Give
thanks to Yahweh, for he is good, for his loving kindness endures forever. Let Israel now say that his loving kindness endures forever. Let the house of Aaron now say that his loving kindness endures forever. Now let those who fear Yahweh say that his loving kindness endures forever.
Psalm 118:1-4
Psalm 118 [1.] Give thanks to Yahweh, for he is good,
for his loving kindness endures forever.
Let Israel now say
that his loving kindness endures forever.
Let the house of Aaron now say
that his loving kindness endures forever.
Now let those who fear Yahweh say
that his loving kindness endures forever.
Out of my distress, I called on Yah.
Yah answered me with freedom.
Yahweh is on my side. I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?
Yahweh is on my side among those who help me.
Therefore I will look in triumph at those who hate me.
It is better to take refuge in Yahweh,
than to put confidence in man.
It is better to take refuge in Yahweh,
than to put confidence in princes.
Meaning:
At the outset, the psalmist declares a universal call to give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and enduring love. This theme of gratitude and praise permeates the entire passage, as the psalmist invites various groups—Israel, the house of Aaron, and all who fear the Lord—to join in declaring God's steadfast love.
The repetition of the phrase "his loving kindness endures forever" underscores the central message of the passage: God's love is constant, unwavering, and everlasting. This attribute of God's character is cause for unending praise and thanksgiving, as His love forms the foundation of our relationship with Him.
The significance of Psalm 118:1-4 lies in its reminder of God's faithfulness and His steadfast love that endures throughout all generations. In a world filled with uncertainty and change, God's love remains a constant source of hope and assurance for His people. This passage encourages believers to anchor their trust and confidence in God's unchanging character, knowing that His love will never fail them.
One cross-reference that amplifies the message of Psalm 118:1-4 is found in 1 Chronicles 16:34, where it is written, "Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his loving kindness endures forever." This parallel passage underscores the timeless nature of God's love and the call to give thanks to Him for His goodness.
Another cross-reference that enhances our understanding of Psalm 118:1-4 is found in Psalm 136:1, where the psalmist declares, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his loving kindness endures forever." This verse echoes the sentiment of gratitude and praise for God's enduring love, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging His goodness in all circumstances.
As we reflect on Psalm 118:1-4, we are reminded of the profound truth that God's love is the bedrock of our faith. His steadfast love sustains us through every trial and tribulation, and His faithfulness endures forever. May we respond with hearts full of gratitude and praise, joining with believers throughout the ages in declaring, "His loving kindness endures forever."
In conclusion, Psalm 118:1-4 invites us into a posture of gratitude and praise for the enduring love and faithfulness of God. As we meditate on His goodness, may our hearts overflow with thanksgiving, and may we be inspired to live lives that reflect His love to the world.
See also: vs 6
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PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible