Psalm 128: God's Blessing

Psalm 128: God's Blessing

4. Thus shall the man be blessed who fears the Lord.

◇ Psalm 128 is a song of praise focused on "blessing." It tells us that the source of blessing comes from fearing the Lord and walking in His ways (verse 1). This brings to mind Psalm 1, another song about the blessed person.

The source of blessing is a heart that fears the Lord. To fear the Lord means having faith that the Lord is alive and actively involved in our lives. When we look upon God who intervenes in our lives with reverence and awe, we cannot help but walk in His ways. We have no choice but to live according to His path and His will.

To those who walk in the Lord's ways, the Lord gives His blessing. What kind of blessing is this?

It is reaping what you have sown and making it your sustenance. It is sitting around the dinner table with your beloved wife and children, sharing together in joy. This is blessing.

God's blessing is not overflowing abundance that leads to luxury and extravagance. God's blessing is not wielding power that commands the world.

God's blessing is enjoying the fruits of your labor without having them taken away, sharing them joyfully with your family. Furthermore, God's blessing extends to sharing with your neighbors.

If you are reaping what you have sown and joyfully sharing it with your wife, children, and family, then you are experiencing the Lord's blessing. When this happens, what we should do is offer thanksgiving and praise to God, just as the psalmist did.

♧ Good and merciful God, help us to fear You and follow Your ways. We give thanks and praise for all that we share and enjoy now. Holy Spirit, make us strong and bold. Amen.