What is the meaning of Psalm 118:1?

Give thanks

Psalm 118:1 begins with an unmistakable call: “Give thanks.”

• Gratitude is an act of the will, not merely a feeling (Colossians 3:17).

• Scripture consistently couples thanksgiving with worship (Psalm 100:4; Hebrews 13:15).

• Giving thanks redirects focus from circumstances to God’s works and character (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Philippians 4:6).

The verse invites believers to respond actively—speaking, singing, recounting His deeds—because thankfulness is the fitting posture of redeemed people (Psalm 107:1-3).

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to the LORD

The recipient of our thanks is “the LORD,” the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with His people (Exodus 3:15).

• He is the same LORD who delivered Israel from Egypt (Psalm 136:10-15) and who delivers us from sin through Christ (Romans 5:8-9).

• Thankfulness is directed to Him alone, distinguishing biblical worship from generic spirituality (Isaiah 42:8; Revelation 4:11).

Calling on His covenant name reminds us that gratitude rests on a relationship, not mere ritual (Jeremiah 31:33).

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for He is good

Here is the first reason for praise: “He is good.”

• God’s goodness is intrinsic—He cannot be other than good (Psalm 34:8; Nahum 1:7).

• All creation testifies to His benevolence (Genesis 1:31; Acts 14:17).

• Every good gift flows from Him (James 1:17), proving He is trustworthy and generous.

Because His goodness is absolute, our circumstances never negate it; rather, they invite deeper trust (Romans 8:28).

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His loving devotion endures forever

The verse ends with the most enduring assurance: “His loving devotion endures forever.”

• God’s steadfast love (Psalm 136:1 repeats this refrain 26 times) outlasts human failure (Lamentations 3:22-23).

• It is covenant-keeping love, fulfilled ultimately in Christ’s cross and resurrection (John 3:16; Romans 8:38-39).

• “Forever” means no expiration date—His commitment survives sin, doubt, and death (Psalm 103:17-18; Jude 21).

Knowing His love is eternal empowers believers to live boldly and gratefully, confident that nothing can sever this bond (Hebrews 13:5-6).

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summary

Psalm 118:1 calls God’s people to a life-pattern of gratitude. We thank the LORD because His character is flawlessly good and His covenant love never quits. Anchored in these unchanging truths, every prayer, song, and act of service becomes a testimony: “Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.”