PSALM 100 - A SONG OF CELEBRATION

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 100 

Psalm 100 is a SONG OF CELEBRATION. It helps us restore a SPIRIT OF THANKFULNESS and JOYFUL GRATITUDE. It was written "for all the earth" to WORSHIP and PRAISE the Lord.

The Psalm was written as a "poetic hymn" by David, following a style of "meter" and "beat". Each verse has a "distinct message", with a final verse summing up God's character of GOODNESS, LOVE, and FAITHULNESS - giving us a reason for our WORSHIP, PRAISE & THANKS. 

CHOOSE JOY - Verses 1&2

"Shout to the Lord all the earth. Serve the Lord with joy. Come before Him with singing"

                                                                                                Psalm 1001&2 (NCV)

"Shout for joy, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs." 

                                                                                                      Psalm 100:1&2  (NIV)

We are to first "shout joyfully to the Lord" and then to "serve(worship) the Lord with gladness, and then finally, "come before Him with joyful songs." These are three ways as happy people we can come into the Lord's presence. JOY and WORSHIP are choices that we make. "It does our heart good and it is truly contagious."

"The essence of worship is relating to God Himself. It is all about HIM, not just the SONGS themselves. Express your willingness to worship God in TRUTH , as well as in our SPIRITUAL SINGING." Matt Redman

"But the time is coming - indeed it is now here - when TRUE WORSHIPPERS will worship the Father in SPIRIT and in TRUTH. The Father is looking for those who will worship Him that way. For GOD IS SPIRIT, so those who worship Him must worship in SPIRIT and TRUTH."

                                                                                                 John 4:23

CULTIVATE A FRIENDSHIP WITH GOD - Read Verse 3

"Know that the LORD HIMSELF IS GOD. It is He who made us and WE ARE HIS; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture." Psalm 100:3 (NIV)

"Know that the LORD IS GOD. He made us and WE BELONG TO HIM; we are His people and the sheep He tends." Psalm 100:3 (NCV)

Knowledge of God is PERSONAL, not merely theological; and we should develop a RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM. 

1. He is our SOVEREIGN GOD, and has dominion over us. He is OUR CREATOR. When we understand this, we are no longer anxious about the life we live, but WE HAVE PEACE AND JOY. 

2. We can have a PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP with God -  this is an experience like no other - as we TRUST HIS DECISIONS on our lives. He is our FATHER and we can have FAITH in HIS WORD and PROMISES. We become confident, people living in JOY and PEACE.

GATES OF THANKSGIVING & COURTS OF PRAISE -     Read Verse 4

HIS GATES & COURTS

"Enter His GATES WITH THANKSGIVING and HIS COURTS WITH PRAISE." 

Psalm 100:4a (NIV)

"Come into HIS CITY WITH SONGS OF THANKSGIVING and into HIS COURTYARDS WITH SONGS OF PRAISE."Psalm 100:4a (NCV)

What was in the Psalmist David's mind when he spoke about the "gates and courts"?

1. He could have been referring to the "stronghold of a ruler"- a judgement seat, where he held court - "deciding cases and granting favours". In this case, when you enter HIS GATES AND COURTS, you would meet with the righteous and just judge, who would have MERCY and GRACE upon you.

"So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive mercy and we will receive grace to help us when we need it most." Hebrews 4:16 (NLT)

2. In David's day, the tabernacle was the place where the "people of God approached Him". The city of Jerusalem had gates and courts, and only the Priests has access into God's presence. Today we can all approach God in PRAYER with THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE. 

"When the Priests came out of the Holy Place, a thick cloud filled the Temple of the Lord. The priests could not continue their service because of the cloud, for the glorious presence of the Lord filled the Temple." 1 Kings 8:10-11 (NLT)

'One cultivates a personal relationship with the God by LISTENING TO HIM and HE SPENDS TIME WITH HIS LOVED ONES. How much quality time do you spend with the Lord, accomplishing His work, showing love to others?" Charles Swindoll

GIVE THANKS TO HIM & BLESS HIS NAME

"GIVE THANKS TO HIM AND PRAISE HIS NAME."Psalm 100:4b (NIV)

"THANK HIM AND PRAISE HIS NAME." Psalm 100:4b (NCV)

"Give Thanks" in Hebrew means "to confess, praise, acknowledge, extol and thank". This is more than just thanking Him for His blessings. It literally means "we don't say enough about Him and what He does for us". 

In Scripture the idea of GIVING THANKS is not just suggestion; Jesus actually modelled it in His PRAYER LIFE. God has already given us everything we need, particularly, GRACE and MERCY. We now need to channel these to others. We need to create a "Thank You List" and tell a story of GOD's GOODNESS and FAITHFULNESS in our lives. 

"Cultivating a THANKFUL HEART is no small issue with God." Charles Swindoll

When we are "Praising (Blessing) His Name" we are showing honour to God. "His Name is Higher than any other Name." We affirm HIS POWER AND GOODNESS, and commit ourselves to following Him. 

GIVING THANKS AND PRAISE has special significance for the believer, but it doesn't always come naturally. It does, though, "develop a bond of friendship" and helps us to "pledge allegiance to Jesus Christ".

"PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING open up our hearts and cause JOY to well up in OUR SPIRITS. We can now open up the doors into His courts and into His presence." Max Lucado

BECAUSE OF WHO HE IS - Read Verse 5

"God is GOOD and HIS LOVE ENDURES FORVER" Psalm 100:5a (NIV)

"The Lord is GOOD. His LOVE IS FOREVER." Psalm 100:5a (NCV)

God is a the ONE AND ONLY Creator and Sovereign Lord. His commands are for OUR GOOD and He has "loving motives in every word and deed". 

