PSALM 24:1–2 The Earth is the LORD's
READ: PSALM 24:1–2 (1 TIMOTHY 4:1–6)
v. 1 “The earth is the LORD’s and the fulness thereof.”
Psalm 24 starts with the confession that the whole universe belongs to the LORD because he is the one who created it. Even the people who dwell on earth are his property (v. 1). What a magnificent statement this is! Let’s think about what it means.
To begin with, we learn that God is powerful to protect his people, especially in times of persecution. At times the church of Christ may be a “little flock” (Luke 12:32) but it does not need to fear. We may be sure that the church of Christ will persevere till the end. Christ has received all authority in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18). If you experience opposition or hatred because you are a Christian, it may be hurtful but you can take your case to the owner of the entire universe.
There is more to be said. If the world and everything in it belongs to God (and not to the devil), it follows that we may enjoy what the LORD has created. It is as the children’s song says, “This is my Father’s world, and to my listening ears all nature sings, and round me rings, the music of the spheres.” The apostle Paul teaches that we may enjoy food and drink, work and marriage “for everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving” (1 Tim. 4:2–4). So go ahead and enjoy the good things God has created, with thanksgiving.
One more angle: Psalm 24 says that the whole world belongs to God, including “those who dwell therein” (v. 2). This means that God owns all the people in the world, even those who oppose him, even the extremists who kill Christians in various parts of the world. It follows that all people will have to give account to their Maker, and in the end justice will be done. God’s people who experience suffering may rest in that.
Also, since all people in the world belong to God, they ought to know him. This means that the gospel should be proclaimed to them. Pray for wisdom and courage to make the most of opportunities that may come up in your workplace or community (Col. 4:5–6).
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