Better Is One Day: Dwelling in the Presence of God
Psalm 84 is a breathtaking song that invites us into the courts of the Lord — a place where God’s presence dwells.
While believers today no longer need a physical tabernacle or temple to meet with God, this psalm offers timeless wisdom about what it means to live near Him. It’s an invitation to find joy, rest, and hope by drawing close to the One who satisfies our souls.
A Place of Joy
The psalmist opens with longing:
“My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God.” (Psalm 84:2, ESV)
Being near to God changes us. His presence fills our hearts with rejoicing and draws us into worship. As Psalm 16:11 reminds us, “In your presence there is fullness of joy” (ESV). True joy isn’t found in circumstances, possessions, or achievements — it’s rooted in knowing and being near to the living God.
A Place of Care
In verse 3, the psalmist paints a beautiful picture:
“Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young…” (Psalm 84:3, ESV)
This imagery reflects God’s compassion and attentive care. If He provides a safe dwelling for even the smallest sparrow, how much more will He care for His beloved children?
Jesus echoes this truth in Matthew 6 and 10, reassuring us that God values and sustains us far beyond the birds of the air. To enter God’s presence is to rest beneath His protection and provision.
A Place of Blessing
The psalmist continues in verse 4:
“Blessed are those who dwell in your house, ever singing your praise!” (Psalm 84:4, ESV)
Later, in verse 11, he declares:
“The Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
God delights to bless His people — not always with material abundance, but with His presence, guidance, and grace. The greatest blessing of all is not what God gives but God Himself.
Drawing Close to God
In verse 8, the psalmist prays:
“O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of Jacob!”
Through Christ, we have direct access to God’s presence. We are reconciled to Him and invited to draw near with confidence.
James 4:8 promises, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (ESV). Our loving Father delights in our prayers and longs for intimate fellowship with us. When we bring Him our requests, we come before a God who listens and cares.
No Better Place
Psalm 84 reaches its pinnacle in verse 10:
“For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.” (Psalm 84:10, ESV)
There is no comparison between fleeting pleasures and the eternal joy of being near God. Every prayer whispered, every moment spent in His Word, and every second of communion with Him holds eternal significance.
To be close to God is greater than anything else this world offers.
Reflect and Respond
Psalm 84 invites us to examine our hearts:
Am I longing for something more than God?
How can I dwell with Him today?
What would change if I truly believed there is no better place than His presence?
Take time today to pray, worship, and delight in God’s nearness.
Conclusion
Psalm 84 beautifully reminds us that true joy, lasting security, and abundant blessing are found in God’s presence. While we no longer journey to a physical temple, we are welcomed into fellowship with the living God through Christ.
There is no better place to be.
“Blessed is the one who trusts in you.” (Psalm 84:12, ESV)
Meet the Author
Claudia Stehr
Claudia is a daughter redeemed by Jesus Christ. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband Sam. Claudia loves music, long walks and hikes, coffee chats with friends, and allll the dogs. She also loves Philadelphia sports #gobirds
Claudia has a heart for leading and discipling young women, and served in the ministries of Cru and Young Life. She loves writing, and she deeply believes in the importance of encouragement and refreshment found in communicating, sharing, and teaching God’s Word.
