The Golden Hinge

Aim: To be fed by, and encouraged by God's Word from heaven.

Doctrine: The Lord gives us plenty, so that we may thrive in hardship. God's word enlivens our love for Him, and God's calling emboldens our labor for Him.

Exegesis: From the valley, to the summit, and back into the valley: corporate sin brings personal suffering (vv. 12-15); heaven's provision restores the soul (vv. 16-18); renewed repentance brings fresh encouragement (vv. 19-21).

Further application: How to find help in hard times: strive hard after God, with a whole heart, and trust God to bless His word in me.

Key verse: v. 16 ''Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts.''