Psalm 131
The sermon emphasizes the importance of humility and hope in God, using the examples of Christ and Paul to illustrate these principles.
Henry Law preaches on the Psalmist's deep humility, emphasizing the importance of esteeming others better than oneself and relying on God's grace. He highlights Jesus and Apostle Paul as examples of meekness and lowliness, urging believers to trample upon pride and lift up humble hearts. Law encourages placing hope in the Lord, emphasizing that while no hope may rest on self, all hope belongs to the believer, leading to a glorious reality and ultimate satisfaction.
Text
The Psalmist avows his deep humility. Exhortation to hope in God is added.
1-2. "Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty; neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me. Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother; my soul is even as a weaned child."
Humility is a lovely grace. When the God-man trod this earth this was His robe. No ostentation marked His lowly walk. Hear His enchanting words; "I am meek and lowly in heart." Hear the Apostle's appeal; "I beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ." If Jesus thus trampled upon pride, shall we, poor dust and ashes, lift up haughty heads?
Take, also, the example of the noble Paul. Early in his career he professes that he was the least of the Apostles, not worthy to be enrolled in their company. As he grew in grace he deepened in knowledge of unworthiness. He declared that he was less than the least of all saints. Just before he receives the crown of martyrdom we hear his bewailing voice; Sinners, of whom I am chief. If we had like grace, we should similarly despise self. He who is deeply instructed in the treachery and corruption of his own heart, will always esteem others better than himself. His soul will be deeply conscious of its utter need. Like a helpless babe it will look for support from a parent's care.
3. "Let Israel hope in the Lord from henceforth and forever."
No hope may repose on self, yet all hope is the believer's portion. He can look up to God, whose tender sympathy feels with our every woe. Let us pray that our hope may never fail, but daily strengthen more and more. It will soon end in glorious reality. Israel's hope will soon be Israel's glory. The lovely prospect will soon be actual possession. Expectation will be more than satisfied.
Sermon Outline
- The Psalmist's Humility
- The Example of Christ
- The Example of Paul
- The Call to Hope in God
- No hope in self
- Hope in God's tender sympathy
Key Quotes
“I am meek and lowly in heart.” — Henry Law
“I beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ.” — Henry Law
“Sinners, of whom I am chief.” — Henry Law
Application Points
- Recognize your own need for God's support and humility in your life.
- Cultivate hope in God by praying for strength and perseverance.
- Seek to emulate Christ's meekness and lowliness in your relationships with others.