PSALM 135: Our God is Great

 INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 135

Psalm 135 begins and ends with PRAISE! It tells us that we are to "passionately" praise and worship the Lord for many "logical reasons". But our praise is not to be based on our emotions only. This Psalm is based on a number of Old Testament passagfes and it reminds us of the many attributes of our Father God: HIS LOVE, FAITHFULNESS, GOODNESS AND MERCY - to name a few.

GOD HAS NO EQUAL! No one comes close when it comes to HIS GREATNESS. As you pray to Him todayt, give your PRAISE AND WORSHIP as you "exalt in His presence". Keep lifting His Name high - the NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES.

"Your name endures forever. You are renown above all generations." Psalm 135:13 (NIV)

"For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. He is to be feared above all gods." 

1 Chronicles 16:25 (NIV)

GOD'S HOLINESS is something we cannot comprehend. We are reminded of how much he forgave Jacob and His people. The Israelites had fallen away from Him to worship other gods. Through His Son Jesus' death and resurrection, we too MERCY AND GRACE,

"GRACE is God's greatest gift to us! He would treat us according to HIS HEART, not ours. He would relentlessly attach Himself with HIS LOVE. Then He would swing the door of Heaven open to anyone who would TRUST HIM." Max Lucado

PRAISE AND WORSHIP - Read Psalm 135:1-4;               Deuteronomy 7:1-10; Hebrews 9

"Praise the Lord! Praise the Name of the Lord! Praise Him, all ye servants of the Lord, who minister in the House of the Lord, in courts of the House of the Lord." Psalm 135:1&2 (NIV)

When we are worshipping and praising the Lord, we are putting aside ourselves and concentrating on the GLORY OF GOD. WORSHIP is "giving attention to honour" of our Lord, not just idols. All God's people should have a HEART OF PRAISE. not just the Worship Leaders. 

1. PRAISE THE NAME OF THE LORD

True worship  is praising and honouring the Name of the Lord, and all His characteristics. In the Old Covenant there were rules for worshop - including sacrifices. But now in the New Covenant, we have more freedom. Jesus spoke of this "true worship" and how His followers needed to worship "in Spirit and in Truth". 

"But the time is coming, indeed it is here now where 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 IN TRUTH."     John 4:23&24 (NLT)

2) PRAISE HIM ALL YE SERVANTS OF THE LORD

As in the previous Psalm 134:1&2, this verse talks about the Priests and the Levites who would do their duties in the temple, both day and night. We too as Christ's servants need to worship and praise our Father God, both in and out pf the Church. 

"O PRAISE THE LORD, all ye servants of the Lord, who serve (minister)  in the house of the Lord. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and PRAISE THE LORD." Psalm 135:1&2 (NIV)

3) IN THE COURTS OF THE HOUSE OF THE LORD

Only the Priests and Levites could enter into God's sanctuary in the Temple; but the people of Israel could stand "outside in the "courtyard". God is calling us, also as God's children to be praising Him outside the "temple courts". We can "enter" His presence as we PRAY and WORSHIP. 

"Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee Your PRESENCE? If I go up into the Heavens, YOU ARE THERE; if I make my bed in the depths, YOUr ARE THERE. If I rise on the wings of the the dawn, if I settle in the far side of the sea , even there YOUR HAND WILL GUIDE ME, YOUR RIGHT HAND WILL HOLD ME FAST." Psalm 139:7-10 (NLT)

WHY DO WE PRAISE AND WORSHIP?

1) BECAUSE THE LORD IS GOOD.

I have always experience the GOODNESS OF GOD in my life. He has always been ON MY SIDE even when I have felt that everythiung is against me. I have always TRUSTED IN HIM and have celebrated MY HOPE FOR THE FUTURE.

"Examine and see how GOOD the Lord is. Happy is the person who TRUSTS HIM." 

                                                                                               Psalm 34:8 (NCV)

2) IT IS PLEASANT

This doesn't mean we should worship for "self gratification", but there is nothing wrong with enjoying your praises.

"True praise is PLEASANT - an angelic exercise, and to the spiritually minded person - VERY DELICIOUS." John Trapp - cited by David Guzik.

"God needs to be the CENTRE OF OUR WORSHIP. And when WORSHIP is at its best, we will have JOY AND PASSION in our singing." C.S Lewis

3. THE LORD HAS CHOSEN US

The Lord "chose Jacob" to be the father of His nation. Jacob was one of the "patriarchs". He is mentioned in the Bible, along with Abraham and his father Isacc. But he seemed "out of place" with these others. Was it because of his nickname - "the heel" and "deceiver". Or was it because he "walked with a limp". Whatever the reason, Jacob's story is for "limpers" alike - the Isaelies and you and me - "the least", who needed God's grace and mercy. 

"GOD'S GRACE isn't only as good as you are, but AS GOOD AS GOD IS. It didn't jus happen a long time ago, but it is for US, TODAY. GOD'S GRACE DOES NOT QUIT!" Max Lucado

"Know therefore, that the Lord your God, IS GOD. He is a FAITHFUL GOD, keeing His covenant of LOVE to a thousand generations of those who LOVE HIM and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS." Deuteronomy 7:9 (NIV)

OUR GREAT GOD - CREATOR, REDEEMER and JUDGE -  Read Psalm 135:5-14; Numbers 21:21-35; Deuteronomy 3:1-11; Hebrews 8&9

In this passage we see God as both YAHWEH and ADONAI. He is the "covenant God" with the superior, ultimate power. He is our SOVEREIGN and OMNIPOTENT GOD. We know that He is in charge of all natural disasters and their timing.

