Psalm 138:2

I bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your loving devotion and Your faithfulness; You have exalted Your name and Your word above all else.

Study Bible

I will bow down toward Your holy temple
This phrase reflects an act of worship and reverence. The Hebrew word for "bow down" is "שָׁחָה" (shachah), which implies a deep, respectful prostration before God. Historically, the temple in Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The act of bowing toward the temple signifies acknowledging God's holiness and sovereignty. In a broader Christian context, this can be seen as a call to direct our worship and prayers toward God, recognizing His dwelling not just in physical structures but within the hearts of believers.

and give thanks to Your name
The phrase "give thanks" comes from the Hebrew "יָדָה" (yadah), which means to praise or confess. "Your name" refers to God's character and reputation, as revealed through His actions and promises. In biblical times, a name was more than a label; it represented the essence of a person. Thus, giving thanks to God's name is an acknowledgment of His attributes—His love, faithfulness, and power. This act of gratitude is central to worship, reminding believers of God's unchanging nature and His deeds throughout history.

for Your loving devotion and Your faithfulness
"Loving devotion" is translated from the Hebrew "חֶסֶד" (chesed), a term rich with meaning, often rendered as "steadfast love" or "mercy." It denotes God's covenantal love, a loyal and enduring commitment to His people. "Faithfulness" comes from "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah), indicating reliability and trustworthiness. Together, these attributes highlight God's unwavering commitment to His promises. For Christians, this is a source of comfort and assurance, knowing that God's love and faithfulness are constant, even amidst life's uncertainties.

You have exalted Your name and Your word above all else
The exaltation of God's "name" and "word" underscores their supreme importance. In Hebrew culture, God's name was revered, representing His divine authority and holiness. His "word" (דָּבָר, dabar) refers to His commands, promises, and revelations. By exalting His name and word, God affirms their ultimate authority and truth. For believers, this is a call to prioritize God's word in their lives, recognizing it as the foundation of faith and practice. It also emphasizes the power and reliability of God's promises, which are fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the living Word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of this psalm, David is expressing his personal devotion and gratitude to God.

2. Holy Temple
Refers to the sacred place of worship in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

3. God's Name
Represents God's character and reputation, which is worthy of praise and reverence.

4. God's Word
Refers to the Scriptures and God's promises, which are held in the highest regard.

5. Loving Devotion and Faithfulness
Attributes of God that are central to His relationship with His people, emphasizing His steadfast love and reliability.

Teaching Points

Reverence in Worship
Bowing toward the holy temple signifies a posture of humility and reverence. In our worship, we should approach God with a heart of submission and awe.

Thankfulness for God's Attributes
Recognize and give thanks for God's loving devotion and faithfulness. Reflect on how these attributes have been evident in your life.

The Supremacy of God's Name and Word
God's name and word are exalted above all else. This calls us to prioritize His word in our lives and to honor His name in our actions and speech.

Consistency in God's Character
God's loving devotion and faithfulness are consistent and reliable. Trust in His unchanging nature, especially in times of uncertainty.

Living Out God's Word
As God's word is exalted, we are called to live according to its teachings. Let it guide your decisions and shape your character.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of bowing toward the holy temple in Psalm 138:2 inform our understanding of worship today?

2. In what ways have you experienced God's loving devotion and faithfulness in your own life?

3. How can you practically exalt God's name and word in your daily routine?

4. What are some specific promises from God's word that you can hold onto during challenging times?

5. How does the exaltation of God's word in Psalm 138:2 connect with the portrayal of Jesus as the Word in John 1:1? How does this influence your view of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 119:89
Highlights the eternal nature of God's word, reinforcing the idea that God's word is exalted and unchanging.

Philippians 2:9-11
Speaks of the exaltation of Jesus' name, connecting to the theme of God's name being above all.

Isaiah 55:11
Illustrates the power and purpose of God's word, which accomplishes what He desires.

John 1:1
Identifies Jesus as the Word, linking the exaltation of God's word to the person of Christ.

Hebrews 4:12
Describes the living and active nature of God's word, emphasizing its authority and impact.