The third book of Psalms is predominately comprised of psalms from the sons of Asaph (Psalms 73-83). This family was devoted to leading the people in worship to God in His temple (I Chronicles 25:1). However, of the 17 Psalms in this section there is also a psalm of David (Psalm 86), one from Heman the Ezraite (Psalm 88), one from Ethan the Ezraite (Psalm 89), and three from the Sons of Korah (Psalm 84-85, 87).
Psalms: Book Three relates to the book of Leviticus. The general theme concerns the Sanctuary. The book begins with the Sanctuary as related to man (Psalms 73-83, related to Leviticus 1-7) and concludes with the Sanctuary as related to God (Psalms 84-89, related to Leviticus 8-27). Many of these psalms were actually written by the Levitical priests. They emphasizes God’s faithfulness—a faithfulness that spans generations and are not just used in conjunction with the psalmist (like the first two books) but with the entire nation. In Book Three, we see the Lord around us, remaining faithful to His people through the generations. The Asaph psalms prefer the name Elohim or El, in reference to God, but the rest of the book uses Yahweh.
These were written to be sung by the temple choirs and/or congregational hymns. They remind us that God alone is holy and that we should remember our place before Him when we worship. When we come into God’s presence we should have reverential fear, awe, and respect for Him.
The first psalm in this book announces, “Truly God is good to Israel” (Psalm 73:1). God has been just in all of His dealings with the nation of Israel despite the sufferings that the people often went through and the sins they committed. The final psalm in this book speaks of the fact that God has kept His covenant with David, therefore He should be worshipped and praised (Psalm 89). Don’t miss the double “Amen” at the end! Again.
My favorite psalm in the this section is Psalm 85 that delivers a message of revival and restoration to Israel. It says, "Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed. Truth shall spring out of the earth, and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yes, the Lord will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him, and shall make His footsteps our pathway." There is always hope when we serve a merciful God. He is righteous! And His will is to keep us on the path of righteousness. Have a great week!
You are loved.
Ray Reynolds, PhD
#HolySpirit #Christianity #Scripture #onpoint #dailyBiblereading #Psalms
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