J.J. and S.D.G.
“Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.”
The famous composer, Johann Sebastian Bach once said “All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul’s refreshment.” He began his compositions with “J.J.” (short for Latin: Jesu Juva) meaning “Jesus, help me,” and ended them with “S.D.G.” (short for Latin: Soli Seo Gloria) meaning “To God alone be the glory.” For Bach, music was never just performance, it was worship.
As we continue in the psalms this week for our devotion, we come across the 98th Psalm and we find the call to sing a new song unto the Lord. It begins with praise, not because life is easy but because of who God is and what He has done. The psalmist reminds us that God has revealed His salvation and demonstrated His righteousness to the nations. In other words, God is not distant and is actively working out His saving purposes in the world.
The phrase “sing a new song” is important. It’s not just about music, it is a response. When we recognize God’s faithfulness in fresh ways, it should lead to renewed worship. Our praise should not become routine or stale but continually renewed as we remember His goodness in our lives.
The psalm goes on to expand this praise beyond individuals. The sea roars, the rivers clap their hands, and the mountains sing together for joy. All of creation joins in worship. This reminds us that God’s reign is not just personal, it is for all. Everything in creation points ultimately to His glory.
Yet the reason for this joy existing is especially powerful. The psalmist writes that “He comes to judge the earth” and at first glance, judgment may not sound like something to celebrate but here it is good news. God’s judgment means that injustice, evil, sin, and brokenness will not last forever. He will judge the world in righteousness. For those who trust in God, this is hope. An everlasting hope. It means that everything wrong will one day be made right. Every injustice will neb addressed. Every hidden wrong will be brought into the light. God’s justice is not harsh or unfair, it is perfectly righteous.
And so as we begin this day, when was the last time we responded to God with a song of praise? Are we worshiping the Lord day-to-day, remembering to renew our hearts about His glory and His blessings in our life? Do we see God’s judgment as something to fear or as a promise that all things will be made right through His holiness?
