August 1, 2024

Life with God Is Best

Psalm 65

Alfred Abraham
Thursday's Devo

August 1, 2024

Thursday's Devo

August 1, 2024

Thursday's Devo

August 1, 2024

Thursday's Devo

August 1, 2024

Big Book Idea

Thinking and feeling God's way.

Key Verse | Psalm 65:4

Blessed is the one you choose and bring near,
to dwell in your courts! 
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house,
the holiness of your temple!

Psalm 65

O God of Our Salvation

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. A Song.

1  Praise is due to you, 1 65:1 Or Praise waits for you in silence O God, in Zion,
    and to you shall vows be performed.
2  O you who hear prayer,
    to you shall all flesh come.
3  When iniquities prevail against me,
    you atone for our transgressions.
4  Blessed is the one you choose and bring near,
    to dwell in your courts!
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house,
    the holiness of your temple!

5  By awesome deeds you answer us with righteousness,
    O God of our salvation,
the hope of all the ends of the earth
    and of the farthest seas;
6  the one who by his strength established the mountains,
    being girded with might;
7  who stills the roaring of the seas,
    the roaring of their waves,
    the tumult of the peoples,
8  so that those who dwell at the ends of the earth are in awe at your signs.
You make the going out of the morning and the evening to shout for joy.

9  You visit the earth and water it; 2 65:9 Or and make it overflow
    you greatly enrich it;
the river of God is full of water;
    you provide their grain,
    for so you have prepared it.
10  You water its furrows abundantly,
    settling its ridges,
softening it with showers,
    and blessing its growth.
11  You crown the year with your bounty;
    your wagon tracks overflow with abundance.
12  The pastures of the wilderness overflow,
    the hills gird themselves with joy,
13  the meadows clothe themselves with flocks,
    the valleys deck themselves with grain,
    they shout and sing together for joy.

Footnotes

[1] 65:1 Or Praise waits for you in silence
[2] 65:9 Or and make it overflow
Table of Contents
Introduction to The Psalms

Introduction to The Psalms

Timeline

Author and Date

Individual psalms come from diverse periods of Israel’s history, but at every stage they served as the songbook of God’s people. David wrote about half of the Psalms. His role as king was more than that of a ruler. He was to represent and even embody the people, and their well-being was tied to his faithfulness. David, then, writes as a representative, and the readers must discern whether the emphasis of a psalm is more on his role as ruler or more on his role as ideal Israelite, in which he is an example for all. The historical occasions mentioned in the psalm titles help the reader see how faith applies to real-life situations.

Key Themes

The Psalter is fundamentally the hymnbook of God’s people. It takes the basic themes of OT theology and turns them into song:

  1. Monotheism. The one God, Maker and Ruler of all, will vindicate his goodness and justice in his own time. Everyone must know and love this God, whose purity, power, wisdom, faithfulness, and unceasing love are breathtakingly beautiful.
  2. Creation and fall. Though God made man with dignity and purpose, all people since the fall are beset with sins and weaknesses that only God’s grace can heal.
  3. Election and covenant. The one true God chose a people for himself and bound himself to them by his covenant. This covenant expressed God’s intention to save his people, and through them to bring light to the world.
  4. Covenant membership. In his covenant, God offers grace to his people: forgiveness of their sins, the shaping of their lives to reflect his own glory, and a part to play as light to the Gentiles. Each member of God’s people is responsible to believe God’s promises and to grow in obeying his commands. Those who do this enjoy the full benefits of God’s love and find delight in knowing him. The well-being of God’s people as a whole affects the well-being of each member. Each one shares the joys and sorrows of the others. When believers suffer, they should not seek revenge but should pray. They can be confident that God will make all things right in his own time.
  5. Eschatology. The story of God’s people is headed toward a glorious future, in which all kinds of people will come to know the Lord. The personal faithfulness of God’s people contributes to his ultimate purpose. The Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, will lead his people in the great task of bringing light to the Gentiles.