LOVINGKINDNESS has many meanings - MERCY, KINDNESS, EVERLASTING LOVE AND GOODESS. His GRACE came through:

1. His covenant promise given through Moses to His people, requiring obedience and committment.

2. No greater love through Jesus Himself, who gave His life for us.

3. The salvation and  freedom we now have

"Praise the Lord  who has given rest to His people Israel just as He promised. Not one WORD HAS FAILED ALL HIS WONDERFUL PROMISES He gave through His servant Moses."1 King 8:56

"For GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD that He gave His only son, that whoever believed in Him, will not perish, but will have everlasting life." John 3:16

"I mean that you have been SAVED BY GRACE through believing. You did not save yourselves; it was a GIFT FROM GOD." Ephesians 2:8

"HIS FAITHFULNESS continues to all generations." Psalm 100:5b (NIV)

"HIS LOYALTY goes on and on." Psalm 100:5b (NCV)

Our God is fair and FAITHFUL, but not only to us, He was also "faithful to our ancestors", and will also be "faithful to our children and grandchildren"in the future. The PROMISES IN HIS WORD apply throughout "time", to all people! "He never changes and is consistently faithful"!"

"For the Word of the Lord HOLDS TRUE and we can TRUST everything He does."

                                                                                                Psalm 33:4 (NLT)

"Thank you Lord that you are unchanging and because of your FAITHFUL PROMISES, we can always COUNT ON YOU." Charles Swindoll

"Understand therefore, that the Lord your God is indeed God. He is the FAITHFUL GOD who keeps His covenant to all generations and lavishes His unfailing love on those who love Him and obey His commandments". Deuteronomy 7:9 (NLT)

"The FAITHFUL LOVE OF THE LORD never ends. His mercies never cease. GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULNESS, His mercies begin afresh every morning." Lamentations 3:22&23 (NLT)

CONCLUSION

At some time in our life we have to decide what is "our highest joy". Are we going to live life based om POSSESSIONS OR EXPERIENCES or will we live like the CHARACTER OF GOD. Jesus tells us that the "highest joy" should be to "see God" and to "trust Him". 

Our God is FAITHFUL, LOVING, MERCIFUL, KIND AND GOOD. We too need to be like Him and t WORSHIP and PRAISE HIM. We need to be a witness and encouragement to others. 

"Let us hold tightly without wavering to the HOPE WE AFFIRM, for GOD CAN BE TRUSTED TO KEEP HIS PROMISES." Hebrews 10:23 (NLT)

"The Devotional Bible - New Century Bible", 2003, Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible -  New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible - The Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion Hudson

Lucado, Max, "Before Amen", 2014, Thomas Nelson

Lucado, Max, "The Devotional Bible - Experiencing a Heart of Jesus", 2003, Thomas Nelson

Swindoll, Charles, "Living the Psalms - Encouragement for the Daily Grind", 2012, Worthy Publishers

Wiersbe, Warren, "Live Like a King", 1983, Moody Press

Heavenly Worship, "What a Faithful God Am I", 2014, YouTube

Moen, Don, "God is Good all the Time", 1995, YouTube: DonMoenTV

Redman, Matt, "Heart of Worship",  2009, https/www.youtube.com

Smith, Henry. "Give Thanks" 1978, Integrity, Hosanna Music  (youtube:DonMoenTV) 

Psalm 99 - Worship & Praise Our Holy & Sovereign Lord

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 99

"GOD, OUR KING, IS THE HOLY ONE. He sits on the throne and forgives and disciplines His children from the least to the greatest. We need to PRAISE AND WORSHIP HIM," 

                                                                                           Pat & David Alexander

This is the last of the 6th "ROYAL PSALMS", calling God and His Son Jesus Christ, the King of Kings. This is a "HOLY, HOLY" hymn and was fitting to be sung by those who lived in Jerusalem - the HOLY CITY - like David, who himself was a chosen king and God's people the Israelites.

It was indeed a proclamation of GOD'S HOLINESS, and as the Jews spoke Hebrew, this was the first language in which this Psalm was written, and the author was King David himself.  Later it was translated into Greek, when the Temple was built in Jerusalem and rebuilt after the Babylonian exile, and it is believed that this "Psalm of David", along with the other "Royal Psalms" may have been changed a little. But the truth of these Psalms remains: GOD IS STILL THE GREATEST KING. HE IS STILL HOLY, RULING OVER THE WHOLE WORLD. 

"Here after the carefree delights of Psalm 98, we recall how exalted and holy God is, and how profound is the reference we owe Him." David Kidner

Also mentioned in this Psalm are MOSES, AARON AND SAMUEL. They too, like David are honoured for their leadership of God's people. They prayed for them, "calling on the Lord" and seeking His presence, faithful to God's promises. Like these men, we must LOVE AND OBEY THE LORD, and WORSHIP HIM AS OUR HOLY KING.

"God can be praises and trusted by believers because HE IS HOLY, GOOD and PERFECT. All believer should be motivated to honourable conduct." Max Lucado

"These "ROYAL PSALMS" remind us that one day JESUS WILL COME BACK TO EARTH TO RULE AS OUR KING and we will see Him for who He really is." Gordon Churchyard

THE LORD REIGNS - HE IS GREAT, JUST & RIGHT -         Read Psalm 99:1-4

"The Lord reigns.....He is great in Zion.....let them praise Your great and awesome name."

                                                                                  Psalm 99:1,3b&4

This is the 3rd Psalm that begins with "THE LORD REIGNS" and speaks of God's presence dwelling in Zion. This great and awesome presence makes His people tremble. Zion is the mountain in the Holy City, Jerusalem, and it is believed that His throne in the cherubim is, in David's time, the Ark of the Covenant. 

The Lord reigned on the throne and is esteemed with acts of MERCY, POWER, WISDOM and JUSTICE. 

"The King's strength also love the judgement and God is the King. His mercy-seat is the throne and the sceptre which He sways is HOLY." Charles Spurgeon

"The King is MIGHTY. He loves JUSTUCE. You have established EQUITY in Jacob, You have done what is JUST AND RIGHT."  Psalm 99:4

He is our Sovereign God and pledges RIGHTEOUSNESS, works JUSTICE and establishes EQUITY among His people. Truth shines not only in His Kingdom, but on earth. For God raised up David and other godly leaders to "walk in His ways" and to attempt to bring God's people up in the ways of the Lord. David ruled in justice and got His strength from the Lord. Israel had other "good Kings", but of course their greatest was the their Messiah, Jesus Christ. 

