Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples. For great is his love towards us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures for ever. Psalm 117:1-2, NIV

 

Psalm 117, the shortest psalm and chapter in the Bible, contains only two verses. Despite its length, it carries a deep and universal message about God’s love and faithfulness. It invites all people to praise the Lord, regardless of their nation, language or culture.

 

This psalm begins with a call to worship: “Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples.” It is a call that reaches beyond Israel. It points to God’s global vision and his desire for every person to acknowledge and glorify him. It reflects the promise made to Abraham that all the nations of the earth would be blessed through him (Genesis 12:3).

 

The reasons for this call to praise are found in Psalm 117:2: “For great is his love towards us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures for ever.” God’s great love and his everlasting faithfulness form the foundation of our worship. His love is not limited to one group or nation – it spans the entire earth. This truth was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, through whom God’s love and faithfulness were revealed and extended to all people.

 

Psalm 117 reminds us that worship is not limited to just our personal lives or the church. It is a call to all nations and peoples to look up to God together in praise. When we worship him, we join in this universal praise and when we reflect his love in our lives, we invite others to do the same.

 

How can we apply this psalm in our daily lives? Firstly, by living a life of praise, even in challenging circumstances. Secondly, by actively sharing in God’s mission to make his love and grace known to all people.

 

Prayer: Lord, I praise you for your great love and faithfulness that never ends. Help me to live a life that glorifies your name and that encourages others to worship you too. Use me to make your love and salvation known to the world. Amen