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Though by "the gates of righteousness" the psalmist mainly refers to the gates of the sanctuary, the words may be taken in a sense that will suggest truths of the most vital moment, and of universal application.

I. They suggest that a state of "righteousness" is a MOST DESIRABLE STATE FOR MAN.

1. The want of it is the cause of all the evils that afflict humanity. All physical, social, political, intellectual, and moral evils arise from unrighteousness.

2. The possession of it will secure all good. Let all men be righteous in the principles of action towards God, and man and Eden will bloom again.

II. They suggest that into this most desirable state THERE IS A CERTAIN WAY OF ENTRANCE. "The gates of righteousness." One Scriptural expression will describe the gates: — "Repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ." Those gates are difficult to enter. "Strive to enter in," etc. (Matthew 7:13). Those gates are exclusive. There are no other ways of entrance.

III. They suggest that MEN REQUIRE ASSISTANCE TO ENTER THESE GATES. "Open to me the gates." Whomsoever the psalmist, in the words might appeal to, in order to open the gates of the sanctuary, we know that spiritually no one can open the gates of righteousness but God Himself. He leads the soul unto repentance and faith —

(1)  Through the revelation of His Son.

(2)  Through the events of His providence.

(3)  Through the work of His Spirit.

IV. They suggest that when the entrance is fully obtained THE MAN WILL BE TAKEN UP WITH WORSHIP. "I will go into them, and I will praise the Lord." Worship is at once the great want and grand end of man's existence.

(Homilist.)

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KJV: Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD:

WEB: Open to me the gates of righteousness. I will enter into them. I will give thanks to Yah.