By Brother Gary Wheeler

This summer, the theme for our United Christian Ashrams International Ministry Encouragement Email is “My Favorite Psalm,” or as I irreverently pronounced when I was a teenager, “Pa-salms.” (I probably should have been disciplined more back then!)

I immediately thought about those psalms which have received modern musical adaptations, including Psalm 8. Maybe you remember the tune written by Michael W. Smith: “O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth.”

The psalm can be divided into four parts:

First, the praise of the Lord (vs. 1,9). The opening phrase is repeated at the end. I love the Hebrew here because the psalmist used two different words for “Lord.” The first, usually in small caps in our translations, is “Yahweh/Jehovah,” the name of God. The second is “Adonai,” which means “our Lord” or “our Master.” It emphasizes God’s authoritative relationship with humanity and our need to submit in reverence to God. Thus, His name is majestic, for it speaks of His nature, character, and attributes.

Second, we have the declaration of the Lord (v. 2). Even young ones declare Who He is and His power over His enemies (which are your and my enemies as well). When you are facing a trial, remember babies know Who is in charge. Therefore, your confidence should not waver.

Third, the power of the Lord (vs. 3-4). Lately, Myra and I have been sitting on our patio towards sunset, enjoying the birdsong and watching the night sky. Seeing Venus approach Jupiter in the constellation of Gemini, plus all the other stars in the sky, elicits praise and wonder for Who He is.

Fourth, the place of humanity (vs. 5-8). Imagine this: we are created just a little lower than the angels. Of course, I wish I could fly on my own wings, but airplanes will have to do for now. The Lord has crowned us with glory and honor, though we don’t deserve it. With this, He gave us responsibility over His creation.

Consider memorizing this great hymn of praise. You will be blessed.