February 17
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THE KING OF GLORY
The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness there of the world and those who dwell therein,
2 For he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.
3 Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD? And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
Who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully.
5 He will receive blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek the face of the God of Jacob.
7 Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors,
That the King of glory may come in. 8 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle!
9 Lift up your heads, O gates! And lift them up, O ancient doors,
That the King of glory may come in. 10 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory! – Psalm 24:1-10
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The psalm addresses the Israelites and to glorify the only true king who has delivered them and granted them victory in battles. They acknowledge the source and the creator of all things who wants all of his people to be pure for him and to hate evil, just as he does. The word hosts is a translation of the Hebrew word sabaoth, meaning “armies”—a reference to the angelic armies of heaven. Thus, another way of saying “LORD of hosts” is “God of the armies of heaven.” This is the only psalm declaring God as king of glory. The Hebrew word for glory (kavod) is sometimes used figuratively to mean “heavy” or “dense.” When we speak of a “weighty” person, someone who is honorable and worthy.
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ADORATION: We praise you, the Lord of Hosts, the King of glory. We lift up our heads to give you praise and honor.
CONFESSION: Forgive me each time I fail to hate evil and compromise my purity.
THANKSGIVING: Thank you for all creation and all your provision to fill my needs.
SUPPLICATION: May all men bring you the glory that is only Yours alone. May all peoples come to their knees and bow down only to the King of Glory.
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REFLECTION
• Why is the stance of looking up to the Lord in praise essential for all Christians?