Types of Psalms

The Psalms can be identified according to some basic categories:

Laments, which lay a troubled situation before the Lord, asking him for help. There are community (Psalm 12) and individual (Psalm 13) laments. This category is the largest by far, including up to a third of all Psalms.

Hymns of praise, which call God’s people to admire his great attributes and deeds. Examples include Psalms 8; 93; and 145.

Hymns of thanksgiving. As with laments, there are community (Psalm 9) and individual (Psalm 30) thanksgiving psalms.

Hymns celebrating God’s law (Psalm 119).

Wisdom psalms (Psalms 1; 37), which reflect themes from the Wisdom Books (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon).

Songs of confidence, which enable worshipers to deepen their trust in God amid difficult circumstances (Psalm 23).

Royal psalms, which present the Davidic monarchy as the vehicle of blessing for God’s people. Some of these are prayers (Psalm 20), some are thanksgivings (Psalm 21). All relate to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, either by setting a pattern (Psalms 20–21) or by portraying the king’s reign in such a way that only the Messiah can completely fulfill it (Psalms 2; 72), or by focusing on the future (Psalm 110).

Historical psalms, which take lessons from the history of God’s dealings with his people (Psalm 78).

Prophetic hymns, which echo the Prophets, calling people to covenant faithfulness (Psalm 81).

Structure

The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.

Book 1 Psalms 1–41 Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26.
Book 2 Psalms 42–72 Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people.
Book 3 Psalms 73–89 The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88).
Book 4 Psalms 90–106 Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89.
Book 5 Psalms 107–150 The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134).
The Global Message of The Psalms

The Global Message of The Psalms

The Psalms are a resounding call for all God’s people and for all the world to sing! We are called to sing songs of confession and trust in God; to sing songs of thanksgiving and praise. The Psalms summon the global church to take up the cause of calling the world to join in such global and eternal songs of trust in, delight in, and worship of God for his magnificence—especially his magnificence displayed in his saving mercy.

Songs of Honest Lament

There is a surprising degree of honesty found in the prayers and songs of the Psalms. We find honest lament to God, with frequent repetition of questions such as “Why?” and “How long?” The psalmist asks in Psalm 42:9, “Why have you forgotten me?” Another psalm wonders, “Why, O LORD, do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (10:1; see also 88:14). “How long, O LORD?” is a frequent cry to God in the Psalms (see 6:3; 13:1; 79:5; 89:46).

Such prayers flow from desperately challenging situations, in which life feels overwhelming. Yet they also reflect the confident expectations of our honest cries to our compassionate and faithful God. The Lord invites his people worldwide to be boldly transparent before him—no masks, no pretense—even when the heart is breaking. He promises never to abandon those who belong to him.

Songs of Repentance and Trust

Songs of repentance are scattered throughout the Psalms. In such songs there are confessions of corporate sin—“Both we and our fathers have sinned; we have committed iniquity; we have done wickedness” (Ps. 106:6)—and individual songs of penitence (Psalms 6; 25; 32; 38; 51; 130; 143). These are not hopeless laments, but cries to a God who is a gracious deliverer (6:4), who deals with us according to his great love and mercy (51:1), and whose forgiveness flows from his goodness and not ours (130:3–4).

There is abundant reason to trust such a God for every good thing and in every situation (Psalm 23). To such a God we turn in times of great trouble, when we are at an utter loss in this fallen world. When enemies surround us and there is no one to help, God is our hope for deliverance (Psalm 22). Whether the desperate individual (Psalm 13) or the destitute community (Psalm 12) is in view, God is faithful to his promises. His steadfast love endures. He is worthy of our songs!

Songs of Thanksgiving and Praise

The Psalms are a divinely orchestrated hymnbook of thanksgiving and praise for God’s people. The covenant people of God return thanks to God for his wonderful deeds of deliverance, justice, and defense (Psalm 9), and for his favor and mercies (30:5, 7, 8, 10). All of this moves his people to burst into songs of joy and glad dancing (30:11–12).

