Psalms 118:18

"I will not die, but live, and declare the LORD’s works."

Key Reflection

In first-century Israel, Psalms 118:18 was part of a broader tradition where the psalmist declares their own resilience and God's power to save. The phrase "I will not die, but live, and declare the LORD’s works" would have resonated with the hope for divine deliverance and survival in times of persecution or crisis. For the original audience, this verse encapsulated a promise that those who trusted in Yahweh would endure hardship and continue to praise Him, reflecting both personal and communal faith.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The Lord hath chastened me sore -Hebrew, “The Lord has chastened - has chastened me.” See the notes atPsalms 118:13. The psalmist had been greatly afflicted, and he now looked upon his affliction in the light of a fatherly chastisement or correction. It had been a severe trial, and he was not insensible to its severity, though he regarded it as designed for his own good. But he hath not given we over unto death -He interposed when I was in danger; he rescued me when I was on the verge of the grave. This is the close of the psalmist’s statement in regard to the divine dealings with him.

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