The Steadfast Love of God

We can give thanks to God for His steadfast love ()

The Psalmist and the situation are unknown, but the author was well acquainted with the LORD over a length of time. Some think that Moses is a likely candidate for writing this psalm as some of the language and experiences of the wilderness fit nicely with the words of the Psalm.

Regardless, the Psalmist was one who had personally experience the goodness of the LORD over time. Throughout his many experiences and hardships he had come to understand that God’s love is never ending. He confirms that the loving kindness of the LORD, His loyalty was unswerving. Even in times of discipline for some type of sin (v. 18 ), the Psalmist knew at a bedrock level that God’s love would never quit.

What Joy and Confidence this should bring to the child of God! What a great truth to glory in - in spite of hardships, in spite of troubles, we CAN know that God’s love for us will continue to endure!

We can trust in the LORD for refuge ()

Life is hard and the challenges are many. The Psalmist was not exempt from trials and hardship. When faced with his problems, he made the choice to turn to the LORD for help. The Psalmist was aware of the other options (friends and counselors), but his first option was to turn to the LORD and seek refuge under the shadow of the Almighty (cf )

This is not to discount the advice or counsel given by trusted and wise Christians. There is nothing wrong with seeking godly advice. The Psalmist is just thanking the LORD being being the Ultimate Refuge, the One who would not disappoint!

We are to perform life in His Name ()

The Psalmist was being attacked by various enemies, and he fought them in the Name of the LORD, he cut them off in the Name of the LORD. We may not be fighting literal human forces that are attacking us, but we are called to live for Jesus. Whatever we are doing, we can and should do it in accordance with the Name of the LORD.

This is not just word games, this is the difference between thriving and existing. Too many times we just “do things” and then expect God to bless us or clean up our mess. The Psalmist was just not fighting random enemies in whatever way he wanted. he was conscious of doing the LORD’s bidding, and he was doing it in a way that glorified and honored his LORD.

We can Praise the LORD and Proclaim His goodness to others ()

The natural result of experiencing the goodness and trustworthiness of the LORD is to brag on Him. There are so many other things we gladly and joyfully discuss with others (football games, grandchildren, hunting, and the latest scent from Bath & Body candles!) The Psalmist was aware of what God had done for him, and the Psalmist had been thankful. He went beyond his personal thanks and praise and publically proclaimed the Goodness of his God to others so that they too could praise Him.

The Goodness of God and His Steadfast Love can and should lead us to worship (Psalm 118:19-29)

The Psalmist is so overwhelmed by what God has done in his life he has the desire to enter God’s house for the purpose of worship. He wants to enter the gates of righteousness so he can bring the sacrifice of praise. The language here is corporate worship language ( the gates (v. 19), bless from the house of the LORD (v. 26), festal sacrifice & horns of the altar (v. 27). This is a scene of God’s people gathered for worship, The Psalmist has a desire to be present and to participate in worship. It is one thing to show up, it is another thing to praise up! The Psalmist did not come to sit and soak, he came to praise God for being worthy.

Note: This section also has Messianic tones (vv. 22-23) in that God gave the Psalmist supernatural insight into the identity of Jesus. Jesus was rejected by His own, but He was and continues to be the Cornerstone!