What is the meaning of Psalm 67:5? Let - A gracious invitation and a divine command sit side by side in this single word. God is not simply making a suggestion; He lovingly calls for a response (Psalm 95:1–2). - The imperative highlights human responsibility: worship is not optional when we recognize who God is (Psalm 96:7–9). - We see the same call extended throughout Scripture, urging us to “Shout for joy to God” (Psalm 66:1) and “Make a joyful noise” (Psalm 100:1–2). the peoples - “Peoples” is plural, pointing beyond Israel to every tribe and nation. God’s heart for the nations was clear from His promise to Abraham that “all the families of the earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3). - This global focus is echoed in Psalm 117:1—“Praise the LORD, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples”—and culminates in the vision of Revelation 7:9, where a countless multitude from every nation worships before the throne. - By addressing “peoples,” the psalmist underscores that no culture or ethnicity is excluded from the invitation to glorify God. praise You, O God - Praise is the fitting response to God’s character and works (Psalm 145:3). • He is uniquely worthy: “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised” (Psalm 96:4). • He dwells in the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3). - The psalmist directs worship to “O God,” affirming a personal relationship rather than abstract reverence. This aligns with 1 Chronicles 16:25, which proclaims, “For great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods.” let all the peoples praise You - Repetition intensifies the call and underscores its universality. God’s plan is not partial; He desires worldwide worship (Isaiah 49:6; Habakkuk 2:14). - “All” leaves no room for exceptions. Ultimately, every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord (Philippians 2:10–11). - The echo within the verse (first half, then second) turns a single invitation into a chorus, encouraging continual, expanding praise until the earth is filled with His glory (Psalm 72:19). summary Psalm 67:5 issues a clear, global, and joyful summons: every nation is called to respond, right now, with wholehearted praise to the one true God. The verse’s repeated invitation makes plain that God’s purpose has always been worldwide worship, and our privilege is to join that anthem today. |