I Will Exalt You, My God and King
A Psalm of praise. Of David.a
1 I will exalt You, my God and King;
I will bless Your name forever and ever.
2Every day I will bless You,
and I will praise Your name forever and ever.
3Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised;
His greatness is unsearchable.
4One generation will commend Your works to the next,
and will proclaim Your mighty acts—
5the glorious splendor of Your majesty.
And I will meditate on Your wondrous works.
6They will proclaim the power of Your awesome deeds,
and I will declare Your greatness.
7They will extol the fame of Your abundant goodness
and sing joyfully of Your righteousness.
8The LORD is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion.
9The LORD is good to all;
His compassion rests on all He has made.
10All You have made will give You thanks, O LORD,
and Your saints will bless You.
11They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom
and speak of Your might,
12to make known to men Your mighty acts
and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom.
13Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and Your dominion endures through all generations.
The LORD is faithful in all His words
and kind in all His actions.b
14The LORD upholds all who fall
and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15The eyes of all look to You,
and You give them their food in season.
16You open Your hand
and satisfy the desire of every living thing.
17The LORD is righteous in all His ways
and kind in all His deeds.
18The LORD is near to all who call on Him,
to all who call out to Him in truth.
19He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him;
He hears their cry and saves them.
20The LORD preserves all who love Him,
but all the wicked He will destroy.
21My mouth will declare the praise of the LORD;
let every creature bless His holy name
forever and ever.
Footnotes:
1a This psalm is an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet.
13b The final two lines are supplied by one MT manuscript, LXX, Syriac, and DSS.
Psalm 145, one of the closing songs of the book of Psalms, is a Psalm of praise written by King David. It's a hymn that exalts the greatness, compassion, and righteousness of God, recounting His mighty acts and His faithful and loving nature. The psalm illustrates a deep personal connection between the psalmist and God, offering insights into the heart of David and providing a template for praising God.
• Opening vow of praise (vv. 1–2)
• Declaration of God’s greatness (v. 3)
• Generational testimony (vv. 4–7)
• Confession of God’s gracious character (vv. 8–9)
• Celebration of God’s kingdom (vv. 10–13a)
• Focus on God’s providence (vv. 13b–16)
• Assurance of God’s nearness and justice (vv. 17–20)
• Closing vow (v. 21)
The acrostic design mirrors the fullness of praise—A to Z—while the parallelism typical of Hebrew poetry reinforces key truths.
1. Lifelong, continuous praise.
2. Passing faith accounts to future generations.
3. God’s compassion and grace as central to His identity.
4. The global, everlasting kingdom of God.
5. God’s daily provision for all creatures.
6. Intimacy with God available to all who call on Him.
7. Final justice—deliverance for the faithful, judgment for the wicked.
• Gracious: He gives favor we don’t deserve.
• Compassionate: He feels with us and moves to help.
• Slow to anger: Patient, giving time to repent.
• Loving devotion: Loyal love that never quits.
• Make praise a daily rhythm—morning and night (v. 2).
• Tell faith accounts to children, friends, and newer believers (vv. 4–7).
• Let God’s gracious nature shape how you treat others—patient, compassionate (vv. 8–9).
• Serve with kingdom vision, knowing God reigns no matter world events (vv. 10–13).
• Call on the LORD in truth—honest prayer welcomes His nearness (v. 18).
• Live with reverent respect; God guards those who fear Him (v. 20).
In David’s era, kings were praised with set formulas highlighting power and conquest.Psalm 145 redirects such acclaim to God alone. Ancient Near Eastern banquet imagery—open hands giving food (v. 16)—reflects royal generosity inscriptions discovered in Babylonian texts, yet credits divine, not human, royalty.
• “Loving devotion” (ḥesed) conveys steadfast, covenant love.
• “Mighty acts” (gĕbûrôt) points to military victories like the Exodus crossing (Exodus 15).
• Acrostic format underlines order and completeness, turning the alphabet into an instrument of worship.
Connections to Additional Scriptures
Psalm 103:8The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion.
Exodus 34:6The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth.
Matthew 6:33But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
Philippians 4:19And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Teaching Points
God's Majesty and GreatnessGreat is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable (
Psalm 145:3). This verse reminds us that God's greatness is beyond human comprehension, inviting us to a posture of humility and reverence.
