Psalms 135

Psalms 135:1-3

1. Introductory call to praise 135:1-3 This psalm begins and ends with, “Praise the Lord” (Hallelujah; cf. Psalms 104:35; Psalms 113:1; et al.). The call goes out in Psalms 135:3 again. The priests in particular should praise Him because He is good and because praise is pleasant (lovely).

Psalms 135:4-7

The sovereignty of God is what called forth the poet’s praise in this psalm. The Lord chose Israel as His special treasure (cf. Deuteronomy 7:6). He is also greater than all the pagan gods because He does whatever pleases Him (cf. Psalms 115:3). This is obvious in His control of nature.

Psalms 135:8-12

God’s sovereignty is also clear from His control over Israel’s history. He sent the plagues on Egypt, even smiting Pharaoh’s first-born. He also defeated many kings and subdued many nations to give Israel the Promised Land. Notable among these kings were Sihon and Og (Numbers 21).

Psalms 135:13-14

The everlasting Lord would continue to vindicate His people in His sovereignty because of His compassion.

Psalms 135:15-18

In contrast to Israel’s sovereign God, the idols of the nations are impotent (cf. Psalms 115:4-8). Psalms 135:15-18 illustrate Psalms 135:5 as Psalms 135:8-12 prove Psalms 135:4.

Psalms 135:19-21

3. Concluding call to praise 135:19-21 The psalm closes as it opened: with a call to God’s people to praise Him. Particularly from Zion: the Israelites, the priests, the Levites, and the godly should praise the Lord who dwells in Jerusalem.

All God’s servants should praise Him for His sovereignty as He demonstrates it in nature and history. Truly there is no other God like Him.