Psalms 136:3
O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Psalms 136:3: "O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever."
This verse elevates the language of sovereignty even further by addressing “the Lord of lords.” In the ancient world, lords or masters could be many, but one Lord of lords stands above them all. The psalmist grounds gratitude in the recognition that the supreme ruler’s mercy is constant. The repeated refrain again anchors memory in God’s enduring mercy. The inclusion of “Lord of lords” would resonate with Israel’s covenant theology—God who governs, judges, and saves, not a distant abstraction but a relational sovereign who acts for his people. The verse fits within the broader aim of Psalm 136 to provoke gratitude for God’s steadfast love through epic recitations of his mercies across generations and history.
Theologically, the “Lord of lords” language highlights God’s ultimate authority and the proper orientation of worship. It anchors hope in a transcendent, gracious ruler whose mercy endures forever, even when human authorities fail. It also underscores the integrity of God’s character: sovereignty is paired with mercy, not tyranny. This pairing strengthens a robust doctrine of God’s governance and care for his people.
In contemporary life, the “Lord of lords” can reshape how you view power structures—governments, corporations, family dynamics. When you feel overwhelmed by leadership or systems, re-center on the God who rules with mercy. Practical steps: pray for leaders with a thirst for justice and compassion; practice generosity and patience in your sphere of influence; and resist cynicism by choosing hopeful engagement grounded in God’s mercy. Let this perspective guide your response to injustice or conflict, aiming to reflect God’s sovereignty with mercy in action.
Cross-References: Psalm 10:16; Psalm 24:8-10; Daniel 4:34-35; Revelation 17:14; 1 Timothy 6:15.