In this Season, we have had storms that have caused damage to our homes. The wind has been really strong, causing Cyclones and Tornadoes. The rain has caused floods, but even though we may feel anxious about what has happened in our lives, we can still TRUST THE LORD to take care of us, as HE IS IN CONTROL.

"I know that the LORD IS GREAT, greater than all the other gods. The Lord does whatever PLEASES HIM in the Heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all its depths. He causes the cloud to rise over all the earth. He sends lightning and rain, and releases the wind from its storehouses." Psalm 135:5-7 (NLT)

"God is a GREAT CREATOR and has power over all other gods." Max Lucado

GOD - OUR REDEEMER

"He gave the land as a gift to His people, the Israelites. Your Name, O Lord, endures forever. You are renown Lord through all generations." Psalm 135:12:13 (NIV)

"But as for me, I know that my REDEEMER lives, and He will stand upon the earth at last."        Job 19:25 (NLT)

"In faithfulness", God took care of the Israelites,  by REDEEMING THEM from Egypt, and the kings from the "east of the Jordan River" and then "West into Canaan". God kept His promises - His Covenant - to His people, the Israelites; and He keeps His promises to all generations. 

""Canaan was their heritage because they were the Lord's heritage. He actually gave it to them  because He had long before made this PROMISE to them." Charles Spurgeon

The New Covenant is an even greater REDEMPTION, and God sent His Son Jesus, to intercede for us. In Hebrew we read about another "High Priest" who gave His life for us so that we could have ETERNAL LIFE and the HOLY SPIRIT.

"But now, JESUS, THE HIGH PRIEST, has been given the ministry that is far more superior than the old Priesthood. He is the one who mediates for us as a FAR BETTER COVENANT with God, based on His promises.......When God speaks of the NEW COVENANT,  it means He has made the old one obselete. It is now out of date and will soon disappear.........So CHRIST has now become the HIGH PRIEST over all good things that have come. He entered the greater, more perfect tabernacle in Heaven......He entered the Most Holy Place, once and for all time and secured REDEMPTION for all time." Hebrews 8:6,13; 9:11&12 (NLT)

GOD - OUR JUDGE

"For He will give JUSTICE to all His people and have COMPASSION on His servants."                                                                                               Psalm 135:14 (NIV)

God's power "extends everywhere". He brings JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS - "vindicating" people and setting everything right, because of His MERCY AND COMPASSION. In this Psalm we have access to God's "righteous judgement", so this can also be a time of rejoicing - PRAISE & WORSHIP.

Christians today cry out to God for justice and mercy. Our God - "the define defender", RESCUES US, just as He did the Jews. The 'NEW COVENANT" is what we can "pin our hope on".  

"For the ancient Jews, as ourselves today, justice was seen like that in an earthly court...... a civil case with ourselves as the plaintiff, We too are hoping for an acquittal - TO BE PARDONED."      C.S Lewis

God is both a God who judges with JUSTICE and MERCY.....Because of the sacrifice of His Son Jesus, it is possible to combine JUSTICE AND MERCY. In His justice, God judges because we are guilty. In mercy and love He sent His Son Jesus to pay the penalty for out sins. Because of this God is both JUSTICE AND MERCIFUL." Nick Gumbel

IDOLATRY  - Read Psalm 135:15-18

"The idols of the other nations are made of silver and gold, the work of human hands.......People who make idols will be like them and so will those who TRUST in them." Psalm 135:15&18 (NCV)

"People who worship useless idols give up their LOYALTY to You." Job 2:8 (NIV)

In Biblical times, as in many countries today, are no more than a "religious token". They seem "puny, empty and useless. But we, as Christians and Jews believe in the ONE TRUE GOD. Or do we? Our idols can have more of a secular, earthly nature. An idol can be used for anything but WORSHIPPING GOD, and is anything that takes our eyes OFF CHRIST.

"Do not love the world or the things of the world. If you love the world, the LOVE OF THE FATHER IS NOT IN YOU." 1 John 2:15 (NCV)

"God is at war for the LOVE OF OUR HEART. May your worship resist IDOLATYY." Jon Tyson

There are two kinds of idols:

* Those that take over OUR HEART.

* Those that are a CULTURAL/WORDLY nature. 

HEART IDOLS

These idols take a "divine status", yet we continually "chase after them". Sometimes they take over our hearts, because we are seeking freedom. One of these in the need of approval.

I have been diagnosed with "Approval Syndrome" - the cause of my anxiety and depression. Recently, durimg our Christmas break from the Circus, I developed COVID . I felt guilty because I had been celebrating Christmas with Mum and Dad. Earlier in the month we staying with our family in Sydney - sin, daughter in law and grandchildren. And the end of our break, our family decided not to spend extra time with us. Understandably! My "Approval Syndrome" hit me like it hadn't done in years, and I really broke down. I felt the guilt and disaproval in my heart. Like Pastor and writer, Jon Tyson experienced: "The idol of approval was strangling the Spirit in my life."

"Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God's place in your heart."                                                                                                                1 John 5:21 (NCV)

CULTURAL IDOLS

Our world values many things: fashion, materialism and employment status, just to name a few. When we worship idols we usually "believe what they are telling us." 

I have to confess, my work is often something I seem to put before God and my Bible Study. I try to "live in the world, but not of it", but I have to admit I often fall into temptation. I have lost my job many times, particilarly from Education Positions, when I have put my teaching first. I have a need to "prove myself" to Principals, parents and my children. I need to do my best! In the past, I have struggled, like others, to meet my need for "financial security". 

Lately, I have become more "enlightened" by the Spirit and God's Word. I now need to have a "KINGDOM VISION" - worshippinp God should be my only hope. This "foundation" is found in Jesus Christ and His Father God, with our "hearts and heads in Heaven." The idols of this world can "deceive, distort and destroy us". If we discover a new passion, it effects everything we do. Sadly, idolatry happens again and again in the Bible, but the Scriptures are also about DOING RIGHT and OBEYING GOD.

"Seek first the Kingdom of God above all else. Live righteously and He will give you everything you need." Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

"And now brothers and sisters, one final thing: Fix your thoughts in what is TRUE, HONOURABLE and RIGHT, PURE, LOVELY AND ADMIRABLE. Think about things that are EXCELLENT and WORTHY OF PRAISE." Philippians 4:8 (NLT)

So how do we keep ourselves from worshipping idols in thei "modern day sector"? How do we keep from temptation?

* WE REPLACE one idol with another.

* WE DEVOTE our hearts and minds to God's Word,.

*WORSHIP GOD powerfully.

* SEEK GOD and be EMPOWERED BY HIS SPIRIT.

What is rhe IDOL that dominates your life? What are the hidden motives that "decieve and entice" you? It cam ne amything that takes your devotion from God and His Son Jesus. Take time this week to develop your relationship with God and Jesus Christ; and may your "worship resist idolatry."

"I am speaking to you who may have confiict in your soul and who God calls you to be. This is yime for us, as disciples, to show an urgency in OUR HEART for a beautiful resistance." Jon Tyson

CONCLUSION - PRAISE THE LORD - Read Psalm 135:19-21, Psalm 115

"All you Israelites, PRAISE THE LORD; House of Aaron, PRAISE THE LORD; House of Levi, PRAISE THE LOR; all who fear Him, PRAISE THE LORD." Psalm 135:19&20 (NIV)

Let us "set ourselves about" with WORSHIP AND PRAISE. In some Biblical translatio, they use the phrase, "BLESS THE LORD". We praise the Lord and bless Him by putting our TRUST IN GOD; and we give glory to Him. 

"All you Israelites, TRUST IN THE LORD - He is your help anf shield. House of Aaron, TRUST IN THE LORD - He is your help and shield. You, who fear Him, TRUST IN THE LORD - He is your help and shield."  Psalm 115:9-11 (NIV)

In a series of statements the Psalmist concludes Psalm 135 with a call to "His descendents" to honour God and to GIVE HIM PRAISE, and the WORSHIP He deserves. Everyone who knew God were "called upon" to do this:

* THE ISRAELITES (the whole nation).

* THE HOUSES OF AARON and LEVI (the Priests and Levites who served in the Sanctuary).

*  ALL OTHERS WHO FEARED THE LORD (the Gentiles and Christians today).

"Praise be to the Lord, from Zion, to Him who dwells in Jerusalem. PRAISE THE LORD!"                                                                                                       Psalm 135:21 (NIV)

Jerusalem was, and is, a special place for Jews to worship. They praised and honoured Yahweh, specifically WHO HE WAS - "His greatness and goodness"; and still IS today, as they "extended out of Zion".

"PRAISE THE LORD! It is fitting for such a souring Psalm to end as it begun.  - declaring GOD'S PRAISE AND WORSHIP, and calling on others to do so." David Guzik

"Great is Our God", 1982, Michael and Deborah Smith (Composers and Performers), Meadowgreen Music. 

"Praise Him, Praise Him, Jesus our Blessed Redeemer", Fanny J Crosby (Composer), Celebration Choir (Performer), (2015) Facebook/You Tube

"Devotional Bible - New Century Version" , Max Lucado, (2003) Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible - New International Version" (2011) Biblica

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

Graham, Billy, "Approaching Hoofbeats", (1983), Word Inc.

GUMBELL, Nicky and  Pippa Gumbell, "The Bible - the Classic Version", 2023, Alpha,           New Version

GUZIK, David, "Psalm 135 - Praise the Creator and the Redeemer", 2020, ewm@enduringword.com

LEWIS, C.S, "Reflection on Psalms", 1958, Harcourt Press

LUCADO, Max, "God Never Gives Up On You", 2023, Thomas Nelson

TYSON, Jon, "Beautiful Resistance - the Joy of Conviction in a Society of Compromise." 2020, Multamoth, Random House

PSALM 134 - GOD'S BLESSINGS FOR OUR SERVICE.

 INTRODUCTION - Psalm 134

Psalm 134 is the last and smallest of the ANCENT HYMNS. It brings us into the Temple at night, where the priests were serving their NIGHT SHIFT. I imagine as Jesus entered the Temple on the last night of Passover he could see the Priests and Levites, some not always committed to their service. 

