Psalms 118:28

Context

Psalm 118 is a triumphant psalm of thanksgiving, often associated with communal worship and celebration, particularly the Jewish festivals like Passover. It is the final psalm in the "Egyptian Hallel" (Psalms 113-118), traditionally sung at significant moments of deliverance and worship. The preceding verses recount God's powerful intervention and steadfast love, culminating in the declaration that "the stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner" (Psalm 118:22), a key messianic prophecy. Against this backdrop of national and personal deliverance, verse 28 emerges as a deeply personal declaration of faith and commitment.

Key Themes

• Personal Ownership of God: The repeated phrase "Thou art my God" signifies a profound, intimate, and possessive relationship. It's not merely acknowledging God's existence, but declaring a personal covenant and devotion, echoing sentiments found throughout the Old Testament where individuals claim the Lord as their own (e.g., Jeremiah 24:7).
• Commitment to Praise and Exaltation: Following the declaration of personal relationship, the psalmist expresses an unwavering resolve to "praise thee" and "exalt thee." This is the natural and joyful response to the experience of God's faithfulness and deliverance. Praise (yadah in Hebrew) implies giving thanks and confessing God's goodness, while exalting (rum) means to lift up or glorify Him, acknowledging His supreme worth and sovereignty.
• Gratitude and Worship: The verse encapsulates the essence of worship that springs from a heart filled with gratitude for God's mercy and intervention. It underscores that our praise is a direct response to who God is and what He has done.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "God" here is ’Eli (אֵלִי), meaning "my God," which emphasizes the personal and intimate connection. The verb "praise" comes from yadah (יָדָה), which often involves extending hands in thanksgiving or adoration. "Exalt" is from rum (רוּם), meaning to lift up, raise high, or glorify. The repetition of "Thou art my God" serves as a powerful chiastic structure, reinforcing the psalmist's deep conviction and the unwavering commitment to worship that follows.

Practical Application

Psalm 118:28 calls believers to a similar personal and public declaration of faith. It reminds us that our relationship with God should be intimate and personal, not just theoretical. In response to God's constant faithfulness in our lives, even in the midst of trials, our natural response should be one of heartfelt praise and exaltation. This verse encourages us to:

• Affirm God's Place: Regularly declare God as "my God," solidifying His central role in our lives.
• Cultivate Gratitude: Recognize and respond with thanksgiving to God's deliverance and blessings, big or small.
• Live a Life of Worship: Understand that praise is not just a Sunday activity but a continual posture of the heart, exalting God in all circumstances (Hebrews 13:15).

Reflection

This powerful declaration in Psalm 118:28 serves as a timeless model for personal devotion. It encapsulates the essence of a believer's response to God's saving grace: a deep, personal acknowledgment of His identity and an unreserved commitment to praise and glorify Him. It is a testament to the enduring bond between the Creator and His creation, inspiring us to lift our voices in adoration for His unending goodness.