Homeschool Moms Teach the PsalmsSample

Day 4 

Psalm Four

Relief for Distress! 

As homeschooling families, we teach and disciple our children 24/7 with virtually no relief. However, Psalm 4 speaks of relief from any distress that might come our way. There are several key concepts in this Psalm revealing this. The first three concepts reveal what God does to provide relief. The next three concepts reveal what we can do to receive relief. And the last three concepts show us the benefits of finding relief in God.

God Provides Relief:

1. Relief comes from God alone. No need to look to man for what God can give. When we are distressed, then simply coming to the God of Relief brings relief. (Verse 1)

2. God is present to hear us and is presently answering. What a relief to know He is near enough to hear us! (Verses 1 and 3)

3. The LORD has set apart the godly for Himself! If that is so, we do not have to answer to the world or its ways, we are set apart for God Himself. This brings relief from the pressures of this world. (Verse 3)

We Find Relief When:

1. We put away vain words and instead seek truth. (Verse 2)

2. We don’t allow anger to become words of sin—rather, think and be silent. (Verse 4)

3. We offer right sacrifices (full surrender), placing our trust in the LORD. (Verse 5) 

Benefits of Finding Relief in God:

1. Seeing “the light of His face” reveals His goodness towards us. (Verse 6)

2. We have more joy in our hearts than any riches could provide. (Verse 7)

3. We are able to live in peace and safety. (Verse 8)

If you find yourself in a place of distress, come to your Good Father for relief. His Word in Psalm 4 provides the relief we desperately need. 

To Do With The Kids:

Discuss the differences between verse 1 and verse 4 as it relates to graciousness versus anger.  “Be gracious to me and hear me” compared to these words, “I am angry and I want to be heard!” Why should we “ponder in our hearts and be silent” when angry? 

Nighttime often raises fears for our children, so bring relief by memorizing verse 8 together: “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.”