Verse 12 of the text makes a bold statement concerning those who are blessed of the Lord: "Blessed ... is the people whom he has chosen as his heritage." This statement follows the exclamation to shout for joy in the Lord (v. 1). While we are given ways in which we can express our praises in verses 1 through 3, we are also given reasons why we should make such expressions:
GOD IS FAITHFUL to his people. "All His work is done in faithfulness" (v. 4).
GOD IS RIGHTEOUS AND JUST and is full of loving compassion (v. 5). All of his creation reflects his praiseworthiness.
GOD IS RIGHT in the counsel that he gives to his people. We can
trust him in his word and in his guidance for fruitful living. "The
counsel of the Lord stands forever (v. 11).
Because of this, we are to be exuberantly expressing our praises to him with shouts of joy, songs of praise and instruments that resound, giving glory to the God of this universe who has chosen to enrich our lives.
Lord, may both the meditation of my heart and the words of my mouth exalt you always.
Praise is never out of season.
Rev. Irvin Verrill, Dowling Park, Fla.
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