Those Who Minister in Obscurity

Psalm 134:1-2

Published on: May 21, 2026

Last updated on: May 21, 2026

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Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD
who minister by night in the house of the LORD.
Lift up your hands in the sanctuary
and praise the LORD.
Psalm 134:1-2 NIV

This psalm is a call to offer praise or blessing to God. To lift our hands in praise. We would expect to do this when we come together in worship. And that is certainly a good occasion to lift holy hands in praise to our God. But that is not the context of this psalm.

This psalm is addressed to the servants of the Lord who minister by night in the house of the Lord. In the context of temple worship in ancient Israel, this likely refers to those who were at work when most were asleep. They might equate to the night janitors—people who clean up from the previous day’s activity and prepare for the coming day. They toiled behind the scenes, ministering in obscurity. Yet they provided an essential function for the operation of the temple. And the psalmist calls on them to praise the Lord as they served in the temple.

Within every church today are those who serve in a very public fashion. But there are even more whose service is unknown to much of the church. And they may think that what they offer is of little value. But it is not. The proper functioning of the body requires all of its parts to function well and in harmony together. Wherever you minister, even in obscurity, lift your hands in praise to God. Give Him your best, whatever your area of ministry.

Half-Hearted Devotion – 1 Samuel 15:9

It is only when I obey God fully, putting to death the Amalekites in my own life, that I can fully experience the life he has for me.

The Heavens Declare the Glory of God – Psalms 19:1-6

I love being out in the creation. And when I am, the words of this psalm are often on my lips. The heavens. and all of creation, declare the glory of God.

Unless the Lord Builds the House – Psalm 127:1

It is the Lord who builds the house. He uses us in that process. But we should never lose sight of who the builder actually is.

Because of God’s Mercy – 2 Corinthians 4:1

Regardless of the work God has given us, we have it because of his mercy. So serve with a joyful and thankful heart.

(This post was originally published on

October 24, 2022

)

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.