GOD'S PRIESTS: LEADING TO A FORGIVING & PUNISHING GOD - Psalm 99:6-8, Exodus 3&19, Leviticus 16,   1 Samuel 3:&16:1-13, Jeremiah 31:1-14

In the next few verses of this Psalm we read about Moses - who was a great leader of God's people and his brother Aaron, God's chosen priest. Samuel was also another of His servants, later serving in the time of Eli the Priest. These men all had intimate relationships with the Lord, "praying and calling on the Lord", keeping His "laws and decrees" and following His commands and duties.

"Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them. You must build this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the pattern I will show you....Be sure that you make everything according to the pattern I have shown you here on the mountain."

                                                                                             Exodus 25:8,9&40

Moses was a TRUE PRIEST - a Holy Man who saw the Lord in a `FLAMING FIRE' and revealed the "PERFECT LAW " on the mountain. Aaron watched the "SACRED FIRE" devouring sin offerings according to his priestly duties. Samuel, witnessed `JUDGEMENT FROM THE LORD' on Eli's house, and ANOINTED DAVID, God's chosen King. 

"One day Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock far into the wilderness and came to Sinai, the mountain of God. The angel of the Lord appeared to Him in a blazing fire from the middle of a bush......When the Lord saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, "Moses, Moses"! "Here I am!" Moses replied.....Now go, for I am sending you to Pharoah. You must lead my people Israel out of Egypyt."  Exodus 3:1,2,4.10 (NLT)

"Exactly two months after the Israelites left Egypt, they arrived in the wilderness of Sinai.....Then Moses climbed the mountain to appear before God. The Lord called to Him from the mountain and said, "Give these instructions to the family of Jacob, announce it to the descendents of Israel." Exodus 19:1&3 (NLT)

"Aaron will present his own bull as a sin offering to purify himself and his family, making them right with the Lord. Then he must take the two male goats and present them to the Lord at the entrance to the Tabernacle. He is to cast sacred lots to determine which goats will be reserved as an offering to the Lord and which will carry the sins of the people to the wilderness of Azazel. Aaron will then present as a sin offering the goat chosen by the Lord." Leviticus 16:6-9 (NLT)

"And the Lord came and called as before, "Samuel, Samuel!" And Samuel replied, "Speak, your servant is listening". Then the Lord said to Samuel, "I am about to do a shocking thing in Israel. I am about to carry out all my threats against Eli and his family from beginning to end. I have warned him that judgement is coming upon his family forever, because his sons have blasphemed God and he hasn't disciplined them"  1 Samuel 3:10-14  (NLT)

"So, as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on." 1 Samuel 16:13 (NLT)

Moses, Aaron and Samuel were all committed and true servants of their Lord, standing in awe of His presence, Yet they were different, with peculiar works. We have tasks that God has prepared for us - we too need to pray each day for wisdom, as we faithfully seek God's presence in the service He has "laid on us".

These men made it their life's work, in their prayers, to call upon the Lord's blessings upon His people. God was true to His promises in answering those prayers from "His MERCY SEAT" and we can still call on Him today in our time of need, as HE ANSWERS OUR PETITIONS.

LEVITICUS 16 gives us examples of the atonement rituals for God's people. God also revealed that He was a "GOD OF FORGIVENESS" as well as "ONE WHO TOOK VENGEANCE". Moses, Aaron & Samuel were all punished or disciplined in some way because of their actions or those in which they served. This was the same true in David's life, as is also true in our lives as God's children. 

In Jeremiah 31, we read of God's love that "yearnes for his children". He has a "burning passion" for His people, and even though he forgives, there are times he still needs to punish us for our disobedience. But this will not stop us from going to Heaven, because God sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins, and he rose again for our full redemption and salvation.

God cares enough to want to listen to our "complaints and laments", as well as our praises. Try to be as honest as possible just like Jeremiah was with the struggles he faced, as were Moses, Aaron, Samuel, and even David himself.

"Long ago the Lord said to Israel, "I have loved you, my people. with an everlasting love. With unfailing love, I will draw you to myself." Jeremiah 31:3

"Is not Israel still my son, my darling child?" says the Lord. "I often have to punish him, but I still love him. That's why I long for him and surely will have mercy on him." Jeremiah 31:20 (NLT)

"O Lord our God, you answered them. You were a forgiving God to them, but you punished them when they went wrong." Psalm 99:8 (NLT)

CONCLUSION - WORSHIP THE LORD - Read Psalm 99:5&9

"Exalt the Lord our God! Bow low before His feet, for HE IS HOLY." Psalm 99:5

For the Jews to get down "at His footstool", it was a special place in Zion, in Jerusalem. As some commentators remind us, it was probably,  "the Ark of the Covenant", and we understand the POWER, HOLINESS and GOODNESS of God. This is why they were led to "exult and humbly worship Him".

"David rose to his feet and said, "My brothers and my people! It was my desire to build the Temple where the Ark of the Covenant, the Lord's Footstool, could rest permanently. I made the necessary preparations for building it...." 1 Chronicles 28:2 (NLT)

"This is what the Lord says: "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that? Could you build me such a resting place?" Isaiah 66:1 (NLT)

"HOLINESS is the harmony of all the virtues of God - HIS MERCY, HIS LOVE, HIS JUSTICE - the Lord has the ONE glorious attribute alone. HIS POWER is not His choicest jewel, nor HIS SOVEREIGNTY, but HIS HOLINESS." Charles Spurgeon

"Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His Holy Mountain in Jerusalem, for the LORD OUR GOD IS HOLY!" Psalm 99:9 (NLT)

Verse 9 becomes the most important verse in this Psalm, because we are now forgiven from our sins and  we are now saved. We can again PRAISE THE LORD AND KNEEL BEFORE HIM AGAIN. We will exalt the Lord a second time for we are reminded that HE IS INDEED HOLY - as our FATHER, SON AND HOLY SPIRIT. We will again worship Him as the infinite, perfection of a TRIUNE LORD, and is worthy of our praise. 

Finally, the LORD'S HOLINESS IS PROCLAIMED as we are encouraged to WORSHIP OUR LORD!

"And they were calling to one another, "Holy, Holy is the Lord, God Almighy; the whole earth is full of His glory." Isaiah 6:3 (NIV)

"Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty", who was, who is, and is to come." 

