Psalms 118 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Psalms 118

The Book of Psalms is a collection of sacred songs and prayers attributed to various authors, including King David, who is believed to have written the majority of the psalms. Psalm 118 is a hymn of thanksgiving and praise, reflecting the author’s deep gratitude to God for His unwavering love and protection. The psalmist in this chapter expresses his unwavering faith in God’s steadfast love and deliverance. He acknowledges the trials and tribulations he has faced, but ultimately finds solace in the knowledge that the Lord is his strength and salvation. The chapter foreshadows the author’s triumphant declaration of God’s faithfulness, as well as the importance of giving thanks and praise to the Almighty.

Throughout the passage, the author draws upon other biblical references, such as the imagery of the “cornerstone” (Psalm 118:22), which is later echoed in the New Testament (Matthew 21:42, Acts 4:11, 1 Peter 2:7). This interconnectedness of the Scriptures underscores the unity and continuity of God’s plan for His people, as revealed through the inspired words of the psalmist.

Psalms 118:1-4

The verses in Psalms 118:1-4 can be broken down as follows:”

This opening verse sets the tone for the entire Psalm with an exhortation to give thanks to the Lord. The Psalmist acknowledges the goodness of God and emphasizes the everlasting nature of His love. This theme of gratitude and God’s enduring love is a central message found throughout the Bible. God’s goodness and love are not contingent on our circumstances but are constant, unchanging, and always available for us to turn to in times of need. This verse calls believers to not only recognize the goodness of God but to actively express gratitude for it. It reflects a deep trust in the Lord’s character and a recognition of His faithfulness.

Verse 2: “Let Israel say: ‘His love endures forever.’”

Here, the focus shifts to Israel as a collective entity acknowledging and proclaiming the everlasting love of God. The mention of Israel is significant in the context of the Old Testament, as they were God’s chosen people, bound by covenant to Him. The Psalmist is reinforcing the idea of communal praise and worship by calling on Israel to declare God’s enduring love. Unity in acknowledging and proclaiming God’s love is powerful and unifying. It serves as a reminder that no matter the trials or triumphs, the love of God is a constant presence for the nation of Israel and for all believers.

Verse 3: “Let the house of Aaron say: ‘His love endures forever.’”

The house of Aaron refers to the priests, who were descendants of Aaron, Moses’ brother. The priests in the Old Testament played a crucial role in mediating between the people and God, offering sacrifices and interceding on behalf of the nation. The Psalmist highlights the importance of spiritual leaders in leading others in worship and praise by specifically calling on the house of Aaron to declare God’s enduring love. The priests were entrusted with upholding the laws and rituals of the faith, and their acknowledgment of God’s love was meant to set an example for others to follow. This verse reinforces the idea that those in leadership positions have a responsibility to guide others in recognizing and proclaiming the steadfast love of God.

Verse 4: “Let those who fear the Lord say: ‘His love endures forever.’”

The fear of the Lord is a common theme in the Bible, often referring to a reverent awe and respect for God’s power and authority. Here, the Psalmist extends the call to all who fear the Lord to join in declaring the everlasting love of God. This inclusive invitation underscores the universal nature of God’s love and the accessibility of His grace to all who seek Him. Those who fear the Lord are not just called to acknowledge His love privately but are urged to vocalize and proclaim it. This verse emphasizes the importance of personal faith and conviction in recognizing and celebrating God’s enduring love. Psalms 118:1-4 sets the stage for a Psalm of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord. The themes of gratitude, God’s steadfast love, communal worship, leadership in faith, and the fear of the Lord are all interwoven in these opening verses, laying a foundation for the rest of the Psalm to expand upon. Through these verses, believers are encouraged to reflect on the unchanging nature of God’s love and to respond with hearts full of thanksgiving and reverence.

