Hobart Herd Devotional – Psalms 68
This is a Psalm of Celebration of God’s mighty power and victory over all the enemies of His people, Israel. Some think that this was written by David after the victory and taking the city of Jerusalem or maybe the victorious march and celebration of bringing the Ark of the Covenant into the city. Whatever the situation this became a favorite song of God’s might shown in fighting for His people. In verses 1-6 we have the exaltation and jubilation over God’s power and protection as He battles for His people.
In verses 7-18 we find the celebration of God bringing His people out of Egypt, through the desert and into the promised land. The mention of the mountains of Bashan or Herman and Sinai were considered the great mountains of the region. The fact that God chose to make His abode in Mount Zion represents His victory and presence in the promised land. Another note is the mention of God’s protection and care for the Fatherless, widows and needy.(vs. 5, 10) This reminds me that God’s heart is never far from the hurting and needy even when doing major battle against His enemies.
One of my favorite verses in this Psalm is verse 19, 19 Blessed be the Lord,
who daily bears us up; God is our salvation. Selah(ESV) I am so thankful that the God Who brings the great victories over the powerful enemies never forgets to bear me up daily as the God of my eternal salvation and the God of my daily salvation and deliverance. In the midst of all His might comes the loving grace and mercy of God to bear me up and deliver me from my daily fears and struggles. His effective destruction and devastation over the enemies of His people never stops Him from being the God of our salvation and victory over death.
In verses 24-31 we have a great description of the processional march into the city, the coronation of our Almighty God as He comes in victory and presence into His sanctuary. All of the tribes of His people are standing and praising God as He enters before them. Psalms 68:28-29, 28 Summon your power, O God, the power, O God, by which you have worked for us. 29 Because of your temple at Jerusalem kings shall bear gifts to you.(ESV) The mighty kings of the earth recognize the true King of Kings in all His might and glory. The response of His people, and our response is described in verses 34 and 35: 34 Ascribe power to God, whose majesty is over Israel, and whose power is in the skies. 35 Awesome is God from his sanctuary; the God of Israel—he is the one who gives power and strength to his people. Blessed be God!
Father, thank You for being the Almighty God of Strength, Power and Victory over the enemy. I am so glad that You fight for me and have the victory already won. I thank You for taking care of the needy and my daily needs in the midst of the battle. You are truly the God of my salvation. May I never lose sight for the victory that is mine in You. In Jesus Name, Amen! Pastor Rob