This too was who the Psalmist was encouraging in the words of this Psalm. You see the Temple in Jerusalem never shut down. In the evening, there was always someone on duty: 

* ATTENDING THE LAMPSTANDS.

* KEEPING THE SACRIFICES GOING.

* GUARDING THE GATES.

The Priests and the Levites were not only their for the Israelites when they came to worship, It was hoped that their "priority" was serving the Lord, and keeping HIS OMNIPOTENCE alive. 

"Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who stand by night in the house of the Lord. Lift up you hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord." Psalm 134:1&2 (NIV)

"Why are these Priests and Levites being single out? Because at night, with few people milling around, it would have been easy for them to take their duties for granted and forget what most important. The Psalmist gently reminds them to BLESS THE LORD like He was watching - BECAUSE HE IS."  John Greco

PRAISING THE LORD - Psalm 134:1&2

In these verses, the Psalmist reminds, not only the Priests and Levites. but all His Christian servants today who serve in His Church. We have "abundant blessings" from the Lord and we need to be THANKFUL for these. 

"Grateful praise isn't merely a good idea, it's IMPERATIIVE." Ruth Chou Simmons

There is nothing better than a HEART FULL OF PRAISE, whether in the day or night. "Praising God in every situation" allow us to have joy and "gratitude in every situation." 

We are reminded in the Old Testament by David and Isaiah that if we remember all the good things God has done for us, we can "lift up" praises to Him. Again and again, David "recalls" God's faithfulness and His promises of GRACE, LOVE AND MERCY.

"O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever."                                                                                                                        Psalm 107:1 (NIV)

"O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you; I will praise youur Name for the wonderful things you have done." Isaiah 25:1 (NIV)

Later Paul reminds the Early Church in the New Testament, that "GRATITUDE IS GOD'S PLAN FOR US." We will experience peace when we lay down our burdens, and "SURRENDER TO HIM", with THANKSGIVING. 

"Give thanks to the Lord for this is the will of Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him foor all He has done. Then you will experience God's peace, whic exceeds anthing we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." 

                                                                                      Philippiamns 4:6&7 (NIV)

BLESSINGS FROM THE LORD - Psalm 134:3

"May the Lord who made Heaven and earth, bless you from Jerusalem." Psalm 134:3 (NLT)

The pilgrims had finished their worship in Jerusalem and were journeying back to their homes. Having spent time with the Lord, they were walking the road with "courage and confidence". As Christians today, we also are on a journey of faith, and their are days when we are weary. We need to remember that God is on our side, and "we can lay down our heavy burdens". Jesus will carry our burdens for us as we look forward with "HOPE" ahead. 

"Then Jesus said, "Come to me all you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teacch you, because I am humble and gentle in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear and the burden I give you is light." 

                                                                                 Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

Robert Robinson, the author of the hymn: "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing", was aso "prone to wander". He became a member of a gang, "shaming his parents" that they "practically disowned him". As a teen he went to hear the preaching George Whitfield and was then converted, later, becoming a minister in the Methodist Church. Later in life he strayed again from his faith - the "fount of every blessing." Sitting next to a woman, who was reading this hymn, he confessed, "I am the writer of that hymn  and would give a thousand worlds to have those feelings" - those blessings again. 

"The life that blesses God is a life that is blessed by God. Who is this God who blesses us? He is the Maker of Heaven and earth." Ray Fowler

The point of this Psalm and probably all the Psalms of Ascent, is that God continues to bless His people - the Israelites, the Early Church and Christians today -  who want more than anything to serve Him. God wanted to meet with His people at Mt Zion (Jerusalem), and wants to to know that He is with us each and everyday of our journey. 

"But you have come to Mt Zion, to the Heavenly Jerusalem, the city of our living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the Church of the firstborn, whose names are written in Heaven." Hebrews 12:22&23 (NIV)

Jesus ascended to Heaven to be with his Father, after his death and resurrction, to be our ADVOCATE. He has sent the Holy Spirit to be with us, so we can continually be blessed. I can guarantee that GOD'S WILL AND PURPOSE FOR OUR LIVES is that we should TRUST HIM. God has never let us down before, and be can be assured that HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US in the future.

"One of the most COMFORTING characteristics of the Hoky Spirit, is His ability to speak on our behalf, when it is dark and all our heart can do is groan. Sadness can be overwhelming; despair is daunting. Sometimes, when we pray, we just throw up our hands in exhaustion. But God knows our heart when we have no words. He knows our GRIEF, ANGER, HURT and CONFUSION. In these moments we can surrender to Him, because the HOLY SPIRIT IS OUR ADVOCATE who will speak on behalf." Max Lucado

"But we do not have a High Priest who is unable to empathise with our weakness, but we have One who has been tempted in our way, just as we were - and yet, He did not sin. Let us then approach God's throne of GRACE with CONFIDENCE, so that we may receive MERCY AND GRACE to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV)

CONCLUSION

"The very act of PRAISE GOD is a BLESSING in itself. God promises to add His OWN BLESSINGS to it. Our whole lives are meant to be WORSHIPFUL - every thought, word and action. As Christians we are called to live a life that bring PRAISE, HONOUR AND BLESSING to God. When we do this, we know that GOD'S BLESSING is also on us." Ray Fowler

The Psalms of Ascent began way back in Psalm  120, and ends here in Psalm 134,  with the "believer safe at home" with their Father God. Alomg the way we have learnet many lessons:

* TRUST AND DEPENDENCE ON GOD.

