What is the meaning of Psalm 67:4? Let the nations • The psalmist immediately widens the lens beyond Israel, inviting every people group into God’s story (Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 2:2; Revelation 7:9). • This universal address underscores that the Lord’s covenant purposes were never provincial; He always intended His salvation to reach “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 13:47). be glad • Genuine gladness flows from experiencing God’s favor and freedom from sin’s tyranny (Psalm 97:1; John 15:11). • The text assumes that life under God’s rule produces emotional well-being, not drudgery—He is “the God who gives joy to Your servant” (Psalm 86:4). and sing for joy • Joy overflows into audible praise. Worship is the proper reflex when God’s greatness is recognized (Psalm 47:6; Ephesians 5:19). • Singing unites diverse voices into one anthem, previewing the chorus of heaven—“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain” (Revelation 5:12). for You judge the peoples justly • The gladness has a firm foundation: God’s perfect justice (Psalm 96:13; Romans 2:16). • Unlike flawed human courts, His verdicts are always right, assuring oppressed peoples that wrongs will be set right (Isaiah 11:4). • The future judgment is certain because the Father “has set a day when He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man He has appointed” (Acts 17:31). and lead the nations of the earth • God not only judges; He shepherds. “For dominion belongs to the LORD and He rules over the nations” (Psalm 22:28). • History is not aimless—He “determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands” so that all might seek Him (Acts 17:26-27). • His leadership guarantees that missions will succeed: “All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD” (Psalm 22:27). Selah • A call to pause, breathe, and let these truths sink in (Psalm 46:7). • The word invites reflection on God’s global heart, flawless justice, and gentle governance—fuel for deeper worship. summary Psalm 67:4 proclaims a worldwide invitation to joyful worship because God reigns with absolute justice and guiding sovereignty. Every nation can celebrate: the Judge is righteous, the Leader is wise, and His salvation reaches to the ends of the earth. |
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