Psalms 138 Thanksgiving for God's Faithfulness

David thanks God for his benefits, and anticipating a wider extension of God's glory by his means, assures himself of his continued presence and faithfulness

1

I will praise thee with my whole heart — (Compare Ps 9:1). before the gods — whether angels (Ps 8:5); or princes (Ex 21:6; Ps 82:6); or idols (Ps 97:7); denotes a readiness to worship the true God alone, and a contempt of all other objects of worship.

2

(Compare Ps 5:7). thy word above all thy name — that is, God's promise (2Sa 7:12-16), sustained by His mercy and truth, exceeded all other manifestations of Himself as subject of praise.

3-5

That promise, as an answer to his prayers in distress, revived and strengthened his faith; and, as the basis of other revelations of the Messiah, it will be the occasion of praise by all who hear and receive it (Ps 68:29, 31; Isa 4:3).

5

for great is the glory — or, "when the glory shall be great," in God's fulfilling His purposes of redemption.

6,7

On this general principle of God's government (Isa 2:11; 57:15; 66:2), he relies for God's favor in saving him, and overthrowing his enemies. knoweth afar off — their ways and deserts (Ps 1:6).

8

God will fulfil His promise.