How can we find strength in God as described in Psalm 84:5? Setting the Scene Psalm 84 celebrates the joy of drawing near to God’s presence. Verse 5 focuses on the pilgrim whose entire strength for the journey comes from the Lord. “Blessed are those whose strength is in You, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.” The Blessing Defined • “Blessed” means favored, satisfied, flourishing. • God Himself is the source of vitality, resolve, and endurance. • The pilgrim heart is consciously oriented toward God’s dwelling, not earthly comfort. What It Means to Have Our Strength in God • Dependence, not self-reliance (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Confidence rooted in His character, not circumstances (Psalm 18:1-2). • Renewal that never runs dry (Isaiah 40:29-31). Setting Our Hearts on Pilgrimage • A settled decision to seek God first (Matthew 6:33). • Living as travelers, not settlers—our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). • Anticipating arrival in His house, yet experiencing His presence now by the Spirit (Ephesians 2:18-22). Practical Steps to Experience His Strength Today • Start every day acknowledging need: “LORD, my strength comes from You.” • Feed on Scripture—strength grows as truth replaces fear (Romans 10:17). • Worship regularly with God’s people; the temple courts of Psalm 84 prefigure the gathered church (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Walk in obedience; strength follows surrendered steps (Nehemiah 8:10). • Recall past deliverances; memory fuels fresh courage (Psalm 77:11-12). • Speak strength to others—encouragement multiplies our own (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Encouragement from the Rest of Scripture • Psalm 84:6-7—those who lean on God “go from strength to strength.” • Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” • Ephesians 3:16—He strengthens “with power through His Spirit in your inner being.” • Psalm 27:1—“The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom shall I dread?” The pilgrim blessed in Psalm 84:5 is simply the believer who looks beyond personal resources and fixes heart and hope on the living God. His strength never fails. |
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