Psalms 118:5-9

The psalmist in Psalms 118:5-9 expresses their personal experience of distress and calls upon the Lord for deliverance. Let’s break down these verses to understand them better. The psalmist starts verse 5 by stating, “I called to the LORD in my distress, and he answered me.”” This verse emphasizes the psalmist’s reliance on God during times of trouble. It underscores the belief that when we call upon the Lord in our distress, He hears us and responds. This verse carries a message of trust and faith in God’s responsiveness to our prayers, even in moments of distress. It reflects a common theme throughout the Bible where those who call upon the Lord in times of trouble are delivered.

Moving on to verse 6, it says, “The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” This verse highlights the psalmist’s confidence in God’s presence and protection. The psalmist finds courage and reassurance in the belief that with God by their side, there is no need to fear human adversaries. This verse echoes the sentiment found in other parts of the Bible, such as Hebrews 13:6, which states, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”

Verse 7 shifts the focus to the mention of the Lord helping the psalmist, stating, “The LORD is with me; he is my helper. I look in triumph on my enemies.” Here, the psalmist attributes their victory over their enemies to the help and support of the Lord. This verse underscores the idea that with God as our helper, we can overcome any challenge or adversary that comes our way. It exemplifies the biblical theme that God is our strength and victory in times of trouble. The psalmist in verse 8 continues to emphasize the importance of trusting in the Lord rather than relying on human beings. It says, “It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in humans.” This verse posits a fundamental truth that human strength and support are limited and fallible, while God’s protection and refuge are steadfast and unwavering. This echoes the sentiment expressed in Jeremiah 17:5, which warns against trusting in mere mortals but encourages putting one’s trust in the Lord.

Finally, verse 9 closes this passage by reiterating the theme of seeking refuge in the Lord, saying, “It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.” The psalmist contrasts trusting in earthly rulers or authorities with seeking shelter and security in God. This verse underscores the transient nature of human power and the ultimate sovereignty of God. It calls believers to place their trust and confidence in the Lord above all else, knowing that He alone is the source of true refuge and deliverance. Psalms 118:5-9 delivers a powerful message of trust, reliance, and victory in the Lord. It encourages believers to turn to God in times of distress, to find courage in His presence, and to seek refuge in Him above all earthly powers. These verses remind us of the enduring truth that God is our ever-present help and protector, worthy of our complete trust and faith.

Psalms 118:10-14

I cut off all the nations that surrounded me in the name of the Lord, as read in Psalms 118:10-14. They surrounded me on every side, but in the name of the Lord I cut them off. They swarmed around me like bees, but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the Lord, I cut them off. I was pushed back and about to fall, but the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”

Firstly, the imagery here depicts a situation of being surrounded by enemies, which conveys a sense of helplessness and imminent danger. However, the psalmist declares his unwavering trust in the name of the Lord as his source of strength and deliverance. This passage emphasizes the power of relying on God in the face of adversity, highlighting the belief that victory ultimately comes from the Lord.

The mention of being surrounded by nations and the subsequent victory in the name of the Lord echoes similar instances in the Bible where God’s people faced overwhelming odds but were delivered by His intervention. An example that comes to mind is the story of the Israelites at the Red Sea when they were pursued by the Egyptian army. Moses tells the people in Exodus 14:13-14, “Do not be afraid.” Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” This event showcases how the Lord fought on behalf of His people, just as the psalmist proclaims in verse 10-14.

Furthermore, the imagery of being surrounded by enemies who swarm like bees and are likened to burning thorns emphasizes the intensity and urgent nature of the threat. However, the swift and decisive action of God in consuming the enemies underscores His power and ability to bring a sudden end to the dangers that beset His people. This reinforces the message of the Lord’s sovereignty and protection over those who trust in Him. These verses in Psalms 118 serve as a declaration of faith in God’s deliverance and a testimony to His power in times of trouble. It encourages readers to place their trust in the Lord as their strength, defense, and salvation, even when faced with overwhelming challenges. The timeless message conveyed here is one of hope and assurance that God is always near to help and protect His people, no matter the circumstances.

