Psalms 100:2

"Serve the LORD with gladness. Come before his presence with singing."

Key Reflection

Psalms 100:2 commands us to serve the Lord with joy and to approach Him in worship through song. This verse reflects a deep-seated belief in ancient Israel that true service to God should be characterized by gladness, indicating an internalized joy derived from faith and trust. In cultural context, this joyful servitude contrasts sharply with the solemnity of other biblical passages; it emphasizes a personal, joyful relationship with the divine rather than a mere ritualistic duty.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Serve the Lord with gladness -That is, In your worship, and in all your acts of obedience. Let there be joy in this service. Let it not be with the fear of slaves; not as a matter of compulsion and force; not with reluctance, moroseness, or gloom. Let it be a cheerful, happy service; let it be freely rendered, let it be an occasion of joy to the soul. The service of God is a source of the highest joy that man knows. Come before his presence with singing -As expressive of joy. So the birds sing; so nature rejoices; so should man - intelligent, redeemed, immortal man, be joyful.

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