Important Passages from Psalm 24

Psalm 23 is the most famous psalm, and justifiably so. Yet, I find myself particularly drawn to Psalm 24. (And I especially enjoy Psalm 24 in the King James Version, even though that's not usually my translation of choice!)

First, I like the first verse (KJV).

The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

This verse emphasizes that we came into this world with nothing, and we'll leave with nothing. Therefore, everything we see, feel, and possess belongs to God. We merely borrow those things while we're here.

Second, I like verses 3 and 4 (KJV).

Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.

What does it take to reside in God's kingdom? We must avoiding sin (that is, keep "clean hands"), and we must maintain a Godly heart. Further, we must lift our souls to God, and not to earthly "vanities." And we must not use our own words in any unholy manner (that is, not "swear deceitfully").

The problem is, we have all violated that ideal placed forth in verses 3 and 4. Every one of us. So our only hope is God's mercy. During our prayers today, let us focus on the deep messages present in Psalm 24.