Psalm 8

Psalm 8, another attributed to David, begins and ends with praise to the magnificent God in heaven:

“O LORD, our Lord, 

how magnificent is your reputation throughout the earth! 

You reveal your majesty in the heavens above.

From the mouths of children and nursing babies 

you have ordained praise on account of your adversaries, 

so that you might put an end to the vindictive enemy…

O LORD, our Lord, 

how magnificent is your reputation throughout the earth!”

(vv.1-2, 9)

In between these high notes of praise, David marvels at how this magnificent and majestic God has chosen humanity to be His special representatives on earth. Seeing creation in all its beauty and glory (v.3) David is shocked that the Lord even notices the frail human (v.4). But, and wonderfully for you and I, humanity has been crowned…with honour and majesty…and [appointed] to rule over….creation (vv.5-6).

You and I occupy a privileged position in creation. As finite creatures we have been given the pinnacle of roles on earth (vv.5-8). The magnificent and majestic creator of heaven and earth has chosen you to oversee and have dominion over His work. But, before we get carried away, our work is temporary. Our work as guardians and custodians of creation will cease when Jesus returns (Hebrews 2.6-9).

In the meantime, enjoy this wonderful responsibility and take comfort and confidence from knowing that God values you so highly.