The phrase "Exalt the LORD and worship at His holy mountain" is a call to reverence and adoration found in the Psalms, specifically Psalm 99. This expression encapsulates the themes of divine holiness, majesty, and the appropriate human response of worship and exaltation.

Biblical Context

Psalm 99 is a part of the enthronement psalms, which celebrate God's sovereign rule over the earth. The psalm emphasizes God's holiness, justice, and righteousness, and it calls the people to respond with worship. The specific verse, Psalm 99:9, states: "Exalt the LORD our God and worship at His holy mountain, for the LORD our God is holy" . This verse serves as a culmination of the psalm's themes, urging the faithful to recognize God's supreme authority and to respond with appropriate reverence.

Theological Significance

1. Holiness of God: The call to worship at God's holy mountain underscores His holiness. In the biblical narrative, God's holiness is a central attribute, signifying His purity, otherness, and moral perfection. The mountain, often associated with divine encounters (e.g., Mount Sinai, Mount Zion), symbolizes a place set apart for God's presence.

2. Exaltation and Worship: Exalting the LORD involves lifting Him high in praise and acknowledging His supreme position over all creation. Worship, in this context, is an act of submission and reverence, recognizing God's rightful place as King. The act of worship at His holy mountain signifies entering into God's presence with humility and awe.

3. Covenantal Relationship: The call to worship is rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and His people. Throughout the Old Testament, God establishes His covenant with Israel, calling them to be a holy nation. Worship is a response to God's faithfulness and a reaffirmation of the people's commitment to Him.

4. Christological Fulfillment: From a New Testament perspective, the call to exalt and worship finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. As the incarnate Son of God, Jesus embodies the holiness and righteousness of God. Believers are called to worship God through Christ, who is the mediator of the new covenant. The holy mountain can be seen as a metaphor for the heavenly Zion, where Christ reigns as King.

Practical Application

For believers today, the exhortation to "Exalt the LORD and worship at His holy mountain" serves as a reminder of the importance of worship in the Christian life. It calls for a heart posture of reverence, acknowledging God's holiness and sovereignty. Worship is not confined to a physical location but is a spiritual act that can be expressed in various forms, including prayer, song, and obedience to God's Word.

In corporate worship settings, this call encourages the church to gather in unity, lifting up God's name and seeking His presence. Individually, it challenges believers to cultivate a lifestyle of worship, exalting God in every aspect of life. The recognition of God's holiness and the response of worship are central to the believer's relationship with God, shaping their identity and mission in the world.