LookingtoJesus

MAY 26

Psalm 104

Psalm 104:24, “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all!”

Over forty years ago, as a newly saved believer, the words of this psalm made a deep impression on me. I remember walking into a Christian bookstore and purchasing an Amy Grant cassette tape. I played that tape over and over again. One song in particular stood out—aptly titled “Psalm 104.”

Looking back, I now realize how deeply that song ministered to me. Music has a unique way of reaching straight to the heart. At the time, I had lived much of my life unaware of the most obvious truth: God created me—and the universe in which I live. But when God brought life to my sin-dead soul, He also began transforming my way of thinking. Of course, He used His Word to do that.

We didn’t evolve from a primordial swamp. We weren’t placed here by green-skinned aliens. There is a God, and He is very much alive. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. All of creation testifies to His infinite wisdom and power.

The Psalmist recognized this truth. He traced everything back to the hand of the One who made it all—the heavens and the earth, the sun and the moon, day and night; the mountains and valleys; the springs that give water to beasts and wild donkeys; the birds that sing among the branches; the grass that feeds livestock and the plants that provide food for mankind; the vast and teeming sea. He was deeply aware of both the intricacy of God’s creative order and His providential care over all He has made. Even the humble rock badger found a place in the Psalmist’s song of praise.

The Psalmist rejoiced in all of it, offering heartfelt worship. In doing so, he set a beautiful example for us. A right understanding of God begins with acknowledging Him as our Creator—and worshiping Him for all He has done.

“All that is necessary for us to do is to see God in everything, and to acknowledge Him in all things.” — A.W. Tozer

Application Questions: In what ways can I intentionally acknowledge and worship God as my Creator in my daily life—through music, Scripture, or prayer? How might a deeper awareness of God’s creative power and providential care shape my attitude toward the world around me and the challenges I face?

MAY 23

Psalm 103

Psalm 103:11-12, “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.”

Like you, I sometimes find myself reaching for a tape measure to check the length of something. It’s a simple and useful tool—provided it’s long enough for the job. But when it comes to measuring things related to God, a tape measure won’t do. God is transcendent and infinite, far beyond the limits of our understanding—both in who He is and in what He does.

Now, imagine trying to measure the steadfast love of God. Go ahead—take out your tape measure and stretch it out. But it’s no use; we have nothing long enough. His love stretches as high as the heavens are above the earth—immeasurable and infinite. There is no limit to the loyal love God shows to those who belong to Him. As the old hymn says, the “Deep, Deep Love of Jesus” is “vast, unmeasured, boundless, free.” And from this love flow countless benefits (Psalm 103:2): forgiveness, healing, redemption, hope, provision, justice, mercy, grace, and more (Psalm 103:3–8). Bless the Lord!

Now let’s try measuring something else—the distance from which God removes our sins. Think about the garbage truck that comes each week, hauling our refuse far away. But not so far that we couldn’t find it if we tried. Not so with God. In Jesus, we receive total forgiveness. At the moment of saving faith, a full pardon is granted. The certificate of debt is forever canceled. So how far are our sins removed? “As far as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12). And how far is that? Infinitely far—never to be found again.

We all struggle at times to fully grasp the infinite love and forgiveness of God. Our own failures can cloud our vision. That’s why it’s so important to return to these truths again and again. God’s love is truly beyond measure. His forgiveness is so complete that no stain of sin remains. The psalmist calls his own soul to “Bless the Lord,” and when we reflect on these promises, we have every reason to do the same.

“When it comes to God’s love, there is no measuring tape.”

Application questions: What keeps you from fully embracing the immeasurable love and forgiveness of God? How can you respond today in praise, like the psalmist, for the benefits of God’s steadfast love?

MAY 22

Psalm 102

Psalm 102:6, “I am like a desert owl of the wilderness, like an owl of the waste places.”

