Be Encouraged by the Eternal Judge
We give thanks to you, God; we give thanks to you for your name is near. People tell about your wondrous works.
Psalm 75:1 (CSB)
The Lord serves as the ultimate Judge of all humanity. This truth should provide encouragement to believers as we recognize that the Lord possesses authority over our lives and the world. We can find assurance that God is in control and addresses situations with perfect timing and justice. Although we may find it challenging to witness justice in this world, we cling to the promise of eternal justice through the Lord. This understanding should inspire our hearts to be thankful.
God’s Sovereignty Amid Struggles (1-3). The Psalmist highlights the importance of maintaining a thankful attitude during challenging times, as the Lord is consistently at work. This thankfulness arises from recalling God’s past faithfulness in our lives. Such remembrance empowers us to trust the Lord to act in His perfect timing and allows us to find peace in His sovereign nature. These moments of trust and patience foster humility and strengthen our relationship with the Lord. By learning to embrace God’s sovereignty in our struggles, we pave the way for spiritual growth in our lives.
God’s Judgment (4-8). Only God possesses the authority and right to render judgment. The Lord's judgment is flawless and just, arising directly from His nature and character. The world appears corrupt, seemingly driven by arrogance and power. We must strive to endure this reality with humility while waiting for the Lord. The Psalmist indicates that human pride leads to downfall. Pride pushes individuals to elevate themselves, attempting to act as their own deity. This pride clouds their ability to recognize that their position is a result of God's providence. When the heart is filled with pride, straying from the Lord and becoming self-centered, a person invites the punishment that comes from Him. The Psalmist employs the imagery of a cup to represent the impending punishment from the Lord, illustrating the depth and seriousness of divine judgment.
The Two Sides Of Judgment (9-10). The Lord's divine judgment encompasses two aspects. The wicked endure destructive punishment from the Lord, while the righteous receive His blessings. The Lord will bring down those who reject Him and uplift those who live humbly in obedience. Understanding God’s judgment should prompt us to continually reflect on ourselves to live faithfully before the Lord. When we view the New Covenant through this lens, we recognize that those who know Christ will enjoy the blessing aspect of judgment, whereas those who remain separated from Christ will face the eternal judgment of the Lord.
QUESTIONS
How does the sermon connect the timeless nature of Jesus as the righteous judge to the teachings of Psalm 75?
In what ways can we practically acknowledge God's authority over our lives in challenging situations?
