Psalms 146

Psalms 146:1-2

The writer vowed to praise God the rest of his life.

Psalms 146:3-4

He then warned against placing trust in human officials. They will die and their plans will perish with them. At death the spirit separates from the body, which returns to dust. Therefore it is foolish to put too much hope in what people can do.

Psalms 146:5-6

2. God’s ability to save 146:5-6 In contrast to those who look to other people for deliverance, those who trust in Israel’s God, Yahweh, will experience blessing. He is the Creator who even made the humanly uncontrollable sea and all its creatures. Yahweh is not only supremely powerful, but He is also faithful to His Word.

Psalms 146:7-9

The poet cited nine examples. In each case, Yahweh provides the particular need of the individuals in view. He alone can do this.

Psalms 146:10

The psalmist concluded by affirming that Israel’s God will reign as long as human life endures. This was his conclusion in view of what he had said about God’s abilities earlier in this psalm. Consequently people should praise the Lord. Whereas human life depends on man’s need to trust his fellow man, we should avoid the temptation to trust in human beings entirely or even primarily. Yahweh is the only Person who is worthy of our absolute trust. Reflection on the differences between people and God makes this clear. [Note: See R. B. Allen, And I .. ., pp. 214-24, 225-38.