Thought for the Week

Concluding the Song of Ascents, Psalm 134 is believed to be sung by the pilgrims arriving at Jerusalem. Finally coming before the Temple, they are called upon to bless the Lord. The main focus of this psalm is the theme of blessing, referred to in every verse. In the first line the servants standing in the house of the Lord are all called upon to bless Him. At the time, this was the role of the Levites to stand every morning to thank and praise Yahweh, and then again in the evenings. Likewise, the singers were also employed in their work, day and night (1 Chronicles 23v30).

We too have been called to bless God. But what does this mean? We must praise His name in thanks, morning and night, not being ashamed to do so in front of others or embarrassed at bringing it up. Our thankfulness and praise to God should be flowing out of us. In the future we (the saints!) will be those standing in His court, serving the King, day and night (Rev 7v15).

Verse two calls for them to lift up their hands, a humble posture of praise. It is a position of awe and absolute meekness. In verse three, the blessing is used in a different way. Instead of us blessing God, it is a call for God to bless us. There is a big contrast here, for God does not bless us by praising us for our works as we would to Him, but to show us His love by providing our daily needs, offering love and forgiveness.

Our blessing is far unequal to anything we can give God. He has blessed us. He has loved us. He has given us everything. Let us use everything to praise Him in all that we do. All of our works should bring glory and praise to His name. We are His representation. Our lives should bless Him.