Psalm 138:1-8 | The Way of Scripture

Psalm 138:1-8

Why does the confidence that God will fulfill His purpose still ask Him not to abandon His work?

Berean Standard Bible

1 I give You thanks with all my heart; before the gods I sing Your praises. 2 I bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your loving devotion and Your faithfulness; You have exalted Your name and Your word above all else. 3 On the day I called, You answered me; You emboldened me and strengthened my soul. 4 All the kings of the earth will give You thanks, O LORD, when they hear the words of Your mouth. 5 They will sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great. 6 Though the LORD is on high, He attends to the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar. 7 If I walk in the midst of trouble, You preserve me from the anger of my foes; You extend Your hand, and Your right hand saves me. 8 The LORD will fulfill His purpose for me. O LORD, Your loving devotion endures forever— do not abandon the works of Your hands.

What is the context?

Wholehearted thanks remembers answered prayer and renewed courage. The bow toward the temple opens into a hope that kings will hear God’s words and praise Him.

The high God attends to the lowly, and the speaker trusts His preserving hand in trouble. Enduring loving devotion grounds the final confidence.

The last request still asks God not to abandon the work of His hands. Confidence and dependence belong together rather than canceling one another.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley reads the kings’ praise through Gentile response to the gospel and the completion through deliverance. His older wording puts the word above the name, while the BSB exalts name and word together above all else.

Where does this fit in God's plan?

Philippians 1:3–11 develops the wider hope of God completing His work in the community until the day of Christ Jesus. Paul joins that confidence to prayer for growing love and discernment. He does not quote Psalm 138 or promise that every personal project will succeed.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

No deeper study linked yet.

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