Psalm 118
-Theme:
Confidence in the Cornerstone, Jesus Christ, for eternal love and life. God’s
love is unchanging in the midst of changing circumstances. The security of the
LORD in any situation.
-Historical Insight: This Psalm has an unknown author, but
echoes many of the thoughts and themes of King David’s Psalms. It is
Christological in essence, being quoted by the Savior during His first
incarnation (Matthew 21:42, Mark 12:10-11, Luke 20:17).
-*Application* First and really foremost in any situation we
face, we must give thanks to the LORD for He is good (Psalm 118:1). His love is
everlasting, and we can count on it no matter what happens in the course of
this life (Psalm 118:2-4). When we call upon Him in our distress, He is sure to
answer and set us in a large (merchab-
wide-open, roomy, expansive, broad, freedom from distress) place (Psalm 118:5).
What the Psalmist is talking about here is a full release from fear in tense
times. His realization is that man can only do to him what God allows for His
glory. The acceptance of this undeniable fact should be the same for us. Our
refuge must be in the LORD; never trust in man and his limited power (Psalm
118:6-9). The LORD is our strength and our song, and He alone becomes our
salvation (Psalm 118:14). His Right Hand “does valiantly” and is “exalted” ensuring
life and a testimony to His people (Psalm 118:15-17). Though His discipline can
be severe upon us in certain situations, He does not give us over to eternal
death. He preserves His chosen people, and opens the gates of Heaven to us
(Psalm 118:18-21). There are Christological implications in verses 22-23. Jesus
referred to this prophecy when He spoke of being rejected by His own people
during His sacrificial visit to earth (Matthew 21:42, Mark 12:10-11, Luke
20:17). Christ is the most important part of the building in the Kingdom of
God! We can rejoice in and be glad for this “day” of the Messiah (Psalm 118:24).
This is a day of salvation for His people, but a day of judgment for those who
have rejected Him (Isaiah 49:8, Romans 2:5, 2 Corinthians 6:2, 2 Peter 3:7, 1
John 4:17, Revelation 12:10). It is okay to pray for God’s prosperity and light
to come (Psalm 118:25-27). Then, again in the final stanza, it comes back down
to giving God thanks for His marvelous accomplishments and goodness (Psalm
118:28-29).
Verses to Memorize:
Psalm 118:8, 14, 22-24
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