Most owl species live and hunt alone, especially outside the breeding season. They are nocturnal, elusive creatures that prefer remote, undisturbed habitats. The psalmist draws on this imagery—“like an owl in the wilderness” (Psalm 102:6)—to reflect his deep sense of isolation. He feels utterly alone, as though abandoned in a barren and lifeless place. His suffering is so profound that he not only feels cut off from others, but also forsaken by God.

The psalmist vividly portrays his anguish through powerful metaphors and emotional language. Physically, he feels weak and consumed, describing his bones burning and his body wasting away (Psalm 102:3–5). He faces relentless opposition (v.8), is overwhelmed by grief (v.9), and feels discarded by God, as if thrown aside in divine anger (v.10). He is also acutely aware of his frailty and the fleeting nature of life, comparing his days to a fading evening shadow (v.11).

Yet even in the depths of his despair, the psalmist finds reason for hope. He cries out to God not only because of his pain, but because he knows the character of the One to whom he prays. Though he is frail and mortal, God is the eternal, enthroned Creator of the heavens and the earth (v.12, 25). Though he feels abandoned, he remembers how God has heard the cries of His people in the past and acted to set them free so they might worship and serve Him (v.18–22).

No matter how desperate your situation may seem, what was true for the psalmist remains true today. The Creator of the heavens and the earth hears when we cry out to Him. The God who saved through the death and resurrection of Jesus still has the power to intervene in our lives for good. There may be times when you feel like an “owl of the waste places,” utterly alone in a hopeless region of life—but there is no situation too desolate for God to enter. In every season of suffering, we can still echo the psalmist’s plea: “Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry come to you!” (Psalm 102:1).

“In times of pain, when it feels as though the whole world is closing in, remember, prayer can be your refuge, your strength, and your shield.” — Corrie ten Boom

Application Questions: In times of deep suffering or feeling abandoned, how can you shift your focus from your circumstances to the character and faithfulness of God, as the psalmist did in Psalm 102? When facing moments of intense loneliness, how important is it for you to draw near to God in prayer, trusting in His ability to redeem your situation?

MAY 21

Psalm 101

Psalm 101:2, “I will walk with integrity of heart within my house.”

Psalm 101 is a heartfelt expression of David’s deep desire to walk in righteousness before the Lord. With repeated declarations of “I will” and “I will not,” David lays out a series of personal resolutions that reflect his commitment to a life of holiness. He resolves to live blamelessly, to be a godly example in his home, to turn away from the company of the wicked, to silence slander and pride, to honor the faithful, and to cleanse the city of evil. At the same time, he firmly refuses to set wicked things before his eyes, to tolerate perversity, or to permit deceit and falsehood in his presence. This psalm challenges us to consider our own walk with God, calling us to a higher standard of integrity and purity as we seek to honor Him in both our private lives and public witness.

This spirit of intentional devotion is also seen in the life of Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758), one of America’s most influential theologians and revival preachers. At just 19 years old, Edwards began composing a series of personal Resolutions—70 in total—that would guide his conduct for the rest of his life. These resolutions covered every area of life: spiritual devotion, time management, humility, relationships, and the pursuit of holiness. Recognizing his utter dependence on divine grace, Edwards wrote at the beginning of his Resolutions: “Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God’s help, I do humbly entreat Him by His grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions.” He committed to read them weekly, aiming to live each day in light of eternity and for the glory of God. Like David in Psalm 101, Edwards modeled what it means to live with purpose, resolve, and a heart fully devoted to the Lord.

The examples of David and Jonathan invite us to examine our own lives with renewed seriousness. What personal resolutions might we set before the Lord today? In a world full of compromise, may we choose a path of integrity that depends on God’s strength, honors His name, and draws others to His holiness.

“Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God’s help, I do humbly entreat Him by His grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions.” — Jonathan Edwards

Application Questions: What specific areas of your life—at home, at work, or in private—need greater integrity and intentional holiness before God? Like David and Jonathan Edwards, what resolutions can you make today that, by God’s grace, will help you pursue a more faithful and blameless walk with Him?

MAY 20

Psalm 100

Psalm 100:3, “It is he who made us.”

