2023-12-08 Friday Psalm 147:11
English Standard Version
11
but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
In the context of reformed evangelical Christianity, comment on Psalm 147:11 from the ESV. Provide insights and the theology from Psalm 147:11 for its application to modern Christian living.
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Psalm 147:11 in the English Standard Version (ESV) reads: “but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”
– **Theology and Insights:**
– **”The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him”:** This reflects the reverence and awe towards God, characteristic of a heart that acknowledges His sovereignty and holiness. “Fear” here isn’t terror but a reverential awe, recognising God’s majesty and responding with humility and respect.
– **”In those who hope in his steadfast love”:** This points to the quality of trust placed in God’s enduring and unwavering love. Hope is placed not in circumstances or human abilities but in the constancy of God’s love, which remains steadfast regardless of situations.
– **Application to Modern Christian Living:**
– **Reverence and Awe:** Encourages believers to approach God with reverence, recognising His holiness, and living in awe of His majesty. This involves obedience, submission, and a heart inclined towards pleasing God.
– **Trusting in God’s Love:** In a world marked by uncertainties, placing hope in God’s unchanging love fosters resilience and strength. It encourages believers to trust in God’s character and love, even amidst trials.
Psalm 147:11 thus underscores the importance of both reverence for God and trust in His unfailing love, offering a guide for believers to orient their lives towards God’s character and purposes.
*(Confidence Level: High.)*
Microsoft Bing AI
Psalm 147:11 from the English Standard Version (ESV) states: “The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.”
In the context of reformed evangelical Christianity, this verse emphasises two key attributes that are pleasing to God: the fear of the Lord and hope in His steadfast love. The “fear” mentioned here is not a terror that causes one to flee, but a reverential awe and respect for God’s holiness and authority. It is an acknowledgment of God’s greatness and a humble submission to His will.
The second attribute, hope in God’s steadfast love, reflects a trust in God’s unchanging and merciful nature. It is the confidence that God’s love is constant, faithful, and reliable, no matter the circumstances.
Applying Psalm 147:11 to modern Christian living involves cultivating these two attributes in our daily lives. This means living with a deep respect for God, seeking to obey His commands, and walking in humility before Him. It also means relying on God’s love and mercy, especially in times of difficulty, trusting that He is working for our good and His glory.
Commentaries on this verse suggest that God delights not in the outward show of religiosity or human strength, but in the sincere worship and trust of His people¹. It is a reminder that our relationship with God is not based on our merits or abilities, but on His grace and mercy towards us². This understanding should lead Christians to a life of gratitude, worship, and reliance on God, knowing that He is pleased with those who fear Him and hope in His love³⁴.
In practical terms, Christians can apply this by engaging in regular prayer, studying Scripture, participating in communal worship, and serving others out of love for God. It also means being patient and expectant for God’s deliverance and blessings, even when they are not immediately apparent. Ultimately, Psalm 147:11 calls believers to a deeper faith and trust in God, which is the foundation for a vibrant and enduring Christian life..
Source: Conversation with Bing, 8/12/2023
(1) Psalm 147:11 Commentaries: The LORD favors those who fear Him, Those …. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/psalms/147-11.htm.
(2) Enduring Word Bible Commentary Psalm 147. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/psalm-147/.
(3) Psalm 147 Bible Commentary – Matthew Henry (concise) – Christianity. https://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary/matthew-henry-concise/psalm/147.
(4) Psalms 147:11 – Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary – Bible Study Tools. https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/psalms-147-11.html.
(5) en.wikipedia.org. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psalm_147.
Google Bard AI
## Psalm 147:11 and its application to modern Christian living: A reformed evangelical perspective.
**The Text:**
> **Psalm 147:11** (ESV) – The Lord finds pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope for his steadfast love.
**Insights and Theology:**
* **Fear of the Lord:** This concept within reformed theology goes beyond mere terror or apprehension. Instead, it signifies a profound awe and reverence for God, recognising his absolute power, sovereignty, and holiness. It encompasses obedience to his commands and submission to his will.
* **Hope in God’s steadfast love:** This refers to a firm and unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness and unchanging affection. It’s not based on our own merit or achievements but on God’s character and promises.
* **God’s pleasure:** The Hebrew word used for “pleasure” implies delight, satisfaction, and approval. It reveals God’s heart towards those who fear and trust him, emphasising their value and importance to him.
**Application to Modern Christian Living:**
1. **Developing a reverent fear of God:** This involves studying scripture, contemplating his attributes, and reflecting on his works in creation and history. It compels us to live in obedience to his commands and seek to please him in all things.
2. **Cultivating unwavering hope in God’s love:** This requires anchoring our faith in God’s promises, meditating on his past faithfulness, and trusting him even amidst life’s challenges. It motivates us to persevere through trials and embrace his perfect will for our lives.
3. **Seeking to live in ways that bring God pleasure:** This involves actively pursuing righteousness, holiness, and love. It compels us to use our gifts and talents for his glory, serve others with compassion, and share the message of salvation with the world.
4. **Finding comfort and assurance in God’s delight:** Knowing that God finds pleasure in us, even when we stumble and fall, provides incredible comfort and motivation. This assurance can fuel our spiritual growth and strengthen our resolve to live lives worthy of his calling.
**Additional Considerations:**
* This verse is a reminder that our relationship with God is not based on our performance or achievements, but on his unconditional love and grace.
* It emphasises the importance of both reverence and trust in our walk with God.
* This verse offers hope and encouragement to Christians facing trials and challenges, reminding them that God delights in them and is always with them.
**Conclusion:**
Psalm 147:11 provides a powerful message for Christians today. By cultivating a deep fear of the Lord and unwavering hope in his steadfast love, we can live in ways that bring him pleasure and experience the joy and fulfillment of a life surrendered to him.
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