Psalm 139:1-12 NKJV
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.
139 O Lord, You have searched me and known me.
2 You know my sitting down and my rising up;
You understand my thought afar off.
3 You comprehend my path and my lying down,
And are acquainted with all my ways.
4 For there is not a word on my tongue,
But behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.
5 You have hedged me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is high, I cannot attain it.
7 Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
9 If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
10 Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me.
11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on me,”
Even the night shall be light about me;
12 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You,
But the night shines as the day;
The darkness and the light are both alike to You.
According to Martin Luther’s “Summaries of the Psalms” (1531), Psalm 139 is a profound expression of gratitude and awe for the intimate care and sovereignty of God over every aspect of our lives. In this psalm, the psalmist acknowledges God’s wonderful provision and His reign over all His works and words. As believers, we resonate deeply with Martin Luther’s insights into the psalmist’s praise and thanksgiving.
The psalmist marvels at the comprehensive presence of God in every moment and facet of life. From the moment of conception in the mother’s womb to every step taken, every word spoken, and every thought conceived, God’s presence is assured. Luther beautifully captures the psalmist’s sentiment that every ability and power in humanity is a manifestation of God’s work and artistry.
In contrast to this profound acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty, Luther exposes the folly of the ungodly who seek to exalt themselves through their own efforts. He admonishes those who rely on their own works to attain piety and recognition, highlighting the absurdity of claiming credit for something they have not created themselves. Luther underscores the inherent dependence of humanity on God’s grace and power for every aspect of existence, from creation to salvation.
As we reflect on Psalm 139, let us join the psalmist in praising God for His intimate knowledge of us and His unwavering presence in our lives. May we guard against the temptation to rely on our own efforts for righteousness and instead trust wholly in God’s grace. Let us seek His guidance to walk in the true way that stands forever, acknowledging His sovereignty in all things and yielding our lives wholly to His will.
Let us pray: O Lord our God, order the course of this world in peace that your Church may joyfully serve you in all godly quietness; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.