Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. Psalm 100 KJV
Psalm 100 is a short psalm of praise with only five verses, but it is also well-known and powerful. It contains four brief commands: (1) we are to make joyful noise to the Lord. Rather than the meaningless background noise which fills our lives today, this would be purposeful shouts of praise, thanksgiving, and singing. (2) We are to serve the Lord with gladness. Why would we want to serve Him any other way? (3) We are to know the Lord. He made us and we are His people. (4) We are to enter His gates. We are encouraged to come into His presence. What a privilege! This we do every time we pray, and it should always be with praise and thanksgiving because the Lord is good and full of mercy.
Lord, I am so glad to know You, serve You, praise You, and enter through Your gates, into Your courts, and into Your presence. What a wonderful opportunity You give us as Your people! You deserve our praise because You made us and are so good to us.
