Psalms 135:4 – “For the Lord has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 135:4 is a powerful reminder of God’s special relationship with His people. The verse highlights that God chose Jacob (the patriarch who was later named Israel) and his descendants to be His own people, a “treasured possession.” This choice was not based on anything they had done, but purely out of God’s love and grace.
The concept of being a “treasured possession” speaks of a deep, personal relationship. It suggests that God values His people highly, seeing them as something precious and set apart. This verse emphasizes the idea that God’s people are chosen not just for a task but for a relationship with Him. It’s a reminder of God’s faithfulness and commitment to those He calls His own.
Historical Context
Psalm 135 is part of a collection of praise psalms likely used during temple worship. It draws on the rich history of Israel, reflecting on God’s acts of deliverance and faithfulness. The reference to Jacob and Israel is significant because it connects to God’s covenant with the patriarchs — Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenant established Israel as God’s chosen people, a nation set apart to worship Him and display His glory to the world.
God’s choice of Israel was a central part of their identity as a people. They were chosen to be different from the surrounding nations, not because of their size or strength, but because of God’s grace (Deuteronomy 7:6-8). This verse reflects the unique calling of Israel to be God’s representatives on earth, a light to the nations around them.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 135:4 highlights God’s sovereignty in choosing His people. God’s choice is not based on human merit but on His own will and love. This verse speaks to the doctrine of election, showing that God chooses people for His purposes out of His grace.
The idea of being God’s “treasured possession” also reflects God’s deep love for His people. He values them, protects them, and is committed to them. For believers today, this extends to the idea that God chooses us, not because we are worthy, but because He loves us. This choosing is an act of grace, inviting us into a relationship with Him.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 135:4 uses poetic language to convey God’s love and special relationship with His people. The word “chosen” emphasizes intentionality; God’s selection of Israel was a deliberate act of love. The phrase “treasured possession” is rich in meaning, suggesting something held dear and carefully guarded. It echoes the language used in Deuteronomy 7:6, where God calls Israel a “people holy to the Lord.”
This verse is set in the context of praise, reminding the worshipers of their identity as God’s chosen people. By reflecting on God’s past acts of choosing and blessing, the psalmist encourages the people to respond with gratitude and worship.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 7:6: “For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.”
- Exodus 19:5: “Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.”
- Isaiah 43:1: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”
- 1 Peter 2:9: Believers are described as “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.”
- Ephesians 1:4: God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 135:4 is a reminder that, just as God chose Israel, He has also chosen us to be His own. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we become part of God’s family, adopted as His children (Galatians 4:4-7). This verse invites us to reflect on the privilege of being called God’s people, loved and cherished by Him.
Knowing that we are God’s treasured possession can bring comfort and confidence, especially in a world that often devalues and overlooks us. It reminds us that our worth is found in God’s love and not in what the world says about us. As God’s chosen people, we are called to live in a way that honors Him, showing His love to those around us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 135:4 highlights God’s deep, personal love for His people. Choosing Israel to be His treasured possession shows that God values relationships. He doesn’t just want to be known as a distant Creator; He wants to be in close, loving fellowship with His people. God’s choice is a reflection of His character — He is loving, faithful, and committed to those He calls His own.
God’s love is not conditional. He chose Israel, not because of their greatness, but because of His love and faithfulness to His promises. This same love extends to us today. God’s choice to call us His own is not based on anything we’ve done but purely on His grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to make a people His own. Through Jesus, God extends His covenant blessings to all who believe in Him, Jew and Gentile alike. In Christ, we become part of God’s chosen people, a “treasured possession” (1 Peter 2:9). Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross made it possible for us to be brought into God’s family, where we are loved and valued.
Jesus spoke about His followers as those whom the Father had given Him (John 6:37-39). He demonstrated what it means to be God’s treasured possession by laying down His life for us. Because of Jesus, we are not only chosen but also redeemed and made new.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does knowing that God has chosen you as His treasured possession change the way you see yourself?
- What are some practical ways you can live as someone who belongs to God?
- How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness when you face challenges?
- In what ways can you show others the same love and grace that God has shown you?
- How does Jesus’ example of love and sacrifice inspire you to serve God and others?
Psalm 135:4 is a beautiful reminder that God has chosen us to be His own. Let’s live in the confidence of being God’s treasured possession, knowing that we are loved, valued, and called to be a light to the world.