John Mark Hicks

When we pray against evil (as Psalm 140 does), Psalm 141 reminds us that our lips (words), heart, and actions must be aligned with God’s way or agenda. Before we pray against evil, we must first orient ourselves to the way of God and seek it. Psalm 141 prays for God’s protection and guidance as […]

Psalm 13 is a typical lament that moves from complaint to petition and then to praise. It beautifully illustrates this typical structure. Consequently, I will use this Psalm as the framework for the following discussion. The psalmist prayed:                         How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?                                     How long will you hide your […]

Bobby Valentine and John Mark Hicks discuss the meaning and significance of Psalm 13, which functions as a model lament. It begins with questions and disillusionment (13:1-2), petitions God in the middle (13:3-4), and expresses trust in God in the final verses (13:5-6).

For those familiar with Paul’s letters, it is no surprise that Paul follows his opening salutation with a thanksgiving. Like the opening itself, we should read this thanksgiving as more than formulaic. Rather, it introduces themes and concepts upon which Paul builds in the body of the letter, including his three requests or hopes. Paul’s […]