Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. Psalm 128:1, NIV

 

Psalm 128 is a song of blessing and prosperity for those who live in obedience to the Lord. It describes how a life of reverence and devotion to God overflows into blessings – not only for the individual, but also for their family and community.

 

The psalm begins with a clear statement: “Blessed are all who fear the Lord”. To “fear” God does not mean to be afraid of him, but rather to have a deep respect and reverence for who he is. This respect leads to obedience to his will and a life that is in harmony with his commandments.

 

This obedience brings tangible blessings. The psalm uses the image of work and family to express the abundance of God’s provision. “You will eat the fruit of your labour” (Psalm 128:2) indicates the reward that comes from hard work and honest labour under God’s direction. This shows that blessing is often to be found in the ordinary things of life: work, family life and community.

 

The image of a family as a fruitful vine and olive sprouts (Psalm 128: 3) shows how obedience to God leads to family welfare. When we build our lives on God, it radiates to the people around us. The entire household lives in an atmosphere of peace, abundance and security, which God has given them.

 

Finally, the focus is extended to the community and even the nation. God’s blessing extends beyond just the individual or family – it brings prosperity to the entire country. In this, we are reminded that our obedience to God affects not only our own lives, but also those of others.

 

Prayer: Lord, I want to honour you throughout my whole life through my work, family and my interactions with others. Help me to always walk in your ways so that your blessing may be visible in my life and the people around me. Thank you for being the source of all goodness and abundance. Amen