Psa 84:12 “O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.”
As has been pointed out in other writings, there is significance to the word LORD being in all capital letters. This reflects the name Jehovah. It tells us that we are addressing the Self Existent and Eternal God of glory. We should always be filled with awe and wonder when we are privileged to call upon Him. The first verse of this Psalm also refers to Him as the LORD of hosts. It seems to be David’s intent that we not miss the import of the One being addressed. How is it with us today? When we seek His presence, do we do so with the understanding that He is the LORD, and there is no other like Him? I pray that we have not lost sight of who He is when we approach unto Him: He is the LORD of hosts!
The Strong’s definition for the word translated as “hosts” is an interesting study: “a mass of persons (or figurative things), especially regularly organized for war (an army); by implication a campaign, literally or figuratively (specifically hardship, worship): – appointed time, (+) army, (+) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war (-fare).” He is the LORD of purpose and providence, and He does all things according to the counsel of His own will (Eph 1:11). He is LORD to a mass of believers whom He organizes (sets in order) to accomplish His goal in them. We worship even as we encounter hardship, knowing that He does all things well. We honor Him because we have learned that He is worthy. Our hardship has proved to us His faithfulness in working all things to our good. We are not alone in our service; we are not the only ones left. He is the LORD of hosts. Our confidence is in Him and not the arm of flesh.
How happy (Strong’s meaning for blessed) is the human being (Strong’s definition for man) that takes refuge (Strong’s definition for trusteth) in the LORD! This world is full of sad, disillusioned children of God because they are trying to take refuge in the things of the world. We run to family, to friends, to jobs, to self-help books; the list goes on and on. Happiness is found in having full confidence in the LORD of hosts! There is no other source. It is not found without but within, where the LORD of hosts dwells. We need to be more involved in His worship. When hardships come along the way, we need to worship all the more. We are blessed when we have our confidence in Him. Fully trusting in Him is its own blessing and not just the promise of blessing. When we trust in Him, we are happy even in the midst of hardship.
May we worship the LORD of hosts, that we might have happiness that endures in the face of all adversity!
