Psalm 138 — The Integrity of God's Word — Aneel Aranha

I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart;
before the “gods” I will sing your praise.
I will bow down toward your holy temple
and will praise your name
for your unfailing love and your faithfulness,
for you have so exalted your solemn decree
that it surpasses your fame.
When I called, you answered me;
you greatly emboldened me.
May all the kings of the earth praise you, LORD,
when they hear what you have decreed.
May they sing of the ways of the LORD,
for the glory of the LORD is great.
Though the LORD is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly;
though lofty, he sees them from afar.
Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
you preserve my life.
You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes;
with your right hand you save me.
The LORD will vindicate me;
your love, LORD, endures forever —
do not abandon the works of your hands.

In a world where promises are often broken, and words can sometimes mean little, the idea that someone, especially God, would hold his own words in such high esteem is both refreshing and deeply reassuring. It tells us that when God says something, he means it. His promises are not just empty words but commitments set in stone.

This is what David acknowledges in this psalm. He sings: "I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame." God's word and promises are so revered that they even surpass his reputation. 

Think about that for a moment. The Creator of the universe values his word and promises to such an extent that they stand even above his own name in terms of commitment. And now, think about the reassurance all believers should have when reading God's words. Here are just a few examples.

One of the most profound promises is that of salvation and eternal life. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This promise assures us that we are granted eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, a hope that transcends our earthly existence.

Another promise that offers immense comfort is the presence of the Holy Spirit. In John 14:16-17, Jesus says, "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth." This promise ensures we are never alone; the Holy Spirit is our constant companion, guiding, comforting, and advocating for us.

God also promises to provide for our needs. In Philippians 4:19, Paul writes, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." This doesn't mean we'll have every want fulfilled, but our essential needs will be met.

Lastly, the promise of God's unchanging nature is a bedrock for our faith. Hebrews 13:8 states, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." In a world that's constantly changing, the consistency of God's nature and his promises provide a steadfast hope.

Let these promises, among many others in Scripture, remind us of God's unwavering love, faithfulness, and commitment to us. They are anchors for our souls, providing stability in the storms of life.

God bless you.