READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary l How shall we take the Psalm to heart and rejoice exceedingly as a new year unfolds?
In the face of cruelty, ruin, hunger and death in today’s world, is Psalm 100 still relevant? Can every Christian shout for joy all of the time? Or is it possible to “worship the LORD with gladness” and “enter His gates with thanksgiving” (v2,4) only in peaceful, prosperous times?
When our shouting is in Jehovah, we can “Rejoice in the LORD always!” (Philippians 4:4) – for such rejoicing does not depend on the state of our health, wealth, personal or family situation and the uncertainties of a fluctuating unpredictable world. The Psalmist exhorts joyful confidence in the LORD for these very reasons.
1. The LORD is God (v3) – God has revealed himself in creation, through the prophets, and in scripture so that the Israelites looked only to Him for their wellbeing and safety knowing there is no other God like Him. Unlike surrounding nations – fearful, uncertain and therefore relying on many gods for various needs, Israel’s Jehovah is the all-knowing, all-sufficient One and Only Saviour without rival. Through His Son Jesus Christ who came in the flesh to be with us, we too today can know and relate to a Saviour God who is Almighty, faithful and sovereign. Such revelation gives us confidence to worship and follow Him even when conditions are uncertain, hostile or troubling.
2. Maker and Shepherd – God’s people are the sheep belonging to His pasture, each uniquely created to fulfil his or her God-given purpose and calling in life. (v3) Sought out by Jesus the Shepherd Redeemer of our souls, we belong forever with God as His treasured possession. (Deuteronomy 26:18) He will not abandon us even if we feel forsaken by the world, for comfort and solace is found assuredly and forever in Him our Creator and Good Shepherd to whom we are infinitely precious.
3. God’s Nature is Good – “For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.” (v5) Our sovereign God is love – full of compassion, true and faithful to the very end. It is His trustworthy steadfast nature that anchors us when we feel hopelessly tossed about by events beyond our control. We cannot help but rejoice to know that we shall overcome our temporary troubles, for God’s truth, love and purposes will prevail in the end.
The Practice of Daily Rejoicing
Wake up with thanksgiving! For a mind that is aware of the present (mindfulness), healthy eyes to see clearly (sight), and ability to move about independently (strength). We begin to notice God’s goodness when we do not take for granted but are grateful for the many little blessings in life to enjoy. Everyday activities should cause us to shout for joy in the LORD because of what they mean – e.g. eating (healthy appetite), paying income tax (giving and not waiting to be given), visiting (going and not waiting to be visited), running (with legs that still can), and travelling (having the means knowing everyday matters are taken care of). If only we would notice our blessings, even a painless day is cause for thankful rejoicing!
Acknowledging that our eternally good and faithful God is bounteous even in bleakness, we can “shout for joy” because we recognise that it is He who gives us everyday blessings to enjoy. “Now Thank We All Our God” (Ps Martin Rinkart, 1586-1649) “with heart, and hands and voices” who shall “guide us when perplexed” for He alone is sovereign, our gloriously good Maker and Shepherd.
(Sermon notes by Marjorie Tan)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Passage: Psalm 100
- What are the ‘gods’ that people go to when facing their fears, needs, & wants?
- ‘I am precious to my Maker & Redeemer’. How does this assurance help me face my current challenges & pains?
- What are the blessings that you have taken for granted in 2023?
