Psalms 103:18

Psalms 103:18 concludes a powerful declaration of God's enduring mercy, specifying the recipients of His boundless lovingkindness. It states that God's mercy is directed "To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them." This verse acts as a bridge, connecting God's eternal character with humanity's responsibility.

Context

Psalm 103 is a magnificent psalm of praise by King David, overflowing with gratitude for God's blessings, forgiveness, and healing. The preceding verses (17-18) highlight the contrast between the fleeting nature of human life and the eternal, enduring quality of God's mercy. While human life is compared to grass that withers (Psalms 103:15-16), God's mercy is presented as everlasting to everlasting. Verse 18 then clarifies that this profound, steadfast love is particularly upon those who actively engage in a covenant relationship with Him, characterized by obedience.

Key Themes

• Covenant Faithfulness: The verse underscores the importance of the covenant relationship God established with His people. It implies a reciprocal commitment: God is faithful to His promises, and He expects His people to be faithful to their part of the agreement. This "covenant" (Hebrew: berît) refers primarily to the Mosaic Covenant given to Israel, but also broadly to any solemn commitment God makes with humanity.
• Active Obedience and Remembrance: The phrase "remember his commandments to do them" emphasizes that true remembrance is not merely intellectual recall but active obedience. It signifies a lifestyle where God's laws are not forgotten but are diligently practiced. This goes beyond passive acknowledgment to active living according to divine precepts (Hebrew: mitsvot or piqqudîm).
• Divine Blessing and Mercy: The implicit message is that those who "keep his covenant" and "remember his commandments to do them" are the ones who fully experience the benefits of God's mercy and unfailing love, as described throughout the psalm. Their faithfulness positions them to receive His blessings.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "covenant," berît, signifies a binding agreement or solemn pact, often initiated by God. The phrase "remember his commandments to do them" uses the Hebrew verb zāḵar for "remember," which carries a deeper meaning than simply recollecting. It implies a mindful engagement leading to action, an active adherence to the divine will. This active "remembering" is crucial, as it contrasts with forgetting or neglecting God's instructions.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 103:18 serves as a timeless reminder of the significance of our relationship with God. While salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, our response to that grace involves a life of obedience. Keeping God's "covenant" in the New Testament context means living in alignment with the New Covenant established through Christ's blood. This includes:

• Living out God's Word: Actively studying and applying the teachings of the Bible in our daily lives.
• Obedience as Love: Understanding that our obedience flows from our love for God, as Jesus Himself taught, "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
• Cultivating a Mindful Faith: Consistently bringing God's will to the forefront of our thoughts and decisions, ensuring our actions reflect our devotion.