March 6: Psalm 113, 114 - Exalting God’s Sovereignty and Wonder
Introduction
The readings today take us into a fascinating exploration of two Psalms that trumpet the sovereignty of God. Psalm 113 and 114 form a part of the Hallel Psalms traditionally sung during Jewish festivals, and they espouse a message of God’s majesty, power, and active engagement in the history of His people.
Psalm 113: Praise the Lord’s Sovereign Name
Key Verse: Psalm 113:7 “He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap.”
Psalm 113 invites us to praise God, exclaiming His supreme authority. The Psalmist vividly portrays God as one who brings about dramatic transformation - raising the poor from the dust and making them sit with princes.
Psalm 114: Recalling God’s Marvelous Acts
Key Verse: Psalm 114:7 “Tremble, Earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob.”
Psalm 114 takes us back to the miraculous display of God’s power during the Exodus. By recalling God’s mighty deeds, the Psalmist reminds us that our God is a God who intervenes.
Key Themes and Reflections
- Exaltation of God: Both Psalms call us to praise and revere God, acknowledging His sovereignty and omnipotence.
- God of the Lowly: God is depicted as a compassionate entity who uplifts the poor and needy. It’s a reminder of His loving kindness and concern for the marginalized.
Today’s Application
These Psalms remind us to consistently revere God for His greatness and to remember His acts of power and deliverance. They also call us to invest in caring for the least among us, following in the steps of our God who champions the cause of the poor and needy.
Hidden Gem
Interestingly, these Psalms were traditionally sung by Jewish people during the Passover. This gives us a profound insight into Jesus and His disciples likely echoing these exact words of praise during the Last Supper—an occasion that prefigured another miraculous act of God’s deliverance through Jesus.
Reflective Q&A:
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What can we learn from the Psalms about praising God? -
A: The Psalms invite us to praise God continuously, underlining the importance of developing a consistent attitude of gratitude and reverence, regardless of our circumstances.
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Why is God’s delivery of the needy significant?
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A: It underpins the heart of God towards the marginalized. It underscores that no one is negligible in God’s eyes and encourages us to act likewise.
Join the Discussion!
What specific ways can you practice praise in your daily life? How can we champion the cause of those in need in our communities? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
See You Tomorrow in Psalm 115, 116!
May we continue to marvel at the magnificence of our God! Praise His holy name!
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