PSALMS
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Psalm 136, Psalm 137: 1 – 6 and Psalm 138

Psalms 136: 1 – 9
Forgetful as we are, things must be often repeated to us. By “mercy” we understand the LORD’s disposition to save those whom sin has rendered miserable and vile, and all the provision he has made for the redemption of sinners by JESUS CHRIST. The counsels of this mercy have been from everlasting, and the effects of it will endure for ever, to all who are interested in it. The LORD continues equally ready to show mercy to all who seek for it, and this is the source of all our hope and comfort.

OLD TESTAMENT
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Esther 3: 12 – 4: 8

Esther 3: 8
Their laws are diverse from all people.
One of GOD’s purposes in giving the law to Israel was to make them different from all other people. Haman recognised something different in the Jews and hated them for it. Under the new covenant, GOD still wills that His people be separate and different from the world, a holy people for HIS own possession. Likewise today, the world will hate GOD’s people because they are different, holy and righteous.

NEW TESTAMENT
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1 Corinthians 1: 1 – 17

1 Corinthians 1: 7
Ye come behind in no gift.
Paul commends the Corinthians because GOD in HIS grace has given them specific spiritual gifts. Such gifts are a valuable and indispensable accompaniment of the HOLY SPIRIT’s ministry in the church, without them believers fail to strengthen and help one another as GOD desires. Nowhere in this letter does Paul seek to eliminate these gifts. Rather he seeks to change the attitude of the Corinthians towards spiritual gifts so that they may use their gifts according to GOD’s intention.