Bible Teachers:What does Psalm chapter 138 mean?
Chapter Context
This section (Psalms 138—145) of songs are attributed to David. Psalm 108 shares basic themes with the beginning verses of this entry. The later parts of this psalm echo David's thoughts (Psalm 23:4) in Psalm 23. No specific moment is tied to this psalm; David may have written it while thinking about Israel's many neighboring enemies (2 Samuel 5:6; 8:1–2). The first verse uses the word elōhim', which can refer to the Lord God (Genesis 1:1), to deities in general (Deuteronomy 5:7), to spiritual beings (Psalm 8:5), or to important people (Genesis 23:6).
What does Psalm chapter 138 mean?
David enthusiastically praises the Lord in a public way. He does this before a group referred to using the term
elōhim', which has various meanings. Here, it may mean lesser, false deities, or spiritual beings, or influential and powerful men. David also praises the Lord for His constant, loyal love, using the important term
hesed. Though the temple was not built during David's life, the word translated "temple" or "sanctuary" is also used to refer to the tabernacle (1 Samuel 1:24). Because the Lord has proven His love for David (2 Samuel 5:12; 7:12–16), David's faith and resolve are made stronger (Psalm 138:1–3).
During David's life, enemy nations surrounded Israel (2 Samuel 8:1–10). They rejected the One True God (Deuteronomy 18:9–14). Someday, all nations and kings will admit that God is God (Isaiah 45:23; Psalm 22:27). David looks forward to this day, when the Lord's mercy and goodness will be acclaimed around the world (Psalm 138:4–6).
David famously declared his trust in God in Psalm 23 (Psalm 23:4). This song echoes that idea. David is confident in God's plans. Again, David mentions the consistent and eternal love expressed by the Lord. David will trust that God has no intention of wasting the work He has done so far (Psalm 138:7–8).
