It is the shortest prophetic psalm with a wonderful description of the condition of the nations during the realm of peace. It is the seventh in this series of prophetic psalms. It has always been God’s intention that His people would bear witness of Him in the midst of the nations (Deuteronomy 4:5-8; Isaiah 43:10-13). By doing so in obedience to Him, the people would also be abundantly blessed. That testimony will have an effect; the nations will want to know their God in order to be blessed as well (Zechariah 8:23; Isaiah 2:3).
The word "that," with which verse 67:2 opens, is of the utmost importance: That God's way may be known upon earth, His saving health among all nations, is the ultimate purpose of His heart, and the mission of His people. In order to accomplish this the Palmist prays for blessing on and through them, "God be merciful unto us, and bless us" (v. 1); through these blessings, "cause his face to shine upon us." The central desire of the prayer is uttered at its center (v. 3~5); and the method is again indicated at its close (v. 6~7). This is not asking in order to consume gifts on personal lusts. It is rather a passion which is selfless, and therefore pure.
Return
HOME