In the Psalms, the people of God rejoice in all that God is and all that he has done. These songs of praise exalt God for his unsearchable greatness, his glorious splendor, and his awesome deeds (Ps. 145:3–6). He is worshiped as the King over all creation (93:1),the eternal King (10:16), the King of glory (24:8, 10), the King of all the earth (47:7), and the great King above all gods (95:3).

The Global Message of the Psalms

For all God’s people. The global message of the Psalms is that in light of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness there is a song to be sung by all God’s people everywhere—whatever their circumstances, whatever their emotions, whatever their adversity. The song to be sung will be of varied themes: lament, confession, repentance, thanksgiving, or praise to God. All of these, however, are songs of worship, expressing the universal experiences of God’s people. This is worship of God by the individual and the community, local and global, young and old (Ps. 148:12), now and forever (89:52). For a lost world filled with rebellion and sorrow, there is no greater remedy than a song that brings those who sing it to take refuge in God himself: a song for the oppressed, the hungry, the prisoner, the sojourner, the widow, and the fatherless (146:7–9).

A new song. The message of the Psalms is a call to the whole world to “Sing a new song!” “Oh sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth!” (Ps. 96:1). This is not a song of empty promises, but a song full of hope, a song exulting in the salvation of a covenant keeping and merciful God; not a song that fades, but an enduring, eternal song; a song of a God who lifts us out of mud and mire (69:2, 14).

Celebrating salvation. The book of Psalms opens with a picture of the two ways of life—the blessed and fruitful life of the one who delights in God, and the fleeting life of the wicked who (apart from God) stand condemned (Psalm 1). The world is called to set aside folly and to join in the life and song of the Redeemer, celebrating the salvation that is rooted in the sacrifice of the Savior (Psalm 22). This new song has been sung down through the ages; it continues today throughout the world; and it will one day be sung in the very throne room of God (Rev. 14:3).

Summoning the Nations

To the ends of the earth. The global church has a message for the world: join in this song! It is a celebration that will generate further praise—globally, generationally, and eternally. The church is to “declare his glory among the nations!” (Ps. 96:3). From Israel to the Christian church today to the global kingdom that will one day be known to the very ends of the earth, the redeemed of the Lord will come from every nation, tribe, people, and language, giving God thanks and celebrating his grace (Rev. 7:9).

For all nations. There is a message for the nations: “Praise the LORD, all nations! Extol him, all peoples!” (Ps. 117:1). The Lord humbles the nations (9:5, 19, 20), but he extends to all an offer of mercy and grace. One day, the nations will become Christ’s inheritance (2:8). This song begins with us but it must not end with us. There is a glorious globalization of the worship of God that we are privileged to help advance. In Christ we have found fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore (16:11). In turn we call the nations as well to be glad and sing for joy in him (67:4).

Fulfilled in Jesus. The love and mercy of God that forms the heart of the Psalms explodes onto history with the coming of Christ. It is in and through him that believers worldwide see God’s covenant faithfulness right before their eyes.

Spreading God’s glory. That glorious, global worship of God through Jesus Christ is not yet fully known or complete. Generating it is therefore our glad mission while on this earth. We will not rest till God’s glorious name is blessed forever and the whole earth is filled with his glory (Ps. 72:19).

Psalms Fact #3: How are the Psalms divided?

Fact: How are the Psalms divided?

How are the Psalms divided? The Psalms are divided into five books: 1–41; 42–72; 73–89; 90–106; 107–150. Each book ends with a “doxology,” a hymn of praise to God.

Psalms Fact #4: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?

Fact: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?

What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God? The Psalms were the songbook of the people of God when they gathered for worship.

Psalms Fact #6: What is a psalm of lament?

Fact: What is a psalm of lament?

What is a psalm of lament? The main purpose of a psalm of lament is to tell the Lord about a difficult situation, to ask him for his help, and to praise him for helping. Some laments are community, congregational psalms. Others are individual, personal laments. One third of all the Psalms are psalms of lament.

