Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

The earth belongs to the Lord. Only those who seek Him may stand in His holy place to receive His blessing. The ancient gates and doors prepare for the King of glory to enter.

What does it mean?

This psalm was sung in the temple on the first day of the week. It likely commemorated David’s return of the ark of God to Jerusalem from the Philistines (2 Sam. 6:12-19). The prophetic nature of this psalm also refers to Christ, who ascended to Heaven as the King of glory. In His humanity, Jesus never sinned outwardly or inwardly. As the sinless Son of God, He is the only one who can stand in the holy presence of God the Father. Christ is also the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), who will make yet another entrance into glory with all who have been made righteous by placing faith in Him for salvation.

How should I respond?

Believers through the ages have sung songs about the glories of Heaven. As beautiful as it will be to behold, nothing matches the awe-inspiring wonder that we will live – forgiven and righteous – in the physical presence of the Lord Almighty. Our only right to enter Heaven is based on the righteousness of Jesus Christ, the King of glory. Dedicate a few minutes right now to a prayer of praise and thanksgiving. Praise the Lord for His names and attributes revealed in Psalm 24. Then thank Him for your eternal blessings through Christ (forgiveness, righteousness, a future in Heaven, etc.).