The Book of Psalms teaches vividly to worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness. Psalm 98 provides five important aspects to praise God.
New Song: New songs for new things God do would be appropriate. Miriam, Deborah, Hannah, and Mary wrote their songs, and so did Moses, David, Asaph, and others. God’s love or grace does not become stale, but inexhaustible. Hence, new songs are inevitable. Singing, acknowledging, remembering, and expressing gratitude for each new thing. The marvelous things happen because of his right hand and holy harm that denotes the skill and his strength. New things continue to happen, and new songs continue to be written by His saints.
Themes: First, God has revealed His salvation, righteousness, mercy, and faithfulness to Israel in the sight of nations, so that all nations may see the glory of God. Making known the salvation experienced is the mandate of each believer. The second marvelous thing is that God remembers His mercy and faithfulness to the patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as a covenant nation. The third reason for the mighty praise is that God is the judge, who is righteous and treats all people with equity. Fair judgment was rare in the ancient world. Even today, it is rare because of bribery, corruption, bias, prejudice, ideological inclinations, and discrimination.
Joy: Rejoice in the Lord always. (Philippians 4:4) Worship, praise, and thanksgiving express themselves in a joyful noise. Joyful noise is similar to a spontaneous shout by children on the streets of Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and the dance of David when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem.
Music: The psalmist mentions at least three musical instruments: Harp, Trumpets, and Horn. The harmony of the musical instruments adds melody to the new song. Along with that, the worshippers clapped, expressing their joy and joining others in the delightful singing.
All creation: God’s creation and all who dwell, which includes humans and all creatures, praises him. Sea roars, rivers clap their hands, and hills make joyful sounds.
Do I worship the Lord for His Salvation, His faithfulness, and Judgement?