Psalm 68 begins with a powerful statement: “God will arise”. Sometimes we get lulled into thinking that God has taken a vacation or left the house entirely. That isn’t ever true. God never leaves. At times He may choose not to be as visible, but when He does, there is a major response. Check out what scripture tells us happens when God arises:
- “enemies shall be scattered
- those who hate him shall flee
- wicked shall perish”
Those who are opposed will have to deal with an almighty and all powerful God.
But scripture also tells us how those of us who love God and walk with Him should respond:
- “the righteous shall be glad
- they shall exult before God
- they shall be jubilant with joy
- sing….lift up a song”
We need to respond. Our relationship with God is not one sided – but requires us to recognize Him and to respond. Our hearts should come alive and we should express that love to God.
What has God done? The psalmist recalls many of God’s blessings and actions which are worthy of our praise. It begins with His name – “His name is the Lord”. That alone indicates His place. Check out the other things mentioned:
- “Father of the fatherless
- protector of widows
- God settles the solitary
- leads out the prisoners
- went out before your people
- earth quaked
- heavens poured down rain
- restored your inheritance
- flock found a dwelling
- provided for the needy”
Is God worthy? He has a track record since creation of caring for His people. Yes He is worthy and deserves our praise and adoration.
The psalmist reminds us of one other thing about our awesome God. He “daily bears us up; God is our salvation”. Do you ever forget the dailiness of God? He isn’t just a Sunday God. He isn’t just a 10 minute quiet time God. God is with us constantly….daily…..and we need to treat our relationship that way. God wants to be part of every moment of our lives. He is already – the question is will we recognize Him as such and include Him in all the activity. He is our salvation – we sometimes lose sight or forget that small detail as well. But God needs to be front and center. He is the compass that keeps us on track and the answer to all our challenges and struggles – maybe not with instant fixes or answers – but with His caring love and never ending guidance. “Awesome is God….Blessed be God”.
