Psalm 84:1-12
Q.1. When was this Psalm written? Why was the Psalmist longing for the Tabernacle? How can we benefit from trials? – (Ps.84:1-7)
The sons of Korah were musicians and gatekeepers. They descended from the tribe of Levi through the family line of Kohath, who had survived God’s judgment at Korah’s rebellion (Num.4:1-20, 16:19-35). David had assigned them – to stand every morning to thank and to praise the Lord, and likewise at evening (1 Chron.23:30). There is much to suggest that David wrote the words, and the sons of Korah put them to music. The writer was away from the Tabernacle – My soul longed and even yearned for the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God (Ps.84:2). Perhaps this came during the time of David’s exile from Jerusalem during Absalom’s rebellion. Though worship is not confined to a place, nevertheless the writer acknowledged – How blessed are those who dwell in Your house! They are ever praising You (Ps.84:4). The Psalmist revealed a mature faith and accepted that trials can turn into refreshing rain (Ps.84:6-7). That is the portion of – the man whose strength is in You, in whose heart are the highways to Zion … they go from strength to strength, every one of them appears before God in Zion (Ps.84:5 & 7). To join others in worship at the tabernacle would bring multiple blessings.
Q.2. What makes God’s presence preferable? With what attitude should we approach God? How does He bless people? – (Ps.84:8-12)
The Psalmist asked that God hear his request to return to the tabernacle and – look upon the face of Your anointed (Ps.84:9). He explained – For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside.
I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness (Ps.84:10). Away from the place of worship there are many distractions and temptations, whereas when we go to worship, we have the Lord on our minds. The Psalmist understood – How blessed is the man who trusts in You (Ps.84:12). He sought God’s blessing, as he declared – For the Lord is our sun and shield; The Lord gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly (Ps.84:11). We can have wonderful confidence that God will dispense grace, mercy, and glory when we come to Him in humility and praise.