Psalm 68

We know that God is love, and that His love surpasses even what we can understand.  We know it, but cannot fathom it, for it is greater than anything else that we know.  However, Proverbs 1:7 says that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.  In this context, fear means great respect and awe.  And we have good reason to fear the Lord in this way, to respect Him and stand in awe of His great might and power.

This Psalm describes the reaction and fate of the enemies of God.  His enemies will be scattered and those who hate Him will flee.  Notice the description: “As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God” (v. 2).  What a description!  This is the power of the God we serve; this is our Father and Creator in heaven!  We who love Him can dwell in His presence and find peace and joy and fulfillment; but how terrible it is for those His enemies, for those who hate Him.  As darkness cannot coexist with light and is driven away at the dawn, so the wicked are repulsed by the presence of God.  But the righteous can rejoice and be glad, for He is their Savior and Protector, their Shield and their Strength!  He cares for the needy—the fatherless, the widows, the lonely, and all those who come to Him.

His presence shook the earth, caused the rain to fall, and even moved Mount Sinai in His glory.  Creation itself responds to and confirms the covenant of God to His people.  He is the King of Glory, the only worthy one.  Even the rebellious and the unrighteous pay homage and give Him gifts, for all is due to Him.

“Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation!”  Look at this: God daily provides for His people, and His blessings to us are numerous.  But the blessing is still due to Him.  As His children we can bless Him and give Him all that He desires by being faithfully obedient in all that He entrusts to us.  It is not for our own selfish gain, but to bring glory and honor that is due Him.

As a mighty King enters His kingdom with a grand procession, so the Lord God is worthy of praise and worship and adoration.  The kingdoms of the earth are subject to Him, and His people pay homage to Him with rejoicing and gladness.  Sing!  Sing to Him all you peoples, and rejoice at the Name of the Lord!  He “rides on the heaven of heavens!”  He voice is mighty and full of authority.  Ascribe greatness and strength to Him, for He is worthy.

Note this: “God is more awesome than His holy places.”  It is interesting that David says this.  As believers we must be careful to worship God and God alone.  His blessings are great, His works are mighty, and His manifestations are incredible.  But these are not what we are to worship—we are not to worship the peripheral, the effects, the blessings, or the miracles.  These never should be set above the Source, the Lord, who is the only One worthy of our worship.  Worship the Source, our awesome God, who gives us strength and power.  Let Him be blessed!

—Mark Knoles

Maxim of the Moment

Marry for money and you’ll starve for love.