Selah
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. Selah (Psalm 62:8, ESV)
Selah (סֶלָה) in the Bible, primarily in the Psalms, is a Hebrew word with an uncertain precise meaning, but it functions as a liturgical or musical notation indicating a pause for reflection, praise, or an instrumental interlude, suggesting a moment to "stop and think about that," "lift up," or consider the text's weight. It's a command to absorb profound truths, a call to praise God, or a musical direction for musicians to rest or play louder. (Google)
Selah does not mean Amen! It never means over, done or finished. It’s quite the opposite because this is a strong suggestion to stop what you are doing and ponder what’s happening. It is very interesting that we (human beings) must be told to stop and think, it’s not a natural thing for us to do.
Look at the difference between these two verses. He made them important with that one word—Selah.
Psalm 89:3-4 You have said, “I have made a covenant with my chosen one; I have sworn to David my servant: ‘I will establish your offspring forever, and build your throne for all generations.’” Selah
Psalm 4:4 Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah
This word Selah is used 70 times in Psalms and a few times in Habakkuk. It puts the spotlight on what God thinks is important. We never will have that ability and thankfully, He does it for us. Imagine what life would look like if a human decided what was most important in the Bible!
So out of curiosity, what is most important in your mind? Is it forgiveness? Faith? Trust? Salvation? Eternity? Relationship? Where would you apply the word Selah in your own life?
Ponder these things. Do we ever take the time in our busy days to stop, get quiet and think about what is important to Him (and not us)? We might want to consider that a new priority!
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Holy Word. For showing us what matters to You, we are grateful. Teach us to ponder Your Words, as we long to know Your heart. AMEN.