Generational PraiseOne generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts (
Psalm 145:4). The importance of passing down the knowledge of God's works and character to future generations is emphasized.
God's Compassion and MercyThe LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion (
Psalm 145:8). This highlights God's patient and loving nature, offering hope and comfort to all who seek Him.
Universal KingshipYour kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures through all generations (
Psalm 145:13). God's reign is eternal, affirming His sovereignty over all creation.
God's Provision and FaithfulnessThe eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food in due season (
Psalm 145:15). This verse assures us of God's provision and faithfulness to meet our needs.
Practical Applications
Cultivate a Heart of PraiseRegularly set aside time to praise God for His attributes and works, fostering a deeper relationship with Him.
Share God's WorksMake it a priority to share testimonies of God's faithfulness and mighty acts with family, friends, and the next generation.
Embrace God's CompassionReflect on God's graciousness and extend that same compassion and mercy to others in your daily interactions.
Trust in God's SovereigntyIn times of uncertainty, remind yourself of God's eternal kingdom and His control over all circumstances.
Rely on God's ProvisionTrust in God's timing and provision, bringing your needs before Him in prayer and resting in His faithfulness.
People
1.
The LORD (Yahweh)The central figure in
Psalm 145, referred to as "the LORD" in the Berean Standard Bible. The psalm praises His greatness, majesty, and enduring kingdom. The Hebrew root for "LORD" is יהוה (YHWH), the sacred name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature.
2.
DavidThe author of the psalm, who is traditionally understood to be King David. He is the one offering praise and declaring the greatness of God throughout the psalm. David's role is that of a worshiper and a leader who encourages others to praise God.
Places
1.
HeavenWhile not explicitly mentioned in
Psalm 145, the psalm's focus on God's eternal kingdom and His mighty acts can be seen as a reference to heaven. The Hebrew word "מַלְכוּת" (malkuth) refers to God's kingdom, which is often associated with His heavenly reign.
2.
EarthThe psalm speaks of God's works and mighty acts, which are evident throughout the earth. The Hebrew word "אֶרֶץ" (eretz) is commonly used in the Old Testament to denote the earth or land, highlighting the scope of God's creation and providence.
3.
ZionAlthough not directly mentioned in this psalm, Zion is often understood as a symbolic place representing God's presence and His people. The themes of God's kingship and His care for His people can be associated with Zion, a central place in biblical theology.
4.
The Kingdom of GodThe psalm repeatedly emphasizes God's kingdom, which is both a present reality and a future hope. The Hebrew term "מַלְכוּת" (malkuth) is used to describe God's sovereign rule, which transcends physical locations and encompasses all creation.
Events
1.
Exaltation of GodThe psalm begins with David's personal commitment to exalt and bless the name of God forever and ever. This reflects the Hebrew root "רום" (rum), meaning to lift up or exalt. (
Psalm 145:1)
2.
Daily PraiseDavid declares his intention to bless God every day, emphasizing the continual nature of worship. The Hebrew word "ברך" (barak) is used, meaning to bless or kneel. (
Psalm 145:2)
3.
Greatness of the LordThe psalm highlights the greatness of the Lord, stating that His greatness is unsearchable. The Hebrew word "גדול" (gadol) is used, meaning great or large. (
Psalm 145:3)
4.
Generational PraiseOne generation is encouraged to commend God's works to another, showing the importance of passing down the knowledge of God’s mighty acts. (
Psalm 145:4)
5.
Meditation on MajestyThe psalmist speaks of meditating on the glorious splendor of God's majesty and His wondrous works. The Hebrew root "הגה" (hagah) means to meditate or ponder. (
Psalm 145:5)
6.
Declaration of PowerThe psalmist notes that people will speak of the power of God's awesome deeds and declare His greatness. (
Psalm 145:6)
7.
Abundant Goodness and RighteousnessThe psalmist proclaims the fame of God's abundant goodness and sings of His righteousness. (
Psalm 145:7)
8.
Gracious and Compassionate NatureThe Lord is described as gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and rich in love. The Hebrew word "חנון" (chanun) means gracious, and "רחום" (rachum) means compassionate. (
Psalm 145:8)
9.
