Read Psalm 47.
This is going to get loud. For generations, clapping and shouting were not considered a part of traditional worship. But as Ecclesiastes reminds us, there is a time and place for everything. The very first verse of this song exhorts the congregation to physically and vocally to respond with joyful volume!
Why?
1. "For the LORD, the Most High, is to be feared..." (vv.2-4)
Those who refused to respect and respond in obedience learned the hard way. God "subdued" them at His command. The people who fear God enjoy His love. Clap and shout for joy!
2. "For God is the King of all the earth..." (vv.5-7)
He is sovereign and in control of this world. "The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; in the turns it wherever he will." (Proverbs 21:1) It may not seem like it as we view world events, but the worsening turmoil is leading to a climax and revealing of the King of kings (Revelation 19). We can read the end of the Book and know how the story will turn out. Clap and shout for joy!
3. "For the shields of the earth belong to God..." (vv.8-9)
In the meantime, the LORD is our protection. This world, and we, are His property. "The earth is the LORD's and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein." (Psalm 24:1) Our security is assured by the One who loves us and gave Himself for us. This is worthy of some clapping and shouting!
Make some noise for God today.
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