A coworker and I were recently trying to assemble a new piece of equipment at hospice—a special chair designed to lift patients out of bed, assist with using the commode, or help them move safely. It seemed simple enough, but there was one problem: no instructions. We tried to figure it out ourselves, but we ended up with parts that didn’t fit and more than a little frustration.  Finally, we discovered the instructions—hidden inside the commode itself! Once we had the manual, the assembly made sense, and the chair came together the way it was designed.

Our lives are no different. God is our Creator. He knows how we’re made and what we’re made for. Psalm 100:3 says, “Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.” Just as we couldn’t assemble that chair properly without the instructions, we can’t live well apart from the One who made us—or without the guidance of His Word.

Even more, Psalm 100 tells us why we were made: to worship Him. Verse 4 calls us to “Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise.” We weren’t just created to function—we were created to glorify the One who made us, to live in joyful relationship with Him.

When we ignore that purpose, life becomes disjointed and incomplete. But when we turn to God, seek Him through His Word, and offer our lives in worship, everything begins to fall into place—not perfectly, but purposefully.

God made you!  He made you on purpose and with a purpose.  Frustration is the result when we attempt to live at odds with our reason for being.  But as we align ourselves, through Christ, with the God who made us, we find both reason for being and reason for worship.  In that, there’s good reason to enter His gates with thanksgiving!

“The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”— Westminster Shorter Catechism

Application Questions: Are there areas in your life where you’ve been trying to “assemble” things on your own, without seeking God’s guidance through His Word? How can you intentionally live out your purpose to worship God in your daily routine this week?

MAY 19

Psalm 99

Psalm 99:5, “Exalt the Lord our God; worship at his footstool! Holy is he!”

God’s holiness is not merely one attribute among many; it is the essence of His divine nature. As Sinclair Ferguson wrote, “Holiness in God means wholeness. It is His ‘God-ness.’” When we consider God’s holiness, we are not thinking merely of his purity, but of His “otherness,” in being set apart above all.

The prophet Isaiah came to understand something of this (Isaiah 6). Though a righteous man, by man’s standards, Isaiah was completely undone when he saw “the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up.” He saw the seraphim crying out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!” The very foundations shook, and smoke filled the temple. Isaiah’s response was immediate and desperate: “Woe is me! I am lost…for my eyes have seen the King.”

In that moment, Isaiah saw himself clearly—in the light of God’s overwhelming holiness. His cry about “unclean lips” reflected the contrast between the pure worship of heaven and the vileness of sin. But God did not leave him lost. He worked to cleanse and prepare him for service. One of the seraphim touched his lips with a burning coal, declaring him clean. Then came the call: “Whom shall I send?” And Isaiah responded, “Here I am. Send me.”

Psalm 99 reminds us to exalt the Lord and worship at His footstool, for “Holy is He.” The same holiness that caused Isaiah to tremble also led to his cleansing and commissioning. God calls us to worship Him with reverence, to recognize His unmatched purity, and to pursue holiness—without which no one will see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).

It is good to have our eyes opened to the holiness of God, that we might be shaken from complacency and comfort in this unholy world.  So that we might be drawn to the footstool of God’s throne, to receive both cleaning and renewal through the precious blood of Jesus, that we might be set apart and prepared to worship the God who is holy. 

“It is only when we truly understand the holiness of God that we understand the depth of our sin, and only then do we begin to understand the greatness of the grace of God in Christ.”—Martyn Lloyd-Jones

Application Questions: How can a better understanding and appreciation of God’s holiness work to change the way you worship? What in your life needs to be brought into the light of God’s holiness so that you can worship Him more fully and serve Him more faithfully?

MAY 16

Psalm 98

Psalm 98:9, “For he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.”

Psalm 98 is a powerful and joyful celebration of God’s salvation, righteousness, and sovereign rule over all the earth. It invites all people—and even creation itself—to sing a new song to the Lord for the marvelous things He has done. The psalm declares God’s faithfulness to Israel, the unveiling of His salvation to the nations, and the certainty that He will judge the world with righteousness and equity. The seas roar, the rivers clap their hands, and the hills rejoice together in anticipation of His just and holy reign. It is a psalm of universal praise, proclaiming that God’s victory and justice are reasons for all creation to rejoice.

