What is the meaning of Psalms 138:2?

I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.

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Psalms 138:2 Bible Verse Meaning

Psalms 138:2 - Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary

Verse: Psalms 138:2 - "I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name."

Understanding the Verse

Psalms 138:2 is a beautiful expression of gratitude and reverence unto God. The psalmist expresses a commitment to worship and praises God for His attributes: lovingkindness and truth.

Bible Verse Meanings and Insights

This verse encapsulates key themes of worship and the divine reliability of God's word:

  • Worshiping Toward the Temple: The act of directing oneself toward the holy temple signifies the importance of designated places for worship, symbolizing God's presence (Albert Barnes). It shows an intention to enter into a space of reverence and recognition of God's holiness.
  • Praise for Lovingkindness and Truth: The psalmist acknowledges God's attributes. Lovingkindness signifies God's steadfast love for humanity, while truth emphasizes His faithfulness (Matthew Henry). These attributes form the foundation of the psalmist's relationship with God.
  • Magnification of God's Word: The statement that God has magnified His word highlights the supreme power and authority of God's declarations. This suggests that God's word, scripture, holds ultimate importance, surpassing even His name (Adam Clarke), which indicates His character and reputation.

Commentary from Public Domain Sources

Various theologians provide in-depth analysis about this verse:

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of worship in spirit and truth. He notes that true worship involves both acknowledgment of God’s nature and a heartfelt response in praise. The psalmist's focus on God's attributes prompts believers to cultivate a similar attitude of worship and gratitude toward God.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes elaborates on the worship aspect, noting that praying toward God’s temple symbolizes a yearning for fellowship with God. He explains that praising God by recognizing His lovingkindness and truth strengthens the believer’s faith and commitment.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke delves into the significance of God’s word being magnified above His name. This interpretation reflects the reliable and unchanging nature of God’s promises and His law. Clarke’s analysis encourages believers to trust in the scriptures as they navigate their spiritual journeys.

Application and Significance

This verse encourages believers to:

  • Engage actively in worship, recognizing God’s holiness.
  • Reflect on the attributes of God that warrant praise, fostering a personal connection with the divine.
  • Trust in the dependability of God's word, applying it to daily circumstances and decisions.

Bible Study Insights

This verse is a rich ground for further bible study insights. Whether in bible study groups or online bible study, exploring the balance of worship and understanding God's nature can deepen one’s faith.

Cross References

This verse relates to other scriptures that illuminate similar themes:

  • Psalms 119:89: "Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly established in the heavens."
  • John 4:24: "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."
  • Isaiah 55:11: "So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty."

Conclusion

Psalms 138:2 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of worship in the believers' lives, highlighting God's attributes of lovingkindness and truth. In studying this verse, one can glean insights for both understanding Scripture and applying lessons in daily life.