trusts in Jesus will be treated by God as if they perfect like Him.
Pray
“Dear God, help me to see you today. Help me to want to be closer and closer to you. As I put my trust in Jesus, help me to live for you. Amen.”
