Ken’s Korner
A REASONABLE RESPONSE
PSALM 66
Have you ever stopped to think about what our response should be to the revelation of God’s person and God’s work in your life? This is the theme of Psalm 66. Let’s walk through this Psalm together.
I. We are commanded to be exuberant in our Worship. (Vs 1-4) Literally we are called to SHOUT joyfully to God, to SING about His glorious name, to SAY to God how awesome are His works. Clearly the point is that we should communicate back to God His Glory and Majesty.
II. We are called to Draw near to the living God and to reflect upon His amazing Works. (Vs 5-7) The Psalmist says, “Come near and Behold the works of God!” My friends, so much of the Old Testament reveals these Marvelous Works. We miss out when we do not spend time reflecting on or rereading these wonderful accounts. The Psalmist points us to one of these works, God turning the sea into dry land. Can you imagine if you had been one of the Jews fleeing Egypt and realizing you were trapped between the sea and the army of Egypt and then suddenly there is a way out. Would you have shouted in Praise to God?
III. We are exhorted to live our lives as a blessing to God. (Vs 8-15) One of the key aspects here is to realize that God is indeed working in our lives for our good. “He is refining us”, but He also preserves us. A second aspect is to “go to His house” with the idea of offering to God the sacrifices He desires. Do you know what those sacrifices are for a New Covenant Saint? The Psalmist wraps up this section with a reminder of the importance of fulfilling our vows to the Lord.
IV. We are encouraged to tell others about our Amazing God. (Vs 16-20) I believe we need to build relationships with others and that part of our goal should be to share the love of God for them. We need to be ready at all times to tell them about God’s Love. Part of that readiness is found in “guarding our heart from all wickedness.” The Psalmist ends this beautiful poem with a reminder of the importance of prayer in our lives and the assurance that God hears my prayers.
The bottom line is: Our relationship with God is living and real. Are you enjoying the benefits of that relationship?
