Read: Psalm 100
Watch: https://bibleproject.com/videos/book-of-psalms/
This short, yet powerful psalm is more than just a song of praise; it’s a series of clear commands and an invitation into the very presence of God. It provides us with a focused opportunity to fix our attention on our King. Let’s look at what Psalm 100 teaches us about approaching our Father.
Shout! (Verses 1-2)
Psalm 100 commands us to “Shout to the Lord with joy!” and to “Shout all the earth!” We are quick to cheer and celebrate for our favorite team, but do we lift our voices with shouts of joy to the Lord? This isn’t just about volume; it’s about the overflow of a joyful heart, a public declaration of God’s goodness. We are called to invite all of creation to cry out with us in joyous celebration of His goodness. Perhaps we should practice more.
Worship! (Verses 2-3)
The psalm then calls us to “Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs!” Worship is more than just singing. It’s the full experience of singing, praying, speaking, listening, meditating, and responding with our entire being. It’s a state of humble being, where we turn from our sinful nature and turn back to God. As we seek His face and receive His love and life, we find ourselves in the safest place we can be.
Acknowledge! (Verse 3)
The psalmist then gives us a profound reason for our praise: “Acknowledge that the Lord is God!” This is the foundation of our worship. He is God; we are not. He is good; we are made good only through Him. He made us; we belong to Him. He is the Good Shepherd, and we are His sheep. Good sheep listen to His voice, follow His leading, and obey His commands.
Enter! (Verse 4)
With this acknowledgment in our hearts, we are invited to “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.” We don’t just stand outside; we are welcome into His presence. Our entry is marked by gratitude for all He has done and praise for who He is. We are to “give thanks to Him and praise His name; praise the Name of Yahweh!”
Confess! (Verse 5)
Finally, we confess the Lord’s character. “For the Lord is Good.” His never-ending, never-failing, enduring, and eternal love is a constant reality. God is the very definition of love, perfectly fulfilled in the work of Christ. His faithfulness extends to those who came before us, to us today, and to every generation to come. May we, too, join in this eternal chorus, declaring His love and faithfulness! Amen.
discussion questions.
- The Good Shepherd and His Sheep: “Good sheep listen to His voice, follow Him and obey Him!” How can we more clearly discern the voice of our Good Shepherd in a world filled with so much noise and so many competing voices? What does it look like to truly follow and obey Him in the decisions you make every day?
2. Shouting and Cheering: What is the difference between an external, momentary cheer and an internal, heartfelt shout of joy for God? How can we cultivate a heart that is so full of gratitude that it overflows into shouts of praise, even when we don’t feel like it?
3. Worship as a State of Being: Worship is a “state of being” rather than just a song. What does this mean to you personally, and what are some practical, non-musical ways you can practice worship as a state of being in your daily life?
