Psalm 138 is a song of gratitude and praise to God for his wonders and faithfulness to the psalmist. In verse 6, the psalmist declares: “For though the LORD is high, he looks upon the humble; but the proud he knows from afar.” This verse underscores the importance of humility before God and his grace toward the humble.
Humility is a fundamental virtue in the life of a Christian. It is the basis for a healthy relationship with God and with others. Those who are humble recognize their dependence on God and his unconditional love and submit to his will. Jesus Christ taught that “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). This means that those who consider themselves in need of God and seek His will above all else are blessed by God and will receive the reward of eternal life.
God does not look at appearances or social status, but at the humble and repentant heart. The psalmist recognizes this when he asserts that although God is exalted, he has regard for the lowly. This means that God does not care about an individual’s social position or earthly power, but rather his heart attitude. Humility is the key to closeness to God and receiving grace from him.
In verse 7, the psalmist continues: “Even though I walk in the midst of anguish, you revive me; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies; your right hand saves me.” This verse demonstrates God’s grace at work in the psalmist’s life. Even in the midst of difficulties and tribulations, God is present and willing to help. He reaches out to save and revive those who seek his help.
God’s grace is a divine gift that we don’t deserve, but that is given freely by his love. It is the grace that allows us to live in peace with God and with others, despite our faults and limitations. It is grace that saves us and makes us new creatures in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). And it is humility that leads us to recognize our need of his grace.
Therefore, humility and God’s grace go together in the believer’s life. Those who are humble are graced by God and receive his help and salvation. May we follow the example of the psalmist and seek humility before God, recognizing his grace in our lives and living in gratitude and praise for his wonders.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
595. How is forgiveness possible?
466. Why must human life be respected?
156. In what way is the Church the body of Christ?
94. What is the meaning of the expression “conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit…”?
481. What is peace in this world?
332. Who can confer this sacrament?
541. From whom did Jesus learn how to pray?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
How did Nehemiah deal with the division between rich and poor Jews in Nehemiah 5?
What is the message of Isaiah’s heavenly vision of the Lord’s glory revealed in Isaiah 40:1-31?
What does 1 John 2:29 teach us about God’s holiness and justice?
