PSALM 128

The Blessing of Family

The psalmist declares in Psalm 128 that everyone who fears the Lord shall be blessed. Before delving into what those blessings are, we must define what this means. To be blessed is not simply “happiness,” though that is an aspect of our blessed state. To be blessed is to have joy and peace that comes from knowing that you are right with God, and all good things come from Him. Happiness flows from the fact that God is good, and He is good to His people no matter what circumstances they face. How does one become “blessed?” The psalmist says that it is the one that fears the Lord (1,4). Fearing God is the reverential honour due Him as your Lord and Saviour, exhibited by worship and obedience. Fearing the Lord walking according to His word (1). Brethren, where the heart goes the feet will follow. We live out our faith by fearing the Lord and walking according to His word.

God blesses His people with good things; in particular a blessed family life (2-4). The psalmists says you shall be blessed with good things from God and eat the product of your diligent labours (2). Your wife will be productive throughout the house, truly making it a home for the family (3). Your children will be like olive plants that sprout up, produce much joy, and eventually replace their parents (3).

After declaring these great blessings, the psalmist prays for those who fear the Lord that they would receive greater blessings from the Lord still (5-6). May all who fear the Lord see peace and good things from God, and may they live to see their grandchildren. Brethren, God is good and blesses His people with good things according to His will for their lives.