Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for You judge the peoples justly and lead the nations of the earth. Selah Let the nations be gladThis phrase calls for a universal joy that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. The Hebrew word for "nations" is "goyim," which often refers to Gentiles or non-Israelite peoples. In the context of the Old Testament, this is a profound call for inclusivity, suggesting that God's blessings and salvation are not limited to Israel alone but are intended for all humanity. Historically, Israel was chosen to be a light to the nations, and this verse echoes that mission. The joy mentioned here is not merely an emotional response but a deep-seated gladness that comes from recognizing and experiencing God's righteous rule and salvation. and sing for joy
The act of singing is a universal expression of joy and worship. In ancient Israel, music and singing were integral parts of worship and celebration. The Hebrew word "ranan" implies a shout of joy or a triumphant cry. This phrase suggests an exuberant, vocal expression of happiness that arises from the heart. It is a call for the nations to join in a chorus of praise, acknowledging God's sovereignty and goodness. The historical context of communal singing in Israelite worship underscores the communal aspect of this joy, inviting all peoples to participate in the worship of the one true God. for You judge the peoples justly
This phrase highlights God's role as the righteous judge of all peoples. The Hebrew word "shaphat" means to judge or govern, and it implies a fair and equitable administration of justice. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kings were often seen as judges, responsible for maintaining justice and order. This verse affirms that God, as the ultimate King, judges with perfect justice, unlike human rulers who may be swayed by corruption or partiality. The assurance of God's just judgment is a source of comfort and hope, especially for those who have experienced injustice. and lead the nations of the earth
The phrase emphasizes God's sovereign guidance over all nations. The Hebrew word "nachah" means to lead or guide, often used in the context of a shepherd leading his flock. This imagery conveys a sense of care, direction, and protection. Historically, the Israelites understood God as their shepherd, guiding them through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. This verse extends that understanding to all nations, affirming that God's leadership is not limited to Israel but encompasses the entire earth. It is a reminder of God's providential care and the ultimate fulfillment of His redemptive plan for all creation. Persons / Places / Events 1. NationsRefers to all the peoples and ethnic groups of the world. In the context of the Psalm, it emphasizes the universal scope of God's reign and His desire for all nations to know Him. 2. PeoplesThis term highlights the diverse groups within the nations, indicating that God's justice and leadership are meant for every individual and community. 3. GodThe central figure in this verse, God is portrayed as the just judge and leader of all nations, emphasizing His sovereignty and righteousness. 4. EarthRepresents the entire world, underscoring the global impact of God's rule and the call for universal worship and joy. 5. SelahA term used in the Psalms, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or musical interlude, inviting readers to contemplate the profound truths just expressed. Teaching Points Universal Joy in God's JusticeGod's justice is a source of joy for all nations. As believers, we can find comfort in knowing that God's judgments are fair and righteous, leading to peace and harmony. God's Sovereign LeadershipRecognize God's leadership over all nations. This should inspire us to trust in His plans and purposes, even when global events seem chaotic. Call to WorshipThe call for nations to be glad and sing for joy is an invitation to worship. As Christians, we are encouraged to lead lives of worship, reflecting God's glory to those around us. Reflection and ContemplationThe use of "Selah" invites us to pause and reflect on God's justice and leadership. Take time in your daily life to meditate on God's attributes and His work in the world. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding God's just rule over the nations impact your view of current world events? 2. In what ways can you contribute to spreading the joy of God's justice and leadership in your community? 3. How does the concept of "Selah" influence your personal time of reflection and prayer? 4. What other scriptures reinforce the idea of God's sovereignty over the nations, and how do they deepen your understanding of Psalm 67:4? 5. How can you incorporate the themes of joy and worship from this verse into your daily life and interactions with others? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 96:10This verse also speaks of God's just rule over the earth, reinforcing the theme of divine justice and leadership. Isaiah 2:4Describes a future where God judges between nations, echoing the hope for peace and justice found in Psalm 67:4. Revelation 15:4Highlights the ultimate fulfillment of all nations worshiping God, connecting to the joy and praise mentioned in Psalm 67:4. People David, PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Comfortest, Equitably, Equity, Glad, Govern, Guide, Guiding, Joy, Judge, Judgest, Justly, Lead, Nations, O, Oh, Peoples, Rejoice, Righteously, Righteousness, Rule, Selah, Sing, Song, Uprightly, Uprightness, WiltDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 67:4 5326 government
