Psalm 138 is a powerful declaration of thanks to God for His steadfast love, faithfulness, and care. It is a reminder of the power of God’s promises and the confidence that comes from trusting in His greatness.
Background of Psalm 138
This psalm is attributed to David and expresses his gratitude for God’s answered prayers. It highlights God’s faithfulness to His word and His willingness to exalt those who humbly seek Him. David recognizes the greatness of God’s love and acknowledges His sovereignty over all the earth.
What Does Psalm 138 Mean?
Psalm 138 is an expression of trust in God’s promises, acknowledging that God’s Word is dependable, His love is unfailing, and His sovereignty reigns over all. It teaches us to be thankful for God’s provision and to trust in His plans for our lives.
Verse Mapping Psalm 138:1
“I will give you thanks with all my heart; I will sing your praise before the heavenly beings.” (CSB)
Word Study
Thanks – Expression of gratitude, acknowledging God’s goodness.
Heavenly beings – Angels or spiritual beings in the presence of God.
Cross-References
Psalm 9:1 – “I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.”
Revelation 7:11-12 – “All the angels stood around the throne and worshiped the Lamb.”
Paraphrase
With all my heart, I thank You and praise You in the presence of all Your heavenly hosts.
Application
Let your thankfulness to God be complete, and offer your praise openly, knowing that God is worthy of all honor.
Verse Mapping Psalm 138:2
“I will bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your constant love and truth. You have exalted your name and your word above everything.” (CSB)
Word Study
Bow down – An act of humility, showing reverence.
Constant love – God’s unwavering, faithful love (Hebrew: chesed).
Exalted – Lifted up, honored above all.
Cross-References
Isaiah 66:1-2 – “This is what the Lord says: Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool.”
John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”
Paraphrase
I bow down before Your holy temple, giving thanks for Your unchanging love and truth. You have lifted up Your name and Your Word above all.
Application
When we acknowledge God’s greatness and constant love, it shapes how we live and worship. Never take His truth for granted.
Verse Mapping Psalm 138:3
“On the day I called, you answered me; you increased strength within me.” (CSB)
Word Study
Answered – Responded to, met with action.
Increased – To make greater or stronger.
Strength – Empowerment, both physical and spiritual.
Cross-References
Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
Psalm 120:1 – “I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me.”
Paraphrase
When I called to You, You responded, and You gave me strength I didn’t have on my own.
Application
God answers us when we call out to Him. Trust that He will provide strength for whatever challenges you face.
Verse Mapping Psalm 138:6
“Though the Lord is exalted, he takes note of the humble; but he knows the haughty from a distance.” (CSB)
Word Study
Exalted – Lifted up, held in the highest regard.
Haughty – Proud, arrogant.
Takes note – Watches, pays attention.
Cross-References
James 4:6 – “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
Psalm 51:17 – “The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit.”
Paraphrase
Even though God is high and mighty, He looks after the humble, but keeps His distance from the proud.
Application
Humility draws God near. Seek to live humbly, knowing that God cares for the lowly.
How Can We Apply Psalm 138 Today?
Live a Life of Gratitude
God is worthy of our wholehearted thanks and praise. Let gratitude fill your heart and your life.
Trust in God’s Strength
When life feels overwhelming, remember that God is ready to provide strength when you call out to Him.
Practice Humility
God’s favor is on the humble. Keep your heart and mind open to His leading, and trust that He will guide you.
A Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your unfailing love and truth. I bow before You, offering my gratitude and praise. Help me to trust in Your strength and to live with humility, knowing that You are exalted above all. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Final Reflection
Psalm 138 shows us the beauty of giving thanks to God for His love, truth, and strength. It reminds us that God is near to the humble and that He exalts His Word above all else.
How has God answered your calls and given you strength? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear how He’s at work in your life!
