September 9, 2015.

Daily Reading: Psalm 96-98.

Background: Psalm 93-95.

Concepts and Connections.

Chapter 96

Ascribe to the Lord His glory: This psalm is a psalm of worship and praise, ascribing the due glory and power to the Lord of Heaven, Creator of all. The opening calls all the earth into chorus to sing a new song to the Lord, declaring His glory throughout the nations. Note the emphasis on telling people about the salvation and greatness of the Lord. It is not something that is to be kept inside, but rather His name should be shouted on the mountains. Day to day the psalmist tells his audience to tell of the Lord’s salvation. All are called to ascribe the glory due His name, as they tremble before Him. He will come to judge in equity and righteousness, as His whole creation rejoices before Him. Praise be His name.

Chapter 97

The Lord reigns: This is another psalm of praise to the Lord and Creator of all the earth. The creation rejoices before Him as He reigns on high. His power is shown and all the might of creation melts before Him. The peoples of the earth can clearly see His glory as the heavens declare His righteousness and the earth trembles. Zion, the city of God, and the daughters of Judah, the people of God, rejoice as their God reigns supreme. Those that worship worthless idols are put to shame as even their gods, which are no gods at all, are told to worship the Lord. The Lord is on the side of the righteous, those who hate evil, and light is sown for them. Let us rejoice with the psalmist here, ever giving thanks to His holy name.

Chapter 98

Make a joyful noise to the Lord: This is a psalm that is a call of praise and song to the Lord because of the marvelous works that He has done. His salvation and righteousness have been revealed to mankind, and His steadfast love and faithfulness towards Israel, His people, did not cease. All the ends of the earth had seen the salvation of their God (see also Isaiah 52:10). The earth is called to make a joyful noise to the Lord, singing with the lyre and the sound of melody, with trumpets and horns. The King is worthy to be praised, as the creation does in the last stanza, singing together with joy. Notice how the coming judgement of the Lord is welcomed by the creation, in all its equity and righteousness. Let us ever praise His name.

Tomorrow’s Reading: Proverbs 20-21.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord.

-Walter