Psalms Fact #7: How many of the Psalms were written by David?

Fact: How many of the Psalms were written by David?

How many of the Psalms were written by David? David is the author of about half of the Psalms. Other authors include Asaph, Solomon, Moses, and the sons of Korah.

Psalms Fact #9: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?

Fact: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?

What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel? The “enemies” mentioned in the Psalms (e.g., 18:17) were people hostile to the faith of God’s people. Sometimes they expressed their hatred by physically attacking the people of Israel, while other times they merely rejoiced when Israel faced misfortunes.

Psalms Fact #10: Are the Psalms poetry?

Fact: Are the Psalms poetry?

Are the Psalms poetry? The Psalms often reflect the feelings or emotions of the person who wrote the psalm. The book of Psalms includes poetry that covers all kinds of emotional feelings and experiences, from anguish and sorrow to great joy and thanksgiving.

Psalms Fact #12: How often does the NT quote from the Psalms?

Fact: How often does the NT quote from the Psalms?

How often does the NT quote from the Psalms? Of all the OT books, the Psalms and Isaiah are by far the two most widely quoted in the NT.

Psalms Fact #13: Selah

Fact: Selah

What does Selah mean? Although the word Selah is found 39 times in the book of Psalms, its exact meaning is uncertain. Most scholars believe it is a musical term or a term to be used by a worship leader, possibly to mark a pause.

Psalms Fact #20: Snares

Fact: Snares

Snares (38:12) were traps used to catch birds and animals. Some snares used ropes or nets that would be triggered as soon as the bait was touched. Pits disguised with sticks and leaves were also used as snares. In the Psalms, snares serve as symbols of danger or death at the hands of the wicked.

Psalms Fact #27: A helpful guide

Fact: A helpful guide

A helpful guide. The writers of the Psalms understood the importance of constant communication with God. They knew that God would hear their prayers, and they trusted him to act on their behalf. Believers today can benefit greatly by patterning their prayers after specific psalms.

Psalms Fact #28: Memorizing the Psalms

Fact: Memorizing the Psalms

Memorizing the Psalms. The poetic style of the Psalms make them easy to memorize. Throughout the centuries, many believers have memorized all 150 Psalms.

Psalms Fact #40: How long?

Fact: How long?

How long? This question (79:5) occurs nearly twenty times in the Psalms, more than any other question. It is almost always associated with a psalm of lament, such as Psalm 79.

Psalms Fact #31: Dwell in God’s courts

Fact: Dwell in God’s courts

The psalmist David’s desire to dwell in God’s courts (65:4), that is, in the sanctuary, recalls his closing words in Psalm 23: “and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

Structure of Psalms

Structure of Psalms

The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.

Book 1 Psalms 1–41 Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26.
Book 2 Psalms 42–72 Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people.
Book 3 Psalms 73–89 The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88).
Book 4 Psalms 90–106 Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89.
Book 5 Psalms 107–150 The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134).
OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

Romans 3 OT Reference
Sinful Condition
v. 10, none is righteous Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20
v. 11a, no one understands Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 11b, no one seeks for God Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one Ps. 14:3/53:3
Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips)
v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9)
v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips Ps. 140:3
v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness Ps. 10:7
Sinful Action
v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7
v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery Isa. 59:7
v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known Isa. 59:8
Summary Statement
v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes Ps. 36:1
Study Notes

65:1–4 These verses describe public worship at the central sanctuary. They celebrate God’s unlimited kindness and mercy to his people (you atone for our transgressions). The holiness of God’s temple brings delight to his people.

Psalms Fact #31: Dwell in God’s courts

Fact: Dwell in God’s courts

The psalmist David’s desire to dwell in God’s courts (65:4), that is, in the sanctuary, recalls his closing words in Psalm 23: “and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

Study Notes

Ps. 65:5–8 This section recalls the awesome deeds God has done for his people. The special focus is creation, which ties in well with the celebration of a fruitful harvest. The OT often expresses the truth that God as Creator is the hope of all the ends of the earth. He is the one true God whom all mankind should worship.

