A Doorkeeper in the House of My God #1528

10 For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. 11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. 12 O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You! (Psalm 84:10–12, NKJV)

This is a portion of a psalm of the sons of Korah, Levites who were charged with being doorkeepers of the God’s tabernacle (1 Chronicles 9:19; 26:19-27). In it, they praise their appointment at the threshold of God’s house. Unlike their ancestor Korah who rebelled against God and dwelt in the tents of wickedness, they were content with being servants (Numbers 16:1-3, 26). One day in the service of God is more to be treasured than a thousand days without God. The most menial task in service to God and His house is important and does not go unnoticed by God. He is ever gracious to the person who serves Him with an upright heart and life. Humble yourself before the Lord and serve His purposes and His people, and He will exalt you in due time (1 Peter 5:5-7). Such trust in the Lord brings present blessings and eternal glory.

Who May Abide in Your Tabernacle? #733

Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? (Psalm 15:1, NKJV)

We infer from the psalmist’s questions that not everyone dwells in the presence of the Lord. Furthermore, by merely asking, David acknowledges that it is God Himself who supplies the correct answer concerning who communes with Him. Man does not answer these questions for the Holy One of Israel. As we travel through life the Lord opens His tent to particular sojourners who meet His conditions, allowing them into His presence and offering them rest, refreshment and fellowship. God’s holy hill pictures the reigning Sovereign where He grants blessedness to all who wait before Him. Do you want the communion, rest and protection of God’s presence as you travel through life? If so, give ear to the inspired answers to David’s questions in the remainder of Psalm 15. We will look at those answers in the days ahead.