Universal GoodnessThe Lord is good to all, and His compassion extends over all His creation. (
Psalm 145:9)
10.
Praise from CreationAll of God's works are said to give thanks to Him, and His saints bless Him. (
Psalm 145:10)
11.
Kingdom and SovereigntyThe psalmist speaks of the glory of God's kingdom and His everlasting dominion. The Hebrew word "מלכות" (malkut) refers to kingdom or reign. (
Psalm 145:11-13)
12.
Support for the FallenThe Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up those who are bowed down. (
Psalm 145:14)
13.
Provision for AllThe eyes of all look to God, and He provides them with food in due season. (
Psalm 145:15-16)
14.
Righteousness and KindnessThe Lord is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds. (
Psalm 145:17)
15.
Nearness to CallersThe Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth. (
Psalm 145:18)
16.
Fulfillment of DesiresGod fulfills the desires of those who fear Him and hears their cries, saving them. (
Psalm 145:19)
17.
Preservation of the FaithfulThe Lord watches over all who love Him but will destroy the wicked. (
Psalm 145:20)
18.
Eternal PraiseThe psalm concludes with a commitment to speak the praise of the Lord, with a call for all flesh to bless His holy name forever and ever. (
Psalm 145:21)
Lessons from Psalm 145
1. Celebrate God's Greatness
Psalm 145:3 reminds us, "Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable." This verse invites us to marvel at the boundless greatness of God. In our daily lives, we can cultivate a habit of praise, acknowledging His majesty in both the grand and the mundane. Whether you're admiring a sunset or finding joy in a simple task, let your heart overflow with gratitude for His unsearchable greatness.
2. Pass Down His Works
Verse 4 encourages, "One generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts." Sharing stories of God's faithfulness with the next generation is a powerful way to keep His works alive. Make it a family tradition to recount how God has moved in your life, ensuring that His mighty acts are never forgotten.
3. Meditate on His Splendor
Psalm 145:5 says, "I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty and Your wondrous works." Taking time to meditate on God's splendor can transform your perspective. Set aside moments in your day to reflect on His majesty, perhaps during a quiet walk or a moment of stillness, allowing His presence to fill your heart with awe.
4. Speak of His Power
Verse 6 declares, "They will proclaim the power of Your awesome deeds, and I will declare Your greatness." Speaking of God's power not only strengthens your faith but also encourages those around you. Share testimonies of His power in your life, whether in small group settings or casual conversations, to inspire others to trust in His might.
5. Remember His Abundant Goodness
Psalm 145:7 reminds us, "They will extol the fame of Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness." In a world that often focuses on negativity, choosing to remember and celebrate God's abundant goodness can bring joy and peace. Keep a gratitude journal to record daily blessings, and let your heart sing of His righteousness.
6. Trust in His Compassion
Verse 8 assures us, "The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion." Trusting in God's compassion can bring comfort in times of trouble. When you face challenges, remember His gracious nature and lean on His loving devotion, knowing that He is always ready to embrace you with open arms.
7. Acknowledge His Kingdom
Psalm 145:11-12 states, "They will tell of the glory of Your kingdom and speak of Your might, to make known to men Your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of Your kingdom." Acknowledging God's kingdom helps us keep an eternal perspective. As you go about your daily tasks, remember that you are part of a greater kingdom, and let this truth guide your actions and decisions.
8. Depend on His Provision
Verse 15 reminds us, "The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food in season." Dependence on God's provision is a lesson in trust. Whether you're facing financial uncertainty or simply planning your next meal, trust that God will provide what you need in His perfect timing.
9. Seek His Nearness
Psalm 145:18 promises, "The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call out to Him in truth." Seeking God's nearness is a source of strength and comfort. Make prayer a regular part of your routine, calling on Him in truth, and experience the peace that comes from His close presence.
10. Rest in His Faithfulness
Finally, verse 20 assures us, "The LORD preserves all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy." Resting in God's faithfulness means trusting that He will preserve you through life's trials. As you navigate your journey, hold fast to His promises, knowing that His faithfulness is your anchor in every storm.
Topics
1.
Exaltation of God's NameThe psalm begins with a commitment to exalt and bless God's name forever. The Hebrew word for "exalt" (רוּם, rum) conveys lifting up or elevating God above all.
