Psalm 92 – Sabbath Praise

Read Psalm 92

How fitting – a psalm to be sung on Sabbath (according to editor’s notes), and this is set to publish on Sunday. Now that might not be “your” sabbath day, or you might be reading this post on a day other than Sunday. Suffice it to say we should all have a sabbath day, a day we devote to God. How are you doing on that? I have some work to do, I’m afraid.

What a psalm of praise this is! God certainly deserves our praise and worship 24/7. My version of verse 4 says, “You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me.” Thrill me. Yes. That describes it. The joy bubbling inside when I focus on God, truly focus on his mighty power, his hand in creation, and his love for me. That same God lives in me, resides there to help me. Wowsa! That is a thrill – is it not? How could you not praise?

All that we have and all that we are is because of God’s goodness. I love the reference here to palm trees (verse 12). “That the godly will flourish like palm trees.” I have always been drawn to palm trees as long as I can remember. When I first saw one in person the awe and wonder was magnified. Now we have a couple in our yard in Mexico, and this psalm has taken on new meaning. They are a hearty tree, and when they get a little water they flourish. I am reminded to give praise and thanksgiving to my God.

If you don’t have palm trees in your yard, find something to help you remember God, to worship him without ceasing. It should be our heart’s desire to be godly and to flourish. What things do you need to change in your life to make that happen?

We are all getting older. We can’t avoid it. But don’t you like the verse that says, “even in old age they will produce fruit.” I feel like my life is just beginning in some ways. Each day is a new opportunity we’ve been given to produce fruit. I know I want to be more in step with God than ever before. That is one of the reasons I am writing this devotional blog. It really helps me focus on God’s word and to take time to listen to his message to me (and hopefully to you, too).

Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for all you have done for me. I am particularly thrilled by how you masterfully design each day we are given. Help us to see your hand at work and to give you glory for what is happening in our midst. May your message to us continue to resonate beyond our quiet time. Help me to be more intentional in finding true sabbath rest in you. Bring people into my life, and into the lives of those I love, to draw us all closer to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.