Psalm 128

Reading for September 6, 2012            Psalm 128

“How joyful are those who fear the Lord—

    all who follow his ways!” (Psalm 128:1)

Fear of God’s punishment is a common theme in the Old Testament. The psalmists often remind Israel to “fear the Lord.” In those times, the Israelites had a reward and punishment relationship with God. Since the punishment of God was a very real possibility, it was appropriate for the Jews to fear God. However, God also rewarded those who were faithful; therefore, two seemingly opposing responses of fear and joy can go hand-in-hand.

We do not have to live in fear of God because Jesus has accepted the punishment for our sins. God’s discipline is not fearful because it is flowing from the love of Christ, who died for us while we were yet sinners.

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love” (1 John 4:18 NRSV).

Psalm 128 models for us a classical form of benediction. A benediction is a blessing, and it is appropriate to hold your head high with your eyes open to receive your blessing. In this psalm, the author begins by announcing the blessing to come. After describing the blessing, he closes by pronouncing the blessing:

“May the Lord continually bless you from Zion.

    May you see Jerusalem prosper as long as you live.

May you live to enjoy your grandchildren.

    May Israel have peace!”

Psalm 128:5-6

Sē’lah

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What word or phrase in today’s reading of the Psalms

 attracts your attention?

Reflect on that word or phrase.

What insights come to you?

How does this passage touch your life today?

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(Selah is a word that appears in the Book of Psalms that I often use as the Complimentary Closing in my correspondence. Its meaning, as I use the word, is to pause and think about these things.)

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Reading for September 7, 2012            Psalm 129