Psalm 116 Meaning Explained
A deeply personal thanksgiving for deliverance from death. 'I love the LORD, because he has heard my voice.' The psalmist was brought low, but God saved his soul. In response, he asks, 'What shall I render?' and answers: take up the cup of salvation, pay vows publicly 'in the courts of the house of the LORD.' It is gratitude enacted, the private experience of grace necessitating public, sacrificial worship.
A clear explanation of Psalm 116, its meaning, context, and message for believers today
Psalms Chapter 116 | KJV
1. I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.
2. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.
3. The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow.
4. Then called I upon the name of the LORD; O LORD, I beseech thee, deliver my soul.
5. Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.
6. The LORD preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me.
7. Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the LORD hath dealt bountifully with thee.
8. For thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.
9. I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living.
10. I believed, therefore have I spoken: I was greatly afflicted:
11. I said in my haste, All men are liars.
12. What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me?
13. I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD.
14. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people.
15. Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
16. O LORD, truly I am thy servant; I am thy servant, and the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.
17. I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD.
18. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people,
19. In the courts of the Lord's house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.
Historical Context
Psalm 116, a thanksgiving psalm, celebrates deliverance from death and affliction, emphasizing gratitude and devotion.
Phrase by Phrase
- I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice: Gratitude for God hearing prayers.
- Because he hath inclined his ear unto me: Acknowledgment of God’s attentive care.
- I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people: Commitment to faithful devotion and public thanksgiving.
Application for Today
Believers can offer gratitude, honor God publicly, and remain devoted after answered prayers.
FAQs
Q: What is the main theme of Psalm 116?
A: God’s mercy, answered prayer, and devotion.
Q: Why express love for God?
A: Because He hears and saves us.
Q: What should be done after deliverance?
A: Offer vows and devotion publicly.
Q: How can this psalm apply today?
A: Thank God, stay devoted, and acknowledge His mercy.
Conclusion
Psalm 116 teaches gratitude, faithful devotion, and reliance on God’s mercy.
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