Psalms 18:44

As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me.

As soon as they hear {H8088}{H241} of me, they shall obey {H8085} me: the strangers {H1121}{H5236} shall submit {H3584} themselves unto me.

the moment they hear of me, they obey me, foreigners come cringing to me.

When they hear me, they obey me; foreigners cower before me.

As soon as they hear of me they shall obey me; The foreigners shall submit themselves unto me.

Commentary

Psalms 18:44 is a powerful declaration by King David, expressing his confidence in God's continued support and the widespread recognition of his divinely appointed authority. This verse is part of a longer psalm of thanksgiving, which is also recorded in 2 Samuel 22, celebrating God's deliverance from all his enemies, especially King Saul.

Historical and Cultural Context

Composed by David, likely after a significant victory or period of sustained peace, Psalm 18 recounts God's mighty intervention on his behalf. The psalm paints a vivid picture of God as a strong deliverer and protector. In verse 44, David looks forward, anticipating a time when his rule would extend beyond the immediate borders of Israel. The phrase "the strangers shall submit themselves unto me" speaks to a future where even foreign nations, those outside the covenant people, would acknowledge his dominion. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern concept of a powerful king whose influence extended over surrounding peoples, often through conquest or tribute. However, for David, this authority was always rooted in God's divine mandate.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Authority and Universal Recognition: The verse highlights that David's authority is not merely human but divinely ordained. This divine backing ensures that his rule will be acknowledged even by those who are not naturally inclined to obey. It speaks to the irresistible power of God's chosen leader.
  • Obedience Through Hearing: The phrase "As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me" underscores the transformative power of a message, whether it be the fame of David's victories or the proclamation of God's truth. It implies that genuine understanding or exposure to truth leads to submission.
  • Messianic Foreshadowing: While immediately applicable to David, this verse carries significant Messianic implications. David's reign served as a type of the ultimate King, Jesus Christ. His future kingdom will truly encompass all nations, fulfilling prophecies where Christ is a light to the Gentiles and every knee shall bow to Him.

Linguistic Insights

The term "strangers" is from the Hebrew bnei nekhar (ื‘ึผึฐื ึตื™ ื ึตื›ึธืจ), literally "sons of the foreigner" or "sons of the stranger." This clearly refers to non-Israelites or Gentiles. The phrase "shall submit themselves" comes from the Hebrew verb yikahashu (ื™ึดื›ึผึธื—ึฒืฉืื•ึผ), which can mean to "feign obedience," "deceive," or "yield in submission." While some interpretations suggest a reluctant or even insincere submission, in this context, it generally conveys the idea of acknowledging and yielding to superior authority, even if it's initially grudging. It signifies a bowing down or a recognition of power.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 18:44 offers profound encouragement. It reminds us that:

  • Christ's Authority is Universal: Just as David's earthly kingdom foreshadowed, the kingdom of God, established through Jesus Christ, is not limited by nationality or culture. All people, regardless of their background, are called to hear His voice and obey Him (John 10:27).
  • The Power of the Gospel: The verse affirms that when people "hear" the message of Christ, it has the inherent power to bring about submission and obedience. This encourages us in evangelism and mission, knowing that God's word is effective.
  • Ultimate Triumph: It speaks to the ultimate victory of God's plan. Despite present challenges or resistance, there will come a day when all will acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ, and His reign will be fully established.
This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereign hand in history and His ultimate triumph over all opposition, bringing all nations under His righteous rule.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Psalms 81:15

    The haters of the LORD should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever.

  • Psalms 66:3

    Say unto God, How terrible [art thou in] thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

  • Deuteronomy 33:29

    Happy [art] thou, O Israel: who [is] like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who [is] the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places.

  • 2 Samuel 1:13

    And David said unto the young man that told him, Whence [art] thou? And he answered, I [am] the son of a stranger, an Amalekite.

  • Romans 10:16

    But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

  • Romans 10:17

    So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

  • Psalms 68:30

    Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, [till every one] submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people [that] delight in war.