[:en]To the people of Israel, Jerusalem was the place where God dwells. It is the city of God, the Holy City, beautiful and joyful. The psalmist described how armies came to capture Mount Zion. But when the Israelites joined forces and advanced to the city, the enemies fled in terror. Fear took hold of them with pain as a a woman in labor. (vs. 4-6) When the armies looked at Jerusalem, the saw the greatness of God (v. 1). They also realized that this great God was a refuge to His people (v. 3). And God will make her secure forever (v. 8)
The city of God is a place where we can enjoy God’s loving-kindness and righteousness (vs. 9-11). After the enemy had unsuccessfuly besieged Jerusalem, the psalmist told the people to walk around Zion, inspect their defenses and praise God for His protection. They have to tell all the marvelous things God had done for them to the next generation. “For this God is our God forever and ever. He will be our guide even to the end” (v. 14)
Things to Ponder:
- Have you experienced the greatness of God?
- Is God the refuge of your life?
- Do you praise God for His protection and guidance?
- Have you told others about God and invite them to become citizens of Zion by faith in God?
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