Re: [Worship] A Question

[Dean Thomas <deanthom@mindspring.com>]

Lois Marchal wrote:

> I have a question/concern about the words to a song
> and wanted some feedback about this.
>
>  "Oh the glory of your presence, We your
> people give you reverence. Arise from your rest and
> be blessed by our praise as Your glory now fills this
> place."
>
>
> My concern is the word talks about God not sleeping
> or slumbering. He did rest on the seventh day.
> I have wanted to use this song in the past but did not
> want to use it if it is scripturally incorrect.

First, this is a wonderful question, different than most on the song! In any
language, "rest" does not necessarily mean sleep or slumber. One can lean on the
fence, "taking a break" during the middle of a long day's work or in the middle
of a long hike. That rest does not imply sleep.

Second and more importantly, when Steve Fry wrote the song, he had more than a
few people contact him about the scriptural intent of the song. He revised the
song and in later editions, it more closely follows scripture saying, "So, arise
TO Your rest and be blessed by our praise...", remembering that He is enthroned
on/in the praises of His people Israel (Psalm 22:3).
--
Blessings!

Dean Thomas
ZionFire
deanthom@mindspring.com


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