Psalm 9 features some powerful language about our God. Amidst these miniature pictures of God’s vengeance, power, and judgments David proves through all of it, he is led to praise.
David’s words are provocative. He asserts his praise is with his whole heart. We too ought to be provoked into praise by this example to life wholly before the face of God. Do I praise God with my whole heart—every inclination and desire, submitting my passions unto Him?
David’s words are probing. He examines inward and outward as to how God ought to be praised. Where in the rubble, how extensive is God’s judgment on wickedness. Where has the Lord rescued, and how sturdy are the humble ones who are moved to this place called Zion? Do I praise God by probing into my or others’ situations so as to discover Him?
David’s words are present. He looks back for reference, but this psalm is ripe with present tense language. When is God acting in David’s life? Right now. When is God powerfully working behind the circumstances that may otherwise drive men to despair? Right now. When is God remembering and affirming the covenant of grace unto His people? Right now. Do I actively praise God as one who is so near and present in my life?
David writes, “those who know Your name will put their trust in You” (Ps. 9:10). He previously wrote, “I sing praise to Your name” (Ps. 9:2). Name implies the whole picture of the person, all the attributes, power, and contours of their being. As much as David knows about the Lord, he yet desires to know more, trusting and praising this God who reveals Himself to sinful men.
When David praises God for being “known by the judgments He executes” (Ps. 9:16), the Spirit points to the justifying work of Jesus Christ—who promised even David a judgment of righteousness through His precious blood. Those who trust in the gracious, sovereign Lord turn to Him in praise deserving of the whole heart, praise the probes into every situation, and praise that recognizes the mercies abundant and present even right now.
Praise the Lord this week as you remember the Name of Our powerful God.
Pastor Chris
Leave a Reply