Compassionate, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms, Salvation, Thankfulness

Glorious Zion: Celebrating Our Heavenly Citizenship (Psalm 87)

Have you ever wondered what it means to be truly known and loved by God?

Psalm 87 offers a beautiful vision of our heavenly citizenship and the joy of being part of God’s family.

Key Verse: “The Lord will record, when He registers the peoples: ‘This one was born there.’ Selah” – Psalm 87:6 (NKJV)

Background Context: Psalm 87 is a psalm of the sons of Korah, celebrating the city of Zion (Jerusalem) as the chosen dwelling place of God. It highlights the special status of Zion and the privilege of being counted among its citizens. The psalm speaks of the joy and honor of being born in Zion, symbolizing belonging to God’s kingdom.

Psalm 87

The Privileges of Citizenship in Zion.

A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A Song.

     1His foundation is in the holy mountains.

      2The LORD loves the gates of Zion
More than all the other dwelling places of Jacob.

      3Glorious things are spoken of you,
O city of God.

Selah.

      4“I shall mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me;
Behold, Philistia and Tyre with Ethiopia:
‘This one was born there.’”

      5But of Zion it shall be said, “This one and that one were born in her”;
And the Most High Himself will establish her.

      6The LORD will count when He registers the peoples,
“This one was born there.”

Selah.

      7Then those who sing as well as those who play the flutes shall say,
“All my springs of joy are in you.”

Reflection on Psalm 87:

  • The Foundation of Zion: The psalm begins by extolling the foundations of Zion, established by God Himself. Zion is referred to as the city He loves (Psalm 87:1-2). This indicates the divine favor and special status of Zion as God’s chosen dwelling place.
  • Glorious Things Spoken: Glorious things are spoken of Zion, affirming its significance and beauty (Psalm 87:3). The psalmist reflects on the honor and prestige associated with being a part of Zion.
  • Citizenship in Zion: The psalm mentions various nations and peoples who will be counted as citizens of Zion (Psalm 87:4). This inclusivity points to the future gathering of people from all nations into God’s kingdom, emphasizing the universality of God’s salvation.
  • Recorded by the Lord: The psalm declares that the Lord Himself will record and acknowledge those born in Zion (Psalm 87:5-6). This speaks to the personal and intimate recognition by God of His people, affirming their belonging and value.
  • Joy and Worship: The final verse celebrates the joy and worship that flow from Zion. All the springs of joy are in God’s holy city (Psalm 87:7). This underscores the deep spiritual satisfaction and joy that come from being part of God’s family.

Summary Key Points:

  • Divine Favor: Zion is chosen and loved by God, symbolizing His special relationship with His people.
  • Universal Salvation: The inclusion of people from all nations highlights the universality of God’s salvation.
  • Heavenly Citizenship: Being recorded by the Lord as a citizen of Zion affirms our belonging and value in God’s kingdom.
  • Joy in Worship: True joy and spiritual satisfaction are found in God’s presence and in being part of His family.

Application: Let us rejoice in our heavenly citizenship and the privilege of being part of God’s kingdom. May we celebrate the inclusivity of God’s salvation, recognizing that all who come to Him are welcomed and valued. Let us live with the assurance that our names are recorded by the Lord, and find our joy and satisfaction in His presence.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of being citizens of Your glorious kingdom. Help us to live in the joy and assurance of our heavenly citizenship. May we celebrate the inclusivity of Your salvation, welcoming all who seek You. Fill our hearts with the joy that comes from Your presence and help us to live lives that honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This devotional encourages us to celebrate our heavenly citizenship, embrace the inclusivity of God’s salvation, and find our joy and satisfaction in being part of His family.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.