This is a powerful and universal call that the psalmist makes so that all peoples, without distinction of nation, language, or culture, would come together to praise God, who is great in mercy and power. Although Psalm 117 is the shortest psalm in Scripture, its message is vast and profound. In just a few verses, it reveals the heart of God toward humanity and the purpose for which all people were created: to glorify the Lord whose mercy endures from generation to generation.
The psalmist does not limit this call to Israel alone, but extends it to all nations. This is remarkable, especially considering the historical context in which Israel often understood itself as a distinct people chosen by God. Yet, even in the Old Testament, we see God’s redemptive plan reaching beyond the borders of Israel. The psalmist invites every people to recognize that their existence, preservation, and hope are sustained by the mercy of the Lord.
It is good and edifying to reflect on this call made by such a faithful servant of God. He acknowledges Israel’s special relationship with the Lord, but he does not stop there. He broadens the horizon, urging all nations to acknowledge the sovereignty of God and to join in worship. This reveals a glimpse of God’s universal kingdom, where people from every tribe and tongue will exalt His name.
Let us all praise the King of kings and Lord of lords, for He alone is worthy of honor and glory. Praise is not merely an emotional response or a musical expression; it is a declaration of truth. When we praise God, we proclaim who He is and what He has done. Praise aligns our hearts with heaven and reminds us that God reigns above all circumstances.
One essential attribute highlighted in this psalm is the great faithfulness of the Father toward all His children. God is not like man, who makes promises and fails to keep them. Every word spoken by the Lord is trustworthy. From generation to generation, His promises have stood firm. History bears witness to the consistency of God’s character and the reliability of His word.
How could we refrain from praising such a God? He is good, not occasionally, but eternally. His goodness is not dependent on human obedience or worthiness; it flows from His very nature. Even when humanity has turned away, God has remained faithful. His mercy has pursued sinners, restored the broken, and upheld those who trust in Him.
The psalmist encourages all people to lift their voices in joyful proclamation. Worship is not meant to be silent or hidden. It is a public acknowledgment of God’s greatness. When the people of God praise Him openly, they bear witness to the world that the Lord alone is God.
Give hallelujah to the Lord, all people, and applaud in honor and glory to God. The word “hallelujah” is a universal expression of praise, transcending languages and cultures. It is a call to rejoice in the Lord and to exalt His holy name. This invitation is not restricted to a select group, but extended to all who have breath.
For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord.
Psalm 117:2
This verse beautifully summarizes the reason for universal praise. First, it declares that God’s merciful kindness is great toward us. The phrase “merciful kindness” speaks of steadfast love, covenant loyalty, and compassionate grace. God’s mercy is not small or limited; it is abundant and overwhelming. It reaches sinners, restores the fallen, and comforts the afflicted.
Secondly, the psalmist proclaims that the truth of the Lord endures forever. In a world where truth is often distorted, manipulated, or denied, God’s truth remains unchanging. His word stands firm across generations, cultures, and eras. What God has spoken will never fade or lose its power. His truth provides guidance, correction, and hope.
Our God is not only worthy of praise for His infinite love, but also for His great goodness, mercy, faithfulness, and eternal truth. These attributes are not abstract ideas; they are demonstrated throughout history and in the personal lives of believers. Every answered prayer, every act of deliverance, and every moment of grace testifies to who God is.
God will not change His kindness toward us, nor will He withdraw His mercy, because He is faithful and keeps His word. Unlike human affection, which can fade or fail, God’s love remains constant. His faithfulness does not depend on our perfection, but on His unchanging nature. This assurance gives believers confidence and peace.
We have countless reasons to lift our voices and sing psalms to the Lord. Praise flows naturally from gratitude. When we remember what God has done—how He has sustained us, forgiven us, and guided us—we cannot remain silent. Worship becomes the natural response of a heart that recognizes God’s grace.
From ancient times until now, God has performed great wonders. He delivered His people from slavery, guided them through the wilderness, established kings and kingdoms, and ultimately sent His Son for the salvation of the world. In every generation, God has shown Himself faithful to those who call upon Him.
The message of Psalm 117 finds its fulfillment in the New Testament, where the gospel is proclaimed to all nations. Through Christ, people from every background are invited into God’s family. This universal invitation to praise anticipates the great multitude described in Revelation, where people from every nation and language worship before the throne of God.
Therefore, all nations and languages should exalt the Lord, who alone is worthy of all worship. Let our lives reflect this praise—not only through words, but through obedience, humility, and love. May our worship extend beyond songs and become a daily offering to God.
May we never forget that we exist by His mercy, stand by His faithfulness, and live by His truth. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Amen.