The ark of the covenant is placed in a specific tent (like the tabernacle, or maybe it is the original tabernacle, the text is not clear) in Jerusalem and several people (mostly Levites) were appointed various tasks around worship, sacrifice and ministry for God.
“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles and the judgments he uttered, O offspring of Israel his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones!” (v8-13)
David appoints a ‘thanksgiving song’ to be sung by the Levites and those who minister before the Lord. This song would be heard by all of Israel as they come to offer sacrifices and praise offerings. This psalm speaks of God’s wondrous works and attributes, and was to serve as a constant reminder to the people so they would worship and glorify God.
It’s entirely possible that people would hear this song on a monthly, weekly, or maybe even daily basis, if they were to pass by the sacred area. This song was to become ingrained into people’s lives, like an anthem.
My encouragement today is for us to build one or more reminders into our lives that keep our hearts inclined toward thanking and praising God. Perhaps we get in a routine of listening to worship music while we work, or maybe listening to a podcast while we drive. Perhaps we put sticky notes on our bathroom mirror or post Bible verses on our walls. My preference is to build times of prayer and thanksgiving into my daily routine. There isn’t any wrong way to remind ourselves of God’s greatness, as long as it reminds us to praise Him, and we pause to do that with a humble and grateful heart.
Yes, obedience and productivity for the kingdom are important, but we can do those things with a worshiping and thankful heart that honors and glorifies God through our works and words. Obedience to God isn’t really obedience if we do so begrudgingly or with a poor attitude – obeying God joyously is so much more effective.
Father God, our Glorious and Magnificent King, You are Splendid and truly worthy of our praise. You are holy above all others, and Your mighty works are beyond compare. No one can deny Your abundant grace and mercy, and we cannot thank You enough for Your countless provisions. Father may we learn to make worshiping You a daily occurrence, and may we do so with a joyous and intentional heart, not from a spirit of compulsion or ritual. We long to honor, praise, thank and glorify You, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training