I cried out to Him with my mouth and praised Him with my tongue. I cried out to HimThis phrase begins with an expression of earnest prayer and supplication. The Hebrew root for "cried out" is "קָרָא" (qara), which conveys a sense of calling out loudly or proclaiming. In the context of the Psalms, this often reflects a deep, personal plea to God, emphasizing the psalmist's reliance on divine intervention. Historically, this act of crying out to God is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where individuals and communities turn to God in times of distress, demonstrating their faith and dependence on His power and mercy. with my mouth
The use of "my mouth" underscores the verbal and vocal nature of the prayer. In Hebrew culture, the mouth is often seen as the instrument of expression, not only of words but of the heart's deepest emotions. This phrase highlights the importance of spoken prayer, a practice deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, where the articulation of words is seen as a powerful act of faith. It reminds believers of the importance of vocalizing their prayers, as an outward expression of inner faith and trust in God. and His praise
The phrase "His praise" shifts the focus from petition to adoration. The Hebrew word for praise, "תְּהִלָּה" (tehillah), is derived from the root "הָלַל" (halal), meaning to boast or to shine. This suggests that the psalmist is not only asking for help but is also acknowledging God's greatness and expressing gratitude. In the broader biblical context, praise is a central theme, reflecting the believer's recognition of God's sovereignty and goodness. It serves as a reminder that prayer is not only about seeking help but also about honoring God for who He is. was on my tongue
The phrase "was on my tongue" indicates that praise was not only a thought or feeling but was actively spoken. The tongue, in biblical literature, is often associated with the power of words, both to bless and to curse. Here, it signifies the deliberate choice to use one's words to glorify God. This reflects a conscious decision to focus on God's attributes and deeds, even in the midst of personal trials. It serves as an encouragement to believers to let their speech be filled with praise, recognizing the transformative power of words in shaping one's faith and witness to others. Persons / Places / Events 1. The PsalmistThe author of Psalm 66, traditionally attributed to David, who is expressing a personal testimony of God's deliverance and the response of praise. 2. GodThe central figure to whom the Psalmist cries out and offers praise, highlighting His role as a deliverer and worthy of worship. 3. The Act of PraiseThe event of vocalizing gratitude and worship, emphasizing the importance of verbal expression in one's relationship with God. Teaching Points The Power of Vocal PraiseVocalizing praise is a powerful act of faith and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. It reinforces our trust in Him and can transform our perspective in difficult times. Prayer as a Two-Way CommunicationCrying out to God involves both speaking and listening. It is important to express our needs and gratitude while also being open to His guidance and response. Praise as a TestimonyWhen we praise God publicly, it serves as a testimony to others of His goodness and faithfulness. Our praise can encourage and inspire those around us. Consistency in WorshipRegularly praising God, regardless of circumstances, cultivates a heart of gratitude and aligns our focus with His eternal purposes. The Role of the Tongue in WorshipThe tongue is a powerful tool in worship. As James 3:9-10 reminds us, it can be used to bless or curse. Choosing to use it for praise honors God and edifies our spirit. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the act of crying out to God with our mouth differ from silent prayer, and what impact can it have on our faith journey? 2. In what ways can vocal praise serve as a testimony to others about God's work in our lives? 3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance. How did you respond, and how can Psalm 66:17 inspire your future responses? 4. How can we cultivate a habit of consistent praise in our daily lives, even when circumstances are challenging? 5. Consider the role of the tongue in both worship and daily communication. How can we ensure that our speech aligns with the principles of praise and edification found in Scripture? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 34:1-4This passage also emphasizes the importance of continually praising God and seeking Him in times of trouble, similar to the expression in Psalm 66:17. James 5:13This New Testament verse encourages believers to pray and sing praises, connecting the act of crying out to God with both prayer and worship. Philippians 4:6-7These verses highlight the peace that comes from presenting requests to God with thanksgiving, aligning with the Psalmist's practice of crying out and praising God. People PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Aloud, Cried, Exaltation, Extolled, Lifted, Mouth, Praise, Tongue, Underworld, VoiceDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 66:17 5193 tongue Psalm 66:16-20 8352 thankfulness Library Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
A BRIEF AND FAITHFUL RELATION OF THE EXCEEDING MERCY OF GOD IN CHRIST TO HIS POOR SERVANT, JOHN BUNYAN; WHEREIN IS PARTICULARLY SHOWED THE MANNER OF HIS CONVERSION, HIS SIGHT AND TROUBLE FOR SIN, HIS DREADFUL TEMPTATIONS, ALSO HOW HE DESPAIRED OF GOD'S MERCY, AND HOW THE LORD AT LENGTH THROUGH CHRIST DID DELIVER HIM FROM ALL THE GUILT AND TERROR THAT LAY UPON HIM. Whereunto is added a brief relation of his call to the work of the ministry, of his temptations therein, as also what he hath met with …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3But, after that He had Made Mention of These Evils...
