Psalm 68:35 – “You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!”
Psalm 68:35 is a declaration of God’s power and presence among His people. The psalmist describes God as “awesome” in His sanctuary, a place where His holiness and majesty are revealed. The verse also speaks of God as the one who gives power and strength to His people, empowering them to face challenges and live in confidence. It concludes with a call to praise, recognizing God’s worthiness of honor and worship.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
The psalmist begins by acknowledging the awesomeness of God in His sanctuary, which represents the place where God’s presence dwells among His people. This expression of awe is a recognition of God’s greatness and holiness, inspiring reverence and worship. The verse continues by affirming that God provides power and strength to His people, which means that He not only dwells with them but also actively supports them in their lives. This empowerment reflects God’s commitment to sustaining and guiding His people. The psalm ends with “Praise be to God!” This call to worship is an invitation to respond to God’s greatness and generosity.
Historical Context
Psalm 68 is a psalm attributed to King David, celebrating God’s presence and victories. In the Old Testament, the sanctuary was the physical place where God’s presence was believed to dwell, first in the tabernacle and later in the temple in Jerusalem. This was a place of worship, sacrifice, and reverence, where people came to connect with God. The sanctuary represented a meeting point between heaven and earth. For Israel, God’s presence in the sanctuary was a powerful assurance of His commitment to them, symbolizing that God was near and actively involved in their lives. The declaration of God as the source of power and strength would have been especially meaningful for a nation that faced many challenges from surrounding enemies and needed His protection and guidance.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse reveals that God’s greatness is not just something to be admired from afar; it is something that directly impacts His people. God’s “awesomeness” is linked with His ability to empower and strengthen those who trust in Him. This shows that God’s majesty and holiness are paired with His care and support for His people. The verse emphasizes that God doesn’t just demand worship; He actively equips His people with what they need to face life’s difficulties. This verse encourages believers to look to God as their source of strength, understanding that His greatness is available to them in practical ways.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses powerful language, describing God as “awesome” and emphasizing His role as the one who provides strength. The word “awesome” conveys a sense of reverence, inspiring awe and wonder. By referring to God’s sanctuary, the psalmist brings to mind the holiness and sacredness of God’s presence. The phrase “the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people” creates a connection between God’s majesty and His support for His people. Finally, the concluding phrase, “Praise be to God,” acts as a response, inviting readers to worship in light of God’s greatness and generosity.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
The Bible contains other verses that describe God’s power and His support for His people:
- Exodus 15:2 – “The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” This verse also speaks of God as the source of strength and protection.
- Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” This passage highlights God’s role in empowering those who depend on Him.
- Psalm 29:11 – “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” This verse reinforces the idea that God provides strength and peace to His people.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 68:35 is a reminder of God’s greatness and His willingness to empower those who seek Him. This verse encourages believers to approach God with a sense of awe, recognizing that He is both holy and accessible. It also assures us that God is actively involved in our lives, giving us the strength we need to face challenges and uncertainties. When we acknowledge God as the source of our strength, we can live with confidence and resilience. This verse is a call to depend on God, knowing that His greatness is a source of strength for His people.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love by highlighting His desire to empower His people. God’s greatness isn’t something He keeps to Himself; He generously shares His strength with those who follow Him. His presence in the sanctuary reflects His closeness and willingness to be with His people, demonstrating that His love includes providing for their needs. God’s love is not only comforting; it is empowering, giving His people the confidence and resources they need to thrive. This verse reveals that God’s love is active, equipping His people with the strength to face any situation.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Psalm 68:35 connects to Jesus, who is the ultimate expression of God’s power and presence among us. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This statement shows that Jesus holds all power and shares it with His followers. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus empowers believers to live with strength and purpose. In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to be with us, guiding and strengthening us. Jesus’ presence in our lives fulfills the promise of God’s strength and makes His power accessible to all who believe in Him. Jesus is our sanctuary, the place where God’s presence dwells and where we find strength.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to seek God’s strength in your own life?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s “awesomeness” and power at work in your life?
- How does knowing that God’s presence is with His people encourage you in difficult times?
- How does Jesus fulfill the promise of God’s strength and presence in our lives today?
- What are some ways you can actively praise and acknowledge God’s greatness and generosity?
Psalm 68:35 is a powerful reminder of God’s greatness and His generous support for His people. Through Jesus, we experience God’s strength and presence in a personal way, empowering us to live with confidence and faith. This verse calls us to worship God with reverence, to depend on His strength, and to celebrate His awesomeness in our lives.