Psalm 99:9

Exalt the LORD our God and worship at His holy mountain, for the LORD our God is holy.

Study Bible

Exalt the LORD our God
This phrase calls for the elevation and glorification of God, emphasizing His supreme authority and majesty. The act of exalting God is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms, reflecting the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty. In biblical context, exalting God involves both verbal praise and a lifestyle that honors Him. This aligns with the first commandment, which calls for exclusive devotion to God (Exodus 20:3). The use of "our God" indicates a personal relationship and covenantal bond between God and His people, reminiscent of the covenant established with Israel at Sinai (Exodus 19:5-6).

and worship at His holy mountain
The "holy mountain" refers to Mount Zion, the location of the temple in Jerusalem, which was considered the dwelling place of God among His people. Worship at this site was central to Jewish religious life, as it was where sacrifices were offered and festivals celebrated. The mountain symbolizes God's presence and His chosen place for worship (Psalm 48:1-2). This phrase also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of worship, where Jesus speaks of worshiping "in spirit and truth" (John 4:23-24), indicating that true worship transcends physical locations.

for the LORD our God is holy
The holiness of God is a fundamental attribute, signifying His purity, separateness, and moral perfection. This holiness demands reverence and awe from His people. The declaration of God's holiness is a central theme in the Bible, seen in the seraphim's cry in Isaiah 6:3, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty." God's holiness is also a call for His people to be holy, as seen in Leviticus 19:2, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy." This phrase underscores the reason for worship and exaltation, as God's holiness is both a source of comfort and a standard for His followers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, representing the God of Israel, who is to be exalted and worshiped.

2. Holy Mountain
This refers to Mount Zion, a significant place in Jewish worship and the location of the temple in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. Worship
The act of reverence and adoration directed towards God, emphasizing the relationship between the worshiper and the divine.

Teaching Points

Exaltation of God
We are called to lift up the name of the LORD, recognizing His supreme authority and majesty in our lives.

Worship in Holiness
Worship is not just an act but a lifestyle that reflects God's holiness. Our lives should be a testament to His holy nature.

The Significance of Place
While the physical location of worship was significant in the Old Testament, today, we are reminded that true worship is in spirit and truth, transcending physical boundaries.

God's Unchanging Holiness
The holiness of God is a constant theme throughout Scripture, reminding us of His purity and perfection. Our response should be one of reverence and awe.

Community Worship
The call to worship at His holy mountain suggests a communal aspect of worship, encouraging believers to gather together in unity to honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of God's holiness influence your daily life and decisions?

2. In what ways can you "exalt the LORD" in your personal and communal worship practices?

3. How does understanding the historical significance of Mount Zion enhance your appreciation of worship today?

4. What are some practical ways to ensure that your worship is in "spirit and truth" as described in John 4:24?

5. How can the communal aspect of worship at the "holy mountain" be applied in your local church or fellowship group?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 15:11
This verse highlights the holiness and majesty of God, similar to the call to exalt Him in Psalm 99:9.

Isaiah 6:3
The seraphim proclaim God's holiness, echoing the theme of God's holiness in Psalm 99:9.

Hebrews 12:22-24
This passage speaks of approaching Mount Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem, drawing a parallel to worshiping at God's holy mountain.

Revelation 4:8
The continuous worship of God by the heavenly beings underscores the eternal nature of God's holiness.