Psalm 108:5

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; may Your glory cover all the earth.

Study Bible

Be exalted
The phrase "Be exalted" is a call for God to be lifted high in honor and reverence. The Hebrew root word here is "רוּם" (rum), which means to rise or to be lofty. This expression is a plea for God's supreme authority and majesty to be recognized universally. In the context of ancient Israel, exalting God was central to worship, acknowledging His sovereignty over all creation. This call to exaltation is not just a personal prayer but a communal one, inviting all of creation to recognize God's unparalleled greatness.

O God
The term "O God" refers to "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim) in Hebrew, a plural form that denotes the fullness and majesty of God. This name for God emphasizes His power and might, often used in contexts that highlight His creative and governing authority. In the historical context of the Psalms, invoking Elohim is a reminder of God's covenantal relationship with Israel, His chosen people, and His role as the ultimate judge and ruler of the universe.

above the heavens
The phrase "above the heavens" signifies God's transcendence and supreme position over all creation. The Hebrew word for heavens, "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim), refers to the sky or the celestial realm. By stating that God is above the heavens, the psalmist acknowledges that God's majesty surpasses even the vastness of the universe. This imagery would resonate with ancient audiences who viewed the heavens as the highest and most mysterious part of creation, thus emphasizing God's incomprehensible greatness.

and let Your glory
"Your glory" refers to "כָּבוֹד" (kavod) in Hebrew, which means weightiness or splendor. God's glory is His manifest presence and the visible expression of His divine attributes. In the biblical narrative, God's glory is often associated with His presence in the tabernacle or temple, signifying His holiness and the honor due to Him. The psalmist's desire for God's glory to be evident reflects a longing for God's presence to be recognized and revered throughout the earth.

cover the earth
The phrase "cover the earth" uses the Hebrew word "כָּסָה" (kasah), meaning to cover or conceal. This imagery suggests a complete and pervasive presence, where God's glory is not limited to a specific location but is spread across the entire world. Historically, this reflects the hope and prophetic vision that God's reign and righteousness would extend beyond Israel to all nations, fulfilling the promise that all the earth would be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea (Habakkuk 2:14).

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, God is the one being exalted. The psalmist calls for God's glory to be recognized universally.

2. Heavens
Represents the highest realms of creation, symbolizing the vastness and majesty of God's domain.

3. Earth
The physical world, which is to be filled with God's glory, indicating the psalmist's desire for God's presence to be acknowledged everywhere.

4. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of this psalm, David is expressing a deep desire for God's glory to be recognized universally.

5. Israel
While not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of the psalm reflects the national and spiritual aspirations of Israel for God's glory to be known.

Teaching Points

Exaltation of God
We are called to lift God's name above all else in our lives, recognizing His supreme authority and majesty.

Universal Recognition of God's Glory
Our prayers and actions should aim to make God's glory known throughout the earth, influencing every sphere of life.

Personal Worship and Praise
Like the psalmist, we should cultivate a heart of worship that seeks to exalt God in every circumstance.

Mission and Evangelism
The desire for God's glory to cover the earth motivates us to share the Gospel, so others may also recognize and worship Him.

Reflection of God's Glory
As believers, we are called to reflect God's glory in our character and actions, serving as a testament to His presence in the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can you personally exalt God in your daily life, and what practical steps can you take to ensure His name is lifted high?

2. In what ways can your community or church work towards making God's glory known in your local area?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's glory in a profound way. How did it impact your faith and actions?

4. How does the call for God's glory to cover the earth influence your understanding of mission and evangelism?

5. Consider the connection between personal worship and the universal recognition of God's glory. How can your personal devotion contribute to this larger vision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 57:5
This verse is nearly identical to Psalm 108:5, emphasizing the theme of God's exaltation and glory. It highlights the consistency of this prayerful desire across different psalms.

Habakkuk 2:14
This verse speaks of the earth being filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, echoing the psalmist's desire for God's glory to cover the earth.

Isaiah 6:3
The seraphim proclaim God's holiness and glory filling the earth, reinforcing the theme of divine majesty and presence.

Matthew 6:9-10
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus teaches us to pray for God's name to be hallowed and His kingdom to come, aligning with the psalmist's call for God's glory to be recognized.