“A Psalm of Thanksgiving. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all you lands.” Psalm 100:1
True to its title, “A Psalm of Thanksgiving,” Psalm 100 invites people from every land to make a joyful noise to the Lord. Joy to the world comes when the Gospel is preached and believed. I experience joy when I share the Gospel with people. And people who need and want to know that God loves them also experience joy when they hear this Good News.
Psalm 99 focused on Israel’s privilege to rejoice in God’s reign. Psalm 100 focuses on the privilege of all people everywhere to rejoice in God. Psalm 100 may have been written especially for the Gentile converts who came from many lands to worship the God of Israel. [1]
“Serve the Lord with gladness! Come before His presence with singing!” Psalm 100:2
In Colossians 3:23-24, Paul wrote, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” In Acts 13:22, Paul quoted the words of the Lord about David, “I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.” David served the Lord with gladness and singing because he saw beyond the task at hand to final outcome, that is, to be forever with the Lord.
In Genesis 29:20, we read, “Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed only a few days to him because of the love he had for her.” One way to make our time seem to pass quickly here on earth is to spend our days being filled with love for God and people.
In 1 John 2:17, John wrote, “The world is passing away, and the lust of it, but he who does the will of God abides forever.” In Romans 8:18, Paul wrote, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” In a little while, we who love the Lord, will behold His face, and enjoy being with Him forever.
God welcomes us to come into His presence with singing. What does that say about God? Do you welcome people to come into your presence with singing? Would an earthly king or president welcome anybody coming into His presence with singing? We come to God in the Name of His Son Jesus Christ with confidence to sing unto Him because we know He will receive us. Most Christian worship services begin with singing praises and giving thanks to the Lord.
God delights in the praises of His people.
“Know that the Lord. He is God. It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves. We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” Psalm 100:3
The Holy Spirit gives blessed assurance to our souls that the God of the Bible is God. He assures us through God’s words in the Bible that we did not come into existence by accident. Each of us reflect God’s image. Our appearance reflects His glory. What’s more, He did not abandon us after He made us. He calls us His people and the sheep of His pasture. These are terms of endearment. He identifies with us. He is committed to protecting, sustaining and loving us.
Only the Lord God is worthy of worship. Unlike the idols of the nations, which are products of human imagination and craftsmanship, the Lord God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things.
We are the sheep of his pasture. Every good gift comes from His hand.
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him and bless His Name.” Psalm 100:4
We come before God “with singing.” We “enter into His gates with thanksgiving.” God is gracious to grant us access to come before Him! The Creator and Sustainer of the universe listens to our prayers and to our rejoicing before Him.
Under the Old Testament system, ordinary worshippers could not enter the Holy Place. Only the priests could do that. Nevertheless, the people were privileged to gather in the courts of God’s house and worship Him there. They did so joyfully. [2]
“For the Lord is good. His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” Psalm 100:4-5
God does good for us because He IS good. The grace that flows from His throne never runs dry. Throughout eternity, we, His redeemed people, will be testimonies to the wonders of His love.
In Psalm 136, the refrain “His mercy endures forever” is repeated 26 times. The Hebrew word “Chesed” (חֶסֶד) is often translated as “mercy” or “loving kindness.” The repetition of this refrain throughout the psalm emphasizes the never-ending and unchanging nature of God’s love. [3]
“His truth endures to all generations.” God has watched over His Word to ensure that it remains available and unchanged. Various kings and dictators have tried to destroy it, but all failed.
In Matthew 5:18, Jesus assured us, saying, “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” “A ‘jot’ refers to the iota (the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet) and the ‘yodh’ (the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet). A ‘tittle’ is the tiny pen stroke or horn that distinguishes one Hebrew letter from another. Jesus mentioned these microscopic marks to confirm that no detail of God’s Word will be lost.
The reliability of God’s truth is further reason to “enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise.” Let us thank God and bless His Name. Amen!
[1] Material developed and edited from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
[2] Ibid
[3] GotQuestions.com
[4] Jerusalemperspective.com/2062/
Free resources for prophetic servants of Jesus Christ
Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Outstanding Leaders Like Christ – Psalm 99
“The Lord reigns. Let the peoples tremble! He dwells between the cherubim. Let the earth be moved! The Lord is great in Zion, and He is high above all the peoples.” Psalm 99:1-2
The Lord commanded ten plagues on Egypt, and Egypt yielded and bowed to His mighty power. The proud Pharaoh and his mighty army learned that the Lord reigns over all kings. In Exodus 5:2, the Pharoah said to Moses, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go.” In Exodus 12:32, the Pharaoh said to Moses, “You and the Israelites must leave my people at once. Go, worship the Lord as you asked.”
In Revelation 6:12-17, after Messiah opens the sixth seal, the earth quakes, the sun turns black, the moon turns red, stars fall, and mountains and islands move. “And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in caves and among the rocks in the mountains. They said to the mountains and rocks, ‘Fall on us, and hide us from the face of the Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of Their wrath has come, and who is able to endure it?’”
In Hebrews 10:31, we read, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
The Lord brought His people to Mount Sinai, and gave them His laws. The giving of the law at Mount Sinai was a genuinely terrifying experience for the people of Israel. In Exodus 19:18, we read, “Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly.” [1]
“He dwells between the cherubim.” The cherubim are winged beings... angels. In Revelation 5:11, John saw myriads of myriads and thousands and thousands (millions) of angels around God’s throne. In Revelation 5:12, they said with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!”
The most iconic part of the Ark of the Covenant are the two cherubim that form the Mercy Seat. [2] They faced each other, one from each end of the lid with the Mercy Seat between them. The Mercy Seat was where the High Priest poured the atoning blood of a lamb to atone for the sins of the people. God’s presence could be felt there. The Mercy Seat represented Christ.
After Christ paid for our sins on the cross, and after He was buried, later on the third day, when Mary showed up to anoint His body, He was not there. Instead, she found two angels, one at the head and the other at the feet where Christ had been placed (John 20:11-18). This is the imagery of the Ark of the Covenant which Christ fulfilled.
“Let them praise Your great and awesome Name—He is holy.” Psalm 99:1-3
In Mark 16:20, we read that after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the disciples “went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.” In Acts 4:24, they glorified the Lord, saying, “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them.” In Act 4:29-30, they prayed, “Grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your Word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the Name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” They wanted everyone to know the greatness and awesomeness of the Name of Jesus.
When I was in Hong Kong, I prayed for many days that God would work signs and wonders in the Name of Jesus. Afterwards, an American short-term missionary suffered a head injury while playing soccer with prisoners at a detention center. He said, “My arm! My leg are paralyzed!” An ambulance was called. The Holy Spirit assured me a that he would be healed. After some persuasion, I was granted permission to lay my hand on him and pray for him. After I placed my hand on his leg, and spoke the Name of Jesus, he was healed and testified, “I’m better! I’m okay!” By the time an ambulance arrived, he was standing and walking. Glory to God!
“The King’s strength also loves justice. You have established equity. You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His footstool—He is holy.” Psalm 99:4-5
Jesus, our King, loves justice so much that He was willing to fill the gap that existed between our unrighteousness and God’s righteousness. In Romans 7:24-25, the Apostle Paul wrote, “O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” In other words, there was no hope that Paul’s righteousness, nor yours, nor mine would ever measure up to God’s acceptable standard, so Christ took our sins and gave us His righteousness when He died on the cross and resurrected for our resurrection.
“You have established equity. You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.” In Deuteronomy 4:7–8, Moses declared that no other nation on earth had a God so near to them or laws so righteous as those given by the Lord to His people. [3]
“Worship at His footstool.” In Luke 10:38-42, while her sister Martha was busy hosting and preparing meals, Mary chose to sit and quietly listen to Jesus’ teachings. Meditating on God’s Word is a way to worship Him. Jesus commended Mary for sitting at His feet, and for choosing the good portion that would not be taken from her. In ancient times, sitting at someone’s feet was a posture that indicated an intent to be a dedicated disciple. [4]
“He is holy.” In Isaiah 6:2–3, the angels themselves veil their faces before Him and cry thrice, “Holy, holy, holy.” Since angels honor God’s holiness with great reverence, we too should honor God with awe-filled adoration. [5]
“Moses and Aaron were among His priests, and Samuel was among those who called upon His Name. They called upon the Lord, and He answered them.” Psalm 99:6
God provided for Israel three outstanding leaders in Moses, Aaron, and Samuel. These men were renowned for their faith in God. They honored God by leading Israel to serve the Lord.
God formed Israel into a nation via Moses and Aaron. [6]
During the time of Judges, Israel began to worship idols. Every man began doing what was right in his own eyes. Then, God spoke to and through Samuel to them. In 1 Samuel 3:19, we read that as “Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground.” God used Samuel to revive faith in God and to prepare Israel for the rule of King David.
Samuel’s name means, “heard of God.” His mother was a woman of prayer. Samuel was born after she prayed for a son. In 1 Samuel 7:5-10, when the Philistines mobilized to attack the Israelites, Samuel cried out to the Lord. In response to his prayer, God sent thunder to scare the Philistines away. In 1 Samuel 12:23, he told the people of Israel, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you.” Samuel was a man of prayer.
“He spoke to them in the cloudy pillar. They kept His testimonies and the ordinance He gave them.” Psalm 99:7
In Exodus 16:10, we read, “As Aaron spoke to the entire congregation of the sons of Israel, that they looked toward the wilderness, and behold, the glory of the Lord appeared in the cloud.”
In Exodus 33:10-11, we read, “Whenever Moses entered the tent, the pillar of cloud would descend and stand at the entrance of the tent, and the Lord would speak with Moses. ...So the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend.”
Moses, Aaron and Samuel kept God’s testimonies and obeyed His ordinances. Exodus 40:16 says of Moses, “Thus Moses did; according to all that the Lord had commanded him, so he did.” Aaron and Samuel likewise sought to faithfully follow the Lord and to help others do the same.
The psalmist reminds Israel of their blessings to strengthen their faith in God. [7]
“You answered them, O Lord our God. You were to them God-Who-Forgives, though You took vengeance on their deeds.” Psalm 99:8
God responded to the mediation efforts of Moses, Aaron and Samuel on behalf of Israel.
In Psalm 106:23, we read, “had not Moses, His chosen one, stood in the breach before Him, to turn away His wrath from destroying them (Israel).” In this way, Moses was like Christ.
Jesus Christ went to the cross to absorb the wrath of God that we deserved for our sin.
In Numbers 16:47-48, we read that Aaron took a censer as Moses commanded, and ran into the midst of the assembly... he put in the incense and made atonement for the people. He stood between the dead and the living, so the plague was stopped.”
In 1 Samuel 7:9, we read, “Samuel took a suckling lamb and offered it as a whole burnt offering to the Lord. Then, Samuel cried out to the Lord for Israel, and the Lord answered him.”
In response to the mediation of Moses, Aaron and Samuel, God forgave Israel. Though He disciplined them for their wrongdoing, He did not utterly destroy them. [8] God was gracious toward the people for the sake of those faithful servants who pleaded on their behalf.
These events stand as powerful examples of God’s gracious rule over Israel, demonstrating His unique relationship with His covenant people. [9]
Thus, the psalmist calls people to...
“Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill, for the Lord, our God is holy.” Psalm 99:9
God’s holiness is displayed not only in His law but also in His gracious work of redemption. [10]
Like Mary who sat at the feet of Jesus, let us quiet ourselves before the Lord, let us hear what His Spirit is saying, and then, worship and serve Him. He reigns! Glory, blessing and thanksgiving be unto our God forever and ever. Amen!
[1-10] Material developed and edited from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
The Lord commanded ten plagues on Egypt, and Egypt yielded and bowed to His mighty power. The proud Pharaoh and his mighty army learned that the Lord reigns over all kings. In Exodus 5:2, the Pharoah said to Moses, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go.” In Exodus 12:32, the Pharaoh said to Moses, “You and the Israelites must leave my people at once. Go, worship the Lord as you asked.”
In Revelation 6:12-17, after Messiah opens the sixth seal, the earth quakes, the sun turns black, the moon turns red, stars fall, and mountains and islands move. “And the kings of the earth, the great men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every free man, hid themselves in caves and among the rocks in the mountains. They said to the mountains and rocks, ‘Fall on us, and hide us from the face of the Him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of Their wrath has come, and who is able to endure it?’”
In Hebrews 10:31, we read, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
The Lord brought His people to Mount Sinai, and gave them His laws. The giving of the law at Mount Sinai was a genuinely terrifying experience for the people of Israel. In Exodus 19:18, we read, “Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly.” [1]
“He dwells between the cherubim.” The cherubim are winged beings... angels. In Revelation 5:11, John saw myriads of myriads and thousands and thousands (millions) of angels around God’s throne. In Revelation 5:12, they said with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!”
The most iconic part of the Ark of the Covenant are the two cherubim that form the Mercy Seat. [2] They faced each other, one from each end of the lid with the Mercy Seat between them. The Mercy Seat was where the High Priest poured the atoning blood of a lamb to atone for the sins of the people. God’s presence could be felt there. The Mercy Seat represented Christ.
After Christ paid for our sins on the cross, and after He was buried, later on the third day, when Mary showed up to anoint His body, He was not there. Instead, she found two angels, one at the head and the other at the feet where Christ had been placed (John 20:11-18). This is the imagery of the Ark of the Covenant which Christ fulfilled.
“Let them praise Your great and awesome Name—He is holy.” Psalm 99:1-3
In Mark 16:20, we read that after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the disciples “went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.” In Acts 4:24, they glorified the Lord, saying, “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them.” In Act 4:29-30, they prayed, “Grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your Word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the Name of Your holy Servant Jesus.” They wanted everyone to know the greatness and awesomeness of the Name of Jesus.
When I was in Hong Kong, I prayed for many days that God would work signs and wonders in the Name of Jesus. Afterwards, an American short-term missionary suffered a head injury while playing soccer with prisoners at a detention center. He said, “My arm! My leg are paralyzed!” An ambulance was called. The Holy Spirit assured me a that he would be healed. After some persuasion, I was granted permission to lay my hand on him and pray for him. After I placed my hand on his leg, and spoke the Name of Jesus, he was healed and testified, “I’m better! I’m okay!” By the time an ambulance arrived, he was standing and walking. Glory to God!
“The King’s strength also loves justice. You have established equity. You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob. Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His footstool—He is holy.” Psalm 99:4-5
Jesus, our King, loves justice so much that He was willing to fill the gap that existed between our unrighteousness and God’s righteousness. In Romans 7:24-25, the Apostle Paul wrote, “O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!” In other words, there was no hope that Paul’s righteousness, nor yours, nor mine would ever measure up to God’s acceptable standard, so Christ took our sins and gave us His righteousness when He died on the cross and resurrected for our resurrection.
“You have established equity. You have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.” In Deuteronomy 4:7–8, Moses declared that no other nation on earth had a God so near to them or laws so righteous as those given by the Lord to His people. [3]
“Worship at His footstool.” In Luke 10:38-42, while her sister Martha was busy hosting and preparing meals, Mary chose to sit and quietly listen to Jesus’ teachings. Meditating on God’s Word is a way to worship Him. Jesus commended Mary for sitting at His feet, and for choosing the good portion that would not be taken from her. In ancient times, sitting at someone’s feet was a posture that indicated an intent to be a dedicated disciple. [4]
“He is holy.” In Isaiah 6:2–3, the angels themselves veil their faces before Him and cry thrice, “Holy, holy, holy.” Since angels honor God’s holiness with great reverence, we too should honor God with awe-filled adoration. [5]
“Moses and Aaron were among His priests, and Samuel was among those who called upon His Name. They called upon the Lord, and He answered them.” Psalm 99:6
God provided for Israel three outstanding leaders in Moses, Aaron, and Samuel. These men were renowned for their faith in God. They honored God by leading Israel to serve the Lord.
