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Psalm 92 proclaims the sovereignty of God, “But you, O Lord, are on high forever” (v. 8, ESV).
Some commentators write, correctly, I think, that this entire chapter reveals how we would live if we really believed that God’s in charge of everything. That the sovereignty of God causes us to worship, live victoriously, and prosper in all things.
Worshipping God
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night (vv. 1-2).
Two practices during our morning time with God can change our attitudes from negative to positive — giving thanks and declaring God’s love.
For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy. How great are your works, O Lord! (vv. 4-6a).
Note the emphasis on “works” as we find that the worship taught throughout the Psalms (not only Psalm 92) focuses on what God has done, and because we know of His previous works, we may conclude His goodness for our future.
Let’s worship God!
Living Victoriously
My eyes have seen the downfall of my enemies; my ears have heard the doom of my evil assailants (v. 11).
Those living in Israel during the Old Testament times, and those living in Israel today, have literal enemies seeking to take their lives daily.
We don’t face the literal threat of death by adversary. So when mentioning victory, we think, “My friend has turned against me,” or “My co-workers are so frustrating,” or “God, deliver me from those who believe in Donald Trump (or Barack Obama).”
We don’t face death, but the Israelites do. I disciple pastors in Nigeria that live in the shadow of Boko Haram, and I just had a Zoom® with pastors from Belarus. When they read this verse, it has a different meaning than it does for most Americans. . .
For behold, your enemies, O Lord, for behold, your enemies shall perish; all evildoers shall be scattered (v. 9).
If God protects others from physical harm, we can look to Him for help against any type of adversary!
Prospering Always
The righteous flourish like the palm tree and grow like a cedar in Lebanon (v. 12).
The goal of our relationship with God is “flourishing.” As another Psalm states emphatically. . .
He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers (Psalm 1:3).
We might not think that “prospering” describes our current situation, but Psalm 92 challenges us to see a larger perspective — the viewpoint of God. . .
Your thoughts are very deep! The stupid man cannot know; the fool cannot understand this (Psalm 92:5b-6).
Conclusion
As I age in Jesus, experiencing ups and downs, successes and failures, along with victory and seeming defeat, instead of anger towards God, I find myself worshipping Him for the victory and good things He has given to me.
I don’t feel like worshipping sometimes. But believing that God’s sovereignty will prevail in all things, after 54 years of following Jesus, I declare that. . .
I will bear fruit in my old age (v. 14).
I will declare the Lord is upright (v. 15).
I know God is my rock (v. 15).
Amen. Peace out!