The Moody Church Sunday Morning Podcast

Psalm 117A. Who? (v. 1b) B. Why? (v. 2a) C. What? (vv. 1a, 2b): “Praise the Lord!”1. Praise is a command (why that reality troubled C.S. Lewis).2. Why does God command praise?I. Because it is “right” to praise the infinitely glorious and spiritually beautiful God of the BibleII. Because God draws close to us through praise (Psalm 22:3)III. Because praise is the completion of our joy in God 3. Two practical suggestions 4. Why this topic is far weightier and more urgent than it may seem to be at first The goal: That for the glory of God and for the welfare of your soul, you would add to your daily time with the Lord at least two minutes of praise.

What if this moment is not random? Trust that God is at work, rekindle your faith, and courageously follow where He leads.Esther 4:1–17 Devastation• It’s time to face reality. Desperation• It’s time to rekindle faith. Determination• It’s time to choose courage. Takeaway: Our times are in His hands.

When death and fear surround us, where is God? Remember the third day, when God turns the story. Even now, He is with us, redeeming our suffering for His glory.
 Esther 3:1–15 Ancestral HateThis animosity is generational. Genocidal HorrorThis scheme is satanic. Covenantal HopeThis plight is spiritual. Takeaway: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” —Psalm 23:4

How can we remain faithful in a hostile culture? Like Esther and Mordecai, believers face four dangers as a minority, but God remains faithful through it all.Esther 2:1–23 The Danger of ConformityDare to be different. The Danger of CompromiseDare to be obedient. The Danger of ConcealmentDare to be unashamed. The Danger of CapitulationDare to be faithful. Takeaway: Even when we are faithless, God remains faithful.

When the world feels out of control, who is really in charge? God’s hidden hand is at work, holding His people and fulfilling His purposes.
  Esther 1:1–22  Projected PowerHistory is full of egomaniacs trying to rule the world.  Personal PowerNever underestimate the influence of quiet refusal.  Providential PowerGod works all things according to the counsel of His will.  Takeaway: God’s hidden hand of history is holding us still.