God formed Israel into a nation via Moses and Aaron. [6]
During the time of Judges, Israel began to worship idols. Every man began doing what was right in his own eyes. Then, God spoke to and through Samuel to them. In 1 Samuel 3:19, we read that as “Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground.” God used Samuel to revive faith in God and to prepare Israel for the rule of King David.
Samuel’s name means, “heard of God.” His mother was a woman of prayer. Samuel was born after she prayed for a son. In 1 Samuel 7:5-10, when the Philistines mobilized to attack the Israelites, Samuel cried out to the Lord. In response to his prayer, God sent thunder to scare the Philistines away. In 1 Samuel 12:23, he told the people of Israel, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you.” Samuel was a man of prayer.
“He spoke to them in the cloudy pillar. They kept His testimonies and the ordinance He gave them.” Psalm 99:7
In Exodus 16:10, we read, “As Aaron spoke to the entire congregation of the sons of Israel, that they looked toward the wilderness, and behold, the glory of the Lord appeared in the cloud.”
In Exodus 33:10-11, we read, “Whenever Moses entered the tent, the pillar of cloud would descend and stand at the entrance of the tent, and the Lord would speak with Moses. ...So the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend.”
Moses, Aaron and Samuel kept God’s testimonies and obeyed His ordinances. Exodus 40:16 says of Moses, “Thus Moses did; according to all that the Lord had commanded him, so he did.” Aaron and Samuel likewise sought to faithfully follow the Lord and to help others do the same.
The psalmist reminds Israel of their blessings to strengthen their faith in God. [7]
“You answered them, O Lord our God. You were to them God-Who-Forgives, though You took vengeance on their deeds.” Psalm 99:8
God responded to the mediation efforts of Moses, Aaron and Samuel on behalf of Israel.
In Psalm 106:23, we read, “had not Moses, His chosen one, stood in the breach before Him, to turn away His wrath from destroying them (Israel).” In this way, Moses was like Christ.
Jesus Christ went to the cross to absorb the wrath of God that we deserved for our sin.
In Numbers 16:47-48, we read that Aaron took a censer as Moses commanded, and ran into the midst of the assembly... he put in the incense and made atonement for the people. He stood between the dead and the living, so the plague was stopped.”
In 1 Samuel 7:9, we read, “Samuel took a suckling lamb and offered it as a whole burnt offering to the Lord. Then, Samuel cried out to the Lord for Israel, and the Lord answered him.”
In response to the mediation of Moses, Aaron and Samuel, God forgave Israel. Though He disciplined them for their wrongdoing, He did not utterly destroy them. [8] God was gracious toward the people for the sake of those faithful servants who pleaded on their behalf.
These events stand as powerful examples of God’s gracious rule over Israel, demonstrating His unique relationship with His covenant people. [9]
Thus, the psalmist calls people to...
“Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill, for the Lord, our God is holy.” Psalm 99:9
God’s holiness is displayed not only in His law but also in His gracious work of redemption. [10]
Like Mary who sat at the feet of Jesus, let us quiet ourselves before the Lord, let us hear what His Spirit is saying, and then, worship and serve Him. He reigns! Glory, blessing and thanksgiving be unto our God forever and ever. Amen!
[1-10] Material developed and edited from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Monday, June 15, 2026
Professing Faith in Christ – Psalm 98
“A Psalm. O, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things, His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. The Lord has made known His salvation. His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations. He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.” Psalm 98:1-3
Psalm 98:1-3 celebrates the first coming of Christ. He is the One who sat at the righthand of the Father. He is the One who came down from heaven and conquered sin, death and the devil. He is the One who commissioned His Church and baptized us with His Spirit so we can make known His salvation to the nations. We declare His righteousness. God credits the righteousness of Christ to the account of all who profess faith in Him.
Paul wrote in Romans 4:21-22 that when Abraham demonstrated faith in God, God credited his faith as righteousness.
Paul wrote in Romans 4:24-25, “It [the righteousness of Christ] shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification..” Thus, we have great cause to rejoice. Christ paid the price for our righteousness. Our part is to profess faith in Him.
Mary sang a new song after the angel Gabriel and later her cousin Elizabeth confirmed to her that she would give birth to the Messiah. Some of her song’s words correlate with Psalm 98.
In Luke 1:49, she sang, “He who is mighty has done great things for me.” In Luke 1:51, she sang, “He has shown strength with His arm.” Psalm 98:1 says, “His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory.”
In Luke 1:54, Mary sang, “He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy.” Psalm 98:3 says, “He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel.”
Even before Christ was physically born into the world, God birthed spiritual prophecies about Messiah through David. His psalms are filled with prophecies about Christ.
Zechariah’s words in Luke 1:72 correlate with the words of Psalm 98:3. Zachriah prophesied, “To perform the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant.” Psalm 98:3 says, “He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel.”
In Luke 2:10, the words which the angel spoke to the shepherds... “I bring to you good tidings of great joy which shall be for all people.” ...correlate with the words of Psalm 98:2. So do the words of Simeon in Luke 2:39-32, he prophesied, “My eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples. A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.” Psalm 98:2 says, “The Lord has made known His salvation. His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations.”
Psalm 98 contains a mini version of the Gospels and Acts. First, the righteousness of God was proclaimed. Second, people understood it and were changed by it. Third, the converts took this good news to all nations, so that “all the ends of the earth may see the salvation of our God.”
The birth of Christ into the world confirms that God remembers His mercy and truth. Every promise made to Abraham, David, and the prophets finds its fulfillment in Jesus. As Zacharias declared in Luke 1:72, God sent Christ “to perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant.”
Salvation is not earned by human merit but was fulfilled in God’s covenant love and faithfulness.
A new heart produces a new song. When believers experience the grace of God through Christ, their worship changes because their joy has changed. The redeemed sing not merely because circumstances are favorable but because Christ has accomplished salvation, won the victory, revealed the gospel, and fulfilled every promise of God.
Even now the Church sings new songs, and we will continue to sing new songs to the Lord in heavenly Jerusalem... always praising the Lamb who was slain and who lives forevermore.
“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises. Sing to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of a psalm, with trumpets and the sound of a horn. Shout joyfully before the Lord, the King. Let the sea roar, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell in it. Let the rivers clap their hands. Let the hills be joyful together before the Lord, for He is coming to judge the earth. With righteousness He shall judge the world, and the peoples with equity.” Psalm 98:4-9
This passage reveals the way in which the people of God impact the world for Christ. We shout joyfully to the Lord. We break forth into songs, rejoice and sing praises. We employ wind and string instruments to enhance the beauty of our songs. The joy of the Lord is our strength.
When I worked with Youth for Christ in Hong Kong, we did rallies in secondary schools... high schools... with teenagers. The format of the programs always began with joyful music including singing, standing, clapping and choreography as well. This prepared the hearts of young people to hear what the messenger of the Lord had to say about Christ. Evangelists like Billy Graham also use this format to prepare the hearts of people to hear the Gospel.
Singing is not merely an expression of joy but also a means of proclaiming Christ’s reign to others. We announce His triumph with the sounds of stringed instruments and trumpets.
Our rejoicing is to God alone. Our worship is filled with gratitude and reverence before Him.
As humankind praises the Lord, the “sea roars,” “the floods clap their hands,” and “the hills are joyful together before the Lord.” Creation already declares the glory of God, but as people praise the Lord, creation begins to really rock with joy.
In Romans 8:19-21, creation is portrayed as waiting for the sons of God to be revealed because humankind’s sin cursed creation, but humankind’s turning to Christ reverses the curse. Galatians 3:13-14 declares, “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Christ took the curse of sin. He gave the blessing of God to believers in Him.
In Jeremiah 4:23–26, Jeremiah uses language reminiscent of Genesis 1:2 to describe imminent destruction. He sees the earth reverting to a state of being “without form and void,” where the lights are gone, the mountains tremble, the land is barren, and all the birds have fled, all caused by the Lord’s fierce anger. Jeremiah directly connects environmental suffering to the wickedness of its inhabitants. In Jeremiah 12:4, he laments how the land mourns, the grass withers, and the animals and birds die out because of the evil deeds of the people. In Jeremiah 2:7, God recalls giving His people a rich and bountiful land to enjoy, but instead, they entered it and “defiled” it through their sins, turning it into an abomination. In Jeremiah 2:13, God’s people committed “two evils.” They forsook God, “the fountain of living waters” and instead dug for themselves “broken cisterns that can hold no water.” Departure from God yields curses.
Whoever cares about the environment should repent of sin and give God glory. That’s what Revelation 16:9 indicates to do: “Men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory.” When people repent of sin and give God glory, He lifts the curse and brings the blessings.
Psalm 98 concludes with the return of Christ: “with righteousness He shall judge the world.”
In Revelation 19:11-16, John received a vision of Christ’s return. He wrote, “Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” This is what Christ will look like when He throws the antichrist into the lake of fire (Revelation 19:20).
It is vital for every soul to profess faith in Christ because Revelation 20:15 says, “Anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” How is anyone’s name entered into the Lamb’s Book of Life? They profess faith in Him. So, let us profess faith in Christ. He is the Lamb who was slain, and took away the sin of the world. He is worthy of our faith and worship!
Psalm 98:1-3 celebrates the first coming of Christ. He is the One who sat at the righthand of the Father. He is the One who came down from heaven and conquered sin, death and the devil. He is the One who commissioned His Church and baptized us with His Spirit so we can make known His salvation to the nations. We declare His righteousness. God credits the righteousness of Christ to the account of all who profess faith in Him.
Paul wrote in Romans 4:21-22 that when Abraham demonstrated faith in God, God credited his faith as righteousness.
Paul wrote in Romans 4:24-25, “It [the righteousness of Christ] shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification..” Thus, we have great cause to rejoice. Christ paid the price for our righteousness. Our part is to profess faith in Him.
Mary sang a new song after the angel Gabriel and later her cousin Elizabeth confirmed to her that she would give birth to the Messiah. Some of her song’s words correlate with Psalm 98.
In Luke 1:49, she sang, “He who is mighty has done great things for me.” In Luke 1:51, she sang, “He has shown strength with His arm.” Psalm 98:1 says, “His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory.”
In Luke 1:54, Mary sang, “He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy.” Psalm 98:3 says, “He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel.”
Even before Christ was physically born into the world, God birthed spiritual prophecies about Messiah through David. His psalms are filled with prophecies about Christ.
Zechariah’s words in Luke 1:72 correlate with the words of Psalm 98:3. Zachriah prophesied, “To perform the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant.” Psalm 98:3 says, “He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel.”
In Luke 2:10, the words which the angel spoke to the shepherds... “I bring to you good tidings of great joy which shall be for all people.” ...correlate with the words of Psalm 98:2. So do the words of Simeon in Luke 2:39-32, he prophesied, “My eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples. A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.” Psalm 98:2 says, “The Lord has made known His salvation. His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations.”
Psalm 98 contains a mini version of the Gospels and Acts. First, the righteousness of God was proclaimed. Second, people understood it and were changed by it. Third, the converts took this good news to all nations, so that “all the ends of the earth may see the salvation of our God.”
The birth of Christ into the world confirms that God remembers His mercy and truth. Every promise made to Abraham, David, and the prophets finds its fulfillment in Jesus. As Zacharias declared in Luke 1:72, God sent Christ “to perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant.”
Salvation is not earned by human merit but was fulfilled in God’s covenant love and faithfulness.
A new heart produces a new song. When believers experience the grace of God through Christ, their worship changes because their joy has changed. The redeemed sing not merely because circumstances are favorable but because Christ has accomplished salvation, won the victory, revealed the gospel, and fulfilled every promise of God.
Even now the Church sings new songs, and we will continue to sing new songs to the Lord in heavenly Jerusalem... always praising the Lamb who was slain and who lives forevermore.
“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth. Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises. Sing to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of a psalm, with trumpets and the sound of a horn. Shout joyfully before the Lord, the King. Let the sea roar, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell in it. Let the rivers clap their hands. Let the hills be joyful together before the Lord, for He is coming to judge the earth. With righteousness He shall judge the world, and the peoples with equity.” Psalm 98:4-9
This passage reveals the way in which the people of God impact the world for Christ. We shout joyfully to the Lord. We break forth into songs, rejoice and sing praises. We employ wind and string instruments to enhance the beauty of our songs. The joy of the Lord is our strength.
When I worked with Youth for Christ in Hong Kong, we did rallies in secondary schools... high schools... with teenagers. The format of the programs always began with joyful music including singing, standing, clapping and choreography as well. This prepared the hearts of young people to hear what the messenger of the Lord had to say about Christ. Evangelists like Billy Graham also use this format to prepare the hearts of people to hear the Gospel.
Singing is not merely an expression of joy but also a means of proclaiming Christ’s reign to others. We announce His triumph with the sounds of stringed instruments and trumpets.
Our rejoicing is to God alone. Our worship is filled with gratitude and reverence before Him.
As humankind praises the Lord, the “sea roars,” “the floods clap their hands,” and “the hills are joyful together before the Lord.” Creation already declares the glory of God, but as people praise the Lord, creation begins to really rock with joy.
In Romans 8:19-21, creation is portrayed as waiting for the sons of God to be revealed because humankind’s sin cursed creation, but humankind’s turning to Christ reverses the curse. Galatians 3:13-14 declares, “Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Christ took the curse of sin. He gave the blessing of God to believers in Him.
In Jeremiah 4:23–26, Jeremiah uses language reminiscent of Genesis 1:2 to describe imminent destruction. He sees the earth reverting to a state of being “without form and void,” where the lights are gone, the mountains tremble, the land is barren, and all the birds have fled, all caused by the Lord’s fierce anger. Jeremiah directly connects environmental suffering to the wickedness of its inhabitants. In Jeremiah 12:4, he laments how the land mourns, the grass withers, and the animals and birds die out because of the evil deeds of the people. In Jeremiah 2:7, God recalls giving His people a rich and bountiful land to enjoy, but instead, they entered it and “defiled” it through their sins, turning it into an abomination. In Jeremiah 2:13, God’s people committed “two evils.” They forsook God, “the fountain of living waters” and instead dug for themselves “broken cisterns that can hold no water.” Departure from God yields curses.
Whoever cares about the environment should repent of sin and give God glory. That’s what Revelation 16:9 indicates to do: “Men were scorched with great heat, and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory.” When people repent of sin and give God glory, He lifts the curse and brings the blessings.
Psalm 98 concludes with the return of Christ: “with righteousness He shall judge the world.”
In Revelation 19:11-16, John received a vision of Christ’s return. He wrote, “Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” This is what Christ will look like when He throws the antichrist into the lake of fire (Revelation 19:20).
It is vital for every soul to profess faith in Christ because Revelation 20:15 says, “Anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” How is anyone’s name entered into the Lamb’s Book of Life? They profess faith in Him. So, let us profess faith in Christ. He is the Lamb who was slain, and took away the sin of the world. He is worthy of our faith and worship!
Sunday, June 14, 2026
Reason to Rejoice – Psalm 97
“The Lord reigns! Let the earth rejoice! Let the multitude of isles be glad!” Psalm 97:1
The earth and its many islands have reason to rejoice and be glad because Christ reigns. He is righteous, gracious, faithful, generous, and compassionate. He gave the skin off His back and the blood in His veins to redeem us from our sins. How many kings have done that for us? In Christ, the curse of humanity’s sin that negatively impacts the earth and the isles is lifted. He is the One who makes things new. Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords brings His followers into paradise.