Psalms 118:15-18

The passage in Psalms 118:15-18 reads, “The sound of joyful shouting and salvation is in the tents of the righteous; The right hand of the Lord does valiantly.” The right hand of the Lord is exalted; The right hand of the Lord does valiantly. I will not die, but live, And tell of the works of the Lord. The Lord has disciplined me severely, But He has not given me over to death.” This section is a powerful declaration of the writer’s faith in the Lord’s salvation and deliverance.

The mention of “the right hand of the Lord” symbolizes God’s power, strength, and authority. It highlights the belief in God as the ultimate source of protection and victory for the righteous. This imagery of God’s right hand doing valiantly is a common theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing God’s ability to overcome any challenge or enemy on behalf of His people.

The statement “I will not die, but live, And tell of the works of the Lord” reflects the psalmist’s confidence in God’s ability to preserve and sustain them through difficulties. It serves as a testimony of God’s faithfulness and a commitment to share the goodness of the Lord with others. This declaration echoes the sentiment of gratitude and praise found in many other psalms, where the writers express their unwavering trust in God’s protection and provision. The acknowledgment that “The Lord has disciplined me severely, But He has not given me over to death” reveals the psalmist’s understanding of God’s corrective measures and mercy. This reflects the biblical theme of God’s discipline as a form of love and refinement for His children. The psalmist recognizes that though they have faced challenges and trials, God’s ultimate purpose is to bring about growth, maturity, and ultimately, salvation.

This passage from Psalms 118 serves as a reminder of the enduring faithfulness and power of God, encouraging believers to trust in His deliverance and proclaim His works. It also points to the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the reassurance that God’s discipline is ultimately for the good of His people. The themes of salvation, deliverance, praise, and discipline found in these verses resonate throughout the Bible, illustrating the unchanging nature of God’s character and His redemptive plan for humanity.

Psalms 118:19-21

The verses in Psalms 118:19-21 state, “Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will enter and give thanks to the Lord.” This is the gate of the Lord through which the righteous may enter. I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.”

These verses carry a powerful message about righteousness and salvation. The psalmist is calling for the gates of righteousness to be opened to them so they can enter and express gratitude to the Lord. The concept of gates symbolizes access and entry into God’s presence. The psalmist acknowledges that it is through righteousness that one can approach God and dwell in His presence. This verse emphasizes the importance of living a righteous life in order to have a close relationship with God.

The psalmist’s declaration of thanks and recognition of God as their salvation highlight the theme of deliverance and redemption. God’s faithfulness in answering prayers and providing salvation is a central theme throughout the Bible. This echoes the promise of salvation for those who trust in and call upon the name of the Lord. It also reflects the psalmist’s personal experience of God’s deliverance and the gratitude that follows.

Looking at the broader context of Psalms 118, the chapter is known for its praise and thanksgiving to God for His enduring love and faithfulness. It celebrates God’s sovereignty and protection over His people. The verses preceding and following Psalms 118:19-21 also speak of the steadfast love of the Lord enduring forever, emphasizing God’s unwavering commitment to His people. This continuous theme underscores the timeless message of God’s faithfulness, salvation, and the importance of righteousness in approaching Him. The idea of righteousness as a pathway to God’s presence is reiterated throughout both the Old and New Testaments in the broader scope of the Bible. Figures like Abraham, Moses, and David in the Old Testament are commended for their righteousness and faith in God. Their stories serve as examples of how living according to God’s ways leads to a close relationship with Him. The concept of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ is central to Christian belief in the New Testament. Romans 3:22 says, “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” This verse aligns with the message in Psalms 118:19-21, affirming that salvation and access to God come through righteousness, faith, and gratitude.

Psalms 118:22-24

A passage that holds profound symbolism and significance is encountered in Psalms 118:22-24. Let’s break down this verse into its important sections to better understand its deeper meaning.

1. The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone: This metaphorical imagery of a rejected stone becoming the cornerstone is a powerful representation of Jesus Christ. Jesus himself references this verse in the New Testament, portraying himself as the stone rejected by the religious leaders of his time but ultimately becoming the cornerstone of the Christian faith. This rejection and subsequent exaltation of Jesus are central themes throughout the Gospels and the teachings of the apostles in the early church (Matthew 21:42, Acts 4:11, Ephesians 2:20).

