Psalm 146 Meaning Explained
The first of the final 'Hallelujah' psalms. It begins with a vow to praise God all one’s life, warning not to trust in princes who perish. Happy is he whose help is the God of Jacob. The catalog of God’s actions: executes justice, gives food, sets prisoners free, opens blind eyes, lifts the bowed, watches sojourners, upholds widow and orphan. 'The LORD will reign forever!'
A clear explanation of Psalm 146, emphasizing trust in God, His justice, and help for the oppressed
Psalms Chapter 146 | KJV
1. Praise ye the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul.
2. While I live will I praise the LORD: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being.
3. Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help.
4. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish.
5. Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God:
6. Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever:
7. Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners:
8. The LORD openeth the eyes of the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous:
9. The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down.
10. The LORD shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zion, unto all generations. Praise ye the LORD.
Historical Context
Psalm 146, a Song of Praise, contrasts trusting God with the futility of relying on humans.
Phrase by Phrase
- Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help: Avoid reliance on human power or authority.
- The LORD executeth righteousness for the oppressed: God delivers justice and care for the needy.
- The LORD shall reign forever, thy God, O Zion, unto all generations: God’s eternal reign and faithfulness.
Application for Today
Believers can trust God for justice, provision, and eternal protection rather than human leaders.
FAQs
Q: What is the main theme of Psalm 146?
A: Trust in God instead of man, and His justice for the oppressed.
Q: Why not trust princes or men?
A: Human help is limited and unreliable.
Q: How can believers apply this today?
A: Rely on God for guidance, justice, and provision.
Conclusion
Psalm 146 teaches reliance on God, His justice, and care for the needy, contrasting human inadequacy.
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