What is the meaning of Psalm 138:6? Though the LORD is on high “Though the LORD is on high…” • The verse starts by highlighting God’s exalted position. He is “on high,” reigning above every ruler and realm (Psalm 113:4–6; Isaiah 6:1). • This height is literal—He is in the heavens (Psalm 103:19)—and moral, because His holiness sets Him apart (1 Timothy 6:15–16). • Knowing that the Creator whose throne is “high and lifted up” sees us gives weight to everything that follows (Isaiah 57:15). He attends to the lowly “He attends to the lowly…” • The majestic God leans in toward those who recognize their need of Him. Isaiah 57:15 pairs God’s loftiness with His nearness to “the contrite and humble in spirit.” • Jesus echoed this when He said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3) and when He lifted up the humble Mary (Luke 1:52). • Practical implications: – Humility invites God’s personal attention (Psalm 34:18). – Casting our cares on Him is an act of humility He promises to receive (1 Peter 5:6–7). • The lowly never fall beneath His notice; instead, they occupy a special place in His heart. But the proud He knows from afar “…but the proud He knows from afar.” • Pride builds a barrier, not because God is incapable of drawing near, but because the proud refuse to yield (James 4:6). • “God opposes the proud” (1 Peter 5:5; quoting Proverbs 3:34), meaning He actively resists those who exalt themselves. • Reading “He knows from afar” is sobering: – The omniscient Lord remains fully aware of the proud, yet His relational presence is withheld (Psalm 1:5–6). – Like the Pharisee in Luke 18:9–14, the proud can stand in a place of prayer and still be distant from God. • Pride ultimately leads to downfall (Proverbs 16:18) because distance from God is distance from life. summary Psalm 138:6 holds two complementary truths: God is unrivaled in majesty, yet irresistibly drawn to humility. His throne is high, but His heart stoops low. Those who bow before Him receive intimate care; those who stand tall in self-reliance find Him far away. The path to God’s nearness is clear—humble yourself, and the Most High will gladly draw near. |
    |