Psalm 15:1
“LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?”
The psalmist poses two heartfelt questions in this verse: “Who may abide? And “Who may dwell?” These are questions that every believer should ask of God. The words “abide” and “dwell” are similar in meaning in the Hebrew language, and when applied to the believer, they become a permanent state of mind. According to the whole psalm, the reality of who enjoys this intimate, ongoing fellowship is determined by their character lived out daily.
The Bible tells us that our access to God’s throne in heaven has been thrown wide open because of His grace. But we must never forget that with grace comes a responsibility: “…love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” And “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39).
The believer who consistently seeks out and enjoys God’s presence will begin manifesting His character toward others—mercy, patience, longsuffering, faithfulness, gentleness, and kindness. Their words and lifestyle will not contradict one another because to live otherwise is hypocritical and runs the risk of becoming cold and pharisaical, “beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness” (Matthew 23:27). The Pharisees were clinically religious, yet their lives were duplicitous. And Jesus condemned them for it.
There is no better, safer, or more expansive place to dwell than with the Lord. May you and I be counted among the “who”—those saturated with love for God, as revealed in the love for others.
Awaiting His Return,
– Pastor Jack
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