Joy Gems

Shout for Joy at Our Awesome King

Psalm 47:1, 5 "Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. . . . God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD amid the sounding of trumpets."

This whole Psalm is filled with ecstatic praise to the great King of the whole earth, the God who reigns. Verse five refers to the ascension back into Heaven, of Jesus, the victorious Son of God.

Jesus had come to earth, remained pure and free of personal sin, but took on the sins of the whole world, died for them, and rose up from the dead, a victor forever over sin and death. For all this God the Father, has made Jesus King over all the earth and the whole universe. When He re-entered Heaven, it was with great fanfare of heavenly trumpets and shouts of joy by all the residents of Heaven.

We who believe Jesus died and rose for us are left here on earth to do the battle mop-up, and to see that the news of His great victory is spread throughout the earth.

Everyone who believes and receives Christ Jesus into their heart as their own personal Saviour is added to that great big wonderful family of God that will live with Jesus forever in Heaven. So the more people we can persuade to believe, the more we add to Jesus' glory and honour.

If you and I truly grasp this truth, we are bound to become earnest evangelists, eager to bring in more worshipers to shout for joy and devotion. But can we let go of our petty little plans in order to make this a priority? If not, maybe we need another glimpse of the contrast between our sin and Jesus' glory.

PRAYER: Yes, LORD Jesus, I confess that sometimes I get so taken up with my own little career goals that I forget why I have them. They are to extend Your Kingdom's reach and Your glory. Forgive me for my puny worship. Open my eyes afresh to just how great and awesome a King You are, and how wonderful it is that You have forgiven me and filled me with Your Holy Spirit to persuade others. Teach me to shout for devoted, delirious joy.

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