6708 predestination
8125 guidance, promise
8288 joy, of Israel
8666 praise, manner and methods Psalm 67:1-4 7949 mission, of Israel Library God of Mercy, God of Grace
[1188]Heathlands: Henry Smart, 1866 Psalm 67 Henry F. Lyte, 1834 DOXOLOGY God of mercy, God of grace, Show the brightness of thy face; Shine upon us, Savior, shine, Fill thy Church with light divine; And thy saving health extend Unto earth's remotest end. Let the people praise thee, Lord; Be by all that live adored; Let the nations shout and sing Glory to their Savior King; At thy feet their tribute pay, And thy holy will obey. Let the people praise thee, Lord; Earth shall then her fruits afford; …
Various—The Hymnal of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the USATwenty-Seventh Day that God's People May Realise their Calling
WHAT TO PRAY.--That God's People may Realise their Calling "I will bless thee; and be thou a blessing: in thee shall all the families of the earth be blessed."--GEN. xii. 2, 3. "God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause His face to shine upon us. That Thy way may be known upon earth, Thy saving health among all nations."--PS. lxvii. 1, 2. Abraham was only blessed that he might be a blessing to all the earth. Israel prays for blessing, that God may be known among all nations. …
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession How the Preacher, when He Has Accomplished all Aright, Should Return to Himself, Lest Either his Life or his Preaching Lift Him Up.
But since often, when preaching is abundantly poured forth in fitting ways, the mind of the speaker is elevated in itself by a hidden delight in self-display, great care is needed that he may gnaw himself with the laceration of fear, lest he who recalls the diseases of others to health by remedies should himself swell through neglect of his own health; lest in helping others he desert himself, lest in lifting up others he fall. For to some the greatness of their virtue has often been the occasion …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great Letter Xlii to the Illustrious Youth, Geoffrey De Perrone, and his Comrades.
To the Illustrious Youth, Geoffrey de Perrone, and His Comrades. He pronounces the youths noble because they purpose to lead the religious life, and exhorts them to perseverance. To his beloved sons, Geoffrey and his companions, Bernard, called Abbot of Clairvaux, wishes the spirit of counsel and strength. 1. The news of your conversion that has got abroad is edifying many, nay, is making glad the whole Church of God, so that The heavens rejoice and the earth is glad (Ps. xcvi. 11), and every tongue …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux The Blessing of God.
NUMB. VI. 22-27. We have already seen the grace of GOD making provision that His people, who had lost the privilege of priestly service, might draw near to Him by Nazarite separation and consecration. And not as the offence was the free gift: those who had forfeited the privilege of priestly service were the males only, but women and even children might be Nazarites; whosoever desired was free to come, and thus draw near to GOD. We now come to the concluding verses of Numb. vi, and see in them one …
James Hudson Taylor—Separation and Service Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of Poitiers.
St. Hilary of Poitiers is one of the greatest, yet least studied, of the Fathers of the Western Church. He has suffered thus, partly from a certain obscurity in his style of writing, partly from the difficulty of the thoughts which he attempted to convey. But there are other reasons for the comparative neglect into which he has fallen. He learnt his theology, as we shall see, from Eastern authorities, and was not content to carry on and develop the traditional teaching of the West; and the disciple …
St. Hilary of Poitiers—The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of Poitiers Letter xix (A. D. 1127) to Suger, Abbot of S. Denis
To Suger, Abbot of S. Denis He praises Suger, who had unexpectedly renounced the pride and luxury of the world to give himself to the modest habits of the religious life. He blames severely the clerk who devotes himself rather to the service of princes than that of God. 1. A piece of good news has reached our district; it cannot fail to do great good to whomsoever it shall have come. For who that fear God, hearing what great things He has done for your soul, do not rejoice and wonder at the great …
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Psalm 67:4 NIVPsalm 67:4 NLTPsalm 67:4 ESVPsalm 67:4 NASBPsalm 67:4 KJV
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