“Praise the Lord, all nations;
Sing His praises, all peoples!”

“For His mercy toward us is great,
And the truth of the Lord is everlasting.
Praise the Lord!”

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Context and Meaning

Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible and yet carries a global, eternal scope. In just two verses, it calls all nations and peoples to praise the Lord—not just Israel.

This psalm anticipates the inclusion of the Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan, as later affirmed in Romans 15:11. Its focus is on two unshakable truths: God’s mercy (steadfast love) and God’s truth (faithfulness)—both enduring forever.

Key Themes:

1. Universal Praise: Worship is not limited to one nation—all peoples are invited (v. 1).
2. God’s Mercy Is Great: His steadfast love reaches across boundaries and cultures (v. 2a; cf. Lamentations 3:22–23).
3. God’s Truth Is Eternal: His faithfulness never expires (v. 2b; cf. Psalm 100:5).

Reflection and Impact

Psalm 117 reminds us that God’s plan has always been for the nations:

• God’s praise is for all people – “Praise the Lord, all nations” (v. 1) is echoed in Isaiah 49:6 and Revelation 7:9, showing the global vision of God’s kingdom.
• God’s mercy knows no borders – His steadfast love (Hebrew hesed) is vast, personal, and undeserved (v. 2a; cf. Ephesians 2:4–5).
• God’s truth stands forever – His promises are unchanging across generations (v. 2b; cf. Matthew 24:35).
• Praise is the right response – When we see the greatness of His mercy and truth, our worship should be bold and inclusive (Psalm 96:3).

Application

• Expand Your Vision of Worship: Pray and praise with the nations in mind.
• Celebrate God’s Global Mercy: Rejoice that His love reaches beyond our borders and culture.
• Stand on His Unchanging Word: Let His truth be your anchor through shifting times.
• Invite Others into Praise: Share the gospel so more people can join the song of eternity.

Closing Thought

Psalm 117 is brief but boundless—calling every person on earth to glorify the God whose love is great and whose truth never fails.
“For His mercy toward us is great, and the truth of the Lord is everlasting. Praise the Lord!”