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Day 201

Psalm 81:4a "For this is a statute for Israel..."

Day 201 – Psalm 81

“For this is a statute for Israel…” Psalm 81:4a

THE SOLEMN FEASTS OF THE LORD

These feasts were to be regarded with great respect. They were not mere “holidays”.

“For this is a statute for Israel,
A law of the God of Jacob.”
Psalm 81:4

A similar phrase is found in another psalm that Asaph wrote.

“For He established a testimony in Jacob,
And appointed a law in Israel,
Which He commanded our fathers,
That they should make them known to their children.”
Psalm 78:5

1. Israel… Jacob

These words are used interchangeably.

2. Statute and law

These words are also used interchangeably.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF KEEPING THESE SOLEMN FEASTS

There is great significance in the keeping of these solemn feasts. The following may be highlighted:-

1. The practice of Worship is taught and established.

2. The following lessons are reinforced through worship and God’s role is gratefully acknowledged.

a) His relationship to Israel as the Covenant-Keeping God.
This is well expressed in the singing of songs of praise (Psalm 81:1-2).
b) His mercy is sought for the forgiveness of sins.
This is expressed in the giving of a sin offering (Numbers 28:15).
c) His favour is sought for the blessing of the crops.
This is expressed in the giving of the grain offering and the drink offering (Numbers 28:12-14).
d) His blessing on the nation is appreciated with great gratitude.
This is expressed in the burnt offering (Numbers 28:11).

3. Great religious culture established.

Through frequent mandatory observance of these sacred feasts, Israel had every opportunity to develop a strong religious culture. If Israel had cultivated their relationship with God carefully, it would have brought glorious blessings upon the nation.