What is the meaning of Psalm 116:5? The LORD - The verse begins with the covenant name “the LORD,” reminding us that the God who saved Israel is the same God who hears us today. - This name signals His self-existent, eternal nature (see Exodus 3:14: “I AM WHO I AM”). - Because He is the LORD, every attribute that follows—grace, righteousness, compassion—is entirely reliable (Malachi 3:6; James 1:17). is gracious - “Gracious” points to God’s undeserved favor toward helpless people. • He rescues (Ephesians 2:8-9). • He forgives (Psalm 86:5). • He sustains daily life (Psalm 145:15-16). - Old Testament believers knew this grace: “The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious” (Exodus 34:6). - His grace is supremely displayed at the cross, “while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). and righteous - God’s grace never voids His righteousness; both stand together. • He always acts justly (Deuteronomy 32:4). • He judges sin fairly (Psalm 11:7). • He keeps every promise (Psalm 119:137-138). - The gospel satisfies this righteousness: “so that He might be just and the justifier” (Romans 3:26). our God - The psalmist shifts from “the LORD” to “our God,” highlighting personal relationship. • “He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture” (Psalm 95:7). • Covenant love makes Him approachable; prayer is possible because He belongs to us and we belong to Him (Hebrews 4:16). - The plural “our” invites every believer into the same confidence. is full of compassion - Literally “abundant in mercy,” picturing a God whose heart overflows with tender care. • He remembers our frailty (Psalm 103:13-14). • His mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Even discipline is tempered with compassion (Micah 7:18-19). - Jesus embodies this compassion: “He was moved with compassion for them” (Matthew 14:14), revealing the Father’s heart. summary Psalm 116:5 holds together three majestic qualities—grace, righteousness, compassion—under one personal, covenant name. Because the LORD is simultaneously gracious, righteous, and overflowing with mercy, we can trust Him to forgive, to act justly, and to care tenderly for every need. |
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