1 Chronicles 16:10-11
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Notice the active command: "Glory in His holy name." It's not just about feeling good; it's about actively declaring God's worth and holiness, which then naturally leads to a rejoicing heart for those seeking Him. This suggests that praise isn't just a response to joy, but often the very cause of it.
Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!
English Standard Version (ESV)
David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a huge moment after its long absence, and he's leading a massive celebration. This verse is part of a psalm David wrote to commemorate the occasion, a song meant to be sung as the Ark was brought into its new resting place, urging everyone present to celebrate God's presence and faithfulness. The context highlights the joyous return of God's presence to His people after a period of separation.
Why does the Bible tell us to glory in God's name? It's more than just a label – it's the very essence of who He is.
More Than a Moniker
When Scripture talks about God's name, it's referring to His reputation, His character, His very being. To 'glory in His holy name' means to take pride, to boast, and to find our ultimate security in who God is – holy, set apart, and perfectly righteous.
A Secure Foundation
In a world that often feels unstable, knowing that God's character is unchanging and holy provides an unshakeable foundation for our lives. His holiness isn't just about His separation from sin; it's about His absolute goodness, truth, and love. This is a name worth celebrating!
The verse connects seeking the Lord with rejoicing. What does this deep-seated joy look like, and how do we find it?
Active Pursuit, Active Joy
'Let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!' This isn't a passive command. Seeking the Lord is an active, ongoing pursuit. And the natural response to this pursuit, when our hearts are truly engaged, is uncontainable joy. It's the joy of discovery, of drawing near to the One who created us and loves us.
A Joy Beyond Circumstance
This rejoicing isn't dependent on our outward situation. It flows from an inward connection with God. When we are actively seeking Him – through prayer, His Word, and community – our hearts are meant to be filled with a profound gladness that transcends daily troubles. It's a spiritual contentment that can only be found in Him.
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Understand the original words
qodesh · Hebrew Adjective
A state of being set apart for God; it denotes His absolute purity, majesty, and moral perfection, which are distinct from all creation.
lebab · Hebrew Noun
The seat of the intellect, emotion, and will; it is the core of a person’s being and the place where one encounters God and makes moral choices.
baqash · Hebrew Verb
To diligently pursue God’s presence, will, and fellowship; it reflects a life oriented toward desiring God above all else.
samach · Hebrew Verb
An expression of inward joy and outward praise; it involves finding one’s deepest satisfaction and boast in the character and accomplishments of God.
darash · Hebrew Verb
To diligently pursue, inquire after, or crave with earnestness; used often of seeking God's face or counsel.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
A common title for the God of Israel, YHWH, the self-existent, covenant-keeping Creator.
panim · Hebrew Noun
The immediate, personal presence of God, often synonymous with His 'face' and the place where His character and glory are encountered.
This Psalm echoes the call to glory in God's holy name, emphasizing the importance of remembering and seeking Him.
Psalm 105:4This verse directly follows the theme of seeking the LORD and rejoices in His presence, mirroring the sentiment of 1 Chronicles 16:10.
Isaiah 55:6This passage powerfully calls people to seek the LORD while He may be found, highlighting the urgency and joy associated with finding Him.
Jeremiah 29:13This verse assures that those who seek God with all their heart will indeed find Him, reinforcing the promise of rejoicing for those who seek the LORD.
Notice the active command: "Glory in His holy name." It's not just about feeling good; it's about actively declaring God's worth and holiness, which then naturally leads to a rejoicing heart for those seeking Him. This suggests that praise isn't just a response to joy, but often the very cause of it.
David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a huge moment after its long absence, and he's leading a massive celebration. This verse is part of a psalm David wrote to commemorate the occasion, a song meant to be sung as the Ark was brought into its new resting place, urging everyone present to celebrate God's presence and faithfulness. The context highlights the joyous return of God's presence to His people after a period of separation.
David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a huge moment after its long absence, and he's leading a massive celebration. This verse is part of a psalm David wrote to commemorate the occasion, a song meant to be sung as the Ark was brought into its new resting place, urging everyone present to celebrate God's presence and faithfulness. The context highlights the joyous return of God's presence to His people after a period of separation.
"Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!" — Notice the active command: "Glory in His holy name." It's not just about feeling good; it's about actively declaring God's worth and holiness, which then naturally leads to a rejoicing heart for thos…
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Last reviewed October 2026
