Make This a Summer of Celebration –
A Call to Universal Worship: A Proclamation of God’s Glory

As we embark upon the vibrant season of summer, filled with opportunities for work, play, rest, and abundant ministry, let us turn our hearts to a profound call to worship found in Psalm 96. This psalm, a hymn of praise, resounds like a cosmic festival, akin to a summer bonfire where all creation gathers to exalt the Lord. Likely sung during the Feast of Tabernacles, Psalm 96 invites all people and every element of nature to proclaim the glory of God. As we kick off this summer, let us heed this divine call to worship with renewed fervor and purpose – and make this an incredible summer of celebration.

A New Song of Universal Worship (Psalm 96)

Before we look specifically at how you can make your summer an incredible summer of celebration, let us pause a moment to understand what this text calls us to do.

1. Sing a New Song unto the Lord (Psalm 96:1-3)

The psalmist begins with an urgent call: “Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! Sing to the Lord, all the earth” (Psalm 96:1). This new song is not merely a fresh composition but an outpouring of spontaneous, heartfelt praise. The invitation extends to all the earth, urging every person to declare the glory and marvelous works of God among the nations. As we step into summer, let us embrace this call to sing anew, proclaiming His wonders with joy and urgency.

2. Worship God for His Greatness (Psalm 96:4-6)

“For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods” (Psalm 96:4). God is not merely great – He is the greatest, surpassing all false gods and idols. His majesty, strength, and beauty shine forth, evident in His creation and sovereign providential control over all things. Unlike lifeless idols, our God reigns supreme. This summer, let us stand in awe of His greatness, allowing the fear of the Lord to shape our worship and lives.

3. All Nations Are to Ascribe God’s Glory (Psalm 96:7-10)

The psalmist intensifies the call: “Give to the Lord, O families of the peoples, give to the Lord glory and strength” (Psalm 96:7). This is a focused, intentional act of ascribing to God the honor He deserves. We are to recognize the beauty of His holiness and proclaim His universal and eternal reign. As we engage with others this summer, let us boldly declare God’s glory, inviting all to acknowledge His sovereign rule.

4. Rejoice in God’s Coming Judgment (Psalm 96:11-13)

“Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and all its fullness” (Psalm 96:11). The psalm crescendos as all creation – skies, earth, seas, fields, and trees – joins in a symphony of praise, anticipating God’s coming judgment. Like a grand conductor orchestrating a choir, God brings every element into harmony. This summer, let us rejoice in His righteous judgment, trusting in His faithful and just rule.

Let’s Apply All This to Our Summer

As we launch into summer with its myriad opportunities, the overarching call of Psalm 96 is clear: let us make the universal praise of God our priority, both in our voices and actions. Here are practical ways to live out this call:

Renew Your Worship with a New Song

Summer offers a season for spiritual renewal. Consider engaging in activities that refresh your worship (through the typical spiritual disciples, such as Bible reading, meditation, Bible memory, prayer) – perhaps exploring a new way to praise God, such as journaling your prayers, singing a new hymn, or studying a fresh passage of Scripture. How might you seek to worship God anew this summer?

See God’s Glory in Creation

Summer beckons us outdoors, where the beauty of God’s creation surrounds us. As you hike, garden, or simply sit under the stars, take time to marvel at His glory displayed in nature. Consider a “creation walk,” reflecting on how the heavens, earth, and seas declare His praise. Let your imagination join creation’s chorus of worship.

Share God’s Glory and Reign with Others

Amid summer gatherings with friends, coworkers, or neighbors, do not neglect to share the light of the Gospel. Evangelism can be as simple as inviting someone to church or recounting how God has worked in your life through Christ. Consider hosting a summer gathering in your home to foster conversations about faith or inviting fellow believers for fellowship and encouragement.

Rest in God’s Just and Faithful Rule

In a world often marked by chaos, Psalm 96 reminds us of the hope found in God’s sovereign control. Take comfort in His providential rule and participate in the collective worship of His people. Intentionally engage with your church family this summer, growing in unity and rest through shared worship and fellowship.

Ask Yourself Great Questions Regarding Your Summer

Reflect on these questions: Where do you need to rest in God’s faithful care? Are you actively participating in the universal praise of God? Do you view summer as a time for personal pursuits or as an opportunity to glorify God and serve His people?

How about your summer then?

As we stand at the threshold of summer, Psalm 96 calls us to a vibrant, universal worship that echoes through all creation. Let us commit to making God’s glory the centerpiece of our summer – through renewed worship, awe-inspired reflection on His creation, bold proclamation of His reign, and rest in His sovereign rule. May our voices and lives join the cosmic festival of praise, declaring, “For the Lord is great and greatly to be praised!” (Psalm 96:4). Let this summer be a season of worship, renewal, and faithful witness for His glory.

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