“Clouds and darkness surround Him. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.” Psalm 97:2
The clouds and darkness speak of the Lord’s wrath forming against sin. He is righteous and just, and thus He hates what evil does to people. He is determined to eradicate it. [1]
The clouds and darkness also allude to the fact that no one can see the Lord except those to whom He chooses to reveal Himself. In 1 Corinthians 2:14, Paul wrote, “the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” In Matthew 16:16-17, after Peter professed Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, Jesus said to Peter, “flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.”
“A fire goes before Him and burns up His enemies round about. His lightnings light the world. The earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the peoples see His glory. Let all be put to shame who serve carved images, who boast of idols. Worship Him, all you gods.” Psalm 97:3-7
Psalm 97 contains a warning to the enemies of Christ. They shall be burned up. [2] In Matthew 13:30, Jesus likened wicked people to weeds (tares) in a field, explaining that at the end of the age, they will be gathered in bundles and completely burned up. In Mark 9:48, Jesus warned of hell, describing it as a place “where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.” In Matthew 25:41, Jesus spoke of the unrighteous being told to depart “into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels”
In Luke 19:12-27, Jesus told a parable in which people hate their Lord and don’t want Him to rule over them (v. 14). They think of Him as a miser and an unfair master (v. 21). These people are brought before Him and slain (v. 27). Jesus told this parable as an indictment against the religious leaders in Jerusalem. They rejected Him, and instigated His crucifixion on the cross. In John 11:48, the religious leaders said to one another, “If we let Him [Jesus] go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our temple and our nation.” But it was the rebellious and defiant nature of these priests that brought the Romans to Jerusalem to destroy it in A.D. 70. [3]
God’s wrath against sin is extremely hot! His lightning lights up the night sky. The earth shakes before Him. The mountains melt like wax in His holy presence. When real and only true God makes His glory known, all imposters are exposed as fakes. Those who honor idols will be ashamed. Thus, the Psalmist calls the gods (the idols of the pagans) to honor the true God. [4]
The spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire and the decline of pagan worship are viewed as partial fulfillments of this prophecy. Thus, we who believe in Christ rejoice because He reigns. Christ’s authority extends over heaven and earth. [5]
Remember what happened to Jericho on the seventh day when the seven priests, blew their seven trumpets, after they had marched around the city seven times? The people of Israel shouted to the Lord, and the Lord brought down the walls Jericho (Joshua 6:12-20).
The day is coming when the seventh angel of Revelation 11:15 will blow His trumpet and it will be declared, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”
“Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice because of Your judgments, O Lord. For You, Lord, are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far above all gods. You who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the souls of His saints. He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 97:8-10
The reign of Christ brings fear and judgment to those who oppose Him, but gladness, rejoicing, and thanksgiving to those who belong to Him. Jesus saves our souls. He delivers us from the plots of the evil one against us. In 2 Timothy 4:18, Paul testified, “[Christ] will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom.” This promise is sure for everyone who believes in Jesus. [6]
“Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy Name.” Psalm 97:11-12
Like seed hidden beneath the soil, God’s blessings may seem delayed, but they are certain. Seasons of sorrow are not the end of the story for us in Christ. In John 16:20, Jesus promised us that our sorrow will be turned into joy. The harvest of gladness will come in due time. [7]
When circumstances are difficult, it is good to remember what 1 Corinthians 2:9 says: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
We do well to follow the example of Moses as recorded in Hebrews 11:24-27: “By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.”
In Christ, we have reason to rejoice. In Revelation 3:14 and 19:11, Jesus is referred to as “Faithful and True.” In Revelation 21:5 and 22:6, His promises are referred to as “Faithful and True.” Christ does not let us down. He brings to pass what He has promised. Praise the Lord!
[1-7] Material edited and developed from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
The earth and its many islands have reason to rejoice and be glad because Christ reigns. He is righteous, gracious, faithful, generous, and compassionate. He gave the skin off His back and the blood in His veins to redeem us from our sins. How many kings have done that for us? In Christ, the curse of humanity’s sin that negatively impacts the earth and the isles is lifted. He is the One who makes things new. Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords brings His followers into paradise.
“Clouds and darkness surround Him. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.” Psalm 97:2
The clouds and darkness speak of the Lord’s wrath forming against sin. He is righteous and just, and thus He hates what evil does to people. He is determined to eradicate it. [1]
The clouds and darkness also allude to the fact that no one can see the Lord except those to whom He chooses to reveal Himself. In 1 Corinthians 2:14, Paul wrote, “the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” In Matthew 16:16-17, after Peter professed Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, Jesus said to Peter, “flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.”
“A fire goes before Him and burns up His enemies round about. His lightnings light the world. The earth sees and trembles. The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. The heavens declare His righteousness, and all the peoples see His glory. Let all be put to shame who serve carved images, who boast of idols. Worship Him, all you gods.” Psalm 97:3-7
Psalm 97 contains a warning to the enemies of Christ. They shall be burned up. [2] In Matthew 13:30, Jesus likened wicked people to weeds (tares) in a field, explaining that at the end of the age, they will be gathered in bundles and completely burned up. In Mark 9:48, Jesus warned of hell, describing it as a place “where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.” In Matthew 25:41, Jesus spoke of the unrighteous being told to depart “into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels”
In Luke 19:12-27, Jesus told a parable in which people hate their Lord and don’t want Him to rule over them (v. 14). They think of Him as a miser and an unfair master (v. 21). These people are brought before Him and slain (v. 27). Jesus told this parable as an indictment against the religious leaders in Jerusalem. They rejected Him, and instigated His crucifixion on the cross. In John 11:48, the religious leaders said to one another, “If we let Him [Jesus] go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our temple and our nation.” But it was the rebellious and defiant nature of these priests that brought the Romans to Jerusalem to destroy it in A.D. 70. [3]
God’s wrath against sin is extremely hot! His lightning lights up the night sky. The earth shakes before Him. The mountains melt like wax in His holy presence. When real and only true God makes His glory known, all imposters are exposed as fakes. Those who honor idols will be ashamed. Thus, the Psalmist calls the gods (the idols of the pagans) to honor the true God. [4]
The spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire and the decline of pagan worship are viewed as partial fulfillments of this prophecy. Thus, we who believe in Christ rejoice because He reigns. Christ’s authority extends over heaven and earth. [5]
Remember what happened to Jericho on the seventh day when the seven priests, blew their seven trumpets, after they had marched around the city seven times? The people of Israel shouted to the Lord, and the Lord brought down the walls Jericho (Joshua 6:12-20).
The day is coming when the seventh angel of Revelation 11:15 will blow His trumpet and it will be declared, “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”
“Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice because of Your judgments, O Lord. For You, Lord, are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far above all gods. You who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the souls of His saints. He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked.” Psalm 97:8-10
The reign of Christ brings fear and judgment to those who oppose Him, but gladness, rejoicing, and thanksgiving to those who belong to Him. Jesus saves our souls. He delivers us from the plots of the evil one against us. In 2 Timothy 4:18, Paul testified, “[Christ] will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom.” This promise is sure for everyone who believes in Jesus. [6]
“Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy Name.” Psalm 97:11-12
Like seed hidden beneath the soil, God’s blessings may seem delayed, but they are certain. Seasons of sorrow are not the end of the story for us in Christ. In John 16:20, Jesus promised us that our sorrow will be turned into joy. The harvest of gladness will come in due time. [7]
When circumstances are difficult, it is good to remember what 1 Corinthians 2:9 says: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
We do well to follow the example of Moses as recorded in Hebrews 11:24-27: “By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.”
In Christ, we have reason to rejoice. In Revelation 3:14 and 19:11, Jesus is referred to as “Faithful and True.” In Revelation 21:5 and 22:6, His promises are referred to as “Faithful and True.” Christ does not let us down. He brings to pass what He has promised. Praise the Lord!
[1-7] Material edited and developed from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Saturday, June 13, 2026
He Is Coming – Psalm 96
“O, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless His Name.” Psalm 96:1
True worship overflows from a heart that enjoys the greatness, glory, and salvation of God.
We honor God with songs. Three times in a row the Psalmist exhorts us to sing to the Lord. Joy to sing to the Lord is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit’s work in one’s life.
I’m so glad that there are tens of thousands of songs to the Lord that have excellent lyrics and very enjoyable music accompaniment. When I was a teenager, I was unaware and unexposed to contemporary Christian music, so I often listened to hymns that were written hundreds of years ago. In Psalm 96:1, God’s Word says to “sing to the Lord a new song.”
Before I learned of contemporary Christian music, my music collection consisted of rock music. Rock stars did not sing to God. They sang songs to women who made them feel good, to cars and clothes that impressed them and to the thrills of destructive behavior. The Holy Spirit inspired me to purge godless music from my collection, and replace it with music to the Lord.
A “new song” to the Lord arises from communion with God. His mercies are new every morning. His Spirit inspires writers and composers to publish new and relatable tributes to God. A new song celebrates the blessings we have in Jesus Christ.
When we sing love songs to the Lord, we need not worry that He will break our heart as earthly lovers are apt to do. In Deuteronomy 7:9, Moses wrote, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.” In Psalm 91:14, the Psalmist wrote, “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high because he has known My Name.” The Lord is faithful to those who love Him.
“Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples.” Psalm 96:2-3
Worshippers of God look beyond their nation’s borders. We want to “show forth His salvation from day to day.” We want to “declare His glory among the heathen.” The Good News about God is not something to hide or be silent about. It is to be proclaimed. Thanks to Christ’s resurrection from the dead, and the subsequent work of the Holy Spirit, good news that was once largely confined to Israel is now proclaimed to all nations. We honor God by singing His praises and by proclaiming His good news to other people.
“For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised. He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before Him. Strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.” Psalm 96:4-6
The Lord is great and greatly to be praised because He is not the invention of someone’s imagination. He is not an image made of stone, wood or precious metal. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. He exists in a beautiful and holy place that is undefiled by hatred and death. Numerous angels love and serve Him. His house is filled with peace, joy and love.
We look to the Lord to keep our minds out of the gutters where false religions and sinful behavior thrives. We want to soar as on the wings of eagle to the heights where the real God is praised and worshipped.
In Romans 12:1, Paul wrote, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
God’s majesty inspires reverence. His beauty attracts our hearts. He is worthy of our praise.
“Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples, give to the Lord glory and strength. Give to the Lord the glory due His Name. Bring an offering and come into His courts. O, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth. Say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns. The world also is firmly established, it shall not be moved. He shall judge the peoples righteously.’” Psalm 96:7-10
Psalm 96 is a prophetic celebration of the reign of Jesus Christ and the spread of the Gospel to all nations. Its central theme is that Christ reigns as King, governs righteously, and will ultimately bring joy, justice, and restoration to the whole creation. [1]
This was the heart of the apostolic message. In Acts 17:24-31, Paul proclaimed, “God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being... We ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold, silver, or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”
Unlike earthly rulers, Christ governs in perfect righteousness. His reign is characterized by just and holy laws, faithful administration, truth that enlightens minds and directs consciences, and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit within believers. [2]
In John 18:37, Jesus told Pilate that He came into the world to bear witness to the truth. His kingdom advances not merely by power but by truth working in human hearts. [3]
“Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad. Let the sea roar, and all its fullness. Let the field be joyful, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the woods will rejoice before the Lord.” Psalm 96:11-12
The Psalmist summons heaven to rejoice and earth to be glad. He invites sea and field to be joyful so that trees will rejoice before the Lord. It was on a tree that Christ was crucified to pay the price for humankind’s sin. Humanity’s sin brought a curse on creation. But in Galatians 3:13-14, we learn that Christ took our sin’s curse upon Himself while hanging on a tree so that we who are in Christ would receive His Holy Spirit.
In Romans 8:19-23, Paul wrote of how the earnest expectation of creation awaits the revealing of the sons of God. The creation was subjected to futility due to humankind’s sin. Created things want to be delivered from corruption. “We know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.” Both created things and we “who have the firstfruits of the Spirit” groan as we eagerly await for the Lord to restore people to paradise.
“For He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth. He shall judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with His truth.” Psalm 96:13
The incarnation, death, resurrection and ascension of Christ is in a sense a judgment of God. The judgment was that there was no one among us who could redeem us from our sins. Our human kings, priests, prophets and judges all fell short. We needed the Son of God to become flesh and dwell among us. To live a sinless life among us! We needed a sinless Messiah to atone for our sins, and Christ did that! Praise God!
In Matthew Henry’s Commentary, he connects the hope expressed by Paul in Romans 8 for people with the desire of created things to become incorruptible.
The practical application of Psalm 96 for us today is to proclaim Christ’s kingship to others. Trust His sovereign rule when circumstances seem unstable. Submit to His righteous rule in our daily lives. Live in hope of His return. Rejoice in His kingdom and invite others to do the same. [4]
Psalm 96 reminds us that history is moving toward a glorious conclusion: “All creation will rejoice under Christ’s righteous rule.” [5]
The twice repeated phrase, “He is coming” assures us of Christ’s return. Though centuries have passed, God’s timing is perfect and His promises are sure. [6]
[1-6] Material developed and edited from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
True worship overflows from a heart that enjoys the greatness, glory, and salvation of God.
We honor God with songs. Three times in a row the Psalmist exhorts us to sing to the Lord. Joy to sing to the Lord is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit’s work in one’s life.
I’m so glad that there are tens of thousands of songs to the Lord that have excellent lyrics and very enjoyable music accompaniment. When I was a teenager, I was unaware and unexposed to contemporary Christian music, so I often listened to hymns that were written hundreds of years ago. In Psalm 96:1, God’s Word says to “sing to the Lord a new song.”
Before I learned of contemporary Christian music, my music collection consisted of rock music. Rock stars did not sing to God. They sang songs to women who made them feel good, to cars and clothes that impressed them and to the thrills of destructive behavior. The Holy Spirit inspired me to purge godless music from my collection, and replace it with music to the Lord.
A “new song” to the Lord arises from communion with God. His mercies are new every morning. His Spirit inspires writers and composers to publish new and relatable tributes to God. A new song celebrates the blessings we have in Jesus Christ.
When we sing love songs to the Lord, we need not worry that He will break our heart as earthly lovers are apt to do. In Deuteronomy 7:9, Moses wrote, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.” In Psalm 91:14, the Psalmist wrote, “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high because he has known My Name.” The Lord is faithful to those who love Him.
“Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples.” Psalm 96:2-3
Worshippers of God look beyond their nation’s borders. We want to “show forth His salvation from day to day.” We want to “declare His glory among the heathen.” The Good News about God is not something to hide or be silent about. It is to be proclaimed. Thanks to Christ’s resurrection from the dead, and the subsequent work of the Holy Spirit, good news that was once largely confined to Israel is now proclaimed to all nations. We honor God by singing His praises and by proclaiming His good news to other people.
“For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised. He is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. Honor and majesty are before Him. Strength and beauty are in His sanctuary.” Psalm 96:4-6
The Lord is great and greatly to be praised because He is not the invention of someone’s imagination. He is not an image made of stone, wood or precious metal. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. He exists in a beautiful and holy place that is undefiled by hatred and death. Numerous angels love and serve Him. His house is filled with peace, joy and love.
We look to the Lord to keep our minds out of the gutters where false religions and sinful behavior thrives. We want to soar as on the wings of eagle to the heights where the real God is praised and worshipped.
In Romans 12:1, Paul wrote, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
God’s majesty inspires reverence. His beauty attracts our hearts. He is worthy of our praise.
“Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples, give to the Lord glory and strength. Give to the Lord the glory due His Name. Bring an offering and come into His courts. O, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth. Say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns. The world also is firmly established, it shall not be moved. He shall judge the peoples righteously.’” Psalm 96:7-10
Psalm 96 is a prophetic celebration of the reign of Jesus Christ and the spread of the Gospel to all nations. Its central theme is that Christ reigns as King, governs righteously, and will ultimately bring joy, justice, and restoration to the whole creation. [1]
This was the heart of the apostolic message. In Acts 17:24-31, Paul proclaimed, “God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands. Nor is He worshiped with men’s hands, as though He needed anything, since He gives to all life, breath, and all things. He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings, so that they should seek the Lord, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and have our being... We ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold, silver, or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”
Unlike earthly rulers, Christ governs in perfect righteousness. His reign is characterized by just and holy laws, faithful administration, truth that enlightens minds and directs consciences, and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit within believers. [2]
In John 18:37, Jesus told Pilate that He came into the world to bear witness to the truth. His kingdom advances not merely by power but by truth working in human hearts. [3]
“Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad. Let the sea roar, and all its fullness. Let the field be joyful, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the woods will rejoice before the Lord.” Psalm 96:11-12
The Psalmist summons heaven to rejoice and earth to be glad. He invites sea and field to be joyful so that trees will rejoice before the Lord. It was on a tree that Christ was crucified to pay the price for humankind’s sin. Humanity’s sin brought a curse on creation. But in Galatians 3:13-14, we learn that Christ took our sin’s curse upon Himself while hanging on a tree so that we who are in Christ would receive His Holy Spirit.
In Romans 8:19-23, Paul wrote of how the earnest expectation of creation awaits the revealing of the sons of God. The creation was subjected to futility due to humankind’s sin. Created things want to be delivered from corruption. “We know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.” Both created things and we “who have the firstfruits of the Spirit” groan as we eagerly await for the Lord to restore people to paradise.
“For He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth. He shall judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with His truth.” Psalm 96:13
The incarnation, death, resurrection and ascension of Christ is in a sense a judgment of God. The judgment was that there was no one among us who could redeem us from our sins. Our human kings, priests, prophets and judges all fell short. We needed the Son of God to become flesh and dwell among us. To live a sinless life among us! We needed a sinless Messiah to atone for our sins, and Christ did that! Praise God!
In Matthew Henry’s Commentary, he connects the hope expressed by Paul in Romans 8 for people with the desire of created things to become incorruptible.
The practical application of Psalm 96 for us today is to proclaim Christ’s kingship to others. Trust His sovereign rule when circumstances seem unstable. Submit to His righteous rule in our daily lives. Live in hope of His return. Rejoice in His kingdom and invite others to do the same. [4]
Psalm 96 reminds us that history is moving toward a glorious conclusion: “All creation will rejoice under Christ’s righteous rule.” [5]
The twice repeated phrase, “He is coming” assures us of Christ’s return. Though centuries have passed, God’s timing is perfect and His promises are sure. [6]
[1-6] Material developed and edited from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Friday, June 12, 2026
Rest Rich Worship – Psalm 95
“O come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving. Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. For the Lord is the great God, and the great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:1-3
Yes, let us do it! Let us sing and shout joyfully in God’s presence with thanksgiving! Not just think about it, do it.
“I worship You Lord! I shout to You joyfully! You are GREAT! You are exalted above the seas, the earth and the heavens!”
For Christians, “the rock of our salvation” is Jesus Christ. He is our Redeemer. Through His death and resurrection, He became the foundation of our salvation and our eternal hope. The “Rock” symbolizes His invincibility and reliability.
“In His hand are the deep places of the earth. The heights of the hills are His also. The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land.” Psalm 95:4-5
The phrase, “In His hand are the deep places of the earth” symbolizes His omnipresence. “The heights of the hills” symbolize His stature being above what common and ordinary. In Hebrew literature and in the ancient Near Eastern world, the “sea” frequently symbolizes chaos, danger, death, and opposition to divine order. God works all this for His glory.
“His hands formed the dry land.” In Genesis 1:9, “God said, ‘Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear,’ and it was so.” The dry land was God’s gracious provision for people and animals to have ground beneath their feet.
“O come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand.” Psalm 95:6-7
We sing, shout joyfully, give thanks, bow and kneel before God. The kneeling may happen as we take communion or as we pray. God is our Maker, Provider and Shepherd. He loves us.
We come before God with confidence because He loves us, yet with humility because He is infinitely greater than we are. Bowing and kneeling reflect the reverence that is in our hearts for God. We don’t hide our feelings. We physically and verbally demonstrate our need for Him. [1]
The repeated phrase “Let us” reminds us to worship together with others who love God.
No earthly king, government, or false deity can compare with God. He is not merely Creator in a general sense. He is our Creator personally. Our lives, abilities, opportunities, and every breath come from His hand. [2]
Psalm 95:7 gives us one of Scripture’s most tender descriptions of God’s people. “He is our God. We are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand.” God cares for us in a very personal way just as a loving shepherd cares for each sheep in his flock. [3]
Praising and blessing the Lord is a choice that God has given us the power to make. Just like we can say, “I WILL eat” or “I WILL not eat.” In Christ we can say in the words of Psalm 34:1, “I WILL bless the Lord at all times. His praise SHALL continually be in my mouth.”
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as in the rebellion, as in the day of trial in the wilderness, when your fathers tested Me. They tried Me, though they saw My work. For 40 years I was grieved with that generation, and said, ‘It is a people who go astray in their hearts, and they do not know My ways.’” Psalm 95:8-10
The latter portion of Psalm 95 is an exhortation not to neglect your relationship with God. The phrase, “Today, if you will hear His voice” emphasizes the urgency of the moment. Dive in! Be whole-hearted! Think of all that God means to you! Think of all He has done for You! Imagine enjoying an eternal paradise with God and His people forever!
In 1 Corinthians 2:9, Paul wrote, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
The heavenly Promised Land is going to be perfect in every way. God is inviting us there by His Spirit and His Word. We need not wait until we get there to begin the celebration.
“Harden not your heart...” A hard heart refuses to listen, trust, worship, praise and thank God.
In Exodus 17:1–7, the Israelites contended with Moses over water instead of trusting God to provide. God did provide water for them, but was grieved that they had questioned, saying, “Is the Lord among us or not?” God had been leading them by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. He brought them out of Egypt with many mighty miracles.
The Israelites experienced God’s miraculous intervention in their lives, but many complained and disowned God due to unfulfilled fleshly desires. Where was there love? For what were they living? Only themselves? If they had focused on loving God, loving one another, and being God’s ambassadors to the world, their souls would have been full and their hunger satisfied.
Let us seek God’s help not to sin as Israel sinned, but when we do, let us be quick to repent.
“So I swore in My wrath, ‘They shall not enter My rest.’” Psalm 95:11
Unbelief prevents people from entering God’s rest. The Exodus 17 generation that is referenced in Psalm 95 complained against God. They failed to enter the Promised Land due to unbelief. In Hebrews 3-4, God applies the warning of Psalm 95 to us who follow Christ.
We enter God’s rest through faith in Christ. In Hebrews 4:3, we read, “We who have believed enter that rest.” We rest when we know that God is God. We lack rest when we doubt God. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus said, “Come unto Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
The greatest promise that Christ made unto us is the promise of eternal life with God. He verified this promise to us by resurrecting from the dead and by appearing to over 500 witnesses during a period of 40 days. They ate with Him. They walked with Him. They watched Him ascend into heaven. Then, 10 days after He ascended to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to baptize His disciples with power, and they spoke with new tongues.
Knowing that God loves you and that He has given you eternal life in Christ is vital to entering “the rest.” You come to know that God loves you by listening to and believing His Word. Paul was horribly treated by many, but enjoyed rest in his soul due to his faith in Christ.
In Romans 5:6-9, Paul wrote, “For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.”
In Romans 8:31-32, Paul wrote, “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”
In Romans 8:38-39, Paul wrote, “I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Such rest in the soul is a rich seedbed from which worship and shouts of joy spring forth to God!
[1-3] Material edited and developed from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Yes, let us do it! Let us sing and shout joyfully in God’s presence with thanksgiving! Not just think about it, do it.
“I worship You Lord! I shout to You joyfully! You are GREAT! You are exalted above the seas, the earth and the heavens!”
For Christians, “the rock of our salvation” is Jesus Christ. He is our Redeemer. Through His death and resurrection, He became the foundation of our salvation and our eternal hope. The “Rock” symbolizes His invincibility and reliability.
“In His hand are the deep places of the earth. The heights of the hills are His also. The sea is His, for He made it, and His hands formed the dry land.” Psalm 95:4-5
The phrase, “In His hand are the deep places of the earth” symbolizes His omnipresence. “The heights of the hills” symbolize His stature being above what common and ordinary. In Hebrew literature and in the ancient Near Eastern world, the “sea” frequently symbolizes chaos, danger, death, and opposition to divine order. God works all this for His glory.
“His hands formed the dry land.” In Genesis 1:9, “God said, ‘Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear,’ and it was so.” The dry land was God’s gracious provision for people and animals to have ground beneath their feet.
“O come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand.” Psalm 95:6-7
We sing, shout joyfully, give thanks, bow and kneel before God. The kneeling may happen as we take communion or as we pray. God is our Maker, Provider and Shepherd. He loves us.
We come before God with confidence because He loves us, yet with humility because He is infinitely greater than we are. Bowing and kneeling reflect the reverence that is in our hearts for God. We don’t hide our feelings. We physically and verbally demonstrate our need for Him. [1]
The repeated phrase “Let us” reminds us to worship together with others who love God.
No earthly king, government, or false deity can compare with God. He is not merely Creator in a general sense. He is our Creator personally. Our lives, abilities, opportunities, and every breath come from His hand. [2]
Psalm 95:7 gives us one of Scripture’s most tender descriptions of God’s people. “He is our God. We are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand.” God cares for us in a very personal way just as a loving shepherd cares for each sheep in his flock. [3]
Praising and blessing the Lord is a choice that God has given us the power to make. Just like we can say, “I WILL eat” or “I WILL not eat.” In Christ we can say in the words of Psalm 34:1, “I WILL bless the Lord at all times. His praise SHALL continually be in my mouth.”
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as in the rebellion, as in the day of trial in the wilderness, when your fathers tested Me. They tried Me, though they saw My work. For 40 years I was grieved with that generation, and said, ‘It is a people who go astray in their hearts, and they do not know My ways.’” Psalm 95:8-10
The latter portion of Psalm 95 is an exhortation not to neglect your relationship with God. The phrase, “Today, if you will hear His voice” emphasizes the urgency of the moment. Dive in! Be whole-hearted! Think of all that God means to you! Think of all He has done for You! Imagine enjoying an eternal paradise with God and His people forever!
In 1 Corinthians 2:9, Paul wrote, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
The heavenly Promised Land is going to be perfect in every way. God is inviting us there by His Spirit and His Word. We need not wait until we get there to begin the celebration.
“Harden not your heart...” A hard heart refuses to listen, trust, worship, praise and thank God.
In Exodus 17:1–7, the Israelites contended with Moses over water instead of trusting God to provide. God did provide water for them, but was grieved that they had questioned, saying, “Is the Lord among us or not?” God had been leading them by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. He brought them out of Egypt with many mighty miracles.
The Israelites experienced God’s miraculous intervention in their lives, but many complained and disowned God due to unfulfilled fleshly desires. Where was there love? For what were they living? Only themselves? If they had focused on loving God, loving one another, and being God’s ambassadors to the world, their souls would have been full and their hunger satisfied.
Let us seek God’s help not to sin as Israel sinned, but when we do, let us be quick to repent.
“So I swore in My wrath, ‘They shall not enter My rest.’” Psalm 95:11
Unbelief prevents people from entering God’s rest. The Exodus 17 generation that is referenced in Psalm 95 complained against God. They failed to enter the Promised Land due to unbelief. In Hebrews 3-4, God applies the warning of Psalm 95 to us who follow Christ.
We enter God’s rest through faith in Christ. In Hebrews 4:3, we read, “We who have believed enter that rest.” We rest when we know that God is God. We lack rest when we doubt God. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus said, “Come unto Me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
The greatest promise that Christ made unto us is the promise of eternal life with God. He verified this promise to us by resurrecting from the dead and by appearing to over 500 witnesses during a period of 40 days. They ate with Him. They walked with Him. They watched Him ascend into heaven. Then, 10 days after He ascended to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to baptize His disciples with power, and they spoke with new tongues.
Knowing that God loves you and that He has given you eternal life in Christ is vital to entering “the rest.” You come to know that God loves you by listening to and believing His Word. Paul was horribly treated by many, but enjoyed rest in his soul due to his faith in Christ.
In Romans 5:6-9, Paul wrote, “For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.”
In Romans 8:31-32, Paul wrote, “If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”
In Romans 8:38-39, Paul wrote, “I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Such rest in the soul is a rich seedbed from which worship and shouts of joy spring forth to God!
[1-3] Material edited and developed from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Just and True are God’s Judgments – Psalm 94
“O Lord God, to whom vengeance belongs—O God, to whom vengeance belongs, shine forth! Rise up, O Judge of the earth, return [שׁוּב] a recompence [גְּמוּל] to the proud.” Psalm 94:1-2
Malicious people came against God’s people in the Old and New Testament times. In the Book of Esther, one man named Haman wanted to eradicate all Jews from existence because one Jewish man failed to pay him proper homage. In Acts 14:2, unbelievers poisoned the minds of people against Paul and his ministry team. In Acts 14:19, a group of people persuaded a mob to stone Paul. They dragged him outside the city, and left him for dead.
Christians are persecuted, abused and killed in various nations of the earth today.
In Revelation 12:17, we read that Satan (the dragon) makes war with those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Thus, we know that persecution of believers in Christ will continue until the Lord returns and tosses the devil in the lake of fire.
Psalm 94:1-2 is a prayer for God to shine forth with vengeance upon the proud. It is an appeal to the righteous Judge of all humanity for a just judgment upon them. Thankfully, we do not need to repay our enemies. The Lord says in Romans 12:19, “Vengeance is mine. I will repay.”
“Lord, how long will the wicked, how long will the wicked triumph? They utter speech and speak impudently. All the workers of iniquity boast in themselves. They break in pieces Your people, O Lord, and afflict Your heritage. They slay the widow and the stranger and murder the fatherless.” Psalm 94:3-6
The Psalmist asks God to hasten the defeat of the wicked. Likewise in Revelation 6:9-10, those who had been slain for the Word of God, ask the Lord, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?”
Sin’s servants spoke impudently against God and His people. They assumed wrongly that God would not hold them accountable for the evil that they were doing. They had afflicted and shattered the lives of godly people. And what did they do to foreigners, widows and orphans? They killed them.
“Yet they say, ‘The Lord does not see, nor does the God of Jacob understand.’ Understand, you senseless among the people, and you fools, when will you be wise? He who planted the ear, shall He not hear? He who formed the eye, shall He not see? He who instructs the nations, shall He not correct, He who teaches man knowledge? The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile.” Psalm 94:7-11
In 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, Paul prophesied of the antichrist as a lawless one whose works are of Satan. He will use unrighteousness to deceive those who perish. They will perish because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” And in verse 12 of this chapter, he wrote, “They will be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” Believing lies, denying the truth, and running with outlaws does not end well.
According to Church history, the Apostle John lived longer than the other eleven disciples of Jesus. He witnessed not just one antichrist, but many. In 1 John 2:18, he wrote, “Little children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour.”
Even as the number of followers of Christ grew during John’s life, so grew the number of those against Christ. John said we are in the last hour, meaning the Lord’s return is imminent. It has been nearly 2,000 years since John wrote this passage, but 2,000 years in eternity is like an hour.
