God’s Saving Word: Praise and Thanksgiving
Introduction
Psalm 29: Today’s reading praises the majestic and powerful voice of the LORD. As a hymn, the repetitive use of “the voice of the LORD” builds to a crescendo, culminating in an affirmation that the LORD rules as king forever. The psalm concludes with a blessing of peace.
Scripture Reading
The Voice of the Lord in the Storm[a]
29 Praise the Lord, you heavenly beings;
praise his glory and power.
2 Praise the Lord’s glorious name;
bow down before the Holy One when he appears.[b]
3 The voice of the Lord is heard on the seas;
the glorious God thunders,
and his voice echoes over the ocean.
4 The voice of the Lord is heard
in all its might and majesty.
5 The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars,
even the cedars of Lebanon.
6 He makes the mountains of Lebanon jump like calves
and makes Mount Hermon leap like a young bull.
7 The voice of the Lord makes the lightning flash.
8 His voice makes the desert shake;
he shakes the desert of Kadesh.
9 The Lord’s voice shakes the oaks[c]
and strips the leaves from the trees
while everyone in his Temple shouts, “Glory to God!”
10 The Lord rules over the deep waters;
he rules as king forever.
11 The Lord gives strength to his people
and blesses them with peace.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 29:4
The voice of the LORD is heard in all its might and majesty.
Reflect
Count the number of times “the voice of the LORD” appears in this psalm. As noted in the reading for November 1 (Genesis 1), God’s speaking initiates creative activity. With each verse that begins with the praising of God’s voice, what activity occurs? What images do you find most meaningful? If you were asked to describe God’s power and might, what images might you use?
Pray
Glory to you, O God! You rule as king forever, and your mighty and majestic voice is heard throughout all creation. I praise your glory and power and bow down before you. In your holy and glorious name, I pray. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 30: A prayer of thanksgiving for God’s healing.