Study Notes

Psalm Ps. 65. This is a thanksgiving for a fruitful harvest (vv. 9–13), which has come because of God’s faithfulness to his covenant promises (vv. 1–8).

Ps. 65:9–13 The psalmist imagines what the ground itself would feel under God’s blessing. This is a land producing abundantly for man and beast.

S3:150 Psalm 65

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Dive Deeper | Psalm 65

Are our affections stirred for God? I know for myself, it's very hard at times to see His love and, in turn, love Him. As I reflect on this psalm, I am struck by how the psalmist puts on display God's grandeur and might, while also depicting His deep love for His people. 

Psalm 65 begins by declaring praise to God who is seated in Zion, the seat of worship where all people come to Him. But it continues by clarifying the attributes that deem Him worthy of this praise. It highlights not only His might, but a two-way, relational aspect of His character—man can approach Him, and He listens. But not only does He listen, He also responds and acts by awesome deeds (Psalm 65:5). He invites us into relationship with Him (Psalm 65:4), where true blessing is found—in our King's presence. 

All creation testifies to this blessing found in God—He stills the roaring seas, He waters the earth, and He provides its bounty. Even the wilderness overflows with His abundance!

Not only do we see God's majestic grandeur in creation, but we most clearly see Him in His Son. God, our only hope (Psalm 65:5), atones for our sins (verse 3). Just as He tends to the earth giving it everything necessary for life and abundance (verse 9), He tends to us. He transforms our deserts to lead to deep experiences of joy (verse 12).

He longs to satisfy us with His presence. He comes after our hearts, out of His own volition, in our brokenness, and satisfies our deepest desires. Not only is He a King in His courts (Psalm 65:4) who enacts judgment by taking it on Himself and atoning for our sins (verse 3), but He longs to share His goodness with us. How gracious! How loving! How freeing! 

Can we testify to His provision in Christ today? Look to seasons of wilderness in your life (Psalm 65:12), whether now or before, and behold His faithfulness—how He stills our internal tumult (verse 7) and liberates us to experience joy.  

This month's memory verse

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

– Joshua 1:9

Discussion Questions

!. When was the last time you recognized God's provision in your life?  

2. Can you recall a "dry" season in your life in which you can point to God's provision?  

3. Do you believe that God gives abundantly? Do you feel like He is holding out on you? 

4. As I read this psalm, I admit that I often do not echo the joy that all creation seems to convey. Whom do you process with when you are not in a season of worship/praise? If this is you today, what is one thing that stirs your affections for God?

