A GREAT GOD

Historically, this psalm looks back to that infamous day in Israel’s history when they refused to enter the Promised Land and enjoy rest. Prophetically, this psalm fits into the time of Jacob’s trouble. Psalms 93 to 100 portray a progression through that period. Biblically, this psalm has a crucial message developed and applied in Hebrews 3 and 4. Those who refused to ‘live by faith’, saw the visible difficulties of entering the rest in the land God had promised them. They failed to see Him who is invisible; consequently, they forfeited every right to that rest. The Hebrews who, in New Testament times, had such ancient and divine promises, faced the same choice. To turn back meant relinquishing those promises and the ultimate intended rest. Jews in the coming tribulation will face the same choice. To turn back will bring temporary relief, as they bow to a man, who proclaims that he is God. That relief will decide their endless loss, shame and everlasting contempt.

Historically, prophetically, biblically, and practically, everything depends on the perception of God. Faith only operates as a response to a revelation of God. The revelation of this God (El) is extensive. The principal thoughts associated with El are reverence, might, worship, trustworthiness and submission. This title is almost always qualified by words or descriptions which further define the word. Seven times He is called a great God. That includes ‘a great and terrible [awesome] God’; ‘a great, mighty, and terrible God’, and ‘a great and mighty God’. Only in this passage is He entitled ‘a great God’. Tribulation saints will need that vision of Jehovah as ‘a great God’. He stands apart from all others who claim worship.

Looking back, and looking ahead, the only wise choice for Israel past and future would be the path of faith. We see this very clearly for them, yet too often it is strangely hazy when we face the crucial decisions in our life. We see great difficulties, great costs, great pain, great obstacles, great risks, great disappointments, and great questions. Overshadowing all is a great God. The choice is clear!