Proclaim Hope Daily | Week 19

Below is a short summary or synopsis of the Bible reading for the day. Use it as a helpful tool to think through the Scripture. There are also some cross references to study other passages of Scripture to highlight or better understand that passage.

In the form of a plea, the first line of this hymn points to the benefits that would be ultimately received through the coming Christ; the blessing of God’s grace and mercy, first seen in the Aaronic blessing which was given to Moses by the Lord. This is an encouragement to God’s people, reminding them of the ongoing promise of favor and protection. This psalm is categorized as one of praise and thanksgiving, as it acknowledges the providence of the Lord as he has and will always provide for his people, and the mighty power and sovereignty of the Lord as he sits on his throne above all nations. As this hymn glorifies the great work and character of God, the language simultaneously hopes and suggests that all peoples would give him the glory he is due; which is the inevitable outcome that will be fulfilled in Christ.

(Numbers 6:24-26; Isaiah 52:10; Romans 15:9-12; Philippians 2:9-11)

Although humanity often rejects this truth, it is quite apparent that God, the Creator is completely in control of his creation. For millennia humanity has attempted to control the outcome of the world to no avail. A man may, and is encouraged to, establish a prudent plan, but apart from God they are futile. These words of wisdom encourage the reader to see the absolute power of the Lord and the benefits of aligning one’s heart and path according to his will and purpose. Man’s ability and need to prepare and act is not in contradiction to God’s sovereignty, but is either in accordance with his divine will or stands in opposition to his instruction. A righteous man will genuinely seek the Lord in all that he does, holding his arrangements loosely, understanding that it is far better that God's will be done rather than his own.

(Psalm 37:4-5; Matthew 6:10, 33; Luke 22:42; Romans 12:2)