It is only fitting that the first psalm after the final Song of Ascent is an exuberant call to worship. Once the traveling pilgrim has arrived at his destination, it is only fitting that his focus is upon joyous, heartfelt worship of Jehovah. “Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; praise Him, O you servants of the Lord. You who stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God…Bless the Lord, O house of Israel! Bless the Lord, O house of Aaron! Bless the Lord, O house of Levi! You who fear the Lord, bless the Lord! Blessed be the Lord out of Zion who dwells in Jerusalem! Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 135:1-2, 19-21).
Sandwiched between these rousing words is a beautiful anthem of Jehovah’s praiseworthiness. It begins with: “Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praises to His name, for it is pleasant. For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure. For I know that the Lord is great, and our Lord is above all gods” (vv. 3-5).
Acceptable worship of God requires the proper spirit (John 4:24). Included in this requirement must be an accurate recognition of God’s goodness, the pleasantness of His unique name, and His unrivaled greatness.
A worshiper whose spirit is not mindful of these truths is a worshiper who does not worship God acceptably.
