Psalms 67
Psalm 67 is a short psalm composed of seven verses. The first verse (v. 1) begins with a plea that God would grant grace and bless. Then, in verses 2 through 5, the psalm expresses the hope that God’s salvation will be made known to the whole world, and that all peoples will praise God. In the final verses (vv. 6–7), it concludes by mentioning the blessing received from God and the impact that blessing has on the entire world.
Overall, the text has a structure in which the blessing of an individual or of Israel expands to the world, leading to worship and thanksgiving that praise God.
1verseFor the Chief Musician. With stringed instruments. A Psalm. A song. May God be merciful to us, bless us, and cause his face to shine on us. Selah.
2verseThat your way may be known on earth, and your salvation among all nations,
3verselet the peoples praise you, God. Let all the peoples praise you.
4verseOh let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you will judge the peoples with equity, and govern the nations on earth. Selah.
5verseLet the peoples praise you, God. Let all the peoples praise you.
6verseThe earth has yielded its increase. God, even our own God, will bless us.
7verseGod will bless us. All the ends of the earth shall fear him.
Overall Meaning and Message
This psalm emphasizes that the blessings God grants are not limited to just one nation or group, but must extend to all peoples and all the earth. It contains a universal hope of salvation in which God’s grace and justice are made known and everyone comes to praise Him. In other words, it shows that the blessing God gives should bear fruit as worldwide praise and thanksgiving.
In particular, the psalmist does not seek only the benefit of himself and his people, but displays an inclusive attitude—wanting to share the work and blessings God has done with other nations as well.
Points for Reflection
- Consider whether God’s blessing does not end with staying in my life, but is also being passed on to others.
- Think about how widely I look upon and hope in God’s grace, justice, and salvation.
- When receiving blessing, it may be good to check whether I connect it to praise and thanksgiving.
Try Applying It to Yourself
- You can practice, even in small ways, sharing the grace and blessing you received from God with the people around you.
- Even in a small area of my life, I try to make an effort to focus on what it means to praise God.
- I pray for God’s salvation and justice to spread widely throughout the world, and I look for the part in which I can also take part in this work.
