What is the meaning of Psalm 118:17? I will not die - The psalmist faces real danger, yet asserts confidence that his earthly life will not be cut short at this moment (Psalm 118:5–13). - This confidence is not bravado but trust in God’s preserving hand, echoing Psalm 91:16, “With long life I will satisfy him.” - The statement presumes God’s sovereignty over the length of our days (Job 14:5) and invites us to rest in His timing rather than fear human threats (Matthew 10:28). - It anticipates the ultimate victory over death promised in Christ, who declared, “Whoever lives and believes in Me will never die” (John 11:26). but I will live - The psalmist expects continued earthly life so he can fulfill God-given purposes (Psalm 118:17). - Living is more than biological survival; it entails walking in covenant fellowship, similar to Psalm 27:13, “I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” - God often grants deliverance so His people can bear fruit (John 15:16) and serve others (Philippians 1:24-25). - The phrase invites believers to value every added day as a stewardship from God (Ephesians 5:15-16). and proclaim what the LORD has done - Preservation leads to proclamation. Having experienced rescue, the psalmist pledges to testify publicly, mirroring Psalm 40:10, “I have not concealed Your loving devotion.” - “What the LORD has done” embraces both personal deliverance and the broader salvation history culminating in Christ (Acts 2:23-24). - Testimony turns private gratitude into public witness: • Encourages fellow believers (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) • Confronts unbelief with evidence of God’s power (Acts 4:20) • Glorifies God, the ultimate aim of every rescue (1 Peter 2:9). - Our own stories of redemption, healing, or daily provision keep pointing back to “His steadfast love endures forever” (Psalm 118:1). summary Psalm 118:17 captures a threefold resolution: God preserves life, grants purposeful days, and deserves public praise. Confidence in His sovereignty dispels fear of premature death, motivates intentional living, and compels outspoken testimony of His saving works—ultimately spotlighting the risen Christ, in whom every promise finds its “Yes.” |
    |