* PERSEVERENCE AND FAITH.

* FORGIVENESS AND HUMILITY.

* UNITY AND BLESSING.

These lessons can be summed up in the words of this Hymn: "Praise God from Whom all Blessings Flow". The life that blesses God is a life that is blessed by God, not just in the day but during the night.

"Come, Bless the Lord, All Ye Servants the Lord." 2021, Public Domain, You Tube.

"Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." (1758; 2013) Robert Robinson (Composer), Tim Rice (Performer), You Tube

"Praise God From Whom all Blessings Flow", 2012, Heidi Nadine (Performer), You Tube

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

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

Chou Simmons, Ruth, "Pilgrim - 25 Ways God Leads Us Onward", 2023, Harvest House Publishers

Fowler, Ray, "Psalm 134 - Blessing and Blessed - Psalms of Ascent: Stepping Stone" , 2023, Ray Fowler.com

Greco, John, "The Sons of Ascent - A Devotional Adventuyre in the Book of Psalms", 2023, Broadstreet Publishing Group, New Version

Henry, Matthew, "An Exposition of all the Books in the Old and New Testament - Volume 3", 1805, London: W.Baynes

Lucado, Max. "Help is Here - Finding Strength and Purpose in the Power of the Holy Spirit", 2022, Harper Christian Resources

Peterson, William J and Ardythe, "The Complete Book of Hymns - Inspiring Stories abou Hymns and Praise Songs." 2006, Tyndale House Publishers

PSALM 133 - UNITY WITH GOD'S PEOPLE

INTRODUCTION - Read Psalm 133

Worshipping God brings God's people into a unified fellowship -  both in the times of David, Jesus, the Early Church, and in our lives today. Having UNITY and HARMONY with each other, is as important as UNITY WITH CHRIST.

In our last lesson, Psalm 132, we looked ar how God came to dwell with us. This week, we look at  David's Psalm 133, and how we need to dwell with each other. David reminds us how "good and pleasant" is the unity and harmony we can have with God's people. It makes our lives so much more "enjoyable" and peaceful. 

As the people of Israel were united under David's reign, it is appropriate that, as his people journeyed to Jerusalem for their "Feasts of the Tabernacle", he would write this Psalm of unity. They were not only climbing up the hill to Jerusalem (Mt Zion), but it was a "spiritual climb", as they were to come closer to God to worship Him. 

Later in this Psalm we have "pictures in words" that show how UNITY is a "rich and abundant BLESSING". When we come together in UNITY as did God's people, we, as His children also experience His "goodness" and His "blessing."

"Unity among God's people makes life thriving and healthy." David Guzik

"The Jewish people sang Psalm 133 to express their joy in coming together to worship at the Temple, where God promised to meet them. The Psalm imparts blessing and life to God's people. And it proclaims oneness in faith." Nancy Koester

WHAT US UNITY AND HARMONY? - Read Psalm 133:1; Matthew 5

"How good and pleasant it is when God's people (brothers) live together in UNITY (HARMONY)." Psalm 133:1 (NIV/NLT)

"What a beautiful picture of  UNITY! That is the first thing we learn about living together in unity. It is both GOOD AND PLEASANT." Ray Fowler

The word translated "pleasant" means "beautiful, sweet and lovely". The Book of Acts describes the Early Church and how they were unified. 

"They devoted themselves to the Apostles' teaching and to FELLOWSHIP, to the breaking of bread and to prayer......All the believers were together  and had everything in common......They broke the bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added daily to their number those who were being saved"                                                                                                                     Acts 2:42,44, 46&47 (NIV)

HOW DO WE BECOME UNIFIED IN OUR RELATIONSHIPS?

* Let our conversations be in PEACE.

"Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called children of God." Matthe 5:9 (NIV)

* Resist temptations to be ANGRY.

"But I say, "If you are angry with someone, you are subject to judgement." Matthew 5:22a (NLT)

* Be quick to FORGIVE.

"Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy." Matthew 5:7 (NIV)

* Be a LISTENER.

"God blesses those who mourn for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the humble (meek) for they shall inherit the whole earth." Matthew 5:4&5 (NLT)

* You may disagree - but PART AS FRIENDS. 

"Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so everyone will praise your Heavenly Father."                                                                                                                     Matthew 5:16 (NLT)

* PRAY TOGETHER

"You heard that it was said,  "Love your neighbiour and hate your enemies". But I say: "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father." Matthew 5:43-45 (NLT)

Just like when a family go on a "roadtrip", brothers and sisters don't always get along. Sometimes they they don't always "agree with one another".  They might get angry and need to work on making peace with each other.  In the same way, children of God, need to work together to overcome their disagreements, and to love each other as "brothers and sisters in Christ."

"Keep loving other as brothers and sisters." Hebrews 13:1 (NLT)

HOW IS  UNITY PRESENTED? -   Read Psalm 133:2&3; 

Living together in UNITY is a gift of GOD'S GRACE. There are two "liquids" that David uses to describe the UNITY among God's people.

