Psalm 5:7 “But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Psalm 5:7, David speaks of entering God’s presence because of God’s “great love” and not because of his own merit. This verse highlights that David recognizes his need for God’s mercy, understanding that he is allowed to approach God only because of God’s grace and kindness. The phrase “I bow down” reflects David’s reverence and humility, showing his deep respect for God. By describing God’s presence as “your holy temple,” David acknowledges the holiness of God, treating worship as a sacred act where he can humbly approach God’s throne. This verse expresses a sense of awe, gratitude, and respect for the privilege of being in God’s presence.
Historical Context
David, the writer of this psalm, was king of Israel and had a deep relationship with God. As king, he was responsible for leading his people in worship and obedience to God’s law. In ancient Israel, the temple (or tabernacle during David’s time) was the central place of worship, where people would bring sacrifices and offerings to honor God. David’s words reflect his awareness that entering God’s presence was a privilege made possible only by God’s grace. Unlike the proud or wicked whom David described earlier in the psalm, he approaches God with humility, acknowledging that it is God’s love that allows him to come before Him.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 5:7 emphasizes that access to God is based on His mercy and grace, not on our own goodness. David’s approach to God in “reverence” also teaches that a healthy fear and respect for God are essential aspects of worship. This verse reminds us that God’s presence is holy and that entering His presence is a gift, not something we can earn. It reflects a proper attitude of worship, combining gratitude for God’s mercy with reverence for His holiness. For believers, this verse is a reminder that God invites us into His presence, not because of anything we have done but because of His great love.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 5:7 contrasts sharply with the previous verses, where David describes God’s opposition to the wicked. The word “but” sets up this contrast, emphasizing that David’s approach to God is based on humility and gratitude. The phrase “by your great love” highlights God’s character as compassionate and merciful, while “in reverence I bow down” expresses David’s respect and submission to God’s authority. The reference to God’s “holy temple” underscores the sacredness of God’s presence, creating a sense of awe and respect. This verse’s structure, moving from God’s love to reverent worship, highlights the appropriate response of humility when coming before a holy God.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” This verse encourages believers to approach God with confidence, made possible by His mercy.
- Psalm 100:4 – “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” This verse emphasizes gratitude and reverence in worship.
- Isaiah 6:5 – “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips… and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” Isaiah’s response to God’s holiness mirrors David’s reverence and humility.
These verses highlight the proper attitude of humility, gratitude, and reverence when approaching God, recognizing that His love allows us to come into His presence.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 5:7 is a reminder that we can come into God’s presence only because of His love and grace. In a world where self-sufficiency is often celebrated, this verse calls believers to approach God with humility, acknowledging that it is His mercy that allows us to draw near. Worship is not about our own worthiness but about God’s love that invites us close. This verse encourages Christians to come before God with gratitude, understanding that access to His presence is a privilege. It also reminds us to approach God with reverence, recognizing His holiness and treating worship as sacred.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 5:7 reflects God’s love by showing that He allows His people to come into His presence, even though we fall short of His holiness. God’s “great love” makes a way for us to approach Him, inviting us into a close relationship with Him. This verse reminds us that God is not distant or unapproachable; His love draws us to Him, allowing us to worship and be near Him. God’s love is seen in His willingness to receive us despite our imperfections, providing a way for us to enjoy His presence. This verse highlights that God’s love is not only forgiving but welcoming, inviting us to come close with humility and reverence.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Psalm 5:7 connects to Jesus, who made it possible for believers to come into God’s presence with confidence. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus removed the barrier of sin that separated people from God, opening the way for all who believe to approach Him. Hebrews 10:19-22 says, “We have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.” Jesus fulfilled the need for sacrifice, making it possible for us to approach God’s “holy temple” through His grace. Jesus taught us to come to God with humility and gratitude, knowing that our access to God is a gift made possible by His love and sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does recognizing God’s “great love” change the way you approach Him in prayer and worship?
- In what ways can you show reverence and humility in your own relationship with God?
- How does understanding that access to God’s presence is a gift impact your gratitude in worship?
- How does Jesus’ sacrifice give you confidence to come before God, despite your imperfections?
- What steps can you take to develop a deeper sense of awe and respect for God’s presence in your daily life?
Psalm 5:7 reminds us that access to God’s presence is a privilege given to us by His love. For Christians, this verse is a call to approach God with gratitude and reverence, recognizing that His holiness invites a humble heart. Through Jesus, we are welcomed into a close relationship with God, able to approach Him confidently because of His love, grace, and mercy.