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David's statement in the heart of Psalm 40 about his delight in approaching God's presence and in actively carrying out God's will is autobiographical. But the inspired writer of Hebrews attributes these words to Christ, as well. The encouraging implication is that men today can also be part of the divine agenda, tuning in to God and coming truly alive as our efforts are meshed with His purposes.

Psalm 40:1-10

1. Do you feel like you're in a bog of despair now, or confidently on solid ground?
2. If the former, are you trusting God to hear your cry?
3. Do you share David's wonder (vv. 4-5) about how God has undertaken for you, and His plans for your future?
4. David says he came to understand (vv. 7-8) that God was looking for more from him than routinely offering sacrifices. What would be a modern parallel?
5. What is God looking for?
6. Do you see doing God's will as a duty or as a privilege that is its own reward?
7. David said (vv. 9-10) that his relationship with God was not "hidden" internally. Who did he say heard from him?
8. How did he surface this good news?
9. What aspects of God's character and actions did David talk about?

Ask God to move you beyond routine Christian practice to an intense, committed relationship that taps your total potential as a man.

1 I waited patiently for the LORD to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. 2 He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.

3 He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be astounded. They will put their trust in the LORD.

4 Oh, the joys of those who trust the LORD, who have no confidence in the proud, or in those who worship idols.

5 O LORD my God, you have done many miracles for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them. 6 You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings. Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand—you don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings.

7 Then I said, "Look, I have come. And this has been written about me in your scroll: 8 I take joy in doing your will, my God, for your law is written on my heart."

9 I have told all your people about your justice. I have not been afraid to speak out, as you, O LORD, well know. 10 I have not kept this good news hidden in my heart; I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone in the great assembly of your unfailing love and faithfulness.

Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Thank You, Jesus, for modeling true manhood for me. Give me the courage and strength to fill the role You marked out.

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