Psalms 43:4

4 Then I will go to the altar of God, to God who is my joy and happiness. I will praise you with a harp, God, my God.

Psalms 43:4 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 43:4

Then will I go unto the altar of God
Which was in the tabernacle, either of burnt offerings, or of incense, there to offer up the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving for mercies received. The altar under the Gospel dispensation is Christ, on which such sacrifices being offered, are acceptable to God, ( Hebrews 13:10 Hebrews 13:15 ) ;

unto God my exceeding joy;
as over the mercy seat, upon a throne of grace, and as his covenant God; or this is exegetical of the altar, which is Christ, God over all, blessed for ever; and who is the object of the unspeakable joy of his people, in his person, righteousness, and salvation;

yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God, my God:
the harp is a musical instrument, used in that part of public worship which concerned the praise of God under the former dispensation, and was typical of that spiritual melody made in the hearts of God's people when they sing his praise, see ( Revelation 5:8 ) ( 14:2 ) .

Psalms 43:4 In-Context

1 God, defend me. Argue my case against those who don't follow you. Save me from liars and those who do evil.
2 God, you are my strength. Why have you rejected me? Why am I sad and troubled by my enemies?
3 Send me your light and truth to guide me. Let them lead me to your holy mountain, to where you live.
4 Then I will go to the altar of God, to God who is my joy and happiness. I will praise you with a harp, God, my God.
5 Why am I so sad? Why am I so upset? and keep praising him, my Savior and my God.
Scripture taken from the New Century Version. Copyright © 1987, 1988, 1991 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.