In 1 John 2:22, John wrote, “Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.” In 1 John 4:3, he wrote, “Every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.” And in 2 John 1:7, he wrote, “For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.”
The key characteristic of antichrists is that they want to replace Jesus Christ with someone or something else. In John 5:43, Jesus said, “I have come in My Father’s Name, and you do not receive Me; if another person come in his own name, him you will receive.” Thus, we need to beware of personality cults and hero worship. We should never exalt someone other than Jesus as Messiah. Jesus of Nazareth was and is the Chosen and Anointed One of the Father to save us.
Some common errors in this regard include the exaltation of Mary, the saints, the pope, super talented people, a president, a king, a queen, Santa Claus and Easter Bunnies.
God made the ear. He hears. God made the eye. He sees. No one should mistake God’s patience for indifference. Judgment delayed is not judgment denied. The Judge of all the earth sees, knows, and will correct injustice. In 2 Peter 3:9, Peter wrote, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
“Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O Lord, and teach out of Your law, that You may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked.” Psalm 94:12-13
In the past, the Holy Spirit has led me to dig down and root myself in God’s Word during times of persecution. I was blessed to rest and be instructed by the Lord. While others hardened their hearts to God’s Word and rejoiced to do evil, the Lord reminded me of the parable of the wise and foolish builders. In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus said that a wise man builds his house on the rock of hearing and applying God’s Word to himself. The foolish man builds his house on the sand. Building one’s house on the sand is a metaphor for building one’s life on a bad foundation. It is foolish to build on any other foundation than the Word of God. Only those who build their life on Christ will enter paradise after they die.
“For the Lord will not cast off His people, nor will He forsake His inheritance. But judgment will return to righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it.” Psalm 94:14-15
Once the wicked one gains power, he wrongly assumes that his crime network will never be brought down. He is deceived. God may allow His people to experience defeat for a time so that they get serious about seeking Him, but in due season, God will flip the script.
In Revelation 13:7, we read, “It was granted to him [the antichrist] to make war with the saints and to overcome them.” The Lord allows this so that His people will draw near to Him. But later, in Revelation 19:20, we read, “Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet... These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone.”
Jesus taught in Matthew 25:31-46 that when He returns all the nations will be gathered before Him. He will separate the sheep from the goats. He will say to the sheep, “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” He will say to the goats, “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. They will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
“Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? Who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity? Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence. If I say, ‘My foot slips,’ Your mercy, O Lord, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul.” Psalm 94:16-19
Who will rise up for God’s man or woman? God will!
In Acts 7:54-56, when evil persecutors like ferocious lions bit Stephen with their teeth, and when they prepared to stone him to death, he was full of the Holy Spirit. Stephen “gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” Stephen was standing up for Jesus, and Jesus stood for him. Stephen remarked, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”
In 2 Timothy 4:17-18, Paul spoke of the Lord rising up on his behalf. “The Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!”
The Lord’s mercy held Stephen up as he was slain for the sake of Christ. The Lord’s mercy held Paul up by delivering him from death. In both incidents, God’s comforts delighted their souls.
“Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with You? They gather together against the life of the righteous and condemn innocent blood. But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge. He has brought on them their own iniquity and shall cut them off in their own wickedness. The Lord our God shall cut them off.” Psalm 94:20-23
The downfall of Haman in the Book of Esther and the downfall of the antichrist in the Book of Revelation are examples of wicked men being brought down by God. These men condemned the innocent. God preserved the life of Esther, and He will preserve the lives of many saints in the future. In Revelation 20:4, John saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness for Jesus. They had not worshiped the beast or his image. They had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. “They lived [again] and reigned with Christ.”
In Revelation 16:5-6, amidst judgments being released on the wicked, an angel declares, “You are righteous, O Lord. The One who is and who was and who is to be, because You have judged these things. For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.” And in Revelation 16:7, John hears another angel saying, “Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments.”
The central message of Psalm 94 is simple yet profound. When the wicked gain power, God is the place of refuge for His people. The safest place to be is close to God. The Lord comforts us who trust in Him, and He executes justice on the wicked.
Malicious people came against God’s people in the Old and New Testament times. In the Book of Esther, one man named Haman wanted to eradicate all Jews from existence because one Jewish man failed to pay him proper homage. In Acts 14:2, unbelievers poisoned the minds of people against Paul and his ministry team. In Acts 14:19, a group of people persuaded a mob to stone Paul. They dragged him outside the city, and left him for dead.
Christians are persecuted, abused and killed in various nations of the earth today.
In Revelation 12:17, we read that Satan (the dragon) makes war with those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Thus, we know that persecution of believers in Christ will continue until the Lord returns and tosses the devil in the lake of fire.
Psalm 94:1-2 is a prayer for God to shine forth with vengeance upon the proud. It is an appeal to the righteous Judge of all humanity for a just judgment upon them. Thankfully, we do not need to repay our enemies. The Lord says in Romans 12:19, “Vengeance is mine. I will repay.”
“Lord, how long will the wicked, how long will the wicked triumph? They utter speech and speak impudently. All the workers of iniquity boast in themselves. They break in pieces Your people, O Lord, and afflict Your heritage. They slay the widow and the stranger and murder the fatherless.” Psalm 94:3-6
The Psalmist asks God to hasten the defeat of the wicked. Likewise in Revelation 6:9-10, those who had been slain for the Word of God, ask the Lord, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?”
Sin’s servants spoke impudently against God and His people. They assumed wrongly that God would not hold them accountable for the evil that they were doing. They had afflicted and shattered the lives of godly people. And what did they do to foreigners, widows and orphans? They killed them.
“Yet they say, ‘The Lord does not see, nor does the God of Jacob understand.’ Understand, you senseless among the people, and you fools, when will you be wise? He who planted the ear, shall He not hear? He who formed the eye, shall He not see? He who instructs the nations, shall He not correct, He who teaches man knowledge? The Lord knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile.” Psalm 94:7-11
In 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, Paul prophesied of the antichrist as a lawless one whose works are of Satan. He will use unrighteousness to deceive those who perish. They will perish because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” And in verse 12 of this chapter, he wrote, “They will be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” Believing lies, denying the truth, and running with outlaws does not end well.
According to Church history, the Apostle John lived longer than the other eleven disciples of Jesus. He witnessed not just one antichrist, but many. In 1 John 2:18, he wrote, “Little children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour.”
Even as the number of followers of Christ grew during John’s life, so grew the number of those against Christ. John said we are in the last hour, meaning the Lord’s return is imminent. It has been nearly 2,000 years since John wrote this passage, but 2,000 years in eternity is like an hour.
In 1 John 2:22, John wrote, “Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son.” In 1 John 4:3, he wrote, “Every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.” And in 2 John 1:7, he wrote, “For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.”
The key characteristic of antichrists is that they want to replace Jesus Christ with someone or something else. In John 5:43, Jesus said, “I have come in My Father’s Name, and you do not receive Me; if another person come in his own name, him you will receive.” Thus, we need to beware of personality cults and hero worship. We should never exalt someone other than Jesus as Messiah. Jesus of Nazareth was and is the Chosen and Anointed One of the Father to save us.
Some common errors in this regard include the exaltation of Mary, the saints, the pope, super talented people, a president, a king, a queen, Santa Claus and Easter Bunnies.
God made the ear. He hears. God made the eye. He sees. No one should mistake God’s patience for indifference. Judgment delayed is not judgment denied. The Judge of all the earth sees, knows, and will correct injustice. In 2 Peter 3:9, Peter wrote, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
“Blessed is the man whom You instruct, O Lord, and teach out of Your law, that You may give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit is dug for the wicked.” Psalm 94:12-13
In the past, the Holy Spirit has led me to dig down and root myself in God’s Word during times of persecution. I was blessed to rest and be instructed by the Lord. While others hardened their hearts to God’s Word and rejoiced to do evil, the Lord reminded me of the parable of the wise and foolish builders. In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus said that a wise man builds his house on the rock of hearing and applying God’s Word to himself. The foolish man builds his house on the sand. Building one’s house on the sand is a metaphor for building one’s life on a bad foundation. It is foolish to build on any other foundation than the Word of God. Only those who build their life on Christ will enter paradise after they die.
“For the Lord will not cast off His people, nor will He forsake His inheritance. But judgment will return to righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it.” Psalm 94:14-15
Once the wicked one gains power, he wrongly assumes that his crime network will never be brought down. He is deceived. God may allow His people to experience defeat for a time so that they get serious about seeking Him, but in due season, God will flip the script.
In Revelation 13:7, we read, “It was granted to him [the antichrist] to make war with the saints and to overcome them.” The Lord allows this so that His people will draw near to Him. But later, in Revelation 19:20, we read, “Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet... These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone.”
Jesus taught in Matthew 25:31-46 that when He returns all the nations will be gathered before Him. He will separate the sheep from the goats. He will say to the sheep, “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” He will say to the goats, “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. They will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
“Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? Who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity? Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence. If I say, ‘My foot slips,’ Your mercy, O Lord, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul.” Psalm 94:16-19
Who will rise up for God’s man or woman? God will!
In Acts 7:54-56, when evil persecutors like ferocious lions bit Stephen with their teeth, and when they prepared to stone him to death, he was full of the Holy Spirit. Stephen “gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God.” Stephen was standing up for Jesus, and Jesus stood for him. Stephen remarked, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”
In 2 Timothy 4:17-18, Paul spoke of the Lord rising up on his behalf. “The Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!”
The Lord’s mercy held Stephen up as he was slain for the sake of Christ. The Lord’s mercy held Paul up by delivering him from death. In both incidents, God’s comforts delighted their souls.
“Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with You? They gather together against the life of the righteous and condemn innocent blood. But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge. He has brought on them their own iniquity and shall cut them off in their own wickedness. The Lord our God shall cut them off.” Psalm 94:20-23
The downfall of Haman in the Book of Esther and the downfall of the antichrist in the Book of Revelation are examples of wicked men being brought down by God. These men condemned the innocent. God preserved the life of Esther, and He will preserve the lives of many saints in the future. In Revelation 20:4, John saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness for Jesus. They had not worshiped the beast or his image. They had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. “They lived [again] and reigned with Christ.”
In Revelation 16:5-6, amidst judgments being released on the wicked, an angel declares, “You are righteous, O Lord. The One who is and who was and who is to be, because You have judged these things. For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and You have given them blood to drink. For it is their just due.” And in Revelation 16:7, John hears another angel saying, “Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments.”
The central message of Psalm 94 is simple yet profound. When the wicked gain power, God is the place of refuge for His people. The safest place to be is close to God. The Lord comforts us who trust in Him, and He executes justice on the wicked.
Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Serving Christ, Spouse and Children
Back in January of 2017, Chuck Schumer made a widely quoted statement about the US intelligence community in an interview with Rachel Maddow. He said, “Let me tell you, you take on the intelligence community, they have six ways from Sunday at getting back at you."
The devil comes against the servant of Christ from many directions. He wants to stop us from serving Jesus. He will do it by ripping apart our marriages and turning our children against us if he can. Thus, we need Jesus Christ to prosper our service to Him, spouse and family.
How should a disciple of Jesus balance his roles as a husband, father and servant of Christ?
As a teen, I enjoyed singing hymns that inspired me to serve Christ. Three of my favorites were:
A Mighty Fortress is our God
Savior Thy Dying Love
Jesus, I My Cross have Taken
Some lines from these hymns include:
“A Mighty Fortress is our God” v. 4: “Let goods and kindred go. This mortal life also. The body they may kill. God’s truth abides still. His kingdom is forever.”
“Savior Thy Dying Love” v. 3: “Give me a faithful heart likeness to Thee, that each departing day, henceforth may see, some work of love begun, some deed of kindness done, some wanderer sought and won, something for Thee.”
“Jesus, I my Cross have taken” in v. 2: “And while Thou shalt smile upon me, God of wisdom, love, and might, foes may hate and friends may shun me, show Thy face, and all is bright.”
These lines helped to shape my purpose for life. I would bring God glory and enjoy Him forever.
How did my home life shape my concept of the father’s and husband’s role while growing up?
My father worked to provide the needs of wife and children and that was considered enough. I was told to be grateful for that. My mom stayed home and was the relational parent. So, I assumed that fathers were workers not talkers. Mothers were caregivers and conversational.
How did certain Bible passages shape my priorities towards Christ and family?
In Matthew 10:37-38, Jesus taught, “He that loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that takes not his cross, and follows after Me, is not worthy of Me.” In Luke 14:26, Jesus said, “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.”
“Hate” here is a Semitic expression meaning to love less or to place in a lower priority than one’s commitment to God. Jesus also taught us to honor our parents and to love others.
Jesus taught that loyalty to Him must come before loyalty to spouse, children, parents, or any other earthly relationship. Loving a son or daughter more than him makes a person “not worthy” of him. However, He did not teach us to abandon family out of neglect or cruelty. The emphasis is on ultimate allegiance when family obligations and discipleship come into conflict.
As a young missionary, husband and father, I tended to err on the side of being overly zealous to serve the people of China, and fall short in my roles as a husband and father.
But then, good men quoted to me from 1 Timothy 5:8 where Paul wrote: “If any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” I did not want to be considered an infidel. I did not want my family to suffer.
At first glance, it may seem that 1 Timothy 5:8 contradicts what Jesus taught about us serving Him supremely. However, most Christian interpreters see the two teachings as addressing different issues. Jesus taught that devotion to God comes before every other loyalty, including family. Paul taught that believers have a responsibility to care for their families and that neglecting that responsibility contradicts the faith they profess.
God wants men to deeply love their families. In the Gospels, Jesus healed children. He responded to the cries of mothers and fathers on behalf of their children. In Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them. For of such is the kingdom of heaven.” In Ephesians 6:4, Paul wrote, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”
Following Christ includes loving and providing for one’s family’s physical and spiritual needs—not abandoning them. The man’s role in the family can be compared with that of a prophet, king and priest. The prophet speaks helpful words from God to them. The king protects and provides for them. The priest brings them before God in prayer, and serves them.
Which Christian authors have written about serving Christ, spouse and children simultaneously?
Below are some thoughts from various authors:
Eugene Peterson argues that a pastor’s first congregation is often his own family. He was skeptical of ministry-driven busyness and believed pastoral work should be structured so that marriage and parenting are not sacrificed to church demands.
Brian Croft has written extensively on how a pastor’s qualifications for ministry are inseparable from how he leads and loves his family. His approach is practical and aimed at avoiding the common trap of neglecting home life for church responsibilities.
John Piper emphasizes that a pastor’s effectiveness flows from his relationship with God and integrity at home. While he strongly values ministry, he has repeatedly taught that faithfulness to one’s wife and children is a central part of pastoral faithfulness.
Zack Eswine focuses on accepting human limitations. His work often helps pastors resist the pressure to be constantly available or indispensable, creating healthier space for family life.
Tim Keller urges God’s servants to balance ministry with family through intentional scheduling, shared decision-making with one’s spouse, and refusing to let church demands consume every evening and weekend. Many pastors find his approach realistic because he ministered in a demanding urban context while raising a family.
Charles Spurgeon viewed family life and ministry as deeply interconnected rather than competing spheres. His writings and letters reveal a pastor who cherished his wife and children while carrying immense ministry responsibilities.
Good pastors reject the idea that they prove devotion to God by neglecting their family.
Consider following these guidelines: Your marriage is not a distraction from ministry. Your children are part of your stewardship, not an obstacle to your calling. The Church’s needs are endless, so boundaries are a necessity, not a luxury. A happy pastor is usually more valuable to a church than a grieved one. Success should be measured by Christ-likeness, not activities.
