Bible Commentaries
Psalms 138

Verses 1-8

The final personal note of this song is reached in the words, “Jehovah will perfect that which concerneth me.” It opens with consecration to the sacred duty of praise. This consecration has a threefold aspect. It is personal, and thus is expressed in terms of completeness. “With the whole heart” leaves no room for mixed motives of divided devotion. It has in view the surrounding authorities, “before the gods.”

As a testimony to the supreme God the singer will praise. It is directed “towards the holy temple,” and so is conscious of the next true order of worship as ordained. The reason of praise is next declared to be that of lovingkindness and truth as already proved. The effect of praise is to be that of the revelation of God to others, who if they come to know Him, will also praise Him.

The final movement tells of the singer’s confidence as to the future. This is based on His knowledge. He sees the lowly, and haughty cannot escape Him by distance. Therefore, the deliverance of the trusting soul from all coming trouble is assured, of the enduring mercy of Jehovah, and the petition which reveals the singer’s need of the continual help of God.