How can we apply the reverence in Psalm 89:7 to our daily prayers? Setting the Scene: Psalm 89:7 in Context “God is greatly feared in the council of the holy ones, more awesome than all who surround Him.” • The psalmist pictures the heavenly assembly trembling before God’s majesty. • If sinless angels respond with such awe, how much more should redeemed sinners on earth approach Him with reverence. What Reverence Looks Like • A heart posture—not a volume level—of holy awe (Isaiah 6:1-5). • Words chosen carefully, recognizing we speak to the King of kings (Ecclesiastes 5:2). • Gratitude that balances bold access with profound respect (Hebrews 4:16; 12:28-29). Barriers to Reverence in Modern Prayer • Casual habits: rattling off requests without pausing to adore. • Distractions: screens buzzing, minds racing. • Over-familiar language that forgets He is “awesome above all” (Psalm 89:7). Practical Ways to Cultivate Holy Awe 1. Begin with Scripture – Read a verse exalting God’s greatness before you speak (Psalm 145:3; Revelation 4:11). 2. Use Names and Titles of God – “Father,” “Lord Almighty,” “Ancient of Days” (Daniel 7:9) remind the soul whom it addresses. 3. Practice Silence – Thirty silent seconds can reset the heart, echoing “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). 4. Kneel or Lift Hands – Bodily posture signals inward humility (Ephesians 3:14; Psalm 134:2). 5. Confess Before Requesting – Acknowledge sin, celebrate cleansing (1 John 1:9), then present petitions. 6. Adore with Specificity – Recount attributes: holiness, sovereignty, mercy. Specific praise combats vague familiarity. 7. Close by Surrendering – “Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10) anchors every prayer in submission to His supremacy. Scriptural Anchors for a Reverent Heart • 1 Chron 16:29 – “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and come before Him; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.” • 2 Samuel 7:22 – “How great You are, O Lord GOD! For there is none like You, and there is no God but You.” • Hebrews 12:28-29 – “Let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” • Revelation 15:4 – “Who will not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy.” Living Out Reverence Beyond the Prayer Closet • Speak of God with honor in everyday conversation. • Guard entertainment choices that dull sensitivity to His holiness. • Serve others with the awareness that every act is done before His face (Colossians 3:23-24). Approaching each day—and each prayer—with Psalm 89:7 reverence reshapes the heart, aligns the will, and magnifies the Lord who is “more awesome than all who surround Him.” |
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