Psalm 98

John Chamberlain   -  

May 5, 2024

Heavenly Father, Son and Holy Spirit,

Thank you for the gift of music and how it allows us to bring our praise to you as we have done this morning. When we remember all of the things you’ve done for us, it’s only fitting that we sing joyfully to you.  The psalmist reminds us of the salvation you brought by sending your only son Jesus, to die for us.  This great plan of salvation was not to be exclusive for a special group of people, but was set in place for all of the nations of the world.  We are also reminded of your faithfulness to the people of Israel.  Since we know that you never change, we know this promise still holds true today.  We pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for your protection over Israel in this recent conflict.  Please work quickly to bring a resolution to this war with minimal loss of life.  We also pray Father that your hand of protection would be covering our college campuses across the country. We pray that peace and order would be restored, so all of the students can resume their studies without fear.

The psalmist goes on to inform us how to praise you.  From the quiet sounds of the harp and the beauty of singing, to the loud blasting of trumpets and shouts of joy to you.  All of this brings glory to you when it is done from our hearts.  Help us to sing and play instruments wholeheartedly with the understanding of who you are and all that you have done for us.

The psalmist also instructs all of nature, the seas, the rivers, and the mountains, to be singing for joy in anticipation of the day you will come to judge the earth in righteousness and the people with equity.  What a great day that will be!  To be ruled by a judge who is perfect and has no deceit in him. We long for the time when this will be a reality.

Father, we are thankful for the work that our Global Partners D and K are involved with in Spain.  Help them continue to be a good example of what it looks like to be a Christ follower with all of the connections they made this school year.  We pray that you would provide emotional, physical and spiritual health to their family, as they continue in the challenges of raising their children along with being in ministry.  Please put a hedge of protection around their family and help them to thrive.

We pray these things in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit …. and all God’s people said…Amen.