^"I will exalt You, my God and King; I will bless Your name forever and ever."^ (
Psalm 145:1)
2.
Daily PraiseThe psalmist emphasizes the importance of daily worship and praise, highlighting the continuous nature of devotion.
^"Every day I will bless You, and I will praise Your name forever and ever."^ (
Psalm 145:2)
3.
Greatness of the LordGod's greatness is described as unsearchable, indicating that His nature and works are beyond human comprehension. The Hebrew word for "great" (גָּדוֹל, gadol) signifies magnitude and importance.
^"Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable."^ (
Psalm 145:3)
4.
Generational PraiseThe psalmist speaks of one generation declaring God's works to another, emphasizing the transmission of faith and testimony.
^"One generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts."^ (
Psalm 145:4)
5.
Meditation on God's SplendorThe psalmist reflects on the glorious splendor of God's majesty and His wondrous works, encouraging meditation on His divine attributes.
^"I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wondrous works."^ (
Psalm 145:5)
6.
Declaration of God's PowerThe mighty acts of God are to be declared, showcasing His power and deeds throughout history.
^"They will proclaim the power of Your awesome deeds, and I will declare Your greatness."^ (
Psalm 145:6)
7.
Abundance of GoodnessGod's abundant goodness and righteousness are celebrated, highlighting His benevolent nature.
^"They will extol the fame of Your abundant goodness and sing joyfully of Your righteousness."^ (
Psalm 145:7)
8.
Grace and CompassionThe Lord is described as gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and rich in love, reflecting His merciful character.
^"The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion."^ (
Psalm 145:8)
9.
Universal GoodnessGod's goodness extends to all creation, and His compassion is over all His works, indicating His universal care.
^"The LORD is good to all; His compassion rests on all He has made."^ (
Psalm 145:9)
10.
Faithfulness to PromisesThe psalmist affirms God's faithfulness in keeping His promises and His loving nature towards all He has made.
^"The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made."^ (
Psalm 145:13)
11.
Support for the FallenGod is portrayed as one who upholds those who fall and lifts up those who are bowed down, demonstrating His sustaining power.
^"The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down."^ (
Psalm 145:14)
12.
Provision for AllThe psalmist acknowledges God's provision, as He gives food and satisfies the desires of every living thing.
^"You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing."^ (
Psalm 145:16)
13.
Righteousness and NearnessGod's righteousness and His nearness to those who call on Him in truth are highlighted, emphasizing His just and relational nature.
^"The LORD is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds."^ (
Psalm 145:17)
14.
Preservation of the FaithfulThe Lord preserves those who love Him, but the wicked will be destroyed, underscoring the theme of divine justice.
^"The LORD watches over all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy."^ (
Psalm 145:20)
15.
Eternal PraiseThe psalm concludes with a call for all flesh to bless God's holy name forever, reinforcing the eternal nature of worship.
^"My mouth will declare the praise of the LORD; let every creature bless His holy name forever and ever."^ (
Psalm 145:21)
Themes
1.
Praise and Worship of God’s MajestyPsalm 145 begins with a call to exalt and bless the name of the Lord forever and ever. The psalmist emphasizes the greatness of God, stating, "Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable" (
Psalm 145:3). The Hebrew word for "great" (גָּדוֹל, gadol) underscores the vastness and incomprehensibility of God's nature.
2.
Generational Declaration of God’s WorksThe psalm highlights the importance of passing down the knowledge of God's mighty acts from one generation to the next: "One generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts" (
Psalm 145:4). This theme underscores the continuity of faith and the responsibility to teach future generations about God's deeds.
3.
God’s Glorious Splendor and Wondrous WorksThe psalmist reflects on the splendor and majesty of God’s works, stating, "On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wondrous works, I will meditate" (
Psalm 145:5). The Hebrew word for "wondrous" (פֶּלֶא, pele) conveys the miraculous and awe-inspiring nature of God's actions.
4.
God’s Compassion and MercyA central theme is the Lord’s gracious and compassionate nature: "The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion" (
Psalm 145:8). The Hebrew term for "compassionate" (רַחוּם, rachum) highlights God's tender mercy and kindness.
5.
Universal Kingship of GodThe psalm affirms God’s eternal kingship and dominion over all creation: "Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures through all generations" (
Psalm 145:13). This theme emphasizes the sovereignty and eternal rule of God.
