Psalms 68:4
Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.
Psalms 68:4
Verse 4 invites praise: “Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.” The “name JAH” (Yah) emphasizes God’s personal, covenantal presence. The imagery of God riding the heavens evokes sovereignty and kingship, as He rules the cosmos. The command to sing reflects ancient Israelite worship practices—rituals of praise that align the heart with God’s mighty deeds. The verse also highlights the centrality of praise in the life of faith: naming and extolling God’s character shapes identity and priorities.
The emphasis on God’s name and cosmic sovereignty reinforces monotheism and the belief in God’s active governance of history. Praising God for who He is—covenant-keeping, mighty, holy—anchors believers in truth, counters fear, and aligns the community with God’s purposes. The cosmic imagery signals that worship is not only private but cosmic in scope; God’s reign touches every sphere of existence.
Practically, design your day around reminders of God’s majesty. Start or end your day with praise, incorporate songs of worship into family routines, and teach children to attribute daily blessings to God’s name. Let your conversations reflect confidence in God’s sovereignty rather than fear. In work or school, adopt a posture of praise that celebrates God’s goodness and invites others to share in reverence. Use “extol him” moments to center decisions around God’s will, especially when facing pressure to conform to secular norms.
Cross-References: Psalm 103:1–3; Isaiah 42:8; Revelation 4:11; Psalm 18:3; Exodus 15:11