MEDITATIONS FROM THE PSALMS

 

February 14, 2007                          Reading: Psalm 8:1-9

“What is man that You are mindful of him?” Psalm 8:4

What a burning question this is, and one worthy of contemplation. This question arose out of meditation of the greatness of God, not of the putrid condition of mankind.

Well might you ask, my soul, “Who is God that I am mindful of Him?” The question for Christians today is, “When you think of God, how do you comprehend Him?” The tragedy found in many contemporary evangelical Christian circles today is that they bring God down to their level of comprehension. Christian youth are often groomed to consider God as their Buddy. The church often seeks to attract them to Christ by emulating the world as closely as possible without violating Christian ethics and morals. Music is a perfect example. Just because the words have changed and songs are sung in a church building does not place them in the category of worship. To utilize the same beat that science has proven to cause a rebellious spirit is not glorifying to God. Is there any wonder that our churches have little understanding of the majesty and sovereignty of God?

When Isaiah saw the Lord, He was “High and lifted up.” It is only as we see Him thus that we see ourselves as we truly are – “undone” and ”people of unclean lips.” If we bring Him down to our level how can we see ourselves in a true light?

A low understanding of who God is also causes us to concentrate on secondary issues. Such issues can be the Christian walk, how we should behave as Christians. Our perpetual spiritual battle; how to become overcomers. These issues are secondary because they are viewed as the source of our interest and contemplation. Our walk of faith and struggle against the world, the flesh and the devil, will seldom enhance our opinion of God’s majesty and excellence. Rather, an understanding of our glorious God will enable us to “be holy, even as He is holy.” When we see Him high and lifted up, crowned with glory and honor, with all principalities and powers under His dominion and rule – Ephesians 1:21-22, then we can understand why and how “sin shall no longer have dominion” over us – Romans 6:14.

Our highest priority, as presented in holy scripture, is to understand as much as He allows of Almighty God enthroned in heaven and surrounded with glory so bright even angels shield their eyes. When this is our goal and high motive, the supernatural effect will be the ability to walk worthy of Him who has called us.

“To whom then will you liken Me?” To know God is our high privilege and calling. To behold Him who is “immortal, invisible, God only wise” is the path upon which the Holy Spirit would guide us.

The sinfulness of sin can only be properly assessed in the light of God’s holiness.

 

Assist me, O God of glory, to behold You, as much as You permit and as much as I can stand. Enthrone Yourself in my heart as You are enthroned in glory. Teach me to sit at Your feet and behold Your beauty.