A Thankful Heart

For His Excellent Name

1 It is good to give thanks to the Lord,

to sing praises to your name, O Most High;

· Meaning of “good” must be interpreted considering 147:1 – it is appropriate and pleasant

· The Lord expected His people to respond in exclamation of His name

· In Cannanite religious thought, it was common for the Cannanites to give the title “El Elyon” (God Most High) to Baal

· God’s people (the Patriarchs and the Israelites) used this title for the One True God, creator or heaven and earth. It is why they ascribed ‘God Most High’ to Yahweh

2 to declare your steadfast love in the morning,

and your faithfulness by night,

· God’s people (the Patriarchs and the Israelites) used this title for the One True God, creator or heaven and earth. It is why they ascribed ‘God Most High’ to Yahweh

· The occasion for praise is the evidence for the Lord’s love. Thus, we are not without reason

· Hesed (steadfast love) requires some attention. Typically Hesed is interpreted based on the context as God’s mercy, compassion, love, grace etc. Found around 250 times in the OT

· However, most words fail to capture the essence of Hesed

· It is simply not an emotion or feeling but it describes a sense of utmost loyalty and love

· In Exodus 34: 6-7, when Moses received the law from God for a second time we see God describing himself as merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness

· This loyal aspect of God’s covenantal love resonates throughout the OT

· Lamentation 3:22 & 23 – prophet says this as he is looking at a burning city

· Hesed runs deeper than any social expectations and fluctuating emotions, it is rooted in committed familial love

· Hesed is central to God’s character and while closely tied to His covenant, it is not bound by the covenant. Thus, even when we are unfaithful – God’s hesed is everlasting (Isa 54:8)

For His Eternal Triumph