1. Send forth your light and truth (1-4)

The Psalmist is living in an ungodly nation, among deceitful and wicked people. The darkness around him is tangible. It sometimes makes him feel that God is far away. He prays that God may send forth his light and truth. God's light dispels the deepest darkness; God's truth washes all of the world's lies from our hearts. The word of God is the light and truth that leads us to God himself.

2. Put your hope in God (5)

The people of an ungodly nation put their hope in many things, and God's people are always tempted to adopt the value system of the world. But the Psalmist puts his hope in God. At the altar of God he finds forgiveness of sins. He meets God and offers to him sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving. When God's people glorify and enjoy God, they find meaning and hope, even while living in a dark and uncertain world.

Application: Lord, teach me the spiritual joy of the Psalmist. Through your word, send your light and truth to me so that I may be led into your presence.
One Word: Guide me by your light and truth