What does ""the LORD is on high"" mean?
What does "the LORD is on high" reveal about God's nature and authority?

Setting the Verse

Psalm 138:6: “Though the LORD is on high, He attends to the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar.”


Key Phrase: “the LORD is on high”

• A declaration of position—God’s dwelling and rule are above every created realm.

• A statement of rank—no earthly throne or spiritual force rivals Him.

• A reminder of unchanging elevation—His supremacy is not seasonal or situational; it is eternal.


What It Reveals About God’s Nature

• Transcendence

– He exists beyond time, space, and human limitation (Isaiah 57:15).

• Majesty

– His loftiness evokes awe and worship (Psalm 93:4).

• Holiness

– Separation from all impurity; His “height” signals moral perfection (Isaiah 6:1–3).

• Immutability

– Being “on high” means He is never diminished or threatened (Malachi 3:6).

• Compassionate Condescension

– Remarkably, while high, He “attends to the lowly,” revealing tender care (Psalm 113:5–6).


What It Reveals About God’s Authority

• Universal Sovereignty

– Over nations, kings, and cosmic powers (Psalm 97:9; Daniel 4:35).

• Judicial Supremacy

– He has final say over pride and humility; the proud are kept “afar” (James 4:6).

• Irresistible Power

– Nothing in heaven or earth can overturn His decrees (Job 42:2).

• Faithful Protection

– His height does not distance Him; it guarantees security for those who trust Him (Psalm 121:1–2).

• Covenant Lordship

– “On high” underscores the right to command worship and obedience (Exodus 20:2–3).


Practical Responses

• Humble yourself—He draws near to the lowly.

• Find confidence—His elevated throne means no crisis outranks His control.

• Worship wholeheartedly—He deserves exclusive praise.

• Rest in His condescension—His height does not prevent intimacy; it perfects it.


Additional Scriptures Affirming the Truth

Psalm 113:4–6—“The LORD is exalted over all the nations, His glory above the heavens… He humbles Himself to behold… earth.”

Psalm 93:4—“Above the roar of many waters… the LORD on high is majestic.”

Isaiah 55:8–9—“My thoughts are not your thoughts… as the heavens are higher than the earth.”

1 Peter 5:6—“Humble yourselves… that He may exalt you in due time.”

How does Psalm 138:6 encourage humility in our daily walk with God?
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