Enjoying an intimate relationship with the triune God of the universe is the main goal for all human beings. Only in God, we find meaning and purpose in our lives. Psalm 15 describes the type of person who can personally relate to the Creator. The psalmist wonders who can be a guest in God’s presence. In that culture, a guest had direct access to the host. This psalm of wisdom was sung upon entering the temple. The worshipers began with the question and the priest responded with the requirements and ended with a promise for those who fulfilled them.
O Lord, who may abide in Your tent?
Who may dwell on Your holy hill?
He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness,
And speaks truth in his heart.
He does not slander with his tongue,
Nor does evil to his neighbor,
Nor takes up a reproach against his friend;
In whose eyes a reprobate is despised,
But who honors those who fear the Lord;
He swears to his own hurt and does not change;
He does not put out his money at interest,
Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things will never be shaken.
The person worthy of communion with the Lord is the one who walks with integrity at all times and whose actions are based on justice. A person of integrity behaves according to divine parameters. The tabernacle refers to the sanctuary of God located on Mount Zion, the city of David. A lifestyle that conforms to the divine character is essential to have fellowship with God. Hebrews 12:14 states that without holiness no one can see God. The Lord sets the rules for us to relate to Him.
The psalmist describes eight characteristics that describe a person of integrity and righteousness. This is what God asks of those who wish to have access to his presence.
1. Speak the truth. Their honesty of heart reflects a commitment to the truth.
2. Do not slander. They do not go into disputes or seek to discredit other people by inventing perjuries to damage their reputation.
3. It does no harm to others. The people who are next to them receive only goodness. Their actions help the people around them.
4. Do not accept information that discredits others. These people can be trusted and in them, gossipers do not find accomplices.
5. They do not approve of the lifestyle of those who stray from God, but seek the company of those who want to please the Creator. God is the standard by which they regulate their relationships.
6. They keep their promises despite the consequences they may face. They are people of honor who can be trusted.
7. They are not usurers. They seek to help others and do not take advantage of their needs. The law prohibited the Israelites from financially abusing their brothers (Ex. 22:25; Lev. 25:26).
8. They do not pervert justice. They seek to do the right thing and protect the innocent despite being pressured.
The person who lives up to divine standards will enjoy divine blessing and assurance. Stability in this life is only achieved by pleasing God and living according to his commandments.
It is important to note that the list does not include religious activities such as attending a church or tithing. Their character defines the people who please God and their faith is manifested in their daily activities. Religious activities are part of those who already enjoy a relationship with God but do not serve to win his approval.
Christians are privileged to have direct access to the Creator’s throne through Jesus Christ (Heb. 4:16). While the redemption of our sins that restores our relationship with God through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross is what opens the door for us as God’s guests, Psalm 15 reminds us that the Lord seeks worshipers who live according to His moral guidelines. May our lives reflect the Creator in everything we do.
Nota: La versión en español la puede encontrar aquí
