Psalms
Chapter 138

1

¹ Of David. ² I thank you, LORD, with all my heart; before the gods to you I sing.

2

I bow low toward your holy temple; I praise your name for your fidelity and love. For you have exalted over all your name and your promise.

3

When I cried out, you answered; you strengthened my spirit.

4

All the kings of earth will praise you, LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth.

5

They will sing of the ways of the LORD: "How great is the glory of the LORD!"

6

The LORD is on high, but cares for the lowly and knows the proud from afar.

7

Though I walk in the midst of dangers, you guard my life when my enemies rage. You stretch out your hand; your right hand saves me.

8

The LORD is with me to the end. LORD, your love endures forever. Never forsake the work of your hands!

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Footnotes

¹ [Psalm 138] A thanksgiving to God, who came to the rescue of the psalmist. Divine rescue was not the result of the psalmist's virtues but of God's loving fidelity (Psalm 138:1-3). The act is not a private transaction but a public act that stirs the surrounding nations to praise God's greatness and care for the people (Psalm 138:4-6). The psalmist, having experienced salvation, trusts that God will always be there in moments of danger (Psalm 138:7-8).

² [1] Before the gods: i.e., heavenly beings, who were completely subordinate to Israel's God. The earthly temple represents the heavenly palace of God.

New American Bible Copyright © 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

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