Psalms 115:14

The Lord shall increase you more and more: you and your children. Psalms 115:14 (KJV)

Context: Psalm 115 is a psalm of praise and trust in God. It contrasts the greatness of God with the futility of idols. The psalmist affirms that the Lord is the true God who is actively involved in the lives of His people.

The Lord shall increase you: The psalmist declares that the Lord will cause an increase or growth in the lives of His people. This increase can be understood in various ways:

• a. Spiritual growth: The Lord desires to see His people grow spiritually, deepening their relationship with Him, increasing in faith, wisdom, and understanding. As we seek the Lord and abide in His Word, He brings about spiritual growth and maturity in our lives.
• b. Material blessings: God has the power to bless His people materially, providing for their needs and even granting abundance. However, it is important to note that material blessings should not be the primary focus of our faith; they are a byproduct of our relationship with God and His faithfulness.
• c. Numerical increase: The psalmist mentions that this increase applies not only to the individual but also to their children. In the Old Testament context, having many children was seen as a sign of God’s favour and a means to perpetuate one’s legacy.

The faithfulness of God: The psalmist’s confidence in the Lord’s ability to increase and bless stems from their trust in God’s faithfulness. Throughout the psalm, the writer emphasizes that idols are powerless and lifeless, but the Lord is alive, active, and faithful to His people.

Application:

Trust in God’s provision: When we encounter challenges or feel limited in our resources, we can trust in the Lord’s ability to increase us. We can seek His guidance and provision, knowing that He is faithful to provide for our needs.

Pursue spiritual growth: Let us prioritise our spiritual growth and seek to deepen our relationship with God. As we invest time in prayer, reading His Word, and fellowship with other believers, we can experience the growth and transformation that comes from knowing Him.

Teach and pass on faith to the next generation: The promise of increase for “you and your children” reminds us of the importance of teaching and passing on our faith. We should strive to raise our children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord, equipping them to continue the legacy of faith.

In conclusion, Psalm 115:14 reassures us of God’s faithfulness and His desire to increase us in various aspects of life. As we trust in Him, seek His provision, pursue spiritual growth, and pass on our faith, we can experience His blessings and witness His faithfulness in our lives and the lives of our children.