January 22
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GLORIOUS THINGS OF YOU ARE SPOKEN
On the holy mount stands the city he founded;
2 The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwelling places of Jacob.
3 Glorious things of you are spoken, O city of God.
4 Among those who know me I mention Rahab and Babylon;
Behold, Philistia and Tyre, with Cush— “This one was born there,” they say.
5 And of Zion it shall be said, “This one and that one were born in her”
For the Most High himself will establish her.
6 The LORD records as he registers the peoples, “This one was born there.”
7 Singers and dancers alike say, “All my springs are in you.” – Psalm 87:1-7
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The first section of this psalm focuses on how glorious things are spoken of God’s dwelling place, the city of God.
According to the ESV bible study notes, the second section is startling as one expects a reference to those who know me, but the list is composed of Gentile nations. Yet, the Most High himself will establish Zion, in order to allow the peoples to be treated as born in her, as Israelites. When the people of God sings this psalm, they stay focused on their God-given purpose, to be a light for the Gentiles (Psalm 86:8-10).
It is interesting how in God’s glory, he is still all-inclusive of all peoples. He wants everyone to be saved and return to him.
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ADORATION: I glorify you O Lord God. I praise your name for you are Most High. I love to talk about how glorious you are to all peoples, especially to those who don’t know you.
CONFESSION: Forgive me when I forget to act according to the image you made me. Sometimes I let my nature dictate my actions.
THANKSGIVING: Thank you for choosing me to be one of your people. It is such an honor and a privilege to work for your glory.
SUPPLICATION: Grant me mercy to continue to be the light to this corrupt world and obey your will always.
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REFLECTION
• How can we as believers be always aware to stay focused on our purpose to be the light for the unbelievers? What do we need to do to stay on track?