1. OIL - POURED AND DRIPPING DOWN -  Read Psalm 133:2;                  Exodus 30:22033; 40:1-16; Mark 14&16

"It is like PRECIOUS OIL on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down upon the collar of his robe." Psalm 133:2  (NIV)

"Bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and wash them with water. Than dress Aaron in the sacred garments , anoint him and consecrate him, so he can serve me as a Priest. ......Their anointing will be to a priesthood that will continue through all generations."                                                                                                                 Exodus 40: 12,13 & 15       (NIV)

"All priests have the oil of Aaron on their head. The generous quantity of oils adds to the picture of the community gathering as a "sweet, pleasant" time together." James Linburg,                                                                                                                                                    cited by David Guzik

Oil was a "valued commodity" with the Israelite people. It was not only used in the Temple to anoint the priests, but also to put on their guests when they would come to their home to share a meal. They needed to be washed with these "perfumed oils" because in Israel's hot temperatures it was important to "cool down". 

Jesus Himself had this "sweet smelling fragrance" poured on him when visited by Mary Magdalene. 

Jesus Himself washed his disciples' feet at the Last Supper, and after His resurrection. For Christians today, Jesus' resurrection represents our UNITY in the Church and our future FELLOWSHIP WITH CHRIST IN HEAVEN. 

"When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary, the mother of James and Salome brought Spices so that they might go to annoint Jesus's body....."Don't be alarmed", he said, "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene who was crucified.  HE HAS RISEN! He is not here, See the place where they laid Him."Mark 16:1,6 (NIV)

Oil is also a "symbol of the Holy Spirit". In the Body of Christ - the Church, the "sacred and sweet smelling oil" comes over all God's people - His Children. 

"Christian fellowship is like the oil poured on the head, running over, onto the beard. It is precious and refreshing, it is a gift from God, and God is generous with His gift. He doesn't hold anything back." Ray Fowler 

2. DEW OF HERMON (MELTING SNOW) - Psalm 133:3a, Galatians 3:23-29

"Mt Hermon is far to the North of Jerusalem (Mt Zion). Mount Hermon rises above the Jordan Valley. It had its share of hearty rainfull and snow. The melting snow, or dew, flowed down into the Valley. In arid country the rain is scarce and the rivers dry up. It is the scarcity of water in these dry lands, which makes Mt Hermon's dew so precious." Nancy Koestet

The RICH DEW that covers MT HERMON, makes the land green and moinst. It refreshes the thirsty ground. In fact MT HERMON AND MT ZION are UNITED by their DEW. This image also reminds us of the CHURCH where we are all one. It is this UNITY "that crosses all human boundariues and divisions". 

In Christ we all have a special UNITY,  through Himself,  God and the Holy Spirit. 

"There us neither Jew nor Greek, slace nor free, male nor female, for YOU ARE ALL ONE IN CHRIST JESUS." Galatians 3:28 (NIV)]

"Dew is REFRESHING  and Christian fellowship should also be  REFRESHING. We should leave the Church ENERGIZED, ENCOURAGED AND RENEWED - charged up, revved up and READY TO GO." Ray Fowler

CONCLUSION: THE BLESSING OF UNITY - Psalm 133:3b

"For the Lord bestows His blessing, even LIFE FOREVERMORE." Psalm 133:3b

We have talked about the GOODNESS and the SOURCE of living in UNITY. Finally, let's talk about the BLESSING that is "bestowed on us". The word "bestow" means to "command." You receive God's blessing you need to LIVE IN UNITY. 

God's blessings LAST FOREVER and it is a "foretaste of Heaven". We lift up our hands to PRAISE GOD when we are in Church often SEEKING HIS BLESSING. In the New Testament we read how Jesus sought  UNITY among his disciples and the believers in the Early Church.

"By this all men will know that you are my disiciples, if you have LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER."   John 13:35 (NLT) 

"I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who willingly believe in me, through their word; that all mat BE ONE, as You Father, are in Me and I in You; that these also may be ONE IN US, the world mayt believe that You sent me." John 17:20&21 (NKJV)

Later, in Acts we read how the Early Church UNITED IN FELLOWSHIP TOGETHER. ]

"So the continued daily with ONE ACCORD in the Temple, and BREAKING BREAD from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and HAVING FAVIOUR WITH ALL PEOPLE." Acts 2:46&47 (NIV)

"The point that stands in the fact that they were all in ONE ACCORD. They were UNITED and there was UNITY AMONG BELIEVERS, and God was BLESSING THEM. " George Clayson

Finally, Paul reminds us of the importance of having UNITY and HARMONY among one another. In the Early Church there was not always harmony among God's people and Paul reminded them thay they needed to "work hard" at this.  

"If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, LIVE PEACEFULLY WITH ALL MEN."                                                                                                    Romans 12:18 (NKJV)

"Always be humbe and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of Your love. Make every effort to KEEP THE UNITY OF THE SPIRIT through the BOIND OF PEACE." Ephesians 4:2&3 (NLT)

"If you want to experience GOD'S BLESSING, them you need to LIVE IN UNITY. God gives HIS BLESSING when believers live together IN UNITY." Ray Fowler

"Dwell Together in Unity", 2019, Rebecca Mui (Performer), Scripture in Song

"Together", Chris Tomlin & Russell Dickerson (Composers and Performers), 2020, Chris Tomkin Channel (ITUNES)

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

"The Holy Bible - New King James Version, 1982, Thomas Nelson''

