And in his temple all cry, Glory! Gods voice fills the whole world, and spreads itself to its furthest limits; but the prophet declares that his glory is celebrated only in his church, because God not only speaks intelligibly and distinctly there, but also there gently allures the faithful to himself. As men profit not so much in the common school of Nature as to submit themselves to God, David wisely says especially that the faithful sing the praises of God in his temple, because, being familiarly instructed there by his fatherly voice, they devote and consecrate themselves wholly to his service.
It is the doctrine of salvation alone, therefore, which cheers our hearts and opens our mouths in his praises, by clearly revealing to us his grace, and the whole of his will. It is from thence that we must learn how we ought to praise him. We may also unquestionably see that at that time there was nothing of the light of godliness in the whole world, except in Judea. Even philosophers, who appeared to approach nearest to the knowledge of God, contributed nothing whatever that might truly glorify him. All that they say concerning religion is not only frigid, but for the most part insipid. It is therefore in his word alone that there shines forth the truth which may lead us to true piety, and to fear and serve God aright.
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. Although God exhibits his visible power to the view of the whole world indiscriminately, yet he exerts it in a peculiar manner in behalf of his elect people. He does this not as one who overwhelms with fear and dread those to whom he speaks, but as one who upholds, cherishes, and strengthens them. Everything necessary to the preservation of the life of the godly depends entirely upon the grace of God. God is said to bless with peace those whom he trusts, liberally and kindly, so that nothing is awanting to the prosperous course of their life, and to their complete happiness. From this we may learn that we ought to stand in awe of the majesty of God, in such a manner as to hope from him all that is necessary to our prosperity; and let us be assuredly persuaded, that since his power is infinite, we are defended by an invincible fortress.
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