147: Psalm 138
Today, I’m offering a simple reading of Psalm 138. It’s one of several psalms in Scripture considered to be psalms of thanksgiving and praise. And as we move toward the official Thanksgiving holiday here in the U.S., I thought a psalm like this might be fitting.
As I read, you’re invited to listen and notice what you notice. Once the reading is through, I’ll offer a few questions for reflection, as you consider the reminders God might have for you in this passage.
As always, I believe wholeheartedly that while these words were inspired and written a couple thousand years ago, God’s Spirit is still inspiring us through these words today. So, feel free to pause, to rewind, or even revisit as you see fit. As always, I hope it serves you well.
A reading from Psalm 138, from the New Revised Standard Version:
I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart;
before the gods I sing your praise;
2
I bow down toward your holy temple
and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness,
for you have exalted your name and your word
above everything.
3
On the day I called, you answered me;
you increased my strength of soul.
4
All the kings of the earth shall praise you, O Lord,
for they have heard the words of your mouth.
5
They shall sing of the ways of the Lord,
for great is the glory of the Lord.
6
For though the Lord is high, he regards the lowly,
but the haughty he perceives from far away.
7
Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
you preserve me against the wrath of my enemies;
you stretch out your hand,
and your right hand delivers me.
8
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me;
your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.
Do not forsake the work of your hands.
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Does anything stand out to you in this passage? Maybe a word, image or phrase? A feeling or a question? Take a moment to consider what that might be for you.
What do you notice about your response to this passage? Do you resonate with it? Are you bothered by it? Both can be true, or you might notice something else entirely. Take a moment to welcome and sit with your response, whatever it may be.
Now, consider your current life and circumstances. If it’s helpful, maybe even focus in on this very day. What reminder or invitation might God be offering you through these verses?
Finally, as you reflect on that reminder or invitation, what do you need from God?
Today, may we give God thanks and hold these reminders faithfully, as together, we continue to become the people God calls and invites us to be.