Psalms 135:4
“For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure.”
1. Understanding the context: The book of Psalms is a collection of poetic prayers and songs, attributed to various authors. This particular verse is part of Psalm 135, which is a psalm of praise and thanksgiving. It emphasizes the greatness of God and His sovereignty over all creation.
The significance of Jacob and Israel: In this verse, Jacob and Israel refer to the same person, who was later given the name Israel by God (Genesis 32:28). Jacob was the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham, and he became the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to bless his descendants and make them into a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3). The reference to Jacob and Israel highlights God’s faithfulness to His chosen people.
2. The significance of Jacob and Israel: In this verse, Jacob and Israel refer to the same person, who was later given the name Israel by God (Genesis 32:28). Jacob was the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham, and he became the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to bless his descendants and make them into a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3). The reference to Jacob and Israel highlights God’s faithfulness to His chosen people.
3. God’s choice and election: The verse states that the Lord has chosen Jacob and Israel for Himself. This choice was not based on anything inherent in Jacob or the Israelites, but rather it was an act of God’s grace and sovereignty. In Deuteronomy 7:6-8, Moses explains that the Lord set His love on the Israelites, not because they were the most numerous or mighty, but simply because He delighted in them and kept the oath He had sworn to their forefathers. This demonstrates God’s unconditional love and His commitment to fulfill His promises.
4. Israel as God’s peculiar treasure: The verse describes Israel as God’s peculiar treasure. This indicates the special relationship between God and His chosen people. They are valued and cherished by Him. In Exodus 19:5, when God established His covenant with the Israelites at Mount Sinai, He referred to them as a “peculiar treasure” among all the nations. This designation emphasizes their unique status as a people set apart for God’s purposes.
5. Application and reflection: As believers today, we can draw lessons from this verse. Although the verse specifically refers to the Israelites, it reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His choice to set apart a people for Himself. In the New Testament, we see that through faith in Jesus Christ, both Jews and Gentiles are included in God’s chosen people (Galatians 3:28-29). We are now part of the spiritual Israel, sharing in the blessings and promises of God.
Furthermore, this verse teaches us about God’s love, grace, and sovereignty. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not based on our own merits or achievements, but on His unconditional love and choice. We are His treasured possession, valued and loved by Him. This should inspire us to live in gratitude and devotion to God, seeking to honor Him in all that we do.
