May 20

The Psalm Of The Doorkeeper

For better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. — Ps 84:10 BSB

This psalm (Psalm 84) has been cherished by God’s people throughout history. When Thomas Carlyle was leaving the quiet peace of Craigenputtock for the uncertainty and tumult of London, he turned to this psalm for comfort. He told his brother: “I look heavenward, for only there do I find a foundation for our journey on earth. Just as the blue sky arches over us, so does the providence of the Lord. ‘He will withhold no good thing from those who love Him.’ This was the ancient psalmist’s faith, and it must be ours as well. It is the beginning and end of all that can belong to man.”

In absence and separation, the heart of a true believer turns to God. He believes that he has direct access to God and that his prayers will be heard (Psalm 84:8). David, as the anointed king, had the right to ask God, his Shield, to look upon him. But we have an even greater plea, for we ask that God would look upon the face of His beloved Son, and accept us in Him (Psalm 84:9).

Let us follow the humility of this man and take the lowest place, as Jesus taught (Luke 14:10-11). But let us guard against pride in our humility. Some may take the back seat in hopes of being called to the front, misinterpreting the Lord’s words. While it is said that there is always room at the top, it is equally true that there is plenty of room at the bottom. If we are willing to gird ourselves with a towel and wash the feet of others, to serve without seeking praise, we will receive approval only from the King Himself.

To such lowly souls, God gives both grace and glory (Psalm 84:11). He gives and gives again, as we learn to receive His gifts. Grace is the bud, and glory is the flower. If God has given the first, He will surely give the second (Psalm 84:12). If something is withheld from us, it is only because it is not truly for our good. No good thing will the Father withhold, but He will not give us scorpions, no matter how beautiful they may appear, or stones, even if they resemble bread.

Prayer

Teach us, Lord, to remain with You in our daily work and to see each task as a temple for priestly service. Amen.