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MS

Michael Scaman

O Palmer Robertson says psalms 64 to 68 are a conversation of kings A messianic king in 61 to 64. A divine king in 65 to 68. A king who provides atonement. “When iniquities prevail against me, you atone for our transgressions” God also is asked to do that in Psalm 79:9: What king provides atonement ? This is another psalm where God is due praise Another Psalms where God gets global glory. "O you who hear prayer, to you shall all flesh come." And in fact glory is already baked in the creation for men that see and wonder at. “So that those who dwell at the ends of the earth are in awe at your signs. You make the going out of the morning and the evening to shout for joy. “. Psalm 65:8. Longer the wavelength reds the more it pierce dust, moisture and the low sky and short wavelength blues bouncing off air molecules with a "blue hour" for artistry after the sunset with a shorter royal blue wavelength. God also makes some other big changes sing for joy with colorful spring and fall. Singing for Joy also shows up in creation used providentially to provide for us. Psalm 65:13 (NIV): "The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing." God's glory shines through His abundant provision and care for creation, making the earth fruitful and prosperous. This glory in creation even seen filling the earth and transforming nature in the reign of the Messiah in Psalm 72 where wheat grows even on the tops of mountains. Here's a song inspired by Psalm 65 that glorifies God through the wonders of physics and creation: Title: Physics Sing of God’s Glory Verse 1: From the dawn's first light, reds pierce through the mist, Long wavelengths refractively bend where the earth does twist. Morning brighten with joy as the sun ascends, Sky blue Raleigh scatters in colors that the sky itself extends. From the mountains high to the ocean's span, God's wonders speak in ways we understand. His signs stretch to the earth's vast expanse, In awe, the world gazes at creation's dance. Chorus: Sing for joy, O photons bright, In every spectrum, in the day and night. From morning reds to the evening painted royal blue, God's glory resonates with every hue. Verse 2: When the evening falls, blues glow dance in the air, they strut to tunes of John William Strutt, AKA Lord Rayleigh, Shorter waves Raleigh scatter when the twilight's draws near. with royal blue curtains , the night descends, The Ponzo effects magnifies, in artistry in creation never ends. In the changing leaves of fall's embrace, And spring's bloom, we see His face. With every cycle, the earth proclaims, God's providence and His holy name. Bridge: The meadows clothed with flocks, the valleys filled with grain, Creation's chorus rises, echoing His reign. In every wave and particle, in fields and skies above, We find the fingerprints of God's eternal love. With tides that bring good tidings of wonders from the sea, The ocean's rhythm of seventh wave harmonics modulated by the moon tells of His majesty. In each crest and trough, His glory rides, Proclaiming His wonders in the ceaseless tides. Beneath the northern lights that paint the skies with plasma fire, Aurora's ballet reflects His heart's desire. And meteor showers that surprise even the night, His eternal glory in their fleeting light. Chorus: Sing for joy, O photons bright, In every spectrum, in the day and night. From morning reds to the evening’s curtain call royal blue, God's glory resonates with every hue. Outro: So let us join the song creation sings, In every color, in everything. From the dawn's first light to the evening's end, We praise our God, our Creator, and Friend.
GJ

greg jones

Good morning Alfred. “He longs to satisfy us with His presence. He comes after our hearts, out of His own volition, in our brokenness, and satisfies our deepest desires.” In good times and bad. Great statement. When iniquities prevail against me,     you atone for our transgressions. I love that verse. As being attributed to David in the psalm I love the ownership in his part of the iniquity incurred against him. On a different with the last two psalms and the 2 Samuel narrative that they parallel I can imagine Jesus using that verse to paint his picture of the prodigal father representing God in the prodigal son parable. “When iniquities prevail against me.” For David his son the prince is eager to collect on what’s coming to him a little early. That’s an iniquity. The general he orders to deal gently with his son, murders the son. That’s another iniquity. When iniquities prevail against me…you atone for our transgressions. Everyone is in this together along with God. That’s a huge thought. Psalm 65 says think of this psalm as you think of God and picture yourself where you would want to fit in the Samuel narrative. Jesus replaces Psalm 65 with a series of parables that says think of this when you think of God and picture yourself in the current narrative as if it were the Samuel narrative. From the Samuel narrative, a long way off David waited on his son to return home. Two messengers came running to him to tell him that his son was dead. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him” Luke 15:20. Luke 15 the parable of the prodigal is the third of three different parables to make a statement. It begins with a rebuke toward Jesus. Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1-2 2 Samuel 19:1-8 Titled Joab rebukes David ESV The king covered his face, and the king cried with a loud voice, “O my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son!” Then Joab came into the house to the king and said, “You have today covered with shame the faces of all your servants, who have this day saved your life and the lives of your sons and your daughters and the lives of your wives and your concubines, because you love those who hate you and hate those who love you. For you have made it clear today that commanders and servants are nothing to you, for today I know that if Absalom were alive and all of us were dead today, then you would be pleased. 2 Samuel 19:4-7 Joab shames a mourning David into changing his behavior. “You love those who hate you and hate those who love you.” That’s harsh, never mind it’s coming from the man who murdered his son. The first parable in the series doesn’t make any sense if you know anything about shepherding. “Who doesn’t leave 99 sheep unprotected in the open country to go find one that is lost then carry it home and throw a party? Jesus is being facetious towards the Pharisees. “David you’re mourning your son, that must mean you hate us.” “Jesus eats with sinners he must love sin”. 2 Samuel 19:16-43 Titled David pardons his enemies ESV. And the king said to him, “Why speak any more of your affairs? I have decided: you and Ziba shall divide the land.” And Mephibosheth said to the king, “Oh, let him take it all, since my lord the king has come safely home.” 2 Samuel 19:29-30 Ziba had earlier slandered Mephibosheth and David had given Ziba all the land belonging to Mephibosheth. “Oh let him take it all, since my lord the king has come home.” That’s kind of crazy. The second parable in the series, the parable of the lost coin. Apparently something that gets lost in the translation is that the celebration that will take place will cost more than the value of the coin. That’s kind of crazy. In both cases the point is it’s worth it. Third parable of the series, the prodigal son. When iniquities prevail against me,     you atone for our transgressions. Psalm 65:3 But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. In the Samuel narratives there is some over the top iniquity going on. And in the narrative there is atonement happening, and there is opposition to atonement happening. All on the same page. So it’s obvious. For Jesus David and Absalom was then, through his parable this is the picture atonement happening in the current narrative. Speaking of opposition to atonement. “Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’” Luke 15:25-32 For you have made it clear today that commanders and servants are nothing to you, for today I know that if Absalom were alive and all of us were dead today, then you would be pleased. Joab that’s not the case. Geez I don’t want to be that guy.
SB

