Psalms 57:8
Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early.
Psalms 57:8
Verse 8 calls for awakening: “Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early.” The “glory” of the psalmist likely refers to personal vitality, inward strength, and possibly the psalmist’s voice or persona that praises God. The imagery of musical instruments (“psaltery and harp”) emphasizes worship as the central response to danger. The commitment to rise “early” signals disciplined devotion—priority given to prayer and praise before the day’s distractions begin. It also echoes ancient practice where dawn was a natural time for devotion, with the early hours representing freshness and reliance on God’s mercies. The verse invites believers to fix their attention outward toward God through song as a daily discipline, turning anxiety into worship and ensuring that the first act of the day honors God.
Theologically, this verse articulates the power of worship to shape the believer’s inner life and outer actions. Awakening the “glory” and musical instruments implies that praise is not merely an emotional reaction but a deliberate choice that aligns the heart with God’s purposes at the start of the day. It also underscores the communal dimension of worship—though the verse is personal, the use of instruments creates a shared sound that can encourage others. The practice reflects a biblical pattern: repeatable, embodied acts of worship that mark time and ground faith. It foreshadows Jesus as the dawn of salvation who brings light to the world, and it invites readers to greet each day with a disciplined, hopeful posture.
Begin your mornings with purposeful praise. Set an alarm that triggers a short worship routine: sing a verse, strum a simple chord, or play a favorite worship song. Keep a small set of instruments or a phone with a short playlist ready for easy access. Use the first hours to center your day around God—reading a short devotional, praying for the day’s work, and asking God to use you for others. If mornings are chaotic, prepare the night before: lay out your devotional materials, plan a brief ritual, and place them where you’ll see them first thing. Invite a family member to join in—early morning worship can set a tone for the whole household. This practice can cultivate resilience and gratitude as you face daily pressures.
Cross-References: Psalm 5:3; Psalm 63:1-4; Lamentations 3:22-23; Matthew 6:33; Colossians 4:2