Psalm 47:4 Commentary – Understanding Its Significance In Our Lives

The Background of Psalm 47

Psalm 47 is a beautiful celebration of God’s authority and majesty. It is believed to have been written during the reign of King Hezekiah, around 700 BC. The psalm was most likely composed for a festival, possibly the Feast of Tabernacles, one of the three major Jewish festivals.

The Meaning of Psalm 47:4

In Psalm 47:4, the psalmist declares, “He chose our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob whom he loves.” This verse is a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His special relationship with the nation of Israel. The “inheritance” referred to here is the land of Canaan, which God had promised to Abraham and his descendants.

God’s Sovereignty

The psalmist emphasizes God’s sovereignty throughout the entire psalm. He declares that God is the “great King over all the earth” (v. 2) and that He has “subdued nations under us” (v. 3). This language reflects the Jewish belief that God had given them victory over their enemies.

The Importance of Praising God

Psalm 47 is a call to worship and praise God for His greatness. The psalmist encourages the people to “clap their hands” and “shout to God with cries of joy” (v. 1). He also reminds them that God has “ascended amid shouts of joy” (v. 5) and that He is “exalted over all the nations” (v. 8).

The Significance of Psalm 47:4 in Our Lives Today

Psalm 47:4 is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness to His people. It reminds us that God has chosen us and that we are His special possession. This should give us confidence and assurance in our relationship with God.

God Has Chosen Us

Just as God chose the nation of Israel as His special possession, He has also chosen us as His children. The apostle Peter reminds us that we are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession” (1 Peter 2:9). This is a great privilege, and we should never take it for granted.

Our Identity in Christ

Psalm 47:4 also reminds us of our identity in Christ. As believers, we are part of God’s family, and we share in His inheritance. Paul writes that “in Christ we have obtained an inheritance” (Ephesians 1:11). This inheritance includes eternal life and all the blessings that come with being a child of God.

Our Response to God’s Love

Finally, Psalm 47:4 should inspire us to respond to God’s love with gratitude and praise. The psalmist exhorts us to “sing praises to God” (v. 6) and to “worship at His footstool” (v. 8). We should never take for granted the fact that God has chosen us and loves us. Instead, we should respond with worship and adoration.

Conclusion

Psalm 47 is a beautiful reminder of God’s sovereignty and His faithfulness to His people. Psalm 47:4, in particular, reminds us of our special relationship with God and the great privilege we have as His children. As we reflect on this psalm, may we be inspired to respond with worship and praise to our loving Heavenly Father.