Psalm 128:1-6 & Psalm 129:1-8
Q.1. Who was the Psalmist addressing in Psalm 128? What was promised for those who fear God? – (Psalm 128:1-6)
We all fear various things. Many fear the opinions of others. Here the Psalmist highlighted the ones who will be blessed by God – How blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways … Behold, for thus shall the man be blessed who fears the Lord (Ps.128:1 & 4). The Psalmist points to the blessing of a wife and children around your table. Through these families the Lord would extend His blessing on the whole nation (see Ps.128:3 & 5-6). Those who place God first, will prosper personally and in family life in a recognizable way (see Mt.6:33). Israel’s prosperity would also be seen in national prosperity and peace. This is still true of the influence of those who love and fear God in any community and nation. Righteousness exalts a nation (see Prov.14:34).
Q.2. What is the testimony of those who suffer persecution? Why did the Psalmist reject the blessing of his oppressors? – (Psalm 129:1-8)
The Psalmist expressed the insecurity that the persecution of the godly brought in the nation of Israel over the generations (see Ps.129:1-2). However, his testimony of victory was clear – “Many times they have persecuted me from my youth up; Yet they have not prevailed against me” (Ps.129:2). Some have likened the description of plowing of the back to refer to Christ in His suffering (Ps.129:3 c.f. Mt.27:26-31). The Psalmist rejected the prayer for blessing from their oppressors because they were empty words (see Ps.129:5-8). They are not only insincere, but impotent, because the ungodly incur God’s wrath when they oppress the righteous.