Ascent: Psalm 132 - Ascending through a PASSION for God’s presence and an EXPECTATION of His reward

This week we explored Psalm 132, the first psalm in the final triad of the Songs of Ascent. While earlier psalms focused on the hardships of the journey, these last three were sung inside Jerusalem—reminding us that even now we are spiritually seated with Christ, yet still on pilgrimage toward our eternal home.

In this psalm we learn that We ascend through a passion for God’s presence and an expectation of His reward.

Psalm 132 opens with a bold request: “Lord, remember David.” Scripture doesn’t shy away from the idea of reward—God strengthens His people by reminding us that faithfulness matters and that He will repay each person according to their works (Revelation 22:12). Reward isn’t our focus, but it is a biblical encouragement along the way.

The heart of the psalm is David’s passion for God’s presence. He refused to rest until the Ark—the symbol of God’s holiness, power, and mercy—was brought to the center of Israel’s life. His passion was born out of love, not ambition, and it inspired the people to seek God with the same desire. Today, through Jesus and the indwelling Spirit, we are God’s temple—so the question becomes: Are we cultivating that same longing for His presence?

Finally, Psalm 132 shows that God’s plans exceed even our best intentions. David wanted to build God a house, but God promised instead to build him an eternal one—a promise fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the Son of David, whose kingdom has no end.

Passion for God’s presence leads us upward, and confidence in God’s promises keeps us moving forward. Trust Him—His plans will always surpass your expectations.