Psalm 24

Humility.

Knowing our place.

David declares rightly that the earth is the Lords, and everything in it.  God alone is the creator of all, and the sustains all.  Everything we can see or know is His.  He established all things and He upholds all things.

In light of that knowledge......the greatness and the power of God......David asks, "Who can go to Him?  Who can stand before Him?".   Knowing God makes us know our own place.  In light of His greatness, we are so small.  Not to mention our sin nature that He cannot look upon.

But He will entertain us in His presence.....

If we practice right actions (have clean hands), that flow from right motives (pure heart), and no deceit (in our hearts or outwardly), and give Him our exclusive devotion and praise (no idols).

(Note the similarity with Psalm 15.......an "entrance liturgy".  )

This great God, the only true and living God, will bless those who seek Him with righteousness and salvation. And this great God, will be victorious over all.....and will bring us in with Him!

The temple is personified....with gates and doors that can stand at attention and lift up their heads.
One study note commented that this song may have been sung when the Ark of the Covenant was brought into the temple.  I wonder if it looks to the ascension of Christ, or of the coming great Day of the Lord when He will bring the bride, the Church to Heaven.   No matter.....all are glorious events, and certainly our God is worthy of great praise and adoration .

Father.......I want to stand in Your presence....and hear you say, "Well done."
But every day, I need my hands washed of guilt, my heart examined for purity, and only You can teach me what the idols of my heart are.  You judge my intentions and actions.  And I am found wanting.....every single day.

But You do cleanse me......every day.  And you have set Your love upon me and called me Your own.  You are faithful to instruct my heart and mind, and to lead me in the paths of righteousness.

I long for that great Day of Christ's return.  To struggle with this life no more and be in Your presence forever.