Is the Father and Son relationship of God and Jesus a model for men to follow? Yes, in the sense of love, mutual collaboration and closeness.
Being a servant of God, a father and husband are all God-ordained roles. Each role serves a critical role in helping the world to be a better place.
What am I doing to improve my service in these areas? I am studying relevant Bible passages, regarding what other godly men have said on the topic and am asking the Lord to help me.
As I prayed about serving Christ, spouse and children, the Lord brought to my mind Romans 8:14, where Paul wrote, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” In Psalm 143:10, the Lord provided a prayer for me to pray. It goes, “Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” In Ezekiel 36:27, God promised me, “I will put My Spirit in you and move you to follow My decrees and be careful to keep My laws.” With God all things are possible! I am trusting in Him to finish this race well.
The devil comes against the servant of Christ from many directions. He wants to stop us from serving Jesus. He will do it by ripping apart our marriages and turning our children against us if he can. Thus, we need Jesus Christ to prosper our service to Him, spouse and family.
How should a disciple of Jesus balance his roles as a husband, father and servant of Christ?
As a teen, I enjoyed singing hymns that inspired me to serve Christ. Three of my favorites were:
A Mighty Fortress is our God
Savior Thy Dying Love
Jesus, I My Cross have Taken
Some lines from these hymns include:
“A Mighty Fortress is our God” v. 4: “Let goods and kindred go. This mortal life also. The body they may kill. God’s truth abides still. His kingdom is forever.”
“Savior Thy Dying Love” v. 3: “Give me a faithful heart likeness to Thee, that each departing day, henceforth may see, some work of love begun, some deed of kindness done, some wanderer sought and won, something for Thee.”
“Jesus, I my Cross have taken” in v. 2: “And while Thou shalt smile upon me, God of wisdom, love, and might, foes may hate and friends may shun me, show Thy face, and all is bright.”
These lines helped to shape my purpose for life. I would bring God glory and enjoy Him forever.
How did my home life shape my concept of the father’s and husband’s role while growing up?
My father worked to provide the needs of wife and children and that was considered enough. I was told to be grateful for that. My mom stayed home and was the relational parent. So, I assumed that fathers were workers not talkers. Mothers were caregivers and conversational.
How did certain Bible passages shape my priorities towards Christ and family?
In Matthew 10:37-38, Jesus taught, “He that loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he that takes not his cross, and follows after Me, is not worthy of Me.” In Luke 14:26, Jesus said, “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.”
“Hate” here is a Semitic expression meaning to love less or to place in a lower priority than one’s commitment to God. Jesus also taught us to honor our parents and to love others.
Jesus taught that loyalty to Him must come before loyalty to spouse, children, parents, or any other earthly relationship. Loving a son or daughter more than him makes a person “not worthy” of him. However, He did not teach us to abandon family out of neglect or cruelty. The emphasis is on ultimate allegiance when family obligations and discipleship come into conflict.
As a young missionary, husband and father, I tended to err on the side of being overly zealous to serve the people of China, and fall short in my roles as a husband and father.
But then, good men quoted to me from 1 Timothy 5:8 where Paul wrote: “If any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” I did not want to be considered an infidel. I did not want my family to suffer.
At first glance, it may seem that 1 Timothy 5:8 contradicts what Jesus taught about us serving Him supremely. However, most Christian interpreters see the two teachings as addressing different issues. Jesus taught that devotion to God comes before every other loyalty, including family. Paul taught that believers have a responsibility to care for their families and that neglecting that responsibility contradicts the faith they profess.
God wants men to deeply love their families. In the Gospels, Jesus healed children. He responded to the cries of mothers and fathers on behalf of their children. In Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them. For of such is the kingdom of heaven.” In Ephesians 6:4, Paul wrote, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”
Following Christ includes loving and providing for one’s family’s physical and spiritual needs—not abandoning them. The man’s role in the family can be compared with that of a prophet, king and priest. The prophet speaks helpful words from God to them. The king protects and provides for them. The priest brings them before God in prayer, and serves them.
Which Christian authors have written about serving Christ, spouse and children simultaneously?
Below are some thoughts from various authors:
Eugene Peterson argues that a pastor’s first congregation is often his own family. He was skeptical of ministry-driven busyness and believed pastoral work should be structured so that marriage and parenting are not sacrificed to church demands.
Brian Croft has written extensively on how a pastor’s qualifications for ministry are inseparable from how he leads and loves his family. His approach is practical and aimed at avoiding the common trap of neglecting home life for church responsibilities.
John Piper emphasizes that a pastor’s effectiveness flows from his relationship with God and integrity at home. While he strongly values ministry, he has repeatedly taught that faithfulness to one’s wife and children is a central part of pastoral faithfulness.
Zack Eswine focuses on accepting human limitations. His work often helps pastors resist the pressure to be constantly available or indispensable, creating healthier space for family life.
Tim Keller urges God’s servants to balance ministry with family through intentional scheduling, shared decision-making with one’s spouse, and refusing to let church demands consume every evening and weekend. Many pastors find his approach realistic because he ministered in a demanding urban context while raising a family.
Charles Spurgeon viewed family life and ministry as deeply interconnected rather than competing spheres. His writings and letters reveal a pastor who cherished his wife and children while carrying immense ministry responsibilities.
Good pastors reject the idea that they prove devotion to God by neglecting their family.
Consider following these guidelines: Your marriage is not a distraction from ministry. Your children are part of your stewardship, not an obstacle to your calling. The Church’s needs are endless, so boundaries are a necessity, not a luxury. A happy pastor is usually more valuable to a church than a grieved one. Success should be measured by Christ-likeness, not activities.
Is the Father and Son relationship of God and Jesus a model for men to follow? Yes, in the sense of love, mutual collaboration and closeness.
Being a servant of God, a father and husband are all God-ordained roles. Each role serves a critical role in helping the world to be a better place.
What am I doing to improve my service in these areas? I am studying relevant Bible passages, regarding what other godly men have said on the topic and am asking the Lord to help me.
As I prayed about serving Christ, spouse and children, the Lord brought to my mind Romans 8:14, where Paul wrote, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” In Psalm 143:10, the Lord provided a prayer for me to pray. It goes, “Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” In Ezekiel 36:27, God promised me, “I will put My Spirit in you and move you to follow My decrees and be careful to keep My laws.” With God all things are possible! I am trusting in Him to finish this race well.
Our God Reigns – Psalm 93
“The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty. The Lord is clothed, He has clothed Himself with strength. Surely the world is established, so that it cannot be moved.” Psalm 93:1
God’s majesty surpasses all earthly power and authority. Kings, presidents, armies, and nations may appear impressive, but their glory fades in comparison to the splendor of God. [1]
No human authority rivals God’s greatness. Thus, we fix our eyes on the majesty of God rather than the size of a problem. A problem as small as a coin held up to our eye can block out the gigantic sun due to the coin’s proximity to our eye, but in truth, the sun is greater. In other words, don’t allow a small problem to be bigger in your mind than God.
The phrase “the Lord has clothed Himself with strength” speaks of Christ. God has always been mighty so why would He need to put on strength? In 2 Corinthians 13:4, we read, “For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God.” Christ subjected Himself to weakness when He took on human flesh, suffered and died for our sins, but afterwards, He was clothed with strength once again when He was raised by the power of God.
The world was created through and for Christ. The Word of God is another name for Christ.
In Colossians 1:16, we read of Christ, “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, dominions, principalities, or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.”
In John 1:1, we read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Before the universe was created, Jesus (the Word) already existed. “The Word was with God” means that Jesus and God the Father existed together, highlighting both oneness and distinction within the Trinity. “The Word was God” means that Jesus is God in His nature and being. In John 1:14, we read that “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” meaning that Jesus is the physical manifestation of the invisible God.
In Hebrews 11:3, we read, “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.”
“Your throne is established from of old. You are from everlasting.” Psalm 93:3
God’s reign preceded the existence of all other kingdoms, governments, and nations. He is “everlasting” meaning His throne will still exist after earthly thrones cease to exist.
“The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their waves. The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, than the mighty waves of the sea.” Psalm 93:3-4
Floods lifting up their voices and waves roaring symbolize hostile nations, persecution, troubles, fears, and spiritual opposition. When massive waves of hardship begin to enter our boat one after another, Christ stands up and says to them, “Peace! Be still!” In Mark 4:39, we read that Jesus stilled the wind and the waves. He “is mightier than the mighty waves of the sea
The enemies of God may make much noise, but they cannot stand against the Lord and His Anointed One. God is greater than all the storms of life.
“Your testimonies are very sure. Holiness adorns Your house, O Lord, forever.” Psalm 93:5
God’s reign is characterized by unchanging truth. His promises fail not. Every prophecy, covenant, and promise finds its fulfillment in His perfect faithfulness. [2]
Holiness becomes God’s house forever. God’s holiness is reflected in the holy character of His people. A holy church is a strong church because it reflects God’s nature. [3]
Psalm 93 finds its fullest expression in Christ. After His resurrection and ascension, Jesus Christ was exalted to the Father’s right hand and now He reigns over all things. [4] In Revelation 11:15, after the seventh angel sounds his trumpet, loud voices proclaim, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and He will reign for ever and ever.”
No matter what floods rise against the Church, no matter what turmoil fills the world, God’s throne remains secure. His majesty is unmatched. His power is unlimited. His kingdom is everlasting. His victory is certain, and His holiness is perfect. [5]
In Isaiah 52:7, we read, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings glad tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’”
Knowing that the Lord reigns, helps us to live with confidence, peace, and hope. He who sits upon the throne is both all-powerful, completely trustworthy, and He is for us. He loves us!
[1-5] Words edited and modified from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
God’s majesty surpasses all earthly power and authority. Kings, presidents, armies, and nations may appear impressive, but their glory fades in comparison to the splendor of God. [1]
No human authority rivals God’s greatness. Thus, we fix our eyes on the majesty of God rather than the size of a problem. A problem as small as a coin held up to our eye can block out the gigantic sun due to the coin’s proximity to our eye, but in truth, the sun is greater. In other words, don’t allow a small problem to be bigger in your mind than God.
The phrase “the Lord has clothed Himself with strength” speaks of Christ. God has always been mighty so why would He need to put on strength? In 2 Corinthians 13:4, we read, “For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God.” Christ subjected Himself to weakness when He took on human flesh, suffered and died for our sins, but afterwards, He was clothed with strength once again when He was raised by the power of God.
The world was created through and for Christ. The Word of God is another name for Christ.
In Colossians 1:16, we read of Christ, “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, dominions, principalities, or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.”
In John 1:1, we read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Before the universe was created, Jesus (the Word) already existed. “The Word was with God” means that Jesus and God the Father existed together, highlighting both oneness and distinction within the Trinity. “The Word was God” means that Jesus is God in His nature and being. In John 1:14, we read that “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” meaning that Jesus is the physical manifestation of the invisible God.
In Hebrews 11:3, we read, “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the Word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.”
“Your throne is established from of old. You are from everlasting.” Psalm 93:3
God’s reign preceded the existence of all other kingdoms, governments, and nations. He is “everlasting” meaning His throne will still exist after earthly thrones cease to exist.
“The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their waves. The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, than the mighty waves of the sea.” Psalm 93:3-4
Floods lifting up their voices and waves roaring symbolize hostile nations, persecution, troubles, fears, and spiritual opposition. When massive waves of hardship begin to enter our boat one after another, Christ stands up and says to them, “Peace! Be still!” In Mark 4:39, we read that Jesus stilled the wind and the waves. He “is mightier than the mighty waves of the sea
The enemies of God may make much noise, but they cannot stand against the Lord and His Anointed One. God is greater than all the storms of life.
“Your testimonies are very sure. Holiness adorns Your house, O Lord, forever.” Psalm 93:5
God’s reign is characterized by unchanging truth. His promises fail not. Every prophecy, covenant, and promise finds its fulfillment in His perfect faithfulness. [2]
Holiness becomes God’s house forever. God’s holiness is reflected in the holy character of His people. A holy church is a strong church because it reflects God’s nature. [3]
Psalm 93 finds its fullest expression in Christ. After His resurrection and ascension, Jesus Christ was exalted to the Father’s right hand and now He reigns over all things. [4] In Revelation 11:15, after the seventh angel sounds his trumpet, loud voices proclaim, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and He will reign for ever and ever.”
No matter what floods rise against the Church, no matter what turmoil fills the world, God’s throne remains secure. His majesty is unmatched. His power is unlimited. His kingdom is everlasting. His victory is certain, and His holiness is perfect. [5]
In Isaiah 52:7, we read, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings glad tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’”
Knowing that the Lord reigns, helps us to live with confidence, peace, and hope. He who sits upon the throne is both all-powerful, completely trustworthy, and He is for us. He loves us!
[1-5] Words edited and modified from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Worshipping the Lord with Songs of Praise – Psalm 92
“A Psalm. A Song for the Sabbath day.”
What do Christians do on the Sabbath Day during our gatherings? We sing songs about God’s faithfulness to us and of His love for us. We give Him thanks. We sing His praises.
In David’s day, musicians used stringed instruments to accompany singing. David specifically mentions the עָשׂוֹר (Asor) which was a 10 string instrument with a deeper (bass) sound than a כִּנּוֹר (kinnor - harp) which had 10-12 strings. He also mentions the נֶבֶל (nevel - lute). The lute had strings but the strings were stretched over a membrane kind of like a banjo. Nowadays, many Christian musicians use stringed instruments (guitars) to accompany congregational singing.
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your Name, O Most High, to declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night, on an instrument of 10 strings [עָשׂוֹר], on the lute [נֶבֶל], and on the harp [כִּנּוֹר], with harmonious sound.” Psalm 92:1-3
What is good? Good is giving thanks to the Lord. Good is singing praises to His Name. Good is declaring His loving kindness every morning. Good is declaring His faithfulness every night.
We can sing to the Lord during Sabbath gatherings but also day and night in our own homes. As a teenager, I played an electronic keyboard while singing hymns to God. Singing God’s praises helped me through some of the darkest days of my life.
Good is playing a string instrument unto the Lord and singing praises to His Name!
What yields gladness? Gladness flows from focusing on the Lord’s faithfulness and love.
On the Sabbath, we rejoice in God’s works rather than our own.
“For You, Lord, have made me glad through Your work. I will triumph in the works of Your hands. O Lord, how great are Your works! Your thoughts are very deep.” Psalm 92:4-5
The Lord’s works include providing for our material needs, protecting us from harm, forgiving our sins, answering our prayers, gracing us with His love, peace and joy, as well as assuring us that we have everlasting life in Christ.
The Lord’s works also include the beauty of the earth and the vastness of the universe. When we study the stars, planets, moons, mountain heights, ocean depths, the birds, the beasts, the fish and our own internal anatomy, we realize that His thoughts are very deep and detailed.
“A senseless man does not know, nor does a fool understand this. When the wicked spring up like grass, and when all the workers of iniquity flourish, it is that they may be destroyed forever. But You, Lord, are on high forevermore. For behold, Your enemies, O Lord, for behold, Your enemies shall perish. All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered.” Psalm 92:6-7
Some authority figures are like ferocious beasts. They enjoy attacking and killing God’s sheep. While worshipping with Christians in China, I heard testimonies of how cruel some government officials were toward them. Some sent them to labor camps. Some subjected them to being shocked with an electrical cattle prod and urged them to deny Christ. Some of my missionary friends were detained, interrogated and banned from re-entry into China. All the Christians wanted to do was worship the Lord and learn what He has said in the Bible.