                                                                                          Revelation 4:8 (NIV)

"The Holy Bible - New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion Hudson

Churchyard, Gordon, "Psalm 99 - He is Holy (The 6th and Last Royal Psalm)", 2002,

www.easyenglish.bible.com

Goldingay, "Old Testament Theology - Volume 2, Pge 164"

Guzik, David, "Psalm 99 - The Holy God, Present and Revealed - The Enduring Bible.com",

2020, elm.enduringword.com

Henry, Matthew & Manser, Martin H, "The New Matthew Henry Commentary", 2002, Zondervan

Kidner, Derek, "Psalm 73--150: Classic Commentary", 1975, InterVarsity Press

Lucado, Max, "The Devotional Bible: New Century Bible - Experiencing the Heart of Jesus",

2003, Thomas Nelson

Spurgeon, Charles, "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms", 1885/2021, Christianity,com

Heber, Bishop Reginald & Bacchus Dykes, John, "Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!", (1826/1861)

Monsell, John Samuel & Reinhardt, Johann.H, "Worship the Lord in the Beauty of Holiness", (1863/1744)

PSALM 98 - JESUS: OUR LORD, KING AND JUDGE!

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 98, Luke 1:46-55

Psalm 98 is the 5th of the ROYAL PSALMS; but it is also a PROPHETIC PSALM, like a number of others, proclaiming the coming of our LORD, KING AND JUDGE - JESUS CHRIST. 

The first verses tell of the "VICTORY & SALVATION" of  Jesus our Redeemer.

"Shout to the Lord all the earth; break out into praise and sing for joy..... Make joyfully symphonies before the King and the Lord." Psalm 98:4&6

The second part of this bold and lively song celebrates these victories and the "the joy we can have as people who are redeemed." Some Jewish people might see it as a "Coronation Hymn", proclaiming the conquering King. Verse 9 specifically talks about Jesus, our coming Judge, who with fairness, will decide who will live in eternal life with Him. 

"He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, who keep on seeking after their glory, honour and immortality that God offers." Romans 2:7 (NLT)

The promises in Psalm 98 were again expressed in "Mary the Magnificant's Song of Praise", when she visited her cousin Elizabeth, who backed up what the angel had said to her about her immaculate pregnancy. Mary was overjoyed and excited at this confirmation that she had been chosen to be the mother of Jesus, the Lord and Messiah.

"Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, "God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed. Why am I so honoured that the mother of my Lord should visit me? When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy." Luke 1:42 (NLT)

Mary worshipped in the Spirit, as she soaked up the Scriptural prophecies of David, about her coming Son. Psalm 98 was indeed one of these prophetic truths. She "rejoices in the God of her salvation." She "magnified the Lord and exalted His name". She sang like David, rejoicing in how she, her people, and the world, would benefit from the life and death of her Son, the Saviour, Lord and King. 

"For He made this promise to our Ancestors, to Abraham and his children forever."

                                                                                                   Luke 1:55 (NLT)

PRAISE THE LORD OUR REDEEMER - Read Psalm 98:1-3, Luke 1:47 -77

A symbol of redemption is a 'NEW SONG'. Jesus is our REDEEMER and in these verses we are taught how and why to praise the Lord for:

* THE WONDERS HE HAS DONE.

* THE VICTORIES HE HAS OVER ALL CONQUESTS.

* THE TRUE GOSPEL FOR ALL PEOPLE.

*THE FULFILLMENT OF HIS PROPHECIES IN THE SCRIPTURES.

THE WONDERS HE HAS DONE

We praise Him particularly for His MIRACLE OF SALVATION. In her Song of  Praise, Jesus' mother Mary, "magnified the Lord and exalted His name". She rejoiced in the God of her salvation - her own Son Jesus. 

"Mary responded, "Oh how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour."

                                                                                                 Luke 1:46 (NLT)

"The salvation which Jesus accomplished is marvellous and beyond degrees, and deserves a NEW SONG." Charles Spurgeon

THE VICORY HE HAS OVER ALL CONQUESTS

Our Redeemer Jesus Christ has overcome everything that has stood in His way. He gained VICTORY by HIS OWN POWER. The energy of Jesus is RIGHTEOUSNESS, JUSTICE AND TRUTH; and it is through Him that WE HAVE LASTING VICTORY over the powers of evil. God sent His Holy Spirit through His Son Jesus to overcome sin and evil, and "his right hand and holy arm have gotten Him the victory". 

"You dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the ONE who is in you is GREATER than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

"For the Mighty One has done great things for me - HOLY IS HIS NAME." Luke 1:49 (NLT)

"The Lord has demonstrated His holy power before the eyes  of all the nations. All the ends of the earth will see the VICTORY OF OUR GOD." Isaiah 52:19

"So Christ fought our battles with His right hand and He did it with ease, with strength and infinite wisdom." Charles Spurgeon

THE GOSPEL TO ALL PEOPLE

Forgiveness of sins and salvation is the basis of which  Jesus' life, death and resurrection are founded.

Zechariah's prophecy of his son John, Jesus' cousin, was that he would prepare people for the coming of Jesus. He would preach about repentance, forgiveness and salvation  - the true gospel - and then would baptize believers. 

Jesus not only died and rose again as OUR REDEEMER AND SAVIOUR, but He wants to make known that His TRUE GOSPEL "is to be made known to the whole earth."

"And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High. because you will prepare the way  for the Lord. You will tell His people how to find salvation through the forgiveness of sins." 

                                                                                       Luke 1:76&77

"The next day John saw Jesus coming toward Him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world! He is the one I was talking about when I said, "A man is coming after me who us far greater than I am, for He existed long before me. I did not recognize Him as the Messiah,  to obey but I have baptizing with water so that He might be revealed to Israel."   John 1:29-31  (NLT)

"Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of my Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew28:19-20

THE FULFILLMENT OF THE PROPHECIES

Mary knew that her son Jesus was the fulfilment of the prophecies and the promises in the Old Testament about the Messiah - the KING OF KINGS, The greatest thing we know about God and His Son Jesus are HIS MERCY AND GRACE, for it is only through them that we can be saved, not by works of our own.

