“Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill?”

During trials and tribulations, questions often arise in the hearts of believers. Psalm 15, a timeless piece of divine wisdom, addresses a question that may have been prompted by the tragic death of Uzzah during the transportation of the ark of the covenant. As David sought to bring the sacred ark to Jerusalem, he likely pondered who could dwell and serve in the Tabernacle on Mount Zion, the dwelling place of God.

This question delves into the very essence of genuine religiosity and salvation. It seeks to understand the character of those who stand in the Lord’s presence, enter the holy abode of heaven, and ultimately find salvation.

The Question: Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill?

The very asking of this question presupposes that human beings can stand in the presence of the Almighty. It acknowledges the holiness of the Lord and recognizes that approaching God’s presence requires preparation (Matthew 22:12). The Lord Himself must determine the character of those who dwell in God’s presence. Indeed, there is a home for the soul in the presence of the Lord (Psalm 23:6; 27:4; 84:10-11).

The Answer: The Necessary Qualities

1. Walking Uprightly (Psalm 15:2): To abide in the presence of God, one must be a person of integrity. As Charles Spurgeon beautifully puts it, “True believers do not cringe as flatterers, wriggle as serpents, bend double as earth-grubbers, or crook on one side as those who have sinister aims.” A life of uprightness, both in actions and intentions, is required.

2. Working Righteousness (Psalm 15:2): True believers not only believe in righteousness but actively engage in righteous acts (1 John 3:6-10; Micah 6:8). Their faith is demonstrated through their deeds, for faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26).

3. Speaking Truth in the Heart (Psalm 15:2): The truth should reside in the heart, reflecting in one’s words (Proverbs 12:19). A person of faith does not engage in falsehoods or deceit.

4. Avoiding Backbiting (Psalm 15:3): Backbiting, the act of undermining others behind their backs, is condemned. It is a cowardly act that erodes peace and disrupts relationships.

5. Doing No Harm to a Neighbor (Psalm 15:3): Righteous individuals do not actively harm their neighbor or plot against them. They seek peace and harmony (Romans 12:18; 14:19; Hebrews 12:14).

6. Not Taking Up a Reproach Against a Neighbor (Psalm 15:3): A person of faith does not entertain slanderous reports about their neighbors. They refuse to participate in spreading falsehoods (Proverbs 25:23).

7. Contemning a Vile Person (Psalm 15:4): Moral values should not excuse sin, even when committed by influential individuals, friends, or family members. Upholding righteousness is essential (Ephesians 5:11; Isaiah 5:20; Proverbs 17:15).

8. Honoring Those Who Fear the Lord (Psalm 15:4): A righteous person recognizes and honors fellow believers, even when the world rejects them.

9. Keeping Agreements (Psalm 15:4): A person of integrity keeps their word, even when it may hurt them. They are not hypocritical in their dealings.

10. Avoiding Usury and Taking Bribes (Psalm 15:5): The righteous do not exploit the poor through usury and do not compromise justice by accepting bribes. Fairness and righteousness prevail.

The Settled Character of the Righteous

Those who possess these qualities shall never be moved from the holy hill of God (Psalm 15:5). Their presence in God’s abode is not a temporary visit but a settled residence. The Lord Himself establishes them (Psalm 37:23-25; 121; 125).

In conclusion, Psalm 15 serves as a profound reminder that mere religious rituals and sacrifices, without the accompanying moral attributes of holiness and righteousness, cannot secure salvation or a dwelling in the presence of God. While the Old Testament context involved animal sacrifices, it ultimately points forward to the atonement of Christ, which provides the foundation for our salvation.

May we cultivate these moral attributes within our character, striving to walk uprightly, work righteousness, and honor the Lord in all our lives. In doing so, we align ourselves with the divine wisdom of Psalm 15, drawing nearer to the blessed presence of our Almighty God.

~PW 🌮🛶