Friday, July 26 – Psalms 50 and 53

1. How does God judge the intention of worship? (Psalm 50:14)

2. What is the best sacrifice to offer to God? (Psalm 50:23)

3. How does God call the one who denies His existence? (Psalm 53:1)

Commentary and Reflection:

In these two psalms, one by Asaph and the other by David, the authors highlight the contrast between the folly of the wicked and God’s love, justice, and wisdom. Both Asaph and David were prophets and musical composers. In the list of captives who returned to Jerusalem, the sons of Asaph are the only singers mentioned in Ezra 2:41.

The theme of Psalm 50 aligns with Samuel’s words to Saul in 1 Samuel 15:22, “So Samuel said: “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams.“

Psalm 50 is didactic and holds great value for all times. Verses 1-6 provide an anticipatory description of the scenes of the Final Judgment. The first verse calls God “The Mighty One, God the Lord.” This Hebrew expression signifies the superlative, like “King of kings and Lord of lords.”

“Gather My saints together to Me, Those who have ^[a]made a covenant with Me by sacrifice,” refers to the sacrifice that sealed the Covenant at Sinai (Exodus 24:5-8). How can we apply this appeal today? The sacrifices we offer now should be characterized by self-abandonment, selflessness, and humility. There must be an undivided commitment to God. The new covenant Jeremiah speaks of is “a new heart.”

In verses 7-15, God judges the intention of our worship. The Israelites were very strict in bringing their sacrificial animals and burnt offerings to the sanctuary, doing so as if they were doing God a favor. God is sovereign and owns the entire universe. God does not delight in the formalism of our worship, if it is laden with selfishness or exhibitionism.

The best sacrifice to offer to God is one of praise and gratitude for His goodness. When we call upon Him in the day of trouble, our loving Father is there to deliver us, and we will honor Him. Glory to His Name forever!

In Ministry of Healing, p. 250, Ellen G. White states, ” Nothing tends more to promote health of body and of soul than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts and feelings—as much a duty as it is to pray. If we are heaven-bound, how can we go as a band of mourners, groaning and complaining all along the way to our Father’s house?”

Psalm 53 describes men’s folly and wickedness. It vividly depicts the godlessness of a decaying world. The good news is that God will save His people in the end. This psalm almost entirely replicates the words of Psalm 14, with slight variations, perhaps to apply them to a different circumstance.

The conclusion is dramatic. God’s turn is to respond to the fools who deny His existence and power. All mockers will be put to shame.

The poem ends on an optimistic note as the psalmist prays for the salvation of his people. The redeemed of all ages will rejoice in God’s salvation. When Jesus returns, we will be delivered from the captivity of sin.

Blessings to all.