Sermon: Blessing in Fear (July 26, 2026)

Sermon Text: Psalm 128Jim ByrneQuotes for ReflectionDavid Dickson (1583-1663) The scope of this psalm is to show the blessedness of the one who fears God, which appears first in the temporal blessing of that person in their calling, second in their family, and third, in pouring spiritual blessings on them.James Luther Mays Because Zion is the place of the Presence, the pilgrims bring the needs and hopes of everyday life with them.Willem VanGemeren To sit under one’s vine and fig tree was an expression of a state of tranquility, peace and prosperity. Even when the country faces adversity, the man who fears the Lord is insulated against adversity by wife and children as blessings of the Lord are found under the roof of his house.Cassiodorus (490-585) Those who are apprehensive of the world’s dangers in loss of temporal possessions are not blessed. These dangers make people wretched, torturing them with empty fear, so that they do not experience growth but a diminution, no ascent but a headlong fall. By contrast, fear of the Lord is offspring of love, is born of charity.Application Questions1. How have you experienced happiness from God's blessing in your work, family or community that calls for special gratitude?2. How have you experienced lack of blessing when not walking in the ways of the Lord Jesus that needs acknowledgment in God's presence?3. How do you hope to see God's blessing on your life, family or community that invites prayer for yourself or others?