Have you ever walked through a neighborhood where the houses are surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns? Impressive right? The Lord compares the wicked workers of sin to grass that has become too high and unsightly. The grass needs to be mowed and the beauty of the neighborhood needs to be restored. In due season, the Lord will bring it to pass.
In Proverbs 25:4-5, the Lord says, “Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel. Remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.”
From a human perspective, it is discouraging to see evil doers prosper while faithful people are persecuted. However, God’s judgment is certain, even if it is delayed. What appears to be success may actually precede destruction. We need to be patient. [1]
“But my horn You have exalted like a wild ox. I have been anointed with fresh oil. My eye also has seen my desire on my enemies. My ears hear my desire on the wicked who rise up against me.” Psalm 92:8-11
The “exalted horn” speaks of the accolades of victory. “Fresh oil” speaks of enduement with power by the Holy Spirit. God’s Spirit gives us confidence that with Christ we shall win.
“The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalm 92:12-13
Palm and Cedar trees grow tall and strong. So, do those who plant themselves in God’s house. [2]
“They shall still bear fruit in old age. They shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the Lord is upright. He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.” Psalm 92:14-15
Planted in God’s house we bear good fruit even when we are old! According to Galatians 5:22-23, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” In 2 Corinthians 4:16-17, Paul wrote, “We do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” Praise the Lord!
God’s servants have produced good fruit during their old age. Noah was 500 years old when he was first mentioned in Genesis 5:32. In Genesis 7:6, Noah was 600 when the flood began. He built the ark that preserved the human race when he was old. In Genesis 21:5, Abraham was 100 years old when his son Isaac was born. Isaac was an important link in the genealogy of Jesus. Moses was 80 years old when He started out to rescue the slaves from Egypt. Early Christian scholars (such as Irenaeus) dated the writing of the Book of Revelation to around 95 AD. If John were in his early twenties when Jesus first called him, he would have been 80-96 years old when he received the words of the Book of Revelation from God.
There are many who tell us that they have the best solution for aging gracefully. I prefer what the Lord says to us in Nehemiah, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” I believe what the Lord says to us in Psalm 34:5, “They looked to Him and were radiant.” In Psalm 149:4, the Lord promises us that, “He will beautify the humble with salvation.”
Thus, I want to keep worshipping the Lord day and night in my home, and also with His people on Sabbath Days.
What do Christians do on the Sabbath Day during our gatherings? We sing songs about God’s faithfulness to us and of His love for us. We give Him thanks. We sing His praises.
In David’s day, musicians used stringed instruments to accompany singing. David specifically mentions the עָשׂוֹר (Asor) which was a 10 string instrument with a deeper (bass) sound than a כִּנּוֹר (kinnor - harp) which had 10-12 strings. He also mentions the נֶבֶל (nevel - lute). The lute had strings but the strings were stretched over a membrane kind of like a banjo. Nowadays, many Christian musicians use stringed instruments (guitars) to accompany congregational singing.
“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your Name, O Most High, to declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night, on an instrument of 10 strings [עָשׂוֹר], on the lute [נֶבֶל], and on the harp [כִּנּוֹר], with harmonious sound.” Psalm 92:1-3
What is good? Good is giving thanks to the Lord. Good is singing praises to His Name. Good is declaring His loving kindness every morning. Good is declaring His faithfulness every night.
We can sing to the Lord during Sabbath gatherings but also day and night in our own homes. As a teenager, I played an electronic keyboard while singing hymns to God. Singing God’s praises helped me through some of the darkest days of my life.
Good is playing a string instrument unto the Lord and singing praises to His Name!
What yields gladness? Gladness flows from focusing on the Lord’s faithfulness and love.
On the Sabbath, we rejoice in God’s works rather than our own.
“For You, Lord, have made me glad through Your work. I will triumph in the works of Your hands. O Lord, how great are Your works! Your thoughts are very deep.” Psalm 92:4-5
The Lord’s works include providing for our material needs, protecting us from harm, forgiving our sins, answering our prayers, gracing us with His love, peace and joy, as well as assuring us that we have everlasting life in Christ.
The Lord’s works also include the beauty of the earth and the vastness of the universe. When we study the stars, planets, moons, mountain heights, ocean depths, the birds, the beasts, the fish and our own internal anatomy, we realize that His thoughts are very deep and detailed.
“A senseless man does not know, nor does a fool understand this. When the wicked spring up like grass, and when all the workers of iniquity flourish, it is that they may be destroyed forever. But You, Lord, are on high forevermore. For behold, Your enemies, O Lord, for behold, Your enemies shall perish. All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered.” Psalm 92:6-7
Some authority figures are like ferocious beasts. They enjoy attacking and killing God’s sheep. While worshipping with Christians in China, I heard testimonies of how cruel some government officials were toward them. Some sent them to labor camps. Some subjected them to being shocked with an electrical cattle prod and urged them to deny Christ. Some of my missionary friends were detained, interrogated and banned from re-entry into China. All the Christians wanted to do was worship the Lord and learn what He has said in the Bible.
Have you ever walked through a neighborhood where the houses are surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns? Impressive right? The Lord compares the wicked workers of sin to grass that has become too high and unsightly. The grass needs to be mowed and the beauty of the neighborhood needs to be restored. In due season, the Lord will bring it to pass.
In Proverbs 25:4-5, the Lord says, “Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel. Remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.”
From a human perspective, it is discouraging to see evil doers prosper while faithful people are persecuted. However, God’s judgment is certain, even if it is delayed. What appears to be success may actually precede destruction. We need to be patient. [1]
“But my horn You have exalted like a wild ox. I have been anointed with fresh oil. My eye also has seen my desire on my enemies. My ears hear my desire on the wicked who rise up against me.” Psalm 92:8-11
The “exalted horn” speaks of the accolades of victory. “Fresh oil” speaks of enduement with power by the Holy Spirit. God’s Spirit gives us confidence that with Christ we shall win.
“The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Psalm 92:12-13
Palm and Cedar trees grow tall and strong. So, do those who plant themselves in God’s house. [2]
“They shall still bear fruit in old age. They shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the Lord is upright. He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.” Psalm 92:14-15
Planted in God’s house we bear good fruit even when we are old! According to Galatians 5:22-23, “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” In 2 Corinthians 4:16-17, Paul wrote, “We do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.” Praise the Lord!
God’s servants have produced good fruit during their old age. Noah was 500 years old when he was first mentioned in Genesis 5:32. In Genesis 7:6, Noah was 600 when the flood began. He built the ark that preserved the human race when he was old. In Genesis 21:5, Abraham was 100 years old when his son Isaac was born. Isaac was an important link in the genealogy of Jesus. Moses was 80 years old when He started out to rescue the slaves from Egypt. Early Christian scholars (such as Irenaeus) dated the writing of the Book of Revelation to around 95 AD. If John were in his early twenties when Jesus first called him, he would have been 80-96 years old when he received the words of the Book of Revelation from God.
There are many who tell us that they have the best solution for aging gracefully. I prefer what the Lord says to us in Nehemiah, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” I believe what the Lord says to us in Psalm 34:5, “They looked to Him and were radiant.” In Psalm 149:4, the Lord promises us that, “He will beautify the humble with salvation.”
Thus, I want to keep worshipping the Lord day and night in my home, and also with His people on Sabbath Days.
Note: the Sabbath Day for Christians is often held on the first day of the week in celebration of the resurrection of Christ from the dead, Thus, most churches hold worship services on Sundays.
[1-2] Words based on words edited and modified from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Monday, June 8, 2026
Blessed to Know and Serve Christ – Psalm 91
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High” describes us when we live in continual fellowship with God. The emphasis is not on God’s blessings but on God Himself. We who make God our home find shelter “under the shadow of the Almighty.” The safest place on earth is not a location but in a relationship with God. [1]
“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress. My God, in Him I will trust.’” Psalm 91:2
Every believer must move from knowing truths about God to personally trusting in Him. It is one thing to state, “God is a refuge,” and another thing to say, “God is MY refuge.” [2]
Think of it! When our primary goal in life is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever, we do God’s will rather than the devil’s self-destructive deeds. Before I was born again, I went to bars. Once, while in such a place, a man went berserk and began hitting people including me. The devil enjoyed putting me in harm’s way. Jesus enjoys saving me from harm and eternal destruction.
“Surely, He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence.” Psalm 91:3
The “snare of the fowler” is a trap. While bringing Bibles to Christians in China, the Lord rescued me numerous times from authorities who sought to confiscate the Bibles. Once, two soldiers stopped me on a public sidewalk and demanded to see what was in my shoulder bag. There were Chinese Bibles in it. In my mind, I asked the Lord what to do. He told me to trust Him by turning my back to them and walking away. I did and they stood paralyzed. They did not pursue me. Praise God! God is able to preserve us from physical and spiritual danger.
The “noisome pestilence” is a poetic term for a deadly and devastating epidemic or plague. At one point, both my wife and son had contracted a deadly parasite from food while in China. Our son, Andrew, was three years old. A doctor told us that he would die. Sherry was pregnant with our fourth child and very ill in a hospital as well. Then, one night when all seemed so bleak, the Lord spoke Psalm 91:3 to us. He assured Sherry and me that both she and Andrew would recover. The next morning, they were both healed and released to return home. Praise God!
God promised us in Romans 8:39 that nothing can separate us from His love.
“He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge.” Psalm 91:4
The image of God covering His people with His feathers is one of remarkable tenderness. Like a mother bird protecting her young, God gathers His children under His wings. His protection is affectionate and powerful. [3]
“His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.” Psalm 91:5-6
In William Shakespeare’s play about Julius Caesar, there is a line that goes, “Cowards die many times before their deaths. The valiant never taste of death but once.” A fourth grade teacher quoted this line to me and my fellow students. I never forgot it.
I struggled with being afraid of death until the Lord brought blessed assurance to my soul that whosoever believes in Him does not perish but has eternal life. Yes, my earthly body will die, but my soul lives forever. After I shed this temporary body, I receive a heavenly one.
In 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, we read, “The body is sown in corruption. It is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor. It is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness. It is raised in power. It is sown a natural body. It is raised a spiritual body.” In 1 Corinthians 15:49, we read, “As we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man [Jesus].” Thus, Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:55, “O death, where is your sting?”
In Hebrews 2:14-15, we read, “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”
We need not fear death when Christ is our Savior. Death is the portal to heaven for us. Heaven is a wonderful place without wars, pain, or sorrow. Heaven is a perfect place of peace, love and joy. In Psalm 16:11, God assures us that in His presence there is fullness of joy. Praise the Lord!
“A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look and see the reward of the wicked.” Psalm 91:7-8
Psalm 91 is also called the Soldier’s Prayer. Jimmy Stewart’s father gave him a Psalm 91 prayer card before he entered the second World War to fly bombing missions against Hitler. Jimmy Stewart safely flew 20 bombing missions in a B-24 over Germany.
Major Frank Diorio shared on the Lou Dobbs show how he prayed Psalm 91 daily during his tour of duty in Iraq. He said, “No food, no sleep, no casualties during three days of fighting in what was considered the most dangerous city in Al Anbar Province. We did not lose one Marine during 275 engagements in seven months.”
“Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling.” Psalm 91:9-10
God is our dwelling place. Thanks to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we can enjoy a life of continuous fellowship with God. Thus, in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul prays for us, “the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.”
God’s presence is not merely reserved for emergencies, we can walk with Him continuously. In Isaiah 26:3, we read, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You.”
“No evil shall befall you” does not mean believers will never experience suffering, sickness, persecution, or loss. Rather, no event can ultimately harm God’s eternal purpose for us. In Romans 8:28, we read, “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
“For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.” Psalm 91:11-12
Two angels physically pulled Lot and his family out of a city before it was destroyed by fire. An angel baked bread and provided water for the prophet Elijah when he was fleeing for his life. An angel struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers overnight to lift a siege against King Hezekiah’s people. An angel shut the mouths of hungry lions when Daniel was thrown into their den. An angel warned Joseph in a dream to take Mary and baby Jesus to Egypt to escape King Herod’s massacre. Angels cared for Jesus after His 40-day fast. An angel opened the public jail doors at night to free the apostles. God’s angels are helping His servants continuously.
The Lord delivered Daniel Matei from a beating in Romania. A large man was going to beat him up. He asked the Lord what to do. The Lord told him to stand up. He asked the Lord, “Now what?” The Lord told him to take a step forward. He did. “Now what?” The Lord told him to take another step forward. When he did, the man turned ghastly white and fled from him. He asked God, “What happened?” The Lord told him, “When you stood up, I placed My angel before you, and he was much bigger than that man.”
“You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion, and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.” Psalm 91:13
This passage speaks of victory over Satan. The lion and cobra symbolize the devil. Christ crushed Satan’s power against us by dying on the cross for our sins. Now, he can no longer use our sins to accuse and condemn us before God. The handwriting against us has been nailed to the cross.
In Luke 10:17, the disciples of Jesus had great joy. They said to Him, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your Name.” In Luke 10:19, Jesus said to them, “Behold, I give you power to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”
“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high because he has known My Name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him.” Psalm 91:14-15
These promises are to those who know, love, and communicate with the Lord by praying.
In John 12:26, Jesus said, “If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.”
“With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.” Psalm 91:16
In Revelation 1:1, we read, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place.” When we serve the Lord, He satisfies us with revelations of who He is and of the wonderful things that He has planned for us. These revelations help us to be strong and hopeful in a world full of uncertainty and darkness.
In Matthew 16:16-17, after Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ the Son of the living God, Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” The revelation of Jesus Christ is a blessing from God above! “Thank You heavenly Father for revealing Yourself to us through Your Son.”
[1-3] Edited and modified material from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High” describes us when we live in continual fellowship with God. The emphasis is not on God’s blessings but on God Himself. We who make God our home find shelter “under the shadow of the Almighty.” The safest place on earth is not a location but in a relationship with God. [1]
“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress. My God, in Him I will trust.’” Psalm 91:2
Every believer must move from knowing truths about God to personally trusting in Him. It is one thing to state, “God is a refuge,” and another thing to say, “God is MY refuge.” [2]
Think of it! When our primary goal in life is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever, we do God’s will rather than the devil’s self-destructive deeds. Before I was born again, I went to bars. Once, while in such a place, a man went berserk and began hitting people including me. The devil enjoyed putting me in harm’s way. Jesus enjoys saving me from harm and eternal destruction.
“Surely, He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence.” Psalm 91:3
The “snare of the fowler” is a trap. While bringing Bibles to Christians in China, the Lord rescued me numerous times from authorities who sought to confiscate the Bibles. Once, two soldiers stopped me on a public sidewalk and demanded to see what was in my shoulder bag. There were Chinese Bibles in it. In my mind, I asked the Lord what to do. He told me to trust Him by turning my back to them and walking away. I did and they stood paralyzed. They did not pursue me. Praise God! God is able to preserve us from physical and spiritual danger.
The “noisome pestilence” is a poetic term for a deadly and devastating epidemic or plague. At one point, both my wife and son had contracted a deadly parasite from food while in China. Our son, Andrew, was three years old. A doctor told us that he would die. Sherry was pregnant with our fourth child and very ill in a hospital as well. Then, one night when all seemed so bleak, the Lord spoke Psalm 91:3 to us. He assured Sherry and me that both she and Andrew would recover. The next morning, they were both healed and released to return home. Praise God!
God promised us in Romans 8:39 that nothing can separate us from His love.
“He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge.” Psalm 91:4
The image of God covering His people with His feathers is one of remarkable tenderness. Like a mother bird protecting her young, God gathers His children under His wings. His protection is affectionate and powerful. [3]
“His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.” Psalm 91:5-6
In William Shakespeare’s play about Julius Caesar, there is a line that goes, “Cowards die many times before their deaths. The valiant never taste of death but once.” A fourth grade teacher quoted this line to me and my fellow students. I never forgot it.
