Psalm 47
Applause.
The sound of approving people.
Praising, rejoicing.
Some are closing their eyes, the surrounding skin wrinkling as their smiles reflect satisfied, happy, hopeful hearts.
Crowds of people, clapping their hands.
The sound is rhythmic.
The people are praising their King.
And they clap.
In fact, they clap with JOY.
This is a Psalm for rejoicing about the power of God.
About the Kingship of God.
About the authority of God.
About the wisdom of God.
It is about praising God with songs.
And it opens with, "Come, everyone, and clap your hands for JOY!" (Ps. 47:1, NLT)
Like a child after opening a gift, who jumps up to her feet. She claps her hands together with glee.
JOY.
Like sports fans who cheer for their winning team. They stand up and clap their hands together with celebration.
JOY.
Like a citizen, listening to the leader deliver a speech filled with hope and promise. He claps his hands together with agreement.
JOY.
Like parents seeing their child perform. They rise up and clap their hands together with beautiful pride and praise.
JOY.
Like a people who have been liberated from a powerful enemy. They cry, shout, and sing their praise for their rescuer, clapping their hands as tears stream down their cheeks.
JOY.
Come, everyone! Clap your hands for JOY!
"Shout to God with joyful praise! For the Lord Most High is awesome." (Ps. 47:1-2, NLT)
Lesson in the journey ~ It is good to express our JOY.
