Psalm 138 explained: Thanks for an Answered Prayer

Wholehearted thanks (vv. 1-2)

The singer praises God openly, even "before the gods," which scholars variously read as the gods of other nations, earthly rulers, or angels. Bowing toward the temple was how ordinary worshipers prayed, since only priests went inside, and the hard-to-translate line about God's word likely means God has kept his promise in a way that goes beyond even his great reputation.

Answered and made strong (v. 3)

The reason for the praise: the singer called out in trouble and God answered. The answer was not described as rescue so much as inner strength and courage.

Kings join in (vv. 4-5)

The singer hopes rulers of every nation will hear what God has said and done and join in praising him. Christians later read this as pointing to the message about Jesus spreading to all nations.

High God, low people (v. 6)

Though God is far above everything, he pays close attention to people of no status. The second half is read differently: either the proud are kept at a distance, or God sees everyone even from far away.

Kept safe in trouble (vv. 7-8)

The singer expects more trouble but trusts God to keep him alive and hold back his enemies' anger. He is confident God will finish what he started for him, and closes by asking God not to abandon what his own hands have made.

Key verse: Psalm 138:8

Something to think about

When has someone with power or standing noticed you at a time you felt small, and what did that change for you?