God our Salvation

Psalm 65

What do you think of the word “salvation”? As a Christian we associate that word to Christ but outside of that what do you think other people think of when they hear that word? Do they think of being saved from harm or death? Maybe they associate that word with being rescued from a dangerous situation. All of these show the picture of the salvation we have from sin but only to a degree. The truth is that we have been rescued from not physical death but spiritual death, from a dangerous and hostile situation into the presence of God and his grace.

In this psalm David writes about God being his salvation and that is based on God, not that David offered a sacrifice or did such in such to earn that salvation.

God Alone

In psalm 65 we read that it was God alone that saves and in this psalm, David praises God for his salvation. In verse 3 it says, “When iniquities prevail against me, you atone for our transgressions.” We see that David knew that it was God that covers the sin. The atone means, to make right and cover over and to advert punishment. That means, Christ took the punishment of our sin on the cross and through that our sins are covered and made right before God. David realized that it was not based on him or his fixing, but that it was all based on God. Just as Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us that we are saved through faith in God’s grace and not on our own works but that it is a gift of God. A true gift that is priceless! It did not cost us anything and yet we receive salvation and advert the punishment of hell.

Praise in that

Just as this psalm was one of praise for the mighty works of God we too should have this praise from our lips as we can say, “We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, the holiness of your temple!” Being in God’s presence should bring upon us praise. As David wrote about lifting up his hands to God, may we also lift our voices and hands and lives up to God as praise. It is easy to take for granted what Christ has done for us on the cross. Remember that it is not on your terms but God has done it all. Praise the Lord.