A psalm of worship to God. One of 11 psalms attributed to Korah.

v1-2: Deep desire for the presence of God. The tabernacle, the place where God dwells. Notice the total desire, my soul, my heart, my flesh (spirit, soul, body), all seeking God; Matt 22.37; Deut 6.5.

v3-4: Dwelling with God, a place of peace, protection, praise. The altars of God, places of sacrifice and worship; this refers to the whole temple courtyard.

Constant dwelling means constant praise, Luke 2.37; Heb 13.15.

v5-7: Dependence upon God, and we find strength in Him.

Many journeyed to the temple, even through the valley of Baca (weeping); in God this becomes a place of blessing and refreshment. Each one reaches their destination, before God in Zion, for God upholds each one, and cannot let them down. The journey, which may be seem as a burden, becomes a blessing full of joy.

Our earthly lives are more than a preparation for heaven; we have daily opportunities to trust God, and to prove His promises, and we find joy in the journey.

v8-9: Prayer through Christ; our shield, our anointed one; our prayers are in His Name. The initial meaning is a prayer for the king of Israel; blessing for the nation was wrapped up in blessing upon the king.

v10: The pilgrims arrive, after journeying for many days. Their experience is such that one day even as a door keeper is better than many days of human choosing and human company. Our preference is to be with Him.

1 Chr 26.1 refers to the duties of the sons of Korah, the door keepers of the house of God. There is therefore an extra meaning here for those servants of God. The writer insists that their role was both important and spiritual. They could not despise their own role, nor allow others to despise their role.

v11: Sun and shield, grace and glory; God shines on us, and we experience something of His very character. We prefer to obey Him, for herein is great reward.

v12: No wonder that the man who trusts in God is blessed indeed!