We Praise the Lord for the World He Has Given Us
Note from today’s Bible reading: Psalm 111-118; 1 Kings 1-2
The psalmist noted the distinction between the place where God dwells and the place where man dwells: “The heavens are the heavens of the Lord, but the earth He has given to the sons of men” (Psalm 115:16). This reminds us of the instruction given to Adam in the beginning to “subdue” the earth and “rule over” it (Genesis 1:28).
In this context, the psalmist noted, “The dead do not praise the Lord, nor do any who go down into silence” (Psalm 115:17). This was not a denial of the afterlife but emphasized man’s place in this world. Once someone passes from this life, he is not in the same privileged position over the natural world.
Knowing this, what should be done by those who are yet living? The psalmist continued, “But as for us, we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forever. Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 115:18). Rather than becoming arrogant because of the place we occupy in this world, we should praise God who placed us here and rules over us. Instead of taking for granted all of the good things in this life, we ought to give thanks to the Lord, who blesses us with everything we enjoy here.
So we praise the Lord for the world He has given us. We can enjoy the blessings of this life because of His goodness and love for us. Let us not allow the things of this life to distract us from Him but instead cause us to give thanks to Him.