"But God is RICH IN MERCY, and He loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved)......God saved you BY HIS GRACE when you believed, and you can't take credit for this; it is a GIFT FROM GOD." Ephesians 2:4, 5&8  (NLT)

"Jesus Christ, our  King, lived a marvellous life, died a marvellous life, rose and ascended into Heaven marvellously." Charles Spurgeon

SING PRAISES AND SHOUT FOR JOY - Read Psalm 98:4-8

The setting for the Kingdom of King Jesus - the Messiah is represented in JOY and PRAISE. Loud HOSANNAS were sung to the Lord as they welcomed the "EXALTED KING AND CONQUERING SAVIOUR". They lifted up their hands in worship "for the more you are in IN LOVE WITH JESUS the more you want to EXTOL HIM."

People would rejoice in praise and worship accompanied by SACRED MUSIC of  the GENTLE HARP of the Levites and the LOUD CELEBRATIONS of the TRUMPET AND RAMS HORNS played by the Priests. These were the instruments in use among the Jews and their Religious Leaders. They represented the virtues of God and His Son Jesus - JUSTICE, STRENGTH, RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PURITY. They were employed not only for worship, but 'heartily loud' for joyful praise. This happens no more often than at the "Coronation of a Divine King;" in the reign of Jesus Christ - the King of Kings. 

"Sing your praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song. with trumpets and the sounds of rams horns. Make joyful symphony before the Lord, the King." Psalm 98:5-6

"The harp and the voices made with sweetness, while the trumpets and the horns added strength, majesty and energy, combined in the worship of God." Chales Spurgeon

                                          "Say if your hearts are tuned to sing;

                                            Is there a subject greater?

                                            Harmony all it's strain may bring

                                            BUT JESUS'S NAME SWEETER.

                                            What of His love doth one partake,

                                            He ever rejoices?

                                            Melody in our hearts we make

                                            MELODY WITH OUR VOICES."

                                                            Charles H Spurgeon

Creation is now called to give God it's praise and to "sing the songs of joy." SEAS, RIVERS AND HILLS are all brought into the worship team with joyful sounds. This praise should come from all who dwell in creation, EVERY LIVING CREATURE. 

"Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains sing together for joy." Psalm 98:8

CONCLUSION - JESUS IS OUR COMING JUDGE - Read Psalm 98:9

The strong and "marvellous things" that God has done, in which we praise, have also been through His Son Jesus.

"He will judge the world through JUSTICE and the nations with FAIRNESS." Psalm 96:9b

In the ancient world justice was rare. The idea of coming judgement with equity was a great relief for God's children, especially those who were oppressed and denied justice. 

"Jesus promises to be a FAIR JUDGE, but only if we promise to LOVE AND OBEY HIM. When He judges, HE FORGIVES, and He takes awayy the bad things we have done. He will give us help to love and obey Him." Gordon Churchyard

"So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to Him, the power of His life giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death......

Who then will condemn us? No one - for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and He is sitting in the place of hpnour at God's right hand." Romans 8:1&2, 3&4  (NLT)

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation" (2015), Tyndale House Publishing

Churchyard, Gordon, "Psalm 98 - The Fifth Royal Psalm", (2000), www.easyenglish.bible

Guzik, David, "Psalm 98 - A New Song for His Marvellous Things" (2020), ewe.enduringword.com

Guzik Davi, "Luke 1 - The Birth of John the Baptist" (2018)  EnduringWord

Hunter, J, "Magnificat." (2021), Wikipedia. 

Matthew, Henry & Manser, Martin H, "The New Matthew Henry Commentary", (2002), Zondervan

Spurgeon, Charles H, "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms" (1885/2021), Christianity.com

PSALM 97 - OUR GOD REIGNS

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 97

Psalm 97 is another of the ROYAL PSALMS written by David, but unlike Psalm 96 and 98 its theme is more related to that of GOD'S KINGLY RULE rather than the coming of His Son Jesus. 

"The effects of His judgement are declared. His adversaries are destroyed, His glory is revealed and His people are filled with joy." G. Campbell Morgan

Like many Psalms used for Jewish Religious Festivals, Psalm 97 is a CALL TO WORSHIP our God who reigns over all, as we consider His GOODNESS, JUSTICE, POWER AND SOVEREIGNTY. But what exactly  is WORSHIP? David definition is to:

"Magnify the Lord and to let us exalt His name together." Psalm 34:8

We often have big worries, questions and problems; and we need to "draw near to God" and "enlarge our vision of Him".

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands you sinners and purify your hearts you double minded...... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up."                                                                                                    James 4:8&10 (NKJV)

Next time you are in Church or in a place you worship,  allow the songs, the music, the prayers and devotions to transform you into the person God wants to be - HIS RIGHTEOUS CHILD, FILLED WITH HIS LIGHT AND JOY, JUST LIKE YOUR FATHE GOD AND GREAT KING.

REJOICING IN HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS & JUSTICE - Read Verses 1-6

Like Psalm 93, this Psalm begins suddenly and wonderfully with a declaration of GOD'S ROYALTY. He's not a useless idol, but and OMNIPOTENT GOD who CREATED ALL THINGS. He is "HOLY and IRRESTIBLE". 

"The LORD REIGNS, HE IS CLOTHED WITH MAJESTY; the Lord is clothed, He has girded Himself with strength." Psalm 93:1 (NJKV)

"RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE are the foundation of His throne." Psalm 97:1 (NIV)

"We know that in His government there can be no departure from RIGHTEOUSNESS, no deflection OF JUSTICE. This should be the inspirational of perpetual songs and worship." Morgan

The lightning flash and the melting wax seem to be a representation of GOD'S DELIVERANCE and the TRIUMPH OVER EVIL and He SAVED HIS PEOPLE.

INSTRUCTING THE PEOPLE - Read Verses 7-11

Those who worship idols and not their ROYAL GOD should be ashamed. We need to praise and extol our God far above all else. The reason for Zion's joy is God's rule and instruction.

The Psalmist David instructed His people in righteousness and justice just like his Father God has done. He had preserved the souls of His children who were upright, and protecteded the lives of those who were willing to obey Him. 

"Let those who love the Lord hate evil, for He guards the lives of the faithful ones, and delivers them from the hands of the wicked." Psalm 97:10 (NIV)

David describes many ways that God blesses His people:

* God cared for His peole.

* He delivered them from the wicked.

"They are very dear to Him. He preserves them, very safe to His bosum" Charles Spurgeon

* He sent a light for their path.

* He gave them gladness.