Sue Bohlin

Bless you, Alfred! This is a communal thanksgiving psalm, written for Yahweh's people to sing together. One of the many things to give thanks for is in the key verse, "Blessed is the one you choose and bring near . . ." I have a sister in Christ who is constantly reminding people of her accomplishments from years past. Bless her heart, it's painfully clear that she is painfully insecure, feeling the need to earn people's approval because she has not yet learned to rest in the approval and acceptance she already has--first from God, and then from His people. Of the many things she could remind herself that are true of her as God's beloved creation, how special is it that she (and all of us believers!) is CHOSEN and BROUGHT NEAR out of God's grace. Inside every insecure person is a five-year-old frantically waving their hand and calling out, "Choose me! Choose me!" --And God says, "Oh beloved child, I already did. Before the foundations of the earth, I chose you as Mine." Lord, remind us today of the sweetness of the truth that You chose us. Not because of anything inherent within ourselves, but because of Your goodness. That is definitely something worth thanking You for.
JC

Jason Cromwell

I'm an Outdoors Person so I constantly have moments to stop and glorify God while out doing some activity. It's easy to get distracted with constant notifications and distractions. That's why a few years ago I made an effort to take a day or so each week and put my phone, laptop and tablet away. I turn off the TV and head outside to spend time in Creation to glorify God. It wasn't easy at first, but over time they have now become my favorite days of the week.
AL

Amy Lowther

1. This morning, I experienced God’s provision in deciding to go to work versus sleeping in. 2. During “busyness” in life, it is important to look to God’s provision to get things done and to not get stuck in “busyness”. 3. Yes, but if God seems to be holding out on me, it typically improves and “comes to me” if I believe in Him and do as He prefers in life. 4. I reach to God and to fellow believers if I am not praising God the way I should. Alfred - Thank you for sharing your ideas. I like your point, “Psalm 65 begins by declaring praise to God who is seated in Zion, the seat of worship where all people come to Him. But it continues by clarifying the attributes that deem Him worthy of this praise”. Excellent. Clarifying key ideas is always good!
LD

Lindsey Driscoll

Thanks Alfred for your devo and great questions about how we are doing praising God in the midst of trials just as creation praises him. When I am feeling “dry” do I praise even when I am overwhelmed by sin. Thank you God for preserving your word and this song of praise sung by your people Israel.