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"My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the LORD; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God...For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness."

Psalm 84:2,10

 

The verses above, or at least paraphrases of them, are probably very familiar to you. You have most likely repeated them, with much affection, in a musical refrain; given that many popular songs have used these verses for their lyrics. And rightly so.

As I write this blog post, and I would venture to guess as the Sons of Korah penned this psalm, I can honestly say that this too is my hearts desire; this is the perspective I take on my life and the things that are to be most valued, treasured and desired; this is what I know to be true. But I must be as equally honest to say that as I go about the routine hum-drum of my life or am enthralled in the chaos and distress of this life, I can quickly find my heart and flesh and soul in a far different place; desiring far different things; seeking joy in wickedness; believing that a myriad of things/people of this world are better than dwelling with God in his courts and in his house. God, forgive me! And he has!!

What a blessing it is to dwell in God's house, ever singing his praises (v.4). This is where we find our home, our rest, our protection, our King (v.3). He is our very strength for the hum-drum as well as the chaos and distress, when our hearts are connected to him by "highways" (v.5)(Eph.6:10). He hears our prayers and looks down on us (v.8-9). He provides light and protection, bestowing favor and honor, withholding no good thing (v.11). We are to trust him and walk uprightly (v.11-12). He too is our only source, power and means to trust. It is Christ's righteousness that is ours, causing us to walk uprightly. It is not in or of ourselves that we would do any of these things. Praise the LORD O my soul!