30. But, after that he had made mention of these evils, he added and said, "On account of which cometh the wrath of God on the sons of unbelief." [1923] Surely it was a wholesome alarm that believers might not think that they could be saved on account of their faith alone, even although they should live in these evils: the Apostle James with most clear speech crying out against that notion, and saying, "If any say that he have faith, and have not works, shall his faith be able to save him?" [1924] …
St. Augustine—On Continence The History of the Psalter
[Sidenote: Nature of the Psalter] Corresponding to the book of Proverbs, itself a select library containing Israel's best gnomic literature, is the Psalter, the compendium of the nation's lyrical songs and hymns and prayers. It is the record of the soul experiences of the race. Its language is that of the heart, and its thoughts of common interest to worshipful humanity. It reflects almost every phase of religious feeling: penitence, doubt, remorse, confession, fear, faith, hope, adoration, and …
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament The Heart's Desire Given to Help Mission Work in China.
"Sept. 30 [1869].--From Yorkshire L50.--Received also One Thousand Pounds to-day for the Lord's work in China. About this donation it is especially to be noticed, that for months it had been my earnest desire to do more than ever for Mission Work in China, and I had already taken steps to carry out this desire, when this donation of One Thousand Pounds came to hand. This precious answer to prayer for means should be a particular encouragement to all who are engaged in the Lord's work, and who may …
George Müller—Answers to Prayer In Death and after Death
A sadder picture could scarcely be drawn than that of the dying Rabbi Jochanan ben Saccai, that "light of Israel" immediately before and after the destruction of the Temple, and for two years the president of the Sanhedrim. We read in the Talmud (Ber. 28 b) that, when his disciples came to see him on his death-bed, he burst into tears. To their astonished inquiry why he, "the light of Israel, the right pillar of the Temple, and its mighty hammer," betrayed such signs of fear, he replied: "If I were …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life Shewing Wherein all Saving Grace Does Summarily Consist"
The next thing that arises for consideration is, What is the nature of this Divine principle in the soul that is so entirely diverse from all that is naturally in the soul? Here I would observe,-- 1. That that saving grace that is in the hearts if the saints, that within them [which is] above nature, and entirely distinguishes 'em from all unconverted men, is radically but one -- i.e., however various its exercises are, yet it is but one in its root; 'tis one individual principle in the heart. 'Tis …
Jonathan Edwards—Treatise on Grace I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also-
OR, A DISCOURSE TOUCHING PRAYER; WHEREIN IS BRIEFLY DISCOVERED, 1. WHAT PRAYER IS. 2. WHAT IT IS TO PRAY WITH THE SPIRIT. 3. WHAT IT IS TO PRAY WITH THE SPIRIT AND WITH THE UNDERSTANDING ALSO. WRITTEN IN PRISON, 1662. PUBLISHED, 1663. "For we know not what we should pray for as we ought:--the Spirit--helpeth our infirmities" (Rom 8:26). ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. There is no subject of more solemn importance to human happiness than prayer. It is the only medium of intercourse with heaven. "It is …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Jesus Heals on the Sabbath Day and Defends his Act.
(at Feast-Time at Jerusalem, Probably the Passover.) ^D John V. 1-47. ^d 1 After these things there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [Though every feast in the Jewish calendar has found some one to advocate its claim to be this unnamed feast, yet the vast majority of commentators choose either the feast of Purim, which came in March, or the Passover, which came in April. Older commentators pretty unanimously regarded it as the Passover, while the later school favor the feast …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Why all Things Work for Good
1. The grand reason why all things work for good, is the near and dear interest which God has in His people. The Lord has made a covenant with them. "They shall be my people, and I will be their God" (Jer. xxxii. 38). By virtue of this compact, all things do, and must work, for good to them. "I am God, even thy God" (Psalm l. 7). This word, Thy God,' is the sweetest word in the Bible, it implies the best relations; and it is impossible there should be these relations between God and His people, and …
Thomas Watson—A Divine Cordial Question Lxxxiii of Prayer
I. Is Prayer an Act of the Appetitive Powers? Cardinal Cajetan, On Prayer based on Friendship II. Is it Fitting to Pray? Cardinal Cajetan, On Prayer as a True Cause S. Augustine, On the Sermon on the Mount, II. iii. 14 " On the Gift of Perseverance, vii. 15 III. Is Prayer an Act of the Virtue of Religion? Cardinal Cajetan, On the Humility of Prayer S. Augustine, On Psalm cii. 10 " Of the Gift of Perseverance, xvi. 39 IV. Ought We to Pray to God Alone? S. Augustine, Sermon, cxxvii. 2 V. …
St. Thomas Aquinas—On Prayer and The Contemplative Life Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Psalm 66:17 NIVPsalm 66:17 NLTPsalm 66:17 ESVPsalm 66:17 NASBPsalm 66:17 KJV
Psalm 66:17 Commentaries
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