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

Clayson, George, "The Blessing if Unity" ,2023, LogosSermons.com

Guzik, David, "Psalm 133 - The Blessed Unity of God's People - The Enduring Word, Bible Commentarty", 2020, ewm@enduruingword.com

Fowler, Ray, "Psalm 133 - Living Together in Unity - The Psalms of Ascent - Stepping Stone", 2023, rayfowler,org

Koester, Nancy, "Commentary on Psalm 133", 2009, WorkingPreacher.com

 

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

PSALM 132 - A FAITHFUL GOD WHO KEEPS HIS PROMISES

INTRODUCTION: Read Psalm 132

Psalm 132 is the first in the final three "Ascent Psalms", sung by God's people as they made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to worship in God's Temple. It is probably one of the longest of these Psalms, which were written by different authors. It speaks of God's promises to David and his people, and is also a celebration of the building of God's Temple in the time of King Solomon, David's som. 

These amazing promises of God's love, faithfulness and anointing are also true for us today, in ouu lives, sometimes full of with uncertaintly and trials. This Psalm has a lot to do with the "Ark of God's Covenant", a symbol of GOD'S PRESENCE, and focuses on three main promises:

1. GOD'S PRESENCE  with His people, the Israelites and we, as God's children today. David promised to build a PERMANENT PLACE for God's presence and to worship Him in this Temple.

"Let us go to the sanctuary of the Lord; let us worship at the footstool of His Throne. Arise, O Lord, and enter your resting place, along with the Ark, the symvol of your power." Psalm 132:8&9 (NLT)

2. GOD'S ABIDING PRESENCE with David as he rules as king over God's people, and his descendents.

"For the sake of your servant David, do not reject the kings you have anointed....The Lord swore an oath to David with a promise He will never take back: "I will place one of your descendents on the throne." Psalm 132:10&11 (NLT)

3. God promised to us the COMING MESSIAH, whom we know now to be God's Son, Jesus Christ, and David's descendent. 

"He will increase the power of David; my anointed one will be a light to my people. I will clothe His enemies with shame but He will be a glorious King." Psalm 132:17&18 (NLT)

"God is fully everywhere at all times. This is the assurance that we are never out of HIS PRESENCE. Not only is God everywhere, He is with us in every place we go. It's comforting to know that we can count on HIS PRESENCE at every moment of our life......Because God has proven Himself trustworthy IN THE PAST, we can trust Him FOR OUR FUTURE."

                                                                   Ruth Chou Simmons

DAVID'S PROMISES - Read Psalm 132:1-8; 2 Samuel 6&7

a)WHAT WERE DAVID'S HARDSHIPS?

"Lord, remember David in His afflictions." Psalm 132:1 (NKJV)

David experienced a lot of hardships, both before and during his reign as king. Here,  in Samuel 6 we read of the specific trials experienced bringing the "Ark of God" back to Jerusalem. 

"When they came to the threshing floor of Nakon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen stumbled. 7The Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God." 2 Samuel 6:6&7 (NIV)

"David was angry because the Lord's wrath was broken out against Uzzah, and this place was called Perez Uzzah. David was afraid of the Lord that day and said, "How can the Ark the Lord come over to me." 2 Samuel 6:&&9 (NIV)

We are reminded, like David, in our time of hardship:

*God will STRENGTHEN AND PROTECT us,

* God will ANSWER US IN OUR DISTRESS.

* God is our ROCK, REFUGE AND STROINGOLd.

* God us WITH US THROUGH EVERY VALLEY.

"But the Lord is faithful and will strengthen and protect you from the evil one." 

                                                               2 Thessalonians 3:3 (NIV)

"May the Lord answer you in your distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you." Psalm 20:1 (NIV)

"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; your rod and your staff will comfort me." Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

"There is no one holy like the Lord; and there is none besides you; there is no Rock like our God" 1 Samuel 2:2 (NIV)

b)WHAT WERE DAVID'S PROMISES?

At first, David had brought the Ark of God to Jerusalem and placed it in the Tent (Tabernacle) that he had prepared for it. Then he felt that the Tent was not enough. David "expressed dissatisfaction" that he was living in a palace of cedar, while the Ark of God's Presence was simple in a Tent. 

"After the king was setted in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from his enemies around him, he said to Nathan the prophet, "Here I am living in a house of cedar while the Ark of God remains in a tent. " Nathan replied to the king, "Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the Lord is with you." 2 Samuel 7:1-3 (NIV)

"He made a solemn promise to the Lord. He vowed to the mighty one in Israel, "I will not go home; I will not let myself rest. I will not let my eyes sleep nor close my eyelids in slumber until I find a place to build a house for the Lord, a Sanctuay for thre Mighty One of Israel." Psalm 132:2-5 (NLT)

David worked really hard to plan God's Temple, He "didn't want to rest" until there was a Temple, not merela Tent - where God could "be honoured" and worshipped. David wanted the Ark to the be in the centre of the Temple. 

"David didn't have any alterior motives, no selfish desires to make a name for himself. He simply wanted God's name to be exalted." Charles Swindoll

GOD'S PROMISES - Read Psalm 130:10-12, 2 Chronicles 6

God had other plans. He wasn't against David's ideas - in fact He acknowledged David's hard work. But God wanted David's throne to continue through his son Solomon, and he would be the builder of the Temple. The verses in this Psalm would later be used in Solomon's Prayer of Dedication. 

