Psalms 96 is in the middle of a series of psalms that celebrate the worship God (Ps. 93-99). The psalm includes imperatives like “sing,” “declare,” and “give.” Worship involves using your emotions and opening your mouth. Whether you can hold a tune or not, it’s important to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, for He is worthy of such adoration.
The psalmist adds, “O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: Fear before him, all the earth” (Psalm 96:9). Surely the psalmist is invoking Temple imagery, for the Temple was a beautiful structure within and without. Likewise, the priests were to be adored in beautiful attire. The Hebrew word for “holiness” can refer to moral purity or being set apart for God and His purposes. Is it any wonder that God, who is holy, made His dwelling place holy, and desired for His people to be holy? The ph
Holiness isn’t synonymous with being homely. Holiness is beautiful. Being set apart for God isn’t some cosmic killjoy. On the contrary, holiness and worship should be joyful. This psalm says, “be glad,” “rejoice,” and “be joyful” (Ps. 96:11-12). It might be a good idea to let your face know that serving God is joy unspeakable and full of glory! Perhaps if you smiled more in public and acted like you had something that the world didn’t give, and the world can’t take away, then perhaps more people would desire what you have!
Worship and holiness go hand in hand. The apostle Paul wrote, “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting” (1 Tim. 2:8). God deserves splendid worship and holiness, because He is holy.