Set Apart
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To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David.
Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness:
Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; Have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame?
How long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing?
Selah.
But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is godly for himself:
The LORD will hear when I call unto him.
Stand in awe, and sin not:
Commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still.
Selah.
Offer the sacrifices of righteousness,
And put your trust in the LORD.
There be many that say,
Who will shew us any good?
LORD, lift though up
The light of thy countenance upon us.
Thou hast put gladness in my heart,
More than in the time that their corn and their wine increased.
I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep:
For thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
Set Apart
In this Psalm, David expresses the way it feels to be set apart, or chosen by God. Knowing that God is shining his countenance on me is more satisfying than all the material things in this world, such as the corn and wine (4:7). David speaks confidently that God hears our prayers, comforts our distress and provides a safe and secure resting place. However, David also clearly demonstrates our requirement of righteousness—through the righteousness of God (4:1), through our righteous sacrifices (4:5) and through our not sinning (4:4). I know I cannot give him anything but my love and obedience to Him. David begins this Psalm with a thanks to God for His mercy. I also thank God that I can come boldly to His throne of grace to obtain mercy, especially when I fall short of righteousness. I know that He shines His light on me and that He has set me apart to be in a relationship with Him.
When I wake up in the morning, I love feeling the warm sunlight on my skin. I recall many early mornings watching the brilliant sunrise. But a more special ritual in the morning is for me to take the time to commune with my heart (4:4) and be still. During this time, I am praying to God, thanking Him for shining His light on me to see a new day. I start my day feeling this connection and feel He is watching over me from morning to night.
Learn More
It is widely accepted that many of the Psalms were set to music in their original composition. Imagine the variety of string instruments that may have been used during these Biblical times. In Psalms chapter 4, the reference to Neginoth is defined by Easton’s Bible Dictionary as:
“i.e., songs with instrumental accompaniment, found in the titles of Ps. 4; 6; 54; 55; 67; 76; rendered “stringed instruments,” Hab. 3:19, A.V. It denotes all kinds of stringed instruments, as the “harp,” “psaltery,” “viol,” etc. The “chief musician on Neginoth” is the leader of that part of the temple choir which played on stringed instruments.”
David himself played stringed instruments to a skill to be accepted in a king’s court. 1 Samuel 16:14-23 KJV
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.
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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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