Living Well

The psalm begins with a question (1) and concludes with God’s promise (5). The question is found in various forms throughout Scripture (Psa. 24:3; Acts 16:30; 22:10; Luke 10:25; 18:18) and assumes that there is a way of life that leads us into the very presence of God. The verbs “dwell” and “live” are metaphors for communion with God. The complementary usage of “sanctuary” and “your holy mountain” suggests the background of a pilgrimage to Mount Zion, God’s holy mountain. As the pilgrims approached Jerusalem–the city of God, where his “sanctuary” was located on the “holy mountain”–they had to examine themselves before entering the courts of God’s sanctuary (Zondervan NIV Commentary).

This is in stark contrast to the “fool” in the previous psalm (14:1), who denies the existence of God and lives accordingly. Those described here live blameless lives (2), which is not synonymous with perfect but with an attitude of heart that desires to please God. There is no mention of rituals or sacrifices. Rather, the blameless are characterized by integrity in relationship to God and others. They are faithful and righteous in their dealings with people. They handle money responsibly, ensuring it is used well and not exploitatively (3-5). Obedience to God, purity and integrity in speech and action, no matter how personally costly, mark them out as those whose relationship with God is their first priority.

This walking, speaking, acting way of life leads to deep security in God (5) and is simultaneously rooted in and springs from that same security. This is about a relationship, about belonging with God, not merely trying to earn his acceptance. The fact is, we are constantly surrounded by his loving presence, and living in this truth will transform us.

“Be aware that God is closer to you than the air you breathe. . . you are. . . submerged in the ocean of God’s perfect love” (G. Boyd).