The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

THE MISSION OF GOD

Everyone worships. The question is not whether humans worship, but whom or what they worship. In this psalm, the reader finds the Old Testament rationale for joining in God’s mission to make himself known. Although the pagan nations were worshiping idols they made, God made the entire world, including these pagans and the materials they used to carve idols (v. 5). Nevertheless, the first verse of this psalm calls upon all the earth to sing to God — including idolaters who have turned away from him. Since the creation of the world, God intended to fill the earth with true worshipers. Seeking that which God desires, the people of God declare his glory among pagan nations (v. 3).

The apostle John’s vision in the book of Revelation gave the reader a peek into God’s eternal purposes. John wrote, “And they sang a new song, saying: ‘You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation’ ” (Rev 5:9). False gods make false promises. However, the true God, in sending his Son, brought glory to himself by redeeming worshipers from every nation on earth. Let the earth be glad (Ps 96:11).

Jesus, help me to focus my life on what is real and true. Help me to worship only you. Amen.