6.
God’s Faithfulness and RighteousnessThe psalmist declares God’s faithfulness in all His promises and His righteousness in all His ways: "The LORD is faithful in all His words and kind in all His actions" (
Psalm 145:13b). The Hebrew word for "faithful" (נֶאֱמָן, ne'eman) signifies trustworthiness and reliability.
7.
God’s Provision and Care for CreationThe psalm describes God’s provision for all living things: "The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food in due season" (
Psalm 145:15). This theme highlights God’s role as the sustainer and provider for His creation.
8.
God’s Nearness to Those Who Call on HimThe psalm assures believers of God’s presence and responsiveness: "The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth" (
Psalm 145:18). The Hebrew word for "near" (קָרוֹב, qarov) indicates God’s accessibility and readiness to help.
9.
God’s Protection and SalvationThe psalm concludes with a promise of God’s protection and salvation for those who love Him: "The LORD preserves all who love Him, but all the wicked He will destroy" (
Psalm 145:20). This theme underscores the security and deliverance found in a relationship with God.
Prayer Points
Praise God for His GreatnessThank God for His unsearchable greatness and the privilege of knowing Him.
Intercede for Future Generations
Pray for the next generation to know and experience God's mighty acts and faithfulness.
Seek God's Compassion
Ask God to fill your heart with His compassion and mercy, enabling you to reflect His character to others.
Trust in God's Sovereignty
Pray for a deeper trust in God's eternal kingdom and His control over your life.
Depend on God's Provision
Bring your needs before God, trusting in His perfect timing and provision.
As we meditate onPsalm 145, may our hearts be filled with awe and gratitude for the greatness and goodness of our Lord. Let us commit to living lives that reflect His glory and proclaim His mighty works to all generations.
Answering Tough Questions
1.
(Psalm 145:3) How can God’s greatness be “unsearchable” when people claim to comprehend or define it through doctrine or science?2.(Psalm 145:9) If God is truly “good to all,” why does widespread suffering and evil persist throughout human history?
3.(Psalm 145:14) How does God “uphold all who fall” when many faithful individuals experience devastating misfortune or receive no apparent help?
4.(Psalm 145:16) If God “satisfies the desire of every living thing,” how do we explain rampant hunger, disease, and poverty around the world?
5.(Psalm 145:18) How can one verify that God is “near to all who call on him” given the countless unanswered prayers or spiritual doubts?
Bible Study Discussion Questions
1. How do the attributes of God described in Psalm 145 influence your view of Him?
2. How can you practically implement David's pledge to extol God every day in your own life?
3. What does it mean to you that God's greatness is "unsearchable"?
4. How can you actively pass on the knowledge of God's wondrous acts to the next generation, as suggested in verses 4-7?
5. How have you experienced God's abundant goodness and righteousness in your life?
6. Verses 8-9 describe God as slow to anger and rich in love. How does this impact your understanding of God's character?
7. In the context of the present day, how do you see God's compassionate care extending to all His creations?
8. How do the ideas of God's everlasting kingdom and His enduring dominion resonate with your understanding of world events?
9. How does acknowledging God's support and provision, as highlighted in verses 14-16, affect your approach to personal challenges?
10. Verses 17-20 contrast God's protection of those who love Him with His condemnation of the wicked. How does this influence your understanding of divine justice?
11. How does the closing verse, a call for all to bless God's holy name, inspire your personal worship?
12. How can the practice of daily praise, as modeled by David in this Psalm, bring transformation in your life and relationships?
13. How can the values and attitudes expressed in Psalm 145 guide our responses to current social issues?
14. What lessons can you draw from this Psalm to apply in your interactions with others?
15. How does Psalm 145 deepen your understanding of the relationship between God's majesty and His compassionate care?
16. In what ways does the psalmist's recognition of God's character as both mighty and merciful influence your faith journey?
17. How can the theme of generational faith transmission in Psalm 145 be relevant in today's digital age?
18. What practical steps can you take to uphold those who are falling around you, as God does according to verse 14?
19. How does Psalm 145 inform your understanding of God's role in providing for our daily needs?
20. How can we apply the psalmist's attitude of continual praise to God in the midst of life's challenges and triumphs?
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