"Let us go to the sanctuary of our Lord; let's worship at the footstool of His throne.....The Lord kept the promise he made. I have suceeded my father David and I now sit on the throne of Israel, just as the Lord promised and I have built and I have built the Temple for the Name of the Lord our God. There I have placed the Ark, in which is the covenant of the Lord that He made with the people Israel." Psalm 132:7 (NLT)/2 Chronicles 6:10&11 (NIV)

"Lord, there is no God like you in Heaven or on earth - you who keeps keeps your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in Your way. You have kept your ptrmise to your servant David my Father, with your mouth you have promised and your hand have fulfilled it - as it is today." 2 Chronicles 6:14&15 (NIV)

Now the Israelites were ascending every year to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem and to experience their feasts and a time of worship. They followed the same path that the "Ark of God" had taken, and they were in the presence of their FAITHFUL GOD, who always KEEPS HIS PROMISES.

There are two PROMISES the Lord made to David and his son Solomon, which are our spiritual growth. 

1) The PROMISE OF THE MESSIAH. In these versess the Psalmist speaks not only of anointed kings at the time, but also the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. The word "anointed" also means "Messiah", David was promised that the Messianic line woulds continue, and he also promises promises that we too can have a relationship with Him. 

"For the sake of your servant king, do not reject the king you have anointed. The Lord swore an oath top David with a promise He will never take back: "I will place on of your descendents on your throne. If your descendents obey the terms of my covenant and the laws that I teach them, then your royal line will continue forever.". Psalm 132:10-12 (NLT)

2. The PROMISE OF DAVID's KINGDOM was to be with conditions. They needed to both continue to worship and OBEY THE LORD. This beautiful promise from God came with the fulfillment of Jesus Christ as our Messiah, Saviour and Friend. 

"Praise to the Lord who has given REST to His people Israel, just as He has promised. No one word has failed of all HIS WONDERFUL PROMISES. " 1 Kings 8:56 (NLT)

GOD'S PROMISES TO US - Psalm 132:13-18. Revelation 21

Finally we read how God promises to DWELL WITH HIS PEOPLE. He dwelt symbolically with His people in the the "Ark of the Tabernacle", and he dwells physically through His Son Jesus and spiritually through the Holy Spirit. He does not lot live in "houses buillt by men", but he lives beside us and within us everyday. 

"David found favour with God and asked for the priviledge of building a perrmanent Temple for the God of  Jacob. But it was Solomon who actually built it. However the Most High does not live in Temples made by human hands. As the prophet says: "Heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool. " Acts 7:46-49 (NLT)

"And she will have a son and you are to name Him Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins."      Matthew 1:21 (NIV)

"For the Lord has chosen Jerusalem; for He desired it as His home. "This is my resting place forever. I will live here for this is the home I desired." Psalm 132:13&14 (NLT)

We also have God's promise to bless us with His PROVISION AND SALVATION. We are "God's covenant people" and "righteous priests" who ever sing for joy. Now here is the climax of the whole Psalm. All these promises come together and are fulfilled in Heaven - His promise to dwell with His people forever. Our promises are fulfilled by Christ's reign in Heaven.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be be no more death or sorrow, crying or pain, All these things are gone forever.....He who is the faithful witness to all these things, say, "Yes, I AM COMING SOON" Amen! COME LORD JESUS! May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people." Revelation 22:4, 20&21 (NLT)

"When Christ is my is my hope, He becomes the One through whom I hace confidence. I trust in HIS PROMISES and rely on HIS PRESENCE. I pursue all the good things He promised me, simply because I TRUST IN HIM." Paul David Tripp, cited by Ruth Chou Simmons

"The same God who was FAITHFUL to the people of the Scriptures, is the same God who IS FAITHFUL to us today. We can place our FULL TRUST IN HIM TODAY, and can have an incredible sense of security." Ruth Chou Simmons

CONCLUSION

Psalm 132 is a beautiful Psalm filled with promises stretching from the time of David, in the Old Testament, to Jesus Christ in the New Testamentm, from the Gospels through to Revelation.  It teaches us "one simple truth" which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As the Lord kept His promises to David and the Israelites, He always keeps them to us. 

Jesus, the Messiah, desdended from David and He will rule on Heaven's throne forever. Because of this, we can "meditate and rejoice" on God's promises forever. 

"No matter where we are, God and His Son Jesus are with us and will never leave us." 

                                                               Ruth Cho Simmons

Are you on a pilgrim journey like David and the Israelites? Hope in GOD'S PROMISES, for He is ever faithful. He is with us and will never fail us. 

                                            Cited by Ruth Chou Simmons. 

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

"The Holy Bible", New King James Version", 1982, Thomas Nelson

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

"Abide with Me", (2015) Matt Redman (Performer)

"Great is Thy Faithfulness". 2017/1923. Thomas O Chisholm (Composer) , Maranatha Music

"Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus." (1882, 2009) Louisa M Stead & William J Kirkpatrick (Composers), Cassting Crowns (Performers) , You Tube. 

CHOU SIMMONS: Ruth, (2023) "Pilgrims - 25 Ways God's Character Leads us Onward.", Harvest House Publishers

FOWLER: Ray, (2023), "Psalm 132 - "Believing God's Promises" https//www/rayfowler.org

SWINDOLL: Charles R, (1997) "David - A Man of Passion", Thomas Nelson