V-E Day (Victory in Europe Day), observed on May 8, 1945, marked the official end of World War II in Europe with Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender to the Allied forces. The world celebrated the downfall of one of history’s most oppressive and evil regimes. After years of war and devastation, the Allied forces finally ended Adolf Hitler’s dystopian reign. Cities erupted in celebration—church bells rang, crowds gathered, and people shed tears of relief. In London, Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the nation with solemn pride, while in the United States, President Harry S. Truman dedicated the victory to Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had died just weeks earlier.

While V-E Day was a moment of tremendous victory over earthly evil, it also reminds us of a greater spiritual conflict that has raged since sin first entered the world through Adam and Eve. The forces of evil continue to bring suffering and oppression, and God’s people often bear the weight of persecution. Yet Psalm 98 reminds us that this conflict will not last forever.

There is a day coming when the true King—Jesus Christ—will return to judge the world in righteousness. His reign will be perfect, just, and eternal. Creation will rejoice, not just for a temporary victory, but for a final and complete triumph of good over evil.  Just as people rejoiced on V-E Day for the end of tyranny, so we are called to live in joyful anticipation of Christ’s return, trusting in His justice and proclaiming His salvation. Let our lives today be like songs of praise, echoing the joy of Psalm 98, as we look forward to the day when the King of Kings will set all things right.

“On his robe and on his thigh are written King of kings and Lord of lords.”—Revelation 19:16

Application questions: How can you actively express joyful praise to God today, knowing that His justice and salvation are certain—even when evil still seems present in the world? In what ways does the promise of Christ’s coming reign give you hope and shape how you respond to injustice or suffering?

MAY 15

Psalm 97

Psalm 97:1, “The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!”

Psalm 97 reminds us that God reigns, even when the world feels unstable. His rule is not uncertain or shifting—it is built on righteousness and justice (Psalm 97:2). The psalmist paints a vivid picture of God’s presence: clouds and thick darkness surround Him, fire goes before Him, and mountains melt like wax. This is not a timid God—He is sovereign, holy, and powerful.

But amid all this awe and glory, God’s people are invited to rejoice. Why? Because His rule brings justice, joy, and hope. While idols fall and evil trembles, the righteous are preserved and light shines for them (vv.10–11). The right response is worship and gladness—even in difficult times.

Years ago, a fierce storm engulfed a British ship off the coast of Scotland. The waves crashed violently, the wind howled, and the crew worked desperately to keep the ship afloat. Among the few passengers on board was a young boy whose father was the ship’s captain. While everyone else panicked, the boy sat calmly, reading a book. A crew member noticed and asked, “Aren’t you afraid?”  The boy looked up, smiled, and said simply: “No. My father is the captain, and he’s never lost a ship.” His calm didn’t come from the absence of the storm—but from confidence in who was steering the ship.

In the storms of life, we often feel shaken, uncertain, or afraid. But Psalm 97 reminds us: “The Lord reigns… righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.” When we truly believe that our Heavenly Father is at the helm, we can remain calm—not because the storm isn’t real, but because our Captain never fails.

“ God is still on the throne, Almighty God is He; And He cares for His own through all eternity.” – Wendell P. Loveless

Application Questions: When life feels chaotic or overwhelming, how can you remind yourself that God is still reigning over all—and let that truth shape your response? What specific “storm” in your life right now needs to be handed over to the Captain, trusting that He has never lost a ship and never will?

MAY 14

Psalm 96

Psalm 96:1, “Sing to the Lord, all the earth!”

