Good morning,
Psalm 33 begins by praising God. Then explains why we should praise Him. We should praise God for His creation, counsel, and salvation. Today we will look at praising God for His salvation.
GOD’S SALVATION (PSALM 33:16-22)
16 There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength. 17 An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength. 18 Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; 19 To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine. 20 Our soul waiteth for the Lord: he is our help and our shield. 21 For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. 22 Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.
God’s salvation does not come through the strength of men, their numbers, or their weapons in battle.
God’s salvation comes from God Himself. Breaking down this passage we see:
1) God is looking for those who fear Him. This is the reverential fear for the God of creation, who is all knowing, ever present, and all powerful. These people are those who hope in His mercy. (v18)
2) God will deliver their souls from death. These are people who believe in God. They are trusting in Him by faith. The basis then of their salvation is trusting God through faith. (v 19)
3) They have a longing for the Lord. They know God and want their souls to be delivered. They realize that God is their help and shield. (v 20)
4) They trust in God and rejoice. They have made the decision to follow God by faith. (v 21)
5) They want God’s continued mercy to be upon them. They are longing for a close relationship with their God. (v 22)
How did people get saved in the Old Testament; by trusting in God’s grace through faith. No different than today.
Praise God for His great salvation!
Have a great weekend.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001