Psalms 118:23

Psalms 118:23

This verse centers on the divine initiative: “This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.” It marks a moment of recognition that what has occurred is not human achievement but God’s act. In the context of Psalm 118—often a communal liturgy of praise after crisis—the chorus affirms awe at the Lord’s saving deeds. Marvelous suggests something wonderful, difficult to comprehend, and worthy of astonishment. The humility implicit in acknowledging God’s sovereignty counters human pride and dependence on one’s own plans. The verse echoes Psalms urging trust in God rather than in human effort or political power. The cultural backdrop includes temple worship and public thanksgiving; proclaiming God’s doing publicly invites communal reflection on God’s character and works.

Key theological themes include divine sovereignty, astonishment at God’s acts, and the call to worship based on God’s initiative. It reinforces the assurance that God orders history for his purposes, inviting believers to respond with faith and praise. This verse also aligns with the biblical pattern of naming God’s deeds as the primary source of hope—God acts, and humans respond with worship. It lays groundwork for a robust theocentric spirituality where human achievement is never the ultimate measure of worth—the praise belongs to the Lord.

How often do we attribute outcomes to luck or personal skill rather than God’s providence? Practice reframing: when something good happens, name it as God’s doing and thank Him publicly or in your circle. In moments of confusion, recall that God’s works may be beyond immediate comprehension, but faith includes trust that God is at work. Use this verse to foster generosity in praise: celebrate others’ breakthroughs as God’s doing in their lives, not merely personal luck. Let awe of God’s acts temper pride and cultivate humility.

Cross-References: Psalm 118:23; Psalm 77:14; Isaiah 26:3-4; Deuteronomy 32:4