Psalms 145:11

Psalm 145:11 is a vibrant declaration of the purpose of God's people: to proclaim His magnificent attributes. It is part of Psalm 145, a beautiful acrostic psalm of praise composed by King David, highlighting God's greatness, goodness, and everlasting dominion.

Context

Psalm 145 stands as David's final psalm in the biblical collection, a grand hymn of praise that meticulously details the various facets of God's character. Verses 10-13 specifically focus on the universal and continuous praise offered to God, not just by His saints, but by all His works. This particular verse, Psalm 145:11, emphasizes the active role of those who know God in testifying to His majestic rule and omnipotent strength. It follows directly from the preceding verse, which states that all God's works shall praise Him, and His saints shall bless Him.

Key Themes

• The Glory of God's Kingdom: This refers to the splendor, majesty, and inherent worth of God's sovereign rule. It speaks not just of a future kingdom, but of His present, active reign over all creation. The "glory" (Hebrew: kavod) implies the weighty significance and visible manifestation of His divine presence and authority.
• The Power of God: The verse highlights God's immense strength and capability (Hebrew: gevurah). This power is evident in creation, in His deliverance of His people, and in His ability to sustain and govern His kingdom. It assures believers of God's unwavering control and might.
• Proclamation and Witness: The phrases "They shall speak" and "talk of" signify an active, vocal, and continuous declaration. It's not enough to merely know about God's kingdom and power; there is an imperative to articulate it, to share it with others. This is both an act of worship and a form of testimony, fulfilling the purpose for which God's people exist. This active proclamation reflects a heart overflowing with praise for God's glory and wonderful works.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words used in this verse are rich with meaning:

• "Glory" (כָּבוֹד - kavod): This word often denotes weight, honor, splendor, and reputation. When applied to God's kingdom, it speaks of its inherent magnificence and the awe it inspires.
• "Kingdom" (מַלְכוּת - malkuth): Refers to kingship, dominion, royal power, or realm. It signifies God's absolute sovereignty and rule over all things, a kingdom that is an everlasting dominion.
• "Power" (גְּבוּרָה - gevurah): Denotes strength, might, valor, and refers to God's mighty acts and His omnipotent ability to accomplish His will.
• "Speak" (יְדַבֵּרוּ - yedabberu) and "talk" (יְסַפְּרוּ - yesapperu): These verbs emphasize an active, verbal communication. Yedabberu implies orderly, deliberate speech, while yesapperu suggests recounting, narrating, or declaring, often with enthusiasm and detail, akin to the heavens declaring God's glory.

Practical Application

Psalm 145:11 calls believers to an active and vocal faith. It is not enough to inwardly acknowledge God's greatness; we are called to declare it. This verse provides a powerful reminder that our purpose includes:

• Worship and Praise: Our lives should be a continuous testament to God's glory and power, expressed in our words, actions, and attitudes.
• Evangelism and Testimony: Sharing the good news of God's kingdom and His saving power with those who do not know Him. This is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, much like the commission to make disciples of all nations.
• Encouragement and Edification: Reminding fellow believers of God's unchanging character and His ultimate sovereignty, especially in times of difficulty.

By speaking of God's kingdom and power, we not only fulfill our purpose but also draw others to recognize and worship the Lord of all creation.