This is yet another Psalm written
by David. It outlines for us the kind of person we should strive to be so that
we can enter and enjoy the presence of God. A quick scan of this song will show
us what a godly life looks like. This is the kind of life that we should seek
to build. The background to this Psalm is not certain. Though uncertain, this
Psalm is commonly acknowledged as a poem David had written when the Ark of the
Covenant was transported to Mount Zion recorded in 2 Samuel 6:12-19.
The two rhetorical questions speak
a lot. They tell us of David’s inner desire. His wish was to be able to dwell
in the presence of God. They imply that there are some pre-requisites we must
meet, if we, like him, are to relish a sweet and abiding fellowship with God.
The questions should cause us to think of what we need to be if we desire to
have a vibrant and living fellowship with God.
In verses 2-5, David then answers
the questions that he raised. Here’s a description of a person who has taken
care to be right in every department of his life – his conduct, his deed, his
speech, his dealings with others, his perception and generosity. Regarding conduct, he walks uprightly. As to
his deed, he only does what is righteous. In his speech, he is truthful. He
would say what he means and means what he says. He does not slander another nor
backbite and speak evil of others. Such a person not only refuses to malign his
neighbor, he also would not do anything to hurt him. By not taking up a
reproach against a neighbor, David meant that he does not listen to the ill of
someone and then repeat to others. In his eyes, anyone who practices vileness
is repulsive to him, but he will go all out to honor anyone who fears God. What’s
also telling about such a person is that he keeps his words, even if it takes a
lot out of him. He would rather inconvenience himself than not keep his word.
In other words, he fulfills his promises. He will not practice usury against his
neighbor and friend by demanding an interest for money he loans to a friend.
What he definitely will not do is to take a bribe so as to testify falsely
against an innocent person.
David was very sure that such a
solid character will not be swayed or shaken easily. He is such a person God
would be pleased to fellowship with. In order to be in that position, the first
requirement is to have Christ in our life. The portrait painted for us in this
Psalm can never be attained without first knowing Christ Jesus as our Lord. That’s
just the start of this blessed journey to enjoy God’s presence. However, we
must also know that what David described in this Psalm, will only be experienced
progressively. As our relationship with the Lord is built, we will find
entering into His presence becoming easier. We must deliberately make time to
live continuously in an interactive relationship with the Trinity – Father, Son
and Holy Spirit. As we do so, we will learn to distinguish His still and gentle
voice. Then we must adjust our life to align with His instruction and change
where we need to change. The aim is to cultivate an upright life so that we can
continually enter into God’s sweet presence. What a privilege!
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