Messengers of the GospelSample

Psalm 61: An Eternal Heritage

“For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.” (Psalm 61:5 NIV84)

To the people of Israel, a heritage was a place they could call their own. In this verse, the word heritage specifically refers to fields, land, and property. A heritage was of the utmost importance to them. Why? For 400 years, they were enslaved in Egypt and had no heritage. By the time this Psalm was written, the Lord had provided them with fields and land that became known as Israel. It was their heritage, their home, their kingdom, their hope, and their future. More specifically, to the Psalmist David, he went from being a shepherd of sheep to being a King. That’s quite a heritage to obtain.

Like the Psalmist, the Lord has also given us a heritage. We who revere the Lord as our God have received a heritage of a different home, kingdom, and future. As it was true for the Psalmist, it is true for us. A reverent relationship with God is a blessing beyond measure.

So, what heritage has the Lord provided those who call upon Him as their Lord and Savior?

For those who:

• Vow to live in such a wondrous relationship with the Lord God,
• Vow to honor Him with their lives,
• Vow to bend their knee and revere Him as the Most High God.

The Lord grants a heritage to them so that they can:

• Know Him as the One who hears their prayers (verse one)
• Know Him as their rock in times of trial (verse two)
• Know Him as their refuge in times of trouble (verse three)

They will be granted a heritage of increase. (verse five)

They will have a heritage that can last for generations. (verse six)

They will be appointed with the love and faithfulness of God. (verses six & seven)

The heritage of God for those who fear His name will cause them to ever sing praise to His name.

God's heart and ability to grant a divine heritage have not changed.

Reflection:

What family member, friend, coworker, or neighbor is in need of the heritage of God? Pray for them by name using verse one as a part of your prayer. Ask Him to create divine moments for you to encourage them to surrender their lives to Him. If necessary, confess to the Lord that you do not know how or what to say. Ask the Lord to set aside all of the obstacles within you so you can share the story of your divine heritage. Continue to pray so that one day you and they might say what the Psalmist wrote in the last verse, “Then will I ever sing praise to your name…”