The Hebrew word for fast used throughout the Old Testament is tsome. The Greek word used throughout the New Testament is nacetis. Both literally mean “to cover over” or “to affix.” The idea is not simply to cover over the mouth–and thus to refrain from eating–but to affix the attentions to other matters altogether. It is “to focus on”…
Psalm 15:1-5 O Lord, who shall sojourn in Your tent? Who shall dwell on Your holy hill? 2 He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart; 3 who does not slander with his tongue and does no evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his friend; 4 …
Psalm 14:1-7 The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good. 2 The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. 3 They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one.…
Psalm 13:1-6 How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide your face from me? 2 How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? 3 Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my…
Psalm 10:1-18 Why, O Lord, do You stand far away? Why do You hide Yourself in times of trouble? 2 In arrogance the wicked hotly pursue the poor; let them be caught in the schemes that they have devised. 3 For the wicked boasts of the desires of his soul, and the one greedy for gain curses and renounces the…
Psalm 9:1-20 I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of Your wonderful deeds.2 I will be glad and exult in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High. 3 When my enemies turn back, they stumble and perish before Your presence. 4For You have maintained my just cause; You…