Those Who Fear the Lord Are Blessed – Ps 128

Several times a year, Israelites would gather in Jerusalem to observe the feasts of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. Devout Jews would travel from different parts of the country to be in Jerusalem for these special times of worship. Not only would it have been a time of worship, but it would have also been a time of reunion and fellowship, as various families reconnected with one another in the city.

During these times of reunion and worship, it would have been obvious who was experiencing the Lord’s blessings, especially as they observed their families and children growing and thriving. This reality could have prompted the writing of Psalm 128, another song of degrees (sung while journeying up to Jerusalem). The writer wanted to show that there is a special blessing on those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways. The person who does will be blessed in so many ways. The blessings here mentioned are primarily material and physical, but certainly there are also great spiritual blessings as well.

Though we may not have always feared the Lord, when we have, we can look back and see how great the blessings are which come from it. This Psalm is a great reminder and encouragement to keep fearing the Lord, to strive to walk more faithfully in His ways and to see how God will bless us as we do.