November 28
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ASCRIBE STRENGTH TO GOD
Rebuke the animals in the reeds,
The herd of bulls with the calves of the peoples,
Trampling the pieces of silver;
He has scattered the peoples who delight in war.
31 Messengers will come from Egypt;
Cush will quickly stretch out her hands to God.
32 Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth, sing praises to the Lord,
33 To Him who rides upon the highest heavens, which are from ancient times;
Behold, He speaks with His voice, a mighty voice.
34 Ascribe strength to God; His majesty is over Israel,
And His strength is in the skies.
35 God, You are awesome from Your sanctuary.
The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people.
Blessed be God! – Psalm 68:30-35
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According to a commentary, reeds mentioned in verse 30 were often associated with the Nile River. David prayed that God would keep them safe against the Egyptians and Ethiopians. He asked God to do that until they, like all the nations, come in submitted tribute to Jerusalem. In another commentary, VanGemeren says that “the ‘beast’ and the ‘bulls’ denote the oppressors, troublers, and seducers of the nations. They must come to an end, as the nations that have loved warfare and tribute will be ‘humbled’.” In verse 32, knowing the ultimate victory of God, David invited the nations to worship Him now. It was far better for them to do it now out of a willing, surrendered heart than to do it later as conquered enemies of God. Spurgeon comments in this verse as “We have too much sinning against God, but cannot have too much singing to God.” In verse 34, David invites people to credit the God of Israel, who gives strength and power to His people: The God who is actively involved in the life and victory of His people is worthy of praise.
David ends this psalm with summons to credit all our strength and victory to the one and only true God, who is faithful to deliver, protect and let his beloved people win over the enemies. In our current world today, do we ascribe strength and victory to the Lord? Many power-hungry people take credit for what only belongs to God Almighty.
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REFLECTION
• Why do humans take credit for something that belongs to God?