What does Psalm 101:1 teach about God's character and attributes? Opening the Text Psalm 101:1 — “I will sing of loving devotion and justice; to You, O LORD, I will sing praises.” Key Hebrew Words • Loving devotion (ḥesed) — steadfast love, covenant loyalty, enduring mercy. • Justice (mishpaṭ) — righteous judgment, fair governance, moral order. Snapshots of God’s Character Revealed • God is unwaveringly loving – Exodus 34:6 “…abounding in loving devotion…” – Psalm 136 (repeated refrain) “His loving devotion endures forever.” • God is perfectly just – Deuteronomy 32:4 “All His ways are justice.” – Isaiah 30:18 “…the LORD is a God of justice.” • God’s love and justice are never at odds – Psalm 89:14 “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; loving devotion and faithfulness go before You.” – Romans 3:26 shows this harmony fulfilled in Christ: God remains “just and the justifier.” Why Both Attributes Matter Together • Love without justice could overlook sin; God never compromises holiness. • Justice without love could crush the sinner; God offers mercy through covenant grace. • In blending the two, God governs with tender care and moral purity, giving us security and accountability. Implications for Worship • David responds with song; doctrine stirs devotion. • Singing declares trust that God rules both kindly and rightly. • Our praise aligns with the full picture of His nature—never one‐sided. Living It Out • Rest in His loving devotion: His covenant mercy is steadfast toward you (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Submit to His justice: Walk in obedient reverence, knowing He judges impartially (1 Peter 1:17). • Reflect both qualities: “Act justly, love mercy” (Micah 6:8) because you bear His image. In a Nutshell Psalm 101:1 spotlights a God whose heart overflows with loyal love and whose throne is established on flawless justice. He is simultaneously tender and true, merciful and morally perfect—worthy of songs that celebrate the beautiful balance of His character. |
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