2. This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes: Here, the Psalmist acknowledges that the elevation of the rejected stone to the cornerstone is not the work of man but of the Lord. This recognition of God’s sovereignty and His ability to turn what man considers insignificant into something marvelous is a recurring theme in the Bible. It speaks to the idea that God works in ways that are beyond human comprehension and often chooses to use the humble and the lowly to accomplish His purposes (1 Corinthians 1:27-28).

3. This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it: The verse concludes with a call to rejoice and be glad in the day that the Lord has made. This verse is often quoted in a joyous context, reminding believers to be grateful for each day as a gift from God. It encourages an attitude of thanksgiving and celebration regardless of the circumstances, knowing that each day is a product of God’s sovereign will and a reason for rejoicing (Philippians 4:4). A powerful message of redemption, divine intervention, and the call to rejoice in God’s sovereignty is seen in these three verses. The rejection of the stone, which ultimately becomes the cornerstone, serves as a metaphor for the rejection and exaltation of Christ. It reminds us that God’s plans are higher than ours, and His ways are mysterious yet always purposeful. We, as believers, are called to trust in the Lord’s work, rejoice in His providence, and find joy in each day He has given us. This passage resonates with the overarching theme of salvation and redemption found throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death.

Psalms 118:25-29

Several key sections in Psalms 118:25-29 bring out important messages about faith, salvation, and the everlasting love of God. Let’s break down this passage to gain a deeper understanding of its significance within the context of the Psalms.

The first section, “Save us, we pray, O LORD! O LORD, we pray, give us success!” is a plea for salvation and success from the Lord. The psalmist is calling out to God for help, recognizing that true success and deliverance come from Him alone. This cry for salvation reflects the psalmist’s trust in God’s power to intervene and bring about victory in their situation. It serves as a reminder to all believers that we should turn to God in times of trouble and seek His guidance and deliverance. This echoes the sentiment in Psalm 121:1-2, which states, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

The subsequent section reads, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We bless you from the house of the LORD.” Here, the psalmist acknowledges the arrival of a blessed one who comes in the name of the Lord. This can be understood as a prophetic declaration of the coming of a Messiah or a significant figure chosen by God to bring salvation and blessings to His people. This echoes the prophecies in the Old Testament, such as in Isaiah 7:14, where the birth of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate embodiment of God’s blessings and salvation, is foretold: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”

The next section says, “The LORD is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us.” This part emphasizes God’s sovereignty and illuminating presence in the lives of His people. The light of God symbolizes His truth, guidance, and divine favor shining upon those who believe in Him. This reminds us of Jesus’ words in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. We, as believers, are called to walk in the light of God’s love and truth, knowing that His presence will always be with us.

The final section of this passage declares, “You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God, I will extol you.” This is a personal declaration of faith and praise from the psalmist to God, affirming that God is worthy of all thanks and praise. It reflects a deep sense of gratitude and devotion to the Lord for His faithfulness and steadfast love. This resonates with verses like Psalm 30:4, which says, “Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name.” It serves as a reminder for us all to continually give thanks to God and exalt His name in all circumstances. Psalms 118:25-29 underscores the themes of salvation, blessing, divine presence, and gratitude towards God. It portrays a deep sense of trust and reliance on God for deliverance and success while also recognizing His illuminating presence and the need for continuous praise and thanksgiving. These timeless messages continue to resonate with believers today, inspiring us to place our faith in God, acknowledge His blessings in our lives, walk in His light, and offer Him our heartfelt gratitude and praise.

After Psalms 118

The psalmist had experienced the Lord’s deliverance and now rejoiced in His steadfast love. Yet, the journey was not over. We, as the people of God, must continue to walk in faith, trusting that the Lord will guide our steps and protect us from our enemies. The psalmist’s unwavering trust in God’s promises will be tested in the chapter to come, and his response will inspire us to stand firm in the face of adversity. For the Lord is our strength and our salvation, and He will never abandon those who put their hope in Him.