I struggled with being afraid of death until the Lord brought blessed assurance to my soul that whosoever believes in Him does not perish but has eternal life. Yes, my earthly body will die, but my soul lives forever. After I shed this temporary body, I receive a heavenly one.
In 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, we read, “The body is sown in corruption. It is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor. It is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness. It is raised in power. It is sown a natural body. It is raised a spiritual body.” In 1 Corinthians 15:49, we read, “As we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man [Jesus].” Thus, Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:55, “O death, where is your sting?”
In Hebrews 2:14-15, we read, “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”
We need not fear death when Christ is our Savior. Death is the portal to heaven for us. Heaven is a wonderful place without wars, pain, or sorrow. Heaven is a perfect place of peace, love and joy. In Psalm 16:11, God assures us that in His presence there is fullness of joy. Praise the Lord!
“A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look and see the reward of the wicked.” Psalm 91:7-8
Psalm 91 is also called the Soldier’s Prayer. Jimmy Stewart’s father gave him a Psalm 91 prayer card before he entered the second World War to fly bombing missions against Hitler. Jimmy Stewart safely flew 20 bombing missions in a B-24 over Germany.
Major Frank Diorio shared on the Lou Dobbs show how he prayed Psalm 91 daily during his tour of duty in Iraq. He said, “No food, no sleep, no casualties during three days of fighting in what was considered the most dangerous city in Al Anbar Province. We did not lose one Marine during 275 engagements in seven months.”
“Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling.” Psalm 91:9-10
God is our dwelling place. Thanks to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we can enjoy a life of continuous fellowship with God. Thus, in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul prays for us, “the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.”
God’s presence is not merely reserved for emergencies, we can walk with Him continuously. In Isaiah 26:3, we read, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You.”
“No evil shall befall you” does not mean believers will never experience suffering, sickness, persecution, or loss. Rather, no event can ultimately harm God’s eternal purpose for us. In Romans 8:28, we read, “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
“For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.” Psalm 91:11-12
Two angels physically pulled Lot and his family out of a city before it was destroyed by fire. An angel baked bread and provided water for the prophet Elijah when he was fleeing for his life. An angel struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers overnight to lift a siege against King Hezekiah’s people. An angel shut the mouths of hungry lions when Daniel was thrown into their den. An angel warned Joseph in a dream to take Mary and baby Jesus to Egypt to escape King Herod’s massacre. Angels cared for Jesus after His 40-day fast. An angel opened the public jail doors at night to free the apostles. God’s angels are helping His servants continuously.
The Lord delivered Daniel Matei from a beating in Romania. A large man was going to beat him up. He asked the Lord what to do. The Lord told him to stand up. He asked the Lord, “Now what?” The Lord told him to take a step forward. He did. “Now what?” The Lord told him to take another step forward. When he did, the man turned ghastly white and fled from him. He asked God, “What happened?” The Lord told him, “When you stood up, I placed My angel before you, and he was much bigger than that man.”
“You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion, and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.” Psalm 91:13
This passage speaks of victory over Satan. The lion and cobra symbolize the devil. Christ crushed Satan’s power against us by dying on the cross for our sins. Now, he can no longer use our sins to accuse and condemn us before God. The handwriting against us has been nailed to the cross.
In Luke 10:17, the disciples of Jesus had great joy. They said to Him, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your Name.” In Luke 10:19, Jesus said to them, “Behold, I give you power to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”
“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high because he has known My Name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him.” Psalm 91:14-15
These promises are to those who know, love, and communicate with the Lord by praying.
In John 12:26, Jesus said, “If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.”
“With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.” Psalm 91:16
In Revelation 1:1, we read, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place.” When we serve the Lord, He satisfies us with revelations of who He is and of the wonderful things that He has planned for us. These revelations help us to be strong and hopeful in a world full of uncertainty and darkness.
In Matthew 16:16-17, after Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ the Son of the living God, Jesus said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” The revelation of Jesus Christ is a blessing from God above! “Thank You heavenly Father for revealing Yourself to us through Your Son.”
[1-3] Edited and modified material from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Being a Man or Woman of God – Psalm 90
“A Prayer of Moses the man of God.” Psalm 90 Intro
How did Moses become a man of God? In Exodus 3:4, we read that God called to Moses from a burning bush. In Exodus 3:6, God introduced Himself to Moses. In Exodus 3:7-22, God called him to believe Him and to go forth on a mission with Him to set the children of Israel free from Egypt. God initiated and nurtured the relationship by giving Moses a calling to serve Him. Moses believed God and followed Him. This is how Moses became a man of God.
In Acts 26:12-19, Paul explained how he became a Christian to King Agrippa, saying, “As I journeyed to Damascus... I saw a light from heaven... I heard a voice speaking to me... So I said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Rise and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you. I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’”
Being a servant of God always involves prayer. Prayer, at its best, is a two-way conversation between God and a person. God is speaking and listening. The servant is speaking and listening.
“Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.” Psalm 90:1
In John 15:4, Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” Moses acknowledges this same truth in Psalm 90. Israel had wandered in Canaan, in Egypt, and in the wilderness, but wherever they were, God abided with them. Emmanuel, “God with us” set them apart.
Believers today share that same privilege. Circumstances change, but God remains with us.
“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” Psalm 90:2
The mountains, the earth, and the universe had a beginning; God did not. His existence is not measured by time. When we face the reality of aging, death, and loss, we find comfort in the unchanging nature of God. Everything around us may pass away, but He remains forever. [1]
“You turn man to destruction, and say, ‘Return, O children of men.’ For a thousand years in Your sight are like yesterday when it is past, and like a watch in the night.” Psalm 90:3-4
“The children of men!” Notice what is missing in this phrase! They are not men or women of God. They return to the dust, and afterwards are resurrected to face judgment.
In Hebrews 9:27, we read, “As it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”
In Daniel 10:5-6, Daniel saw a “Man clothed in linen, whose waist was girded with gold of Uphaz! ...His eyes like torches of fire... and the sound of His words like the voice of a multitude.” In Revelation 1:13-15, Jesus appeared to John as “One like the Son of Man... girded about the chest with a golden band... His eyes like a flame of fire... His voice as the sound of many waters.” Daniel saw the preincarnate Son of God.
In Daniel 12:2-3, the “Man” said to Daniel, “Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.”
In 2 Peter 3:8-9, Peter wrote, “Beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
“You carry them away like a flood. They are like a sleep. In the morning, they are like grass which grows up. In the morning it flourishes and grows up. In the evening it is cut down and withers.” Psalm 90:5-6
Moses compares the circumstances of the children of men to a flood, sleep and grass. Floods sweep them away without their consent. Sleep deprives them of awareness that their time before judgment is passing. Grass flourishes only to be cut down.
“For we have been consumed by Your anger, and by Your wrath we are terrified.” Psalm 90:6
In Matthew 10:28, Jesus said, “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” The most important fear to maintain is the fear of God. In Numbers 13–14, God sentenced the children of Isreal to wander for forty years in the wilderness to demonstrate His displeasure with unbelief.
“You have set our iniquities before You, our secret sins in the light of Your countenance.” Psalm 90:8
Nothing escapes God’s notice. He sees sinful motives that we conceal from others. In Hebrews 4:13, we read, “All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him...”
“For all our days have passed away in Your wrath. We finish our years like a sigh.” Psalm 90:9
Moses compares human life to a fleeting thought and to a breath that vanishes. The wilderness generation especially understood this reality. Year after year passed with little progress. [2]
“The days of our lives are 70 years; and if by reason of strength they are 80 years, yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” Psalm 90:10
Moses observes that the normal span of life is 70-80 years. This truth should move us to use our time wisely. The issue is not merely how long we live, but how faithfully we live for God. [3]
“Who knows the power of Your anger? For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath.” Psalm 90:11
Few people grasp the seriousness of God’s anger against sin. We tend to underestimate God’s commitment to holiness. This verse prepares the way for the prayer that follows in verse 12. [4]
“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
Moses asks God to help His people live with an awareness of life’s brevity. To “number our days” is to recognize that our time on earth is limited and valuable. The purpose of such numbering is to gain a heart of wisdom. How many people tend to live foolishly until something goes wrong? When we remember that our days are numbered, we are less likely to waste them on trivial pursuits and more likely to devote ourselves to what has eternal value. [5]
The Gospel provides hope. The wrath described in Psalm 90 ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. Jesus bore God’s judgment for sinners so that we who trust in Him are not condemned by God.
Psalm 90 moves from the reality of God’s wrath to the necessity of God’s grace. The awareness of our frailty and sinfulness should lead us, as it led Moses, to seek the grace of God. [6]
“Return, O Lord! How long? And have compassion on Your servants.” Psalm 90:13
Although Israel could not escape the consequences of its sin, Moses prayed that God would not remain angry forever. He appealed to God’s compassion.
This prayer teaches us that when discipline is deserved, we can appeal to God for compassion.
“O, satisfy us early with Your mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days!” Psalm 90:14
Moses knew that true satisfaction comes only from God’s lovingkindness. Wealth, success, and comfort cannot satisfy the soul as God’s grace does. [7]
“Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us, the years in which we have seen evil.” Psalm 90:15
The people had known sorrow because of sin, but Moses asked God to bless them so that their gladness in Him would exceed their grief due to their sin. [8]
“Let Your work appear to Your servants, and Your glory to their children.” Psalm 90:16
Moses prayed for his generation and for future generations. Yes, he wants God’s work to be revealed to His servants. He also wanted God to display His glory to their children. [9]
“And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us and establish the work of our hands for us. Yes, establish the work of our hands.” Psalm 90:17
Human effort cannot produce everlasting results. We need the beauty of the Lord to produce in us works that do not decay with time. We need God to establish our service and legacy. [10]
In Revelation 14:13, we read, “Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Write: blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.’”
[1-10] Edited and modified material from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
How did Moses become a man of God? In Exodus 3:4, we read that God called to Moses from a burning bush. In Exodus 3:6, God introduced Himself to Moses. In Exodus 3:7-22, God called him to believe Him and to go forth on a mission with Him to set the children of Israel free from Egypt. God initiated and nurtured the relationship by giving Moses a calling to serve Him. Moses believed God and followed Him. This is how Moses became a man of God.
In Acts 26:12-19, Paul explained how he became a Christian to King Agrippa, saying, “As I journeyed to Damascus... I saw a light from heaven... I heard a voice speaking to me... So I said, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Rise and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you. I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’”
Being a servant of God always involves prayer. Prayer, at its best, is a two-way conversation between God and a person. God is speaking and listening. The servant is speaking and listening.
“Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.” Psalm 90:1
In John 15:4, Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.” Moses acknowledges this same truth in Psalm 90. Israel had wandered in Canaan, in Egypt, and in the wilderness, but wherever they were, God abided with them. Emmanuel, “God with us” set them apart.
Believers today share that same privilege. Circumstances change, but God remains with us.
“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” Psalm 90:2
The mountains, the earth, and the universe had a beginning; God did not. His existence is not measured by time. When we face the reality of aging, death, and loss, we find comfort in the unchanging nature of God. Everything around us may pass away, but He remains forever. [1]
“You turn man to destruction, and say, ‘Return, O children of men.’ For a thousand years in Your sight are like yesterday when it is past, and like a watch in the night.” Psalm 90:3-4
“The children of men!” Notice what is missing in this phrase! They are not men or women of God. They return to the dust, and afterwards are resurrected to face judgment.
In Hebrews 9:27, we read, “As it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment.”
In Daniel 10:5-6, Daniel saw a “Man clothed in linen, whose waist was girded with gold of Uphaz! ...His eyes like torches of fire... and the sound of His words like the voice of a multitude.” In Revelation 1:13-15, Jesus appeared to John as “One like the Son of Man... girded about the chest with a golden band... His eyes like a flame of fire... His voice as the sound of many waters.” Daniel saw the preincarnate Son of God.
In Daniel 12:2-3, the “Man” said to Daniel, “Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.”
In 2 Peter 3:8-9, Peter wrote, “Beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.”
“You carry them away like a flood. They are like a sleep. In the morning, they are like grass which grows up. In the morning it flourishes and grows up. In the evening it is cut down and withers.” Psalm 90:5-6
Moses compares the circumstances of the children of men to a flood, sleep and grass. Floods sweep them away without their consent. Sleep deprives them of awareness that their time before judgment is passing. Grass flourishes only to be cut down.
“For we have been consumed by Your anger, and by Your wrath we are terrified.” Psalm 90:6
In Matthew 10:28, Jesus said, “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” The most important fear to maintain is the fear of God. In Numbers 13–14, God sentenced the children of Isreal to wander for forty years in the wilderness to demonstrate His displeasure with unbelief.
“You have set our iniquities before You, our secret sins in the light of Your countenance.” Psalm 90:8
Nothing escapes God’s notice. He sees sinful motives that we conceal from others. In Hebrews 4:13, we read, “All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him...”
“For all our days have passed away in Your wrath. We finish our years like a sigh.” Psalm 90:9
Moses compares human life to a fleeting thought and to a breath that vanishes. The wilderness generation especially understood this reality. Year after year passed with little progress. [2]
“The days of our lives are 70 years; and if by reason of strength they are 80 years, yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.” Psalm 90:10
Moses observes that the normal span of life is 70-80 years. This truth should move us to use our time wisely. The issue is not merely how long we live, but how faithfully we live for God. [3]
“Who knows the power of Your anger? For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath.” Psalm 90:11
Few people grasp the seriousness of God’s anger against sin. We tend to underestimate God’s commitment to holiness. This verse prepares the way for the prayer that follows in verse 12. [4]
“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12
Moses asks God to help His people live with an awareness of life’s brevity. To “number our days” is to recognize that our time on earth is limited and valuable. The purpose of such numbering is to gain a heart of wisdom. How many people tend to live foolishly until something goes wrong? When we remember that our days are numbered, we are less likely to waste them on trivial pursuits and more likely to devote ourselves to what has eternal value. [5]
The Gospel provides hope. The wrath described in Psalm 90 ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. Jesus bore God’s judgment for sinners so that we who trust in Him are not condemned by God.
Psalm 90 moves from the reality of God’s wrath to the necessity of God’s grace. The awareness of our frailty and sinfulness should lead us, as it led Moses, to seek the grace of God. [6]
“Return, O Lord! How long? And have compassion on Your servants.” Psalm 90:13
Although Israel could not escape the consequences of its sin, Moses prayed that God would not remain angry forever. He appealed to God’s compassion.
This prayer teaches us that when discipline is deserved, we can appeal to God for compassion.
“O, satisfy us early with Your mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days!” Psalm 90:14
Moses knew that true satisfaction comes only from God’s lovingkindness. Wealth, success, and comfort cannot satisfy the soul as God’s grace does. [7]
“Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us, the years in which we have seen evil.” Psalm 90:15
The people had known sorrow because of sin, but Moses asked God to bless them so that their gladness in Him would exceed their grief due to their sin. [8]
“Let Your work appear to Your servants, and Your glory to their children.” Psalm 90:16
Moses prayed for his generation and for future generations. Yes, he wants God’s work to be revealed to His servants. He also wanted God to display His glory to their children. [9]
“And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us and establish the work of our hands for us. Yes, establish the work of our hands.” Psalm 90:17
Human effort cannot produce everlasting results. We need the beauty of the Lord to produce in us works that do not decay with time. We need God to establish our service and legacy. [10]
In Revelation 14:13, we read, “Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, ‘Write: blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Yes,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.’”
[1-10] Edited and modified material from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
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