Psalm 68

Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him. (v 4)

This lengthy psalm lends itself to a study of some of God's characteristics, for which we can give Him praise. The impact of God's presence on His (and your) enemies is vastly different from His effect on the righteous. The enemies are scattered, decimated, crushed, and the godly are blessed, sing for joy, and exult before Him.

To enhance our view of God, the psalmist tells us the following about Him. He is the:

1. Defender (vv 1-2, 12, 21-23)
2. Protector of the helpless and Advocate of the disadvantaged (v 5-6)
   
3. Leader and Guide (v 7)
   
4. Victorious Warrior (vv 11-12, 14, 17-18)
5. Ruler over nature ( vv 4, 15, 33)
6. Strong and mighty Saviour ( vv 20, 28)
7. Source of our prosperity ( vv 10, 12-13, 19)
8. Triumphant King over the nations ( vv 32-35)
9. One to whom every knee will bow (vv 18, 31)
10. Reigning King (v 24)
11. Source of life (26)

David also recalls Israel's mighty deliverance from their captivity under Pharaoh. It is a reminder that God prepared a dwelling place for them (vv 9-10), set them free from bondage and led them out of Egypt (v 7), conquered the enemy inhabitants of the promised land , and provided for His children.

The psalm mirrors the legacy of those who have been born into Christ.

We have been delivered from the power of death (Hebrews 2: 14-15), called out of darkness into His marvellous light (1 Peter 2:10), Christ is preparing an eternal resting place for us (John 14:2-3), we have been set free from bondage to sin (Romans 6:13-14) and the devil (1 John 3:8), and God has promised to and will supply all our needs according to His glorious riches (Philippians 4:19, 2 Peter 1:3, John 10:10).

So you see, child of God, you have just as much reason to rejoice and be glad, as the Israelites to whom this psalm was addressed. God is your Father, Defender, Vindicator, Comfort, Source and King. Take David's words to heart today, meditate on the above characteristics /names of God and make a choice, regardless of your circumstances, to:

Sing praises to God, and to His name. Sing loud praises to Him who rides the clouds. His name is the Lord -- rejoice in His presence! (v 4 NLT)

Psalm 68 Full Reading