"Let the light and goodness be faithfully cultivated till their whole body shall be full of light and the whole soul full of happiness." Adam Clarke

"Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart." Psalm 97:11 (NIV)

CONCLUSION - Read Verse 12

"Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise His holy name." Psalm 97:12 (NIV)

Let your joy be full in God and be expressed in praise and thanksgiving, as we remember His holiness. 

PSALM 96: THE RETURN OF THE ARK

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 96, 2 Samuel 6,                          1Chronicles 14&16

This Psalm is a song that David and God's people, the Israelites, sang, when the Religious Leaders of the time brought the Ark of the Covenant back to it's "rightful place", in the city of Jerusalem. They kept the Ark in what they believed to be the Sanctuary of God's presence, where they could again worship Him. Later when David died, his son Solomon placed the Ark in the Temple he built - "God's permanent place". 

The loss of the Ark, many years before in the time of King Saul, meant that God's people had, they believed, been "deprived of God's presence", since it was the holiest of holies. The Israelites had let the Ark "gather dust", seven miles away from Jerusalem. It had been neglected and ignored, along with their faith in God.

When David took over the throne he realized his people needed a place for worship and spiritual growth. His first priority as King was to put this "piece of sacred furniture back where it belonged". David was determined to being it back so it could have "pride of place in God's sanctuary". 

In  2 Samuel 6:12-20 and 1 Chronicles 15:25-28 & 16 we read of David's rejoicing, celebrating and worshiping of the Lord, as the Ark was brought into God's holy city, Jerusalem. There was loud music, singing and dancing. This time, no one would die because of their disobedience. They would carry the Ark according to God's directions - lifting it on poles, on their shoulders; not touching it with their hands. They would not hurry, stopping to make sacrifices, worshipping and dancing before the Lord. 

"David danced before the Lord with all His might, wearing a priestly garment" 2 Samuel 6:14 (NLT)

"When he had finished his sacrifices David blessed the people in the name of the Lord of Heaven's Armies." 2 Samuel 6:18

""I was dancing before the Lord who chose me above your father and all his family. He appointed me as leader of Israel, the people of the Lord, so I celebrated before the Lord." 2 Samuel 6:21

David celebrated God's presence  and he knew that he and his people would now never be alone. This Psalm is David's SONG OF CELEBRATION of GOD'S SALVATION, HIS GREATNESS, JOY IN CREATION AND HIS JUSTICE. It is also one of the "Royal Psalms" for we are introduced to the COMING MESSIAH, "who judges all people with equity". 

"Tell the nations "The Lord reigns!" The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. He will judge all people fairly.....Sing for joy before the Lord for He is coming! He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with justice and the nations with His truth." Psalm 96:10&13 

SING TO THE LORD AS GOD'S WITNESS - Read 96:1-3;          1 Chronicles 16:8&9, 23&24

As David was singing this Song of Praise he was encouraging the Israelites to to share with others about all that the Lord had done for them. We too are encouraged to do the same, for like David and the Israelites, we too are God's children, and we want to LOVE, SERVE AND OBEY our Father God. He has created us, kept us safe and protected us, and as the New Year begins, we can trust Him to continue to do these "marvellous deeds among His people".

"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of those who bring GOOD NEWS, who proclaim PEACE, who bring GOOD TIDINGS, who proclaim SALVATION, who say to Zion, "YOUR GOD REIGNS." Isaiah 52:7 (NIV)

"Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name, MAKE KNOWN AMONG THE NATIONS WHAT HE HAS DONE. Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; TELL OF ALL HIS WONDERFUL ACTS."

                                                                                           Psalm 105:1 (NIV)

PROCLAIM GOD'S GREATNESS - Read Psalm 96:4-6,                1 Chronicles 16:10-12, 25-27

We know that GOD IS GREAT - greater than any "idols" we may worship. He is the King of Kings, with SPLENDOUR, MAJESTY, STRENGTH & GLORY. So what should we do with this knowledge - definitely not keep it to ourselves. We should:

*  PRAISE HIM - "telling Him how great He is".

* Have a 'HEALTHY FEAR" of our Lord; worshipping and honouring Him above all else.

* "BOW BEFORE" our Royal, Sovereign King.

* Live and work with an understanding of  GOD'S OMNIOTENCE and the strength and power that God has given us.

* Remember, GOD IS BEAUTIFUL, so we too have His beauty in us, for we too are made in His image. 

"So God created mankind in His own image, in His image of God He them; male and female He created them." Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

"Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise, in the city of our God, His Holy Mountain." 

                                                                                      Psalm 48:1 (NIV)

"Honour and majesty surround Him, strength and beauty fill His sanctuary." Psalm 96:6 (NLT)

WORSHIP THE LORD - Psalm 96:7-9; 1 Chronicles 16:29-31

When the Ark of the Covenant came back into Jerusalem, the Israelites were afraid. God was so awesome and holy that to touch the Ark meant certain death. Today, though, because of the death of His Son, Jesus Christ, God is a lot more approachable for His children. But He is still the same HOLY, SUPREME GOD, and is worthy of our deepest respect, and we need to have a "heathy fear".

Having a "healthy fear" is another word for "awe".  We have an adoration of God's OMNIPOTENCE, GLORY AND HOLINESS. GLORY means "God's wonder and shining presence"; HOLINESS means God is "very, very good" and righteous, "having never done anything wrong." Finally, OMNIPOTENCE is the "greatness of God".

"Tremble before Him, all the earth." Psalm 86:9b (NIV)

"Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. Ascribe to the Lord the glory dur His name; bring an offering and come before Him. Worship the Lord in the splendour of holiness." 

                                                                             1 Chronicles 16:28&29

There was no Temple when David originally wrote this song of celebration in 1 Chronicles 16; but many Theologians believe that Psalm 96 itself was rewritten during Solomon's rebuilding of the Temple, when the Ark was placed in God's "permanent place of worship".

WORSHIP means to "honour the glory, holiness and greatness of God". Also you are expressing your love for Him. Some people worship with music and song, others get down on their knees or flat on their face. David loved to dance and offer sacrifices. Today, we like to raise our hands.  Paul also reminds us that true worship can be in our service too our Father God.

"Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship." Romans 12:1 (NIV)

JESUS - OUR COMING KING AND JUDGE -                          Read Psalm 96:11-13, 1 Chronicles 16:31-33

The final part of this Psalm talks about the Lord as our King, and the coming of His Son, Jesus, as the Messiah, to rule and judge His people. He will be a great and "fair judge", deciding who has done right and wrong. 

"Tell the nations, "THE LORD REIGNS". The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. HE WILL JUDGE ALL PEOPLES FAIRLY." Psalm 96:10 (NLT)

"The Lord reign forever; He has established His throne of judgement. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in time of trouble. Those who know Your Name trust in You, for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You." Psalm 9:7-10 (NIV)

Those who have right have LOVED, SERVED AND OBEYED the Lord. They have ACCEPTED JESUS AS THEIR LORD AND SAVIOUR. The wrong have done the opposite. Not only have they denied the existence of the true God and His Son Jesus Christ, but they have in many respects, "worshipped the ways of the devil". We have a choice of which path we take!

"Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is RIGHTEOUS, just as HE IS RIGHTEIOUS. The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the SON OF MAN APPEARED was to destroyed the devil's work. No one who is BORN OF GOD will continue to sin, because God's seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been BORN OF GOD. This is how we know who the CHILDREN OF GOD are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God's child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother or sister." 1 John 3:7-10 (NIV)

CONCLUSION

What choices are you going to make:

* Are you going to accept the Lord Jesus as your Lord and Saviour?

* Do you believe He is a fair Judge and King of Kings?

* Are you going to sing and proclaim His love and greatness to others?

* How will you worship and serve your Father and King?

* Are you going to shout for joy  and dance in His presence?

My prayer is that you may make the RIGHT CHOICES for there is nothing more special than being a CHILD OF GOD and LIVING EVERYDAY IN HIS PRESENCE.

                                                  "GOD IS WITH US!

                              THAT'S REASON TO CELEBRATE!"

                                                      Max Lucado

"Psalms & Proverbs, Magnify - International Children's Bible, 2014, Tommy Nelson

"The Holy Bible - New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible - "New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion Hudson

Churchyard, Gordon, "Psalm 96 - Sing a New Song: The Third Royal Psalm", 2002, www.easyenglish.bible.com

Lucado, Max, "Facing Your Giants - God Still Does the Impossible", 2006, Thomas Nelson

Charles  R Swindoll, "David - A Man of Passion & Destiny", 1997, Thomas Nelson

PSALM 95 - WORSHIP & OBEDIENCE TO OUR FATHER GOD AND HIS SON JESUS

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 95; Hebrews 3:7-4:11

Psalm 95 is the 1st of six PRAISE AND WORSHIP PSALMS that David wrote, speaking of God's greatness in creation. It has been used in the Synagogue for the Jew's Sabbath worship. We are encouraged in this Psalm to:

* Praise and Worship the Lord (Verses 1-7).

* Think about our life and whether or not we are obedient to God's Word (Verses 8-11).

"Everything that has been created gives glory to the Lord. This Psalm writer encourages his people to bring an offering  of worship to God. He also calls for submission from His creation." 

                                                                                                            Max Lucado.

Worship must come from obedient, sincere hearts, and therefore, the two parts of this Psalm are of equal importance. We are "CALLED TO WORSHIP", but we are also warned in the 'HARDENING OF OUR HEARTS". This is why this psalm was "quoted and analysed" in Hebrews 3:7-4:11. The writer of Hebrews was certain that David was inspired by the Holy Spirit, and like David, he too was encouraging his readers - the early Christians - in their struggling faith.

"So, as the Holy Spirit says, "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in their rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness, where your ancestors tested and tried Me, though for 40 years they saw what I did. That I was angry with that generation; I said, "Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways." Hebrews 3:7&8  (NLT)

"As Jesus was greater than Moses, the Hebrew Christians were partakers in Christ and had confidence in holding fast. Like us today, they had no excuse not to TRUST AND OBEY." 

                                                                                                         Roger Hahn

PRAISE & WORSHIP - Read Psalm 95:1-7

In the 1st part of this Psalm we are motivated to PRAISE AND WORSHIP our Father God,  and His Son Jesus, though David himself is yet to know Jesus personally. 

HOW ARE WE ENCOURAGED TO DO THIS?

* With a JOYFUL NOISE.

* With  MUSIC AND SONG.

* By BOWING DOWN in humility.

* TOGETHER in God's presence.

"Come let us sing for joy to the Lord....let us come before Him with thanksgiving, and extol Him with music and song......Come, let us bow down and worship, let  us kneel before the Lord our Maker He is our God."  Psalm 95:1,2 & 6&7 (NIV0

The song of praise is a joyful noise. When we humble down before the Lord we have much to "shout joyfully" about, as His children. With a happy and enthusiastic heart, we can use music and songs to show the Lord how grateful we are for His blessings. 

 

"When we praise and worship the Lord, all our desires and needs are met." Lindsay Terry

"Our worship should express a heart of thanksgiving for a God who has done so much for us."

                                                                                                  David Guzik

There is a "gentle plea" for God's people to "bow down and worship Him".  It's easy to let the busyness and difficulties of life to overwhelm us and cut off our focus for worship. But when we humble ourselves and look into the holiness of God, our Spirit is refreshed. Worship is also a way to exemplify our devotion to God's Son, Jesus Christ, as we serve Him in humility. 

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." James 4:10 (NIV)

David mentions honouring God and His Son Jesus, with a conscious awareness that we are in their presence. Do you want the joy of a clos relationship with them? You can have this by  simple confession of your faith in worship! 

WHY SHOULD WE PRAISE & WORSHIP?

Again, David reminds us that there are 4 reasons why we need to praise and worship our Father God and His Son Jesus.

* He is our SAVIOUR.

* He is the KING OF KINGS.

* He is our CREATOR.

* He is our GOOD SHEPHERD.

"Let us shout aloud to the ROCK OF OUR SALVATION...........For the Lord is the great God, the GREAT KING above all gods......The sea is His, for HE MADE IT, and His hand formed the dry land......We are the PEOPLE OF HIS PASTURE, THE FLOCK UNDER HIS CARE"

                                                                         Psalm 95:1b,3,5 7b (NIV)

Jesus is our SAVIOUR, "the rock of our salvation". As a child of God, one of the main reasons we have to worship Him is because He sent His Son to SAVE AND REDEEM US. 

