The Psalmist’s View Of The World

Psalm 68:27-35

27Look, the little tribe of Benjamin leads the way.

Then comes a great throng of rulers from Judah

and all the rulers of Zebulun and Naphtali.

28Summon your might, O God.

Display your power, O God, as you have in the past.

29The kings of the earth are bringing tribute

to your Temple in Jerusalem.

30Rebuke these enemy nations—

these wild animals lurking in the reeds,

this herd of bulls among the weaker calves.

Humble those who demand tribute from us.

Scatter the nations that delight in war.

31Let Egypt come with gifts of precious metals;

let Ethiopia bow in submission to God.

32Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth.

Sing praises to the Lord.

Interlude

33Sing to the one who rides across the ancient heavens,

his mighty voice thundering from the sky.

34Tell everyone about God’s power.

His majesty shines down on Israel;

his strength is mighty in the heavens.

35God is awesome in his sanctuary.

The God of Israel gives power and strength to his people.

Praise be to God!

Have you ever seen the poster called “A New Yorker’s View of the World”? In the foreground is the familiar skyline of Manhattan with the Bronx off to one side and Brooklyn on another. Across the river is New Jersey, and then off in the distance is Chicago, with Los Angeles being just a blip in the background. A variety of spin-off posters have been made, with the “view” from other cities.

In a similar way the end of Psalm 68 gives us “The Psalmist’s View of the World.” There in the foreground is the Temple, inhabited by the God of Israel. The kings of all the other nations are coming to pay tribute to the Lord in Jerusalem. Egyptians and Ethiopians come from afar to bow before him, offering their gifts. The mighty nations of the world fade into the background because the Lord is the ruler of all, and he lives right here among his people.

The whole triumphant host give thanks to God on high;

“Hail, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!” they ever cry.

Hail, Abraham’s God and mine! With heaven our songs we raise;

All might and majesty are thine, and endless praise.

THOMAS OLIVERS

Notable Quotable

“This psalm is a paean of praise; it throbs with exultation; in it we hear the roar of battle, melting in the song of triumph. The Lord is the Victor.”

W. GRAHAM SCROGGIE

Thought to Ponder

It is God’s presence in Jerusalem that inspires the kings to bear gifts. As John Durham says, “It is the advent and presence of God which makes men different.” How has God’s presence in your life changed you? What gifts are you bringing him?