What is the meaning of Psalm 136:3?

Give thanks

• The call to gratitude comes first: “Give thanks…” (Psalm 136:3).

• Gratitude is an act of obedience (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and a sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15).

• This psalm models a rhythm—statement, response, statement, response—inviting us into communal worship, much like Psalm 118.

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To the Lord of lords

• The title “Lord of lords” asserts absolute supremacy (Deuteronomy 10:17; Revelation 19:16).

• Every earthly authority, however mighty, is beneath Him (Daniel 2:20–21).

• Acknowledging His lordship secures our confidence; no rival power can overturn His purposes (Proverbs 19:21).

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His loving devotion

• “Loving devotion” (ḥesed) is steadfast, covenant love—personal, reliable, and compassionate (Psalm 103:8; Lamentations 3:22).

• It appears in every verse of Psalm 136, underscoring that God’s actions flow from love, whether creating the cosmos (vv. 5–9) or rescuing His people (vv. 10–24).

• We experience this love fully in Christ’s redeeming work (Romans 5:8; Ephesians 2:4–7).

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Endures forever

• God’s love is not seasonal or fickle (James 1:17).

• Forever means no expiration date—His promises stand through every generation (Psalm 100:5; Isaiah 40:8).

• In trials, this truth anchors faith: circumstances change, but His covenant faithfulness does not (Hebrews 13:8).

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summary

Psalm 136:3 invites grateful worship by proclaiming that the supreme Lord’s covenant love never ends. Because His authority is unrivaled and His devotion unchanging, thanksgiving becomes the natural, continual response of every redeemed heart.