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Psalms 84

12 verses

TL;DR

Psalm 84 expresses deep longing for God's presence and the joy of dwelling in His holy house, emphasizing that even a brief moment in God's courts surpasses a thousand days elsewhere.

Summary

The psalmist declares the beauty of God's tabernacles and laments a yearning for the courts of the LORD. He praises how even birds find shelter on the altars, highlighting divine provision. The psalm calls the dwellers of God's house blessed, praising Him continuously. The psalmist rejoices that those who trust in God find strength and that the valley is turned into a well. He vows to choose a role in God's house over living among the wicked, stressing that God's grace and glory favor the righteous. The psalm ends by affirming the blessedness of trusting in God.

Outline
  1. Longing for God's presence and praise within His courts
  2. Assurance of blessing for those who dwell in the house of God
  3. Personal devotion and commitment to choosing God's house over worldly life
Themes
Desire for divine communionBlessing and assurance for faithful believersSurrender and commitment to God's house
Keywords
LORDGodKingZiontabernaclesaltarssunshieldgracetrust
People
LORDGodJacob
Places
ZionValley of Baca
Things
tabernaclesaltarssun and shield
Key Verses
  • Psalms 84:1: Introduces the central theme of longing for God's dwelling and sets the tone for the rest of the psalm.
  • Psalms 84:4: Highlights the blessing and praise that accompany those who dwell in God's house.
  • Psalms 84:10: Expresses the psalmist’s devotion, preferring a humble role in God's house over worldly wealth or safety.
Questions
  • What does the psalmist’s longing for God's courts reveal about the nature of spiritual longing?
  • How does the psalm describe the relationship between dwelling in God's house and receiving blessings?
  • In what ways does the psalm encourage believers to prioritize spiritual commitments over worldly concerns?
Sentiment

positive
The psalm is celebratory and hopeful, emphasizing the joy of divine presence and the blessings of faith.