Psalms 138:8
The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.
Psalms 138:8
Verse 8 closes the chapter with a conviction of God’s ongoing care: “The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.” The psalmist expresses assurance that God will bring to completion what concerns him in the life of the believer. The phrase “perfect” can mean complete, complete in growth, or bring to fruition. God’s mercy enduring forever reinforces the constancy of God’s love and faithfulness, even as life’s struggles change. The plea “forsake not the works of thine own hands” affirms that God’s relationship with his people is a creative, purposeful work—God is at work in them and through them.
Theologically, this verse emphasizes divine perseverance and providence. It presents a holistic view of salvation as ongoing—from initial call to final completion. The repetition of mercy enduring forever anchors God’s unchanging character. The idea that God will not abandon the works of his hands reflects the assurance of divine election and sanctification—a reminder that believers are in the care of a faithful Creator who continues his transformative work. It resonates with Paul’s language of God completing the good work he begun (Philippians 1:6) and with the broader biblical motif of perseverance.
In practical terms, this verse offers comfort when you feel unfinished or imperfect. It invites you to trust God’s ongoing work in your life: in your growth, decisions, and relationships, God is at work. It encourages steadfastness in prayer and patience as God completes his purposes. This can manifest in daily routines: keep moving forward with small, faithful steps, even when results aren’t immediate. It can also encourage gratitude for progress, no matter how gradual, and humility in recognizing that growth comes from God’s sustaining mercy. Finally, this verse invites believers to entrust their work, dreams, and vocations to God’s careful hands, knowing he will perfect what concerns them according to his good purpose.
Cross-References: Philippians 1:6; Romans 8:28-30; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18; Psalm 31:5; Hebrews 12:2