Psalm 84

Psalm 84 is often remembered for its first line, “How lovely is your dwelling place.” The psalmist pictures a long journey, often through difficult times, but it will end up where God has established his permanent dwelling. The deep longing of the psalmist to be with God resonates throughout the psalm. Even the birds are welcome in his house and it is there that they raise their young – a beautiful picture of God’s concern for his own. 

How lovely is the place where you dwell
That’s where I long to be;
Even the sparrow is welcome in your courts
A place for her young to live free.

What a joy to be near you, I desire nothing else
Than to dwell in your house singing praise
You gave us strength in our journey home
How glorious are your ways.

As we marched along through the Valley of Weeping
You make it a place of springs;
On the road to Zion we keep growing stronger
What vigor your presence bring.

Hear now our prayer, O Lord God Almighty
Show favor to those you forgive;
Better is a day in your court, O God
Than to dwell where the wicked live.

You, O Lord, are my sword and shield
You are the One showing love;
No good thing do you hide from your own
How blessed are the those now above