Deer As Imagery
Not only does Psalm 42:1 use deer as imagery, but Isaiah 35:6 also uses deer as imagery. In Isaiah 35, Isaiah is prophesying about the future of Zion. In verse 6 of this prophecy, Isaiah says,
“Then the lame will leap like a deer,
And the tongue of the mute will shout for joy.
For waters will break forth in the wilderness
And streams in the Arabah.”
The hart (deer), as mentioned in Psalm 42:1 is the Hebrew word 'ayal. This word describes a stag or male deer. It is ranked among the clean animals (Deut. 12:15; 14:5; 15:22) and was commonly killed for food (1 Kings 4:23). The deer is frequently alluded to in the poetical and prophetical books (Isa. 35:6; Lam. 1:6; Ps. 42:1).
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Confident
Confident (pepoithesis from peitho = to persuade, come to a settled conviction) means full persuasion and expresses a belief in someone or something to the point of placing one's trust or reliance in them - the idea is having been persuaded and remaining persuaded. It is a belief that one can rely on someone or something. The nuance of meaning depends on the context - it can mean confidence or trust in others (2 Corinthians 1:15), in God (Ephesians 3:12) or in oneself (i.e., self-confidence) (2 Corinthains 10:12).
In 2 Thessalonians 3:4 we find the word πεποίθαμεν (pepoithamen). 2 Thessalonians 3:4 says, 4 We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will continue to do what we command.
What is your understanding of confidence?
WEDNESDAY
Questions About 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
1. How do verses 1-5 portray the role and importance of prayer in the spread of the Gospel?
2. Reflect on Paul's request for prayer. How can this shape your prayer life in your current circumstances?
THURSDAY
What do you thirst for? What do you desire most in your life? What is your highest priority? Do you pursue what you thirst for, or do you wait for it to come to you? This Sunday we are going to look at 5 lessons found in Psalm 42:1. I would encourage you to read Psalm 42:1 in preparation for Sunday’s sermon.