Overcast and Obscurity
Psalm 97:2
An one not born of the Spirit of God will assert that the teachings of Jesus are uncomplicated. However, upon receiving baptism with the Holy Ghost, one discovers that "clouds and darkness surround Him." Proximity to the teachings of Jesus Christ provides us initial understanding of this feature. The sole means of comprehending the teachings of Jesus is through the illumination of the Spirit of God within.
If we have never removed our ordinary religious footwear and shed the excessive familiarity with which we approach God, it is uncertain whether we have ever truly stood in His presence. Individuals who are flippant and overly familiar are those who have yet to be exposed to Jesus Christ. Following the profound joy and freedom of understanding the actions of Jesus Christ, one encounters the profound obscurity of comprehending His true nature.
Jesus stated, “The words that I convey to you,” not the words I have previously articulated, “are spirit, and they are life.” The Bible conveys several messages—clouds and darkness—until, suddenly, those words are transformed into spirit and life as Jesus articulates them to us under specific circumstances. God communicates with us not via visions and dreams, but through speech. A man approaches God by the most straightforward expression of language.
Psalm 97:2 asserts: *"Clouds and dense darkness encircle him; righteousness and justice constitute the foundation of his throne."* English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse highlights numerous crucial points of emphasis.
1. **The Grandeur and Enigma of Divine Presence** - The expression "clouds and thick darkness surround him" emphasizes the transcendence and formidable essence of God's presence. It posits that God beyond human understanding, and His methods are frequently enigmatic, concealed within a celestial cloud of magnificence.
2. **Divine Sovereignty and Authority** - The depiction of clouds and darkness conveys God's strength and control. Similar to how storms and darkness can represent power and dominion over creation, this illustrates God's ultimate sovereignty over the universe.
3. **Righteousness as the Cornerstone of Divine Sovereignty** - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne" underscores that God's sovereignty is not capricious nor tyrannical, but is established on impeccable righteousness and justice. This guarantees adherents that God's judgments are perpetually just, correct, and aligned with His sacred nature.
4. **The Indivisibility of Righteousness and Justice** - The amalgamation of "righteousness" and "justice" signifies the indissoluble essence of these qualities in God's character. True righteousness is synonymous with justice, and the reverse holds true as well. Both are vital to His administration of the world.
5. **The Sovereignty of God is Constant and Unyielding** - The expression "the foundation of his throne" implies stability. Despite the enigmatic nature of God's presence, characterized by clouds and shadows, the foundation of His governance is steadfast and resolute, grounded in righteousness and justice.
6. **An Appeal to Rely on God's Divine Order** - For adherents, these verities offer solace and certainty. In a seemingly chaotic or unjust world, Psalm 97:2 assures that the supreme monarch, God, governs with perfect justice and righteousness, and His throne remains steadfast.
Contemplating these aspects allows for an appreciation of the grandeur of God's presence and the certainty that His governance is founded on impeccable moral integrity.
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