Psalm 96 is a joyful and universal call to worship the one true God who alone is worthy of praise. Unlike the idols of the nations, God reigns in splendor and majesty. He is worthy because of His strength, righteousness, and His unique authority to judge the world with equity. As Creator and Sovereign, He rules over all the earth, which He Himself has established. The call to worship extends beyond humanity—it includes the heavens, the earth, the sea, the fields, and even the trees of the forest (Psalm 96:11–12), inviting all creation to join in the song of praise.

We were created to worship our Creator, but sin has deceived and darkened our hearts. By Christ alone, can our hearts be re-tuned to sing His praise. He works not just to forgive us our sins, but to transform us. Blind eyes are opened, and hardened hearts are made alive. That is the purpose for which Christ came. As A. W. Tozer so powerfully wrote: “Jesus was born of a virgin, suffered under Pontius Pilate, died on the cross, and rose from the grave to make worshipers out of rebels.”

Like a maestro conducting an orchestra, the Holy Spirit instructs and inspires. A conductor guides each musician to play with both precision and unity, bringing diverse instruments and voices together into a single, harmonious performance. So too, the Spirit leads us—not only individually, but collectively—into lives of worship that glorify God. Philippians 3:3 reminds us that we “worship by the Spirit of God,” showing that true worship is Spirit-led and heart-deep.

There is no song more beautiful than one that exalts our Lord and Savior. The psalmist’s call is not just poetic—it is deeply personal. The angels in heaven continually declare God’s glory, and one day, we will join that eternal choir. But for now, here on earth, we are in choir practice—learning to worship in spirit and in truth.  Let each day be a rehearsal for heaven as we offer our hearts in joyful, Spirit-led worship, joining the great symphony of all of God’s creation.

“Come thou Fount of every blessing, tune my heart to sing Thy grace.”—Robert Robinson

Application Questions: In what ways can you more intentionally “join the symphony of creation” in worshiping God throughout your daily life? Are there areas in your heart or life where sin has dulled your worship, and how might you be Spirit “re-tuned” to praise Him more freely and fully?

MAY 13

Psalm 95

Psalm 95:1, “Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.”

Psalm 95 is a stirring call to worship God with both reverence and joy, mindful of His greatness as our Creator and Shepherd. He alone is worthy of our heartfelt and enthusiastic worship. Yet, the psalm also carries a solemn warning: do not harden your hearts, as the Israelites did in the wilderness when they rebelled and turned away from God’s voice. The psalm urges us to “make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation.” This joyful noise isn’t just about musical skill or loudness—it’s about a heart overflowing with devotion, gratitude, and awe for the One who saves and sustains us.

Worship, at its core, is acknowledging God for who He is and what He has done. True worship must be offered “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23), and it involves both our lips and our lives (Hebrews 13:15–16). It’s not confined to Sundays or sanctuaries—it is the 24/7 privilege and calling of everyone who belongs to Him (1 Corinthians 10:31). We worship because He is worthy.

Psalm 95:1 calls for enthusiastic, unashamed praise. I remember a man named Louie who was part of our fellowship in St. Helens years ago. Louie had little and lived with a severely disabled back, walking bent over and needing to turn his whole body just to see you. Yet Louie loved Jesus deeply, and he wasn’t shy about it. During our Sunday evening services, we’d sometimes sing “How Great Thou Art.” Typically, Louie would trail behind the rest of the congregation. After everyone else had finished the final line—”how great Thou art”—Louie would belt it out alone, with all the energy he had. Some found it awkward or amusing. But I have no doubt that God was pleased with Louie’s heart—a heart that made a true joyful noise.

Genuine worship doesn’t require polish or performance—it’s about the sincerity of heart and the joy we bring to God in response to who He is. May our worship—be it private or public—be marked by authenticity, gratitude, and enthusiasm, even if it looks or sounds a little messy.

“Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world. It controls our thoughts, minds, hearts, and spirits. The one who sings, prays twice.”—Martin Luther

Application Questions: In what ways can you “make a joyful noise” with your heart and actions, not just with your words or Sunday attendance? When you feel hesitant or self-conscious in expressing your praise to God, how can you remind yourself that true worship is about the condition of your heart, not the perception of others?