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How Do You Deal with a World of Evil? Lessons from Psalm 52

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A World Full of Violence and Evil

We live in a broken world among broken people. We live in a world that is constantly dominated by evil. A review of the news reveals new acts of violence and incredible wickedness day after day.

How are we to handle all the evil that is surrounding us? How do you handle it when you hear of great destruction that is caused by powerful and evil people? Where do you place your trust when such evil people go against God’s people?

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Tempted during times of trials and troubles?

Are you tempted towards fear and panic? Are you tempted towards depression and despair? Are you tempted towards anger and retributive violence?

Lessons from Psalm 52 on dealing with evil people in an evil world

Psalm 52 is largely focused on the wickedness of a man name Doeg from 1 Samuel 21-22. The key principle taught in this psalm is that

Evil may seem to be flourishing at this moment, but we must build our trust and faith in a God of judgment and a God of grace.

James Long, Jr.

In Psalm 52, we will find that God is greater than the trials and troubles of this life. We will be reminded that people will hurt us and harm us. God’s coming judgment and His committed and unchanging love will be a comfort and consolation for us during those times. Finally, we will see that the way forward is to grow in trust and faith in God.

Message Outline

Accusation and Charges: The psalmist describes the wickedness of Doeg (Psalm 52:1-4)

· Degenerate heart (Psalm 52:1, 3-4)

· Depraved mind (Psalm 52:2)

· Deceitful and destructive mouth (Psalm 52:3)

  • This Is Us!
  • Selah – ponder, consider, think deeply about this issue, meditate, deliberate contemplate (vs 3)
  • Where is God? The psalmist counts on these two certainties: God’s grace and God’s judgment.
    • God’s grace is never-ending (Psalm 52:1)
    • God’s judgment is sure (Psalm 52:5-7)

Announcement of Judgment: The psalmist speaks to the ultimate end to this wicked man (Psalmist 52:5-7)

· God will destroy Doeg forever (Psalm 52:5)

· Doeg’s destruction will fill the righteous with fear and joy (Psalm 52:6-7)

Assurance of the Blessed Life: The psalmist offers counsel on how to respond to the evil of this world (Psalmist 52:8-9)
1. The psalmist describes his life as flourishing and fruitful because of his faith in the steadfast love of God (Psalm 52:8)

Response # 1 – Trust in God

2. The psalmist declares his determination to praise God for what He has done and wait for Him to act (Psalm 52:9) 

Response # 2 – Be Thankful to God

Response # 3 – Wait on God

Response # 4 – Be Rooted in a Community of Faith

______________________________________________________________________________ 

ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE 

Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 25 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show! 

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