"Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall dwell in thy presence."
Psalm 140:13
This Psalm is a good reminder of how the LORD will protect His people from evil people. God will especially watch over the needs of the “poor” and “afflicted.” (v. 12). This should cause His children to be thankful for Him.
“Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name:”
It seems an impossibility that any believer—a righteous man, would not be thankful for what the LORD has done for him. No, the righteous man is one who gladly expresses his gratitude to his God.
Are there reasons to thank His name? In the text of this psalm, there are many reasons to be thankful to Him.
His deliverance from the evil and violent man (vv. 1-3)
His preservation from the wicked, violent, and proud man (vv. 4-7)
His protection from the evil plans of the wicked (vv. 8-10)
His defense from the evil speakers (vv. 11-12)
Is there an opportunity to praise His name? Every day as we pray, we can thank Him for His protection. As we meet in our local churches, we have the opportunity to give Him thanks. When we talk with our friends and acquaintances, we can share with them God’s blessings to us. We have many opportunities to share God’s praise with others.
“The upright shall dwell in thy presence.”
And note God’s incredible promise to His righteous children. The “upright” dwell in God’s presence. What is the “upright” like?
The “upright” man fears God and hates evil, (Job 2:3).
The “upright” man praises God, (Psalm 33:1).
The “upright” glory in the LORD, (Psalm 64:10).
The “upright” follow judgment, (Psalm 94:15).
The “upright” shall dwell in the land, (Proverbs 2:21).
The “upright” walk in the way of the Lord, (Proverbs 10:29).
The “upright” are guided by their integrity, (Proverbs 11:3).
The “upright” leave, get away from evil, (Proverbs 16:18).
The “upright” are those who truly know the Lord, they are righteous because of Jesus Christ’s righteousness.
We who are “upright,” dwell in His presence here on earth. He sees all we do here.
“For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright,” (Psalm 11:7).
“For thou hast made him most blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance,” (Psalm 21:6).
We will dwell in His presence forever in heaven.
“Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore,” (Psalm 16:11).
“And as for me, thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before thy face for ever,” (Psalm 41:12).
Believers, we have so much to be thankful for!