| Series | Emmanuel: God with us (1) |
|---|---|
| Theme | Emmanuel: God with us (1) - EMANUELU: UA IA I TATOU LE ATUA (1) |
| Colour | Lanu Meamata |
| Special Day | Aso Kerisimasi (Christmas Day) |
Scripture Focus: Salamo 98:1-9
O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory. The Lord hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen. He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Sing unto the Lord with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm. With trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the Lord, the King. Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful together Before the Lord; for he cometh to judge the earth: with righteousness shall he judge the world, and the people with equity.
- Psalms 98:1-9 (KJV)
Study:
Psalm 98 calls us to celebrate God’s mighty works and His salvation with joy and music. This passage highlights God as the victorious King who has demonstrated His power by delivering salvation to His people. The psalmist invites all creation—the earth, seas, rivers, and hills—to join in this expression of praise. The victory is not only for Israel but for "all the ends of the earth," revealing God’s universal reign. As He judges the world with righteousness, our response is to make a joyful noise, reflecting God’s salvation and justice. On this Christmas Day, we remember that Emmanuel, "God with us," is the fulfillment of these promises, bringing hope and peace to the world.
Application:
This passage reminds us that worship is not merely a passive act but a joyful and exuberant response to what God has done for us. As believers, we are invited to celebrate God’s faithfulness and salvation with gladness in our hearts and voices. On Christmas, we honor the birth of Jesus, who brought God’s salvation to all humanity. Let us rejoice wholeheartedly, making a joyful noise in praise—not only in church but in everyday life, sharing the hope and love of Christ. In times of struggle or uncertainty, this psalm encourages us to remember God’s victory and to live with confidence in His righteous judgment and mercy.
Reflection Questions:
- How can I express joyful praise to God in my daily life?
- What are some ways I can celebrate the salvation Jesus brought on this Christmas day?
- In what areas do I need to trust God’s righteous judgment more fully?
- How does knowing God’s victory over sin and death affect my faith and hope?
- How can I involve all of creation—my community, family, and friends—in rejoicing with me about God’s salvation?
Prayer:
Lord God, on this Christmas Day, we joyfully sing of Your victory and salvation. Thank You for sending Emmanuel, God with us, to bring hope and peace to a broken world. Help us to live with hearts full of praise and to share Your love with those around us. May we always trust in Your righteousness and mercy, rejoicing in Your presence every day. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Tags: Christmas Bible Study, Psalm 98, Emmanuel God with us, Christian Joy, Worship and Praise, Salvation in Christ, Christmas Devotional, God's Victory, Praise and Worship, Righteous Judgment of God