"I know that my REDEEMER lives and in the end He will stand on the earth." Job 19:25  (NLT)

"For God did not send His Son into the world, to condemn the world, but to SAVE THE WORLD."

                                                                                                      John 3:17

God and His Son Jesus have great power and sovereignty as the KING OF KINGS. We need to understand their greatness whenever we worship them. 

"We have the right to worship God with great gladness, but never without a sense of His majesty."

                                                                                       G. Campbell Morgan

God's greatness is illustrated by His creation. From the lowest valleys - "the depths of the earth" to the highest "mountain peaks", from the "seas" to the "dry lands". We owe our "humble worship" to God because we are His children and HE MADE US. HE IS OUR MAKER AND CREATOR. It is right that our Creator should be our "restorer and reconciler" as we kneel before Him. 

"Through Him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can't see - such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through Him and for Him.....For God in all His fulness was pleased to live in Christ, and through Him God reconciled everything to Himself."

                                                                            Colossians 1:16 & 19. (NLT) 

"If God owns the sea, because He made it, HE OWNS YOU, BECAUSE HE MADE YOU TOO. You are His creation, you belong to Him. He claims  you, will you dispute His claim?" 

                                                                                      Charles Spurgeon

As children of God, we are part of the Good Shepherd's flock. He leads us into His shelter and protects us from "enemies". We are dependent on Him, and without our Shepherd we have little hope of life. We may wander and "get lost" and then "what would be the consequences?"  With God and His Son Jesus as our Good Shepherds, we have nothing to fear, for we have CARE AND COMFORT. 

"For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search and find my sheep. I will be like a shepherd looking for His scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places they were scattered on a dark and cloudy day.  I myself will tend my sheep and give them a place to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign Lord. I will search for my lost ones who strayed away, and will bring them safely home again. I will bandage the injured and strengthen the weak."  Ezekial 34:11,12&15

"I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His life for His sheep. .....I know my sheep and my sheep know me." John 10:11&14

"Yahweh is our God - our SHEPHERD - and "we are the sheep of His pasture" - and the sheep of His hand and His special care."  David Guzik

                                  

HUMBLE OBEDIENCE TO GOD - Read Psalm 95-8-11;                                                                    Hebrews 3:7-4:11

Almost all Hebrews 3:7-4:11 is a quotation of Psalm 95:11. David, like the writer of Hebrews is giving a warning and exhortation for their readers to live "godly lives". This meant:

* LIVING IN HUMILITY, without a "hardened heart".

* SHOWING DEVOTION, TRUST AND OBEDIENCE to their Father God and His Son Jesus.

The Hebrew word for HEARING the Word of God is the same as OBEYING. If you want to hear God's voice and to benefit from what He says in His Word, make sure you LISTEN with a SOFT, OPEN HEART. The Hebrews, like the Israelites, were under pressure to deny their faith. They were facing persecution. "Merribah" and Massah" were CODE WORDS for TESTING. 

"The Lord says: "Don't harden your hearts as Israel did at Merribah , as they did at Massah, in the wilderness. For their your ancestors tested and tried my patience even though they saw everything I did."  Psalm 95:8&9  (NIV)

This was a self examination for the Hebrew Christians who were being deceived by sin and were failing to stay true to Jesus Christ. Devotion to God and His Son, Jesus is exemplified by humble service and obedience to His will - by loving and caring for others, and being faithful to God's word.

The Hebrew's warning was similar to that of the Israelites. When we turn away from God, we have nothing to turn to, and have been excluded from "eternal rest". They rejected Him, and He condemned their "generation of unbelievers" to die in the wilderness. 

"Watch out, lest you have an evil, unbelieving heart, that turns away from the living God. For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God, just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ." Hebrews 3:12&14 (NLT)

"Something is wrong when a worshipper does not obey and trust God." Charles Spurgeon

Fortunately, there were faithful believers in the next generation after Moses', who entered the Promised Land - people like Joshua, Caleb, Rahab; and then David himself who:

"Walked with God, , enjoyed a relationship with Him and were devoted to God and His Word."

                                                                                     David Guzik

"And I, the Lord, will be their God, and my servant David will be prince among the people. I the Lord, have spoken."  Ezekial 34:24 (NLT)

We too, like David and the "godly people" have been given the opportunity to "enter into the rest of God and His Son Jesus Christ"; not to wander astray in the wilderness. Because of Their TENDERNESS, LOVE AND GRACE, this "eternal, Sabbath rest" is available to us.

"God's promise of  entering His rest still stands, so we ought not to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it. For this GOOD NEWS - that God has prepared this REST - has been announced to us just as it was then. But it did them no good because they didn't share the faith of those who LISTENED TO GOD. For only THOSE WHO BELIEVE CAN ENTER THE REST. .....For God's rest is for people to enter, but those who first heard the GOOD NEWS failed to enter because they disobeyed God. So God set another time for ENTERING HIS REST, AND THAT TIME IS TODAY.....So there is a SPECIAL REST STILL WAITING FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD." 

                                                                 Hebrews 4:1-3, 6,7&9

"The Holy Bible - New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale Publishers

Alexander, Pat & David, "The Lion Handbook to the Bible", 2009, Lion Hudson.

Bridges, Jerry, "Practices of Godliness - Latest Edition", 1996, NavPress

Guzik, David, "Psalm 98 - God, Worth of our Humble, Obedient Worship", 2002, ewm@enduringword.com

Hahn, Roger, "Voice Bible Study - Hebrews 3:7-4:11, Biblical & Theological Resources for Growing Christians", 2008, Christian Resource Institute

Henru, Matthew & Manser, Martin.H, "The New Matthew Henry Commentary", 2002, Zondervan

Lindsay, Terry, "The Sacrifice of Praise", 2002, Integrity Publishers

Lucado, Max. "The Devotional Bible - New Century Version, Experiencing the Heart of Jesus", 2003, Thomas Nelson

Morgan, G Campbell, "Commentary on  Psalm 95 - Morgan's Exposition on the Bible", 1874-84, studylight.org

Sourgeon, Charles, "The Treasury of David - Commentary on Psalms", 1882/2021, Christianity.com