Psalms 24: RESPECT

Psalms 24: R.E.S.P.E.C.T

This Psalm reminds me of Aretha Franklin’s song “Respect.” In the Blue Brothers first movie, Aretha is singing this to her soon to be ex-husband, who is leaving her to join the band. In Psalms 24, David is singing the same song about God. “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me…” David is putting God in perspective, so we put the respect God deserves into play.

Let’s look at what David is saying:

David looks at three things that should naturally result in our respect for God: His power, His perfection, and His perseverance.

In verse 1-2, God’s power. God has ordered this world. He made it, established its purpose and its plan. All things of the earth belong to him. As the rightful owner of all that is including us, He deserves the acknowledgement and respect that His power commands. When you think about the kind of intelligence, power, and creativity that it must have taken to build the world, awe is the only response. Respect is the only outcome. (v 3-6)

God’s perfection demands respect, especially when one compares Him to His creatures. While we are made in the image of God, our chosen sin nature shows our pathetic state. The person who can stand toe to toe with God has perfect words, thoughts, and deeds. No one I have heard of, other than Jesus, has done that. What person has never sinned in thought, word, or deed? Who do you know has never told a “white lie,” if there is such a thing? Man sins constantly and continually. He self-justifies, or lies to himself about his own sin. If we were perfect, then we would deserve respect. The pitiful truth is that we do not. On the other hand, God, who has paid the penalty for our sin on the cross, deserves the respect. He is the righteous one, and it is because of Him that we are able to be righteous.

His perseverance with us is amazing. God puts up with our darkened hearts, yet somehow, He does not destroy us. In verse 4, there is a description of the righteous man. However, the criterion is applicable to any man.

In knowing this about God’s power, perfection, and perseverance, we should praise Him. (v 7-10) Our praise should be heard throughout the world. Jesus said, that if we do not praise Him, the rocks will cry out. All of creation should constantly reflect the Glory of God.

“R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me.” Tell God you know.