> [[psalm-137|← Previous]] | [[psalm-00|TOC]] | [[psalm-139|Next →]] --- # Psalm 138 ## Hymn of a Grateful Heart 1 Of David. ### I I thank you, Lord, with all my heart; in the presence of the angels to you I sing. 2 I bow low toward your holy temple; I praise your name for your mercy and faithfulness. For you have exalted over all your name and your promise. 3 On the day I cried out, you answered; you strengthened my spirit. ### II 4 All the kings of earth will praise you, LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth. 5 They will sing of the ways of the LORD: “How great is the glory of the LORD!” 6 The LORD is on high, but cares for the lowly and knows the proud from afar. 7 Though I walk in the midst of dangers, you guard my life when my enemies rage. You stretch out your hand; your right hand saves me. 8 The LORD is with me to the end. LORD, your mercy endures forever. Never forsake the work of your hands! \* (Psalm 138) A thanksgiving to God, who came to the rescue of the psalmist. Divine rescue was not the result of the psalmist’s virtues but of God’s loving fidelity ([Ps 138:1] – [3]). The act is not a private transaction but a public act that stirs the surrounding nations to praise God’s greatness and care for the people ([Ps 138:4] – [6]). The psalmist, having experienced salvation, trusts that God will always be there in moments of danger ([Ps 138:7] – [8]). \* (138:1) In the presence of the angels: heavenly beings who were completely subordinate to Israel’s God. The earthly Temple represents the heavenly palace of God. a. (138:1) ([[psalm-09|Ps 9]]:1]. b. (138:6) ([[luke-01|Lk 1]]:51] – [52]. --- _New American Bible, revised edition_ (2010, 1991, 1986, 1970) Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washington, D.C. > [[psalm-137|← Previous]] | [[psalm-00|TOC]] | [[psalm-139|Next →]]