Psalm_75
Scripture
Psalm 75:1 (NKJV)1 We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks!For your wondrous works declare that Your name is near.
Observation
I forever love David’s heart; he’s up, down, open, honest, raw.In Chapter 75, he starts with giving thanks – written as plural, not just David but those in his kingdom, the congregation – and said twice for emphasis – that they gladly give thanks.“We should praise God again and again. Stinted gratitude is ingratitude. For infinite goodness there should be measureless thanks.” (Spurgeon)The second part of the verse give us the backstory…there’s ALWAYS stuff to give thanks for; but, here, it was because God was near and this was evident through His wonderous works.“The name of God is said to be near, because it had come into public notice, and was in every mind and every tongue—opposed to what is unknown and obscure, which is said to be far remote.” (Venema, cited in Spurgeon)“The reason for rejoicing lies in the manifest presence of God proclaimed and celebrated in the stories of God’s mighty acts. In remembrance and retelling of the history of salvation lies the comforting affirmation of God’s closeness to his people.” (VanGemeren)The chapter goes on to speak of God’s judgment (in His time), speak to the proud and remind that exaltation come from God alone (stay humble).
Understanding
This verse stuck out to me because I feel it rings true for our church today. God is near! We’re seeing His wondrous works, experiencing His presence.So it would follow that we must…1) Give thanks!2) Tell and retell of His manifest presence…not in a “hyped up” way but in the true, honest, raw way that David maintains throughout Psalms and in the way the “church of Acts” did.3) Stay humble. Remember that God exalts and takes down.
Life Application
God, I’m grateful to be alive in a time where your presence is drawing near – a reminder that your power and presence are not just things from the past, written onto thin pages of a book from long ago, but that You are ALIVE TODAY! Thank You for using us, for moving through us and for showing us you are near. May we remain open, obedient and ready to be used in ways big and small. In Your Name, I pray. ReiTo check out the discussion or to join in click here.