Psalm 96: Worldwide Worship
OUR GOD IS a missionary God. He wants all nations, every living thing, to bow down in worship of him. And God wants us to take that message—in word and deed, in song and praise—to the ends of the earth. The psalmist bids us to be most inclusive in our worship of the one true God.
Warming Up to God
Think about the greatness of God. What hymns come to mind that prompt you with the melody, the lyrics and reasons to praise him for the great things he has done?
Read Psalm 96. »
Discovering the Word
- This psalm is divided up into four parts that are identifiable by repeated words or refrains: verses 1-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-13. What repetition do you see in each of these sections?
- What "marvelous deeds" (v. 3) come to mind that would prompt a believer to sing God's praises?
- Why is the Lord "most worthy of" (entitled to) praise (vv. 4-6, 10, 13)?
- Like an orchestra conductor that bids different sections to join in the ensemble, the psalmist bids different sections to join in the chorus of praise to God. How extensive or inclusive is this call to "ascribe glory to" (worship) God (vv. 7-13)?
Applying the Word
- In light of this universal call to worship, think of those around you and on the other side of the globe. What does this psalmist prompt you to do about those who don't know God?
- This psalm invites us to sing a "new song" declaring his glory to others (in witness) and ascribing glory directly to God (in worship). How would someone who is not musically inclined be creative in this kind of witness and worship?
- Let the joy of knowing God bubble up within you and burst forth in a "new song" of worship. Be spontaneous and let this psalm be the wellspring for singing out or jotting down words of praise. (Later see if you, or someone you know, could set those words to music.)
Responding in Prayer
Pray for someone who does not yet know God. Pray about inviting that person to join you in worship.
For Further Study
Talking About Jesus Without Sounding Religious by Rebecca Manley Pippert