Reverence and Fear
Psalm 76 (KJV)
1 In Judah is God known: his name is great in Israel.
2 In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.
3 There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Selah.
4 Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey.
5 The stouthearted are spoiled, they have slept their sleep: and none of the men of might have found their hands.
6 At thy rebuke, O God of Jacob, both the chariot and horse are cast into a dead sleep.
7 Thou, even thou, art to be feared: and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry?
8 Thou didst cause judgment to be heard from heaven; the earth feared, and was still,
9 When God arose to judgment, to save all the meek of the earth. Selah.
10 Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.
11 Vow, and pay unto the Lord your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.
12 He shall cut off the spirit of princes: he is terrible to the kings of the earth.
Reverence and Fear
Aseph begins with an interesting fact. He says “In Judea is God known. His name is great in Israel” (76:1). It is as if he is telling the world that if they want to truly know the one true God, then this is where you must go to find him. His people, the nation of Israel, have a true and intimate relationship with God. God’s tabernacle is in Salem and His dwelling place is in Zion. Aseph provides even further proof of the special dwelling places of God.
There, in these places, He forcefully defeats His enemies, breaking the arrow and the sword. Aseph speaks words of beauty and praise to God. “Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey” (76:4). Before God, the stout hearted are spoiled and the hands of the mighty are useless, as if lost. Useless also are the enemies’ chariots and horses. Aseph seems to shout, “Thou, even thou art to be feared” (76:7). No one can stand before an angry god. Aseph now retells times when even the earth surrendered to God’s will. Judgement came from heaven and the earth was still. God arose to judgement to save all the meek of the earth. God uses His might and power to care for the lowly. Even the wrath of man will praise God in the end. For God restrains their wrath and turns it against them. All should vow and bring presents unto God. This is done in reverence and fear. He is above the world’s princes and kings.
In Psalm 76, Aseph points the way to those searching for God. The Bible also says seek and ye shall find (Matt 7:7). How do we direct people to God today? The first destination is in the Word of God. I thank God that we can declare the gospel to the world. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). Some may also share locations where one can go to fellowship with believers and worship the Lord together. I ask God to help me to be a living witness of his love, grace, mercy and forgiveness. My body is the temple of God, therefore, I pray daily that I live, reflecting for others the God who lives in me.
I would love to hear what this Psalm brings to mind for you! Write back to me in Facebook comment or blog reply.
Disclaimer: The intention of this project is not to teach, but rather to share. Please use due diligence in studying the word of God, and seek guidance from your local religious leaders for any questions or concerns.
Special Thanks to Elizabeth Baber and Dr. Shakira for all that you do to make it happen.
Debra Hill
Debra Hill is an independent inspirational singer, author, songwriter, and writer. As a blind performer, she adds a personal story of God’s faithfulness. Her life exemplifies that Christ’s power will work to lift all regardless of circumstances.
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