Bible Text: Psalm 34 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: In Praise and Pursuit of the Living God, Psalms

1.  In the first 10 verses of Psalm 34, David expresses his relief and joy that God delivered him from a life-threatening situation.  He reflected on God’s goodness to him.  Starting in verse 11, David desires to teach others how to experience God’s comforts in the midst of life’s trials, how to achieve a good, full life.

2.  The answer is found in verses 13 & 14 (verses repeated in 1 Peter 3:10-12 and reflected in Colossians 3:8-17)

-watch what we say, vs. 13

-watch how we live, vs. 14a

-keep the peace, vs. 14b

3.  We must have our speech under control guarding against the sins of the tongue (lies, slander, gossip, complaining, and negativity).  James 3 deals with the necessity to control the tongue, illustrating its’ power with the bit, rudder, and a small flame.  Jesus identified the problem of the tongue as a problem of the heart in Matthew 15:18-20.  In effect the window to our souls is not our eyes but our mouths!

4.  We must turn from evil and do good, not just in the sense of do no harm, but to be a positive good in other’s lives, living with a positive purpose.  We must treat others with respect, as someone to be loved, not used, providing help to those in need.

5.  We must be peacemakers, not peace-breakers, not divisive or causing dis-unity.  Romans 12:9ff; 14:19; Hebrews 12:14.

6.  The benefits of a righteous life (vv. 15-20) are God’s favor and protection (He watches over us), answered prayer (He hears us) and His provision and love (He is near).