Psalms 95:1-11
The power of God in salvation awakens cries of joy amongst those who are its objects. In the past, on the banks of the Red Sea, a redeemed people had raised a song of deliverance to the LORD. Sadly, Israel’s history from their very first steps in the wilderness teaches us that we can be a witness to the works of God (v. 9) and not know His ways (v. 10). It also shows us that it was not only the ungodly Pharaoh who had hardened his heart (Exodus 8:15; Exodus 8:32 . . .) but that Israel had wasted no time in doing just the same (v. 8). The very names Massah (temptation; see Exodus 17:7) and Meribah (provocation) are engraved forever in their history (cf. Numbers 11:3; Numbers 11:34). These failures characterised the sad stages through the wilderness and served to mark them out. May these names, dear friends, serve also as signposts solemnly to warn us in our pathway.
With us in mind the Epistle to the Hebrews quotes and comments upon this psalm (Hebrews 3:7 . . .). "Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts." We must listen to the Lord with the heart. May our hearts be responsive to "His voice" today, and tomorrow He will bring us into His glorious rest.