By Rev. Ron Purkey
Guest Columnist

Read Psalm 100:1-5

Rev. Ron Purkey

“Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing” (Psalm 100:1–2).

Read Psalm 100:1: Let the whole earth shout triumphantly to God.

In the Bible, worship is not some sedate event. People are to engage in it with a sense of excitement. You can’t worship the Lord without your emotions. It is no mere intellectual exercise. Moreover, worship is for “the whole earth.” All peoples are invited to join the celebration. No one is left out. Worship is all we are responding to all he is. It is the recognition of God for who he is, what he has done and what we are trusting him to do.

Read Psalm 100:2: The emphasis on emotions continues: Serve the Lord with gladness. The sovereign God of the universe has invited you into his presence to serve him. How could anyone receive such a remarkable invitation with disinterest? Come before him with joyful songs is a reminder no one would approach a human king, president, or other ruler with an attitude of indifference. When we come before God, then, we shouldn’t slouch, but sing with enthusiasm.

Read Psalm 100:3: The Lord is God is a translation of the Hebrew phrase, “Jehovah is Elohim.” Jehovah is the name of God revealed in his covenant relationship with his people. Elohim speaks of power; he is the one who created the heavens and the earth. Therefore, the powerful God wants a relationship with you and should be given recognition. He made us, after all, and we are his sheep. He is our creator and sustainer. He is the source of everything we need.

Read Psalm 100:4: The people in the psalmist’s day were commanded to enter his gates and courts. Though we do not go to a temple today, we are similarly commanded to enter into his presence. The passwords for entrance are thanksgiving and praise. No matter what your circumstances, give thanks to him and bless his name because there’s always a reason to thank God. And doing so will transform you.

Read Psalm 100:5: God is good and faithful. But, to experience his goodness and faithfulness, you must “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8). So, worship him, trust him, and obey him. You won’t be disappointed.

As New Testament priests, we are privileged to offer spiritual sacrifices to the Lord (1 Peter 2:5). They include our songs of praise (Hebrews 13:15), good works (Hebrews 13:16), and material gifts (Philippians 4:15–18). Because of who he is (Psalm 100:5) and what he does for us, the Lord is certainly worthy of our joyful thanks.

All of this starts when we place our faith in Jesus Christ. He is the Jewish Messiah and he is our Savior. When we become part of God’s family (see Acts 8:26-38), then we may serve the Lord. Do you serve the Lord?

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines at www.rtcol.com/purkey free on the website. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.