Psalm 138:1

Psalm 138:1

Universal praise

Psalms 138 to 145 are all attributed to David, and we can certainly detect his style and personality in each of these songs. The Psalm before us praises God for His protection and salvation from deadly foes although it is difficult to determine if David is writing personally or on behalf of Israel. Or maybe, both! David’s desire is that praise to the Lord should not just be confined to him and to Israel but that all the kings of the earth might praise the name of our God (v4). They never have David, but one day, they will!

 

V1        We need to reflect back on Psalm 82 (and others) that introduce us to the “bene elohim” or the “sons of God”. These songs, along with other Scriptures, describe to us the divine council and the celestial beings that serve before the Lord and who engage with Him over matters on earth. Psalm 82 introduces us to the “great assembly” and to a God who not only judges the inhabitants of the earth but also those beings who exist outside of this world. Many commentators believe the term “gods” applies to human rulers but the Hebrew words that describe them are never used of human rulers and leaders. Some of these “gods” are fallen creatures that obey a different master to the Lord God Almighty, their influence over the earth is spiritual, evil and widespread. Every believer and every disciple of Yeshua is in a battle against such forces who currently dominate the world’s affairs and play deceitful games with the human population of the earth. 

It seems that David envisions the “good guys” in this verse, he sees himself as singing God’s praise on earth but with a heavenly audience that enjoys the voices that are lifted up to sing God’s praise. All such praise is heard; the “gods” of heaven eagerly await the sound of our singing and look on and listen in with pleasure as we join in their heavenly songs. Praise on earth is heard in heaven and David knew it. Now we know it, let’s also praise Him with all our hearts. Hallelujah!

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