Have you ever paused to reflect on the greatness of God? Psalm 135 is a powerful call to praise, reminding us of His mighty works, unwavering faithfulness, and sovereign rule over all creation. It challenges us to worship Him wholeheartedly and reject the empty idols of the world. Through these devotionals, we will explore key verses from Psalm 135, uncovering profound truths that strengthen our faith and deepen our love for God. Each section will guide you through Scripture, reflection, prayer, and application—helping you draw closer to Him. Let’s dive in and discover the joy of praising our great and good God!
Psalm 135 Devotionals: Praising God for His Greatness and Goodness
#1. A Devotional for Praising the Greatness of God (Psalm 135:1-3)
Scripture
“Praise the Lord. Praise the name of the Lord; praise him, you who serve the Lord, you who minister in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praise to his name, for that is pleasant.”
—Psalm 135:1-3
Reflection
In these opening verses of Psalm 135, the psalmist sets the stage for why we praise the Lord. First, we are reminded that God is worthy of all praise, not just because of what He has done, but because of who He is. He is inherently good, and His goodness compels us to worship. The phrase “Praise the name of the Lord” calls us to recognize the authority and power associated with God’s name—His very essence and character. By singing praises in His house, the psalmist invites all of us who serve God to offer praise as a natural response to His greatness.
Furthermore, this passage reminds us that praising God is not merely a ceremonial act but an expression of joy and fulfillment. It’s not just an obligation or a ritual; it is a delightful act that brings joy both to God and to the believer. The call to praise is universal—it is for all who serve God, whether in public worship or in personal devotion. Praising God draws us into closer relationship with Him, reinforcing His position as the ultimate sovereign and our source of goodness. It encourages us to take time in our busy lives to remember and acknowledge His greatness and goodness.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding us of the greatness of Your name and the goodness that is inherent in who You are. We praise You for being the Creator and Sustainer of all things, for Your constant faithfulness, and for the love You show us each day. Help us to understand the depth of Your goodness and to express our praise with sincerity and joy. May we never take for granted the privilege of serving You and worshiping in Your presence.
We ask for Your help in making praise an integral part of our lives, that we might be constant in our worship and always mindful of Your greatness. Let every moment of our lives be filled with the song of gratitude for Your unwavering love. Teach us to praise You not only in words but through our actions, attitudes, and hearts.
Thank You for being our great and good God.
Amen.
Application
To apply this passage, begin by setting aside time each day specifically for praising God. Whether it’s in the morning before you start your day or in the evening as a reflection, use that moment to lift up your voice in praise for who God is. Be intentional about recognizing His goodness, not just for what He has done but for His unchanging nature. Throughout your day, remember to praise Him with your actions—show kindness, exhibit patience, and live in a way that reflects His goodness.
Consider incorporating praise into your routine worship time as well. Whether in church or during personal devotions, start your time with a song or prayer that lifts God’s name high. This practice of praise not only strengthens your connection with God but also reminds you to focus on His greatness, especially during challenging times. Keep your heart attuned to His goodness, and allow your life to be a testimony of His greatness.
#2. A Devotional for Remembering God’s Mighty Works (Psalm 135:4-6)
Scripture
“For the Lord has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession. I know that the Lord is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods. The Lord does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths.”
—Psalm 135:4-6
Reflection
These verses in Psalm 135 remind us that God’s sovereignty extends far beyond our understanding. The psalmist emphasizes that God has chosen Israel to be His own treasured possession, underscoring His deep love and commitment. This divine election is a profound reminder of how God has worked through history to bring about His will. It’s not because of Israel’s merit but purely because of God’s grace. In the same way, God has chosen us to be His people, inviting us into a relationship with Him, despite our imperfections.
Moreover, the psalmist affirms that God is not just one deity among many, but the greatest of all. His supremacy is not confined to any one domain; it spans the heavens, the earth, and the seas. He is the one who commands all things, and everything is subject to His will. By remembering His mighty works, we are reminded of God’s absolute control over all creation, giving us confidence that nothing happens outside His sovereign plan. Reflecting on these truths strengthens our faith and reassures us that God’s power is always at work, even in the unseen.
Prayer
Lord,
We thank You for the powerful reminder of Your sovereignty and greatness in this passage. Thank You for choosing us as Your own and for working out Your perfect will in our lives and in the world around us. Help us to remember Your mighty works and trust that You are in control, no matter what challenges we may face. May we never forget the ways You’ve demonstrated Your love and power, and may that memory guide us in our faith journey.
Lord, help us to reflect on Your works and trust in Your plans for us. Give us eyes to see Your hand at work in both the big and small moments of life. Let our hearts rest in the knowledge that You are greater than all, and we are safe in Your care.
Thank You for Your faithfulness and mighty power.
Amen.
Application
To apply this devotional, take time to reflect on God’s mighty works in your life. Begin by recalling the specific ways He has moved in your past—perhaps through answered prayers, protection, or guidance. Writing these moments down can help you remember and build your faith. Whenever you face challenges, revisit these reminders to strengthen your trust in His power and sovereignty.
Also, make a habit of recounting God’s greatness regularly. Whether through personal devotion or in fellowship with others, share stories of God’s works and remind yourself and others of His faithfulness. This practice will deepen your relationship with God and allow you to experience His peace, knowing that He is always in control, working all things for His glory.
#3. A Devotional for Recognizing the Worthlessness of Idols (Psalm 135:15-18)
Scripture
“The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.”
—Psalm 135:15-18
Reflection
In this passage, the psalmist sharply contrasts the living God with the lifeless idols that many people worship. Idols, made of silver and gold, are the product of human craftsmanship, and they are utterly powerless. They lack the ability to speak, see, or hear—basic faculties that even the simplest creatures possess. These dead objects cannot offer guidance, comfort, or salvation. The psalmist is calling us to recognize the emptiness of idol worship, showing us that anything we place above God in our lives is ultimately powerless and hollow.
Furthermore, there is a dire warning in this passage. Those who create idols and those who worship them will become like them—lifeless and unresponsive. This comparison serves as a strong reminder of how idol worship can shape our hearts and minds. When we prioritize anything other than God, we risk becoming spiritually numb, unable to truly hear or see His will. The psalmist calls us back to the only true source of life—God Himself—who alone has the power to transform and guide us. Rejecting idols and returning to God is the only way to live a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We confess that we often allow the things of this world to take Your place in our hearts. Whether it’s possessions, achievements, or even relationships, we can sometimes elevate them above You. We ask for Your forgiveness and for the strength to recognize the emptiness of these idols. Help us to see that true life, purpose, and peace are only found in You.
Lord, we pray that You would help us to tear down the idols in our lives, replacing them with a deeper devotion to You. Give us the wisdom to discern what distracts us from Your truth and guide us back to a wholehearted worship of You alone. May our hearts be set on You, the one true God, and may we never settle for anything less.
Thank You for being the living God who gives life to all who trust in You.
Amen.
Application
To apply this devotional, take time to evaluate what might be competing with God for your attention and affection. Are there things in your life that you have placed above Him, whether it’s wealth, success, or even technology? Identify these areas and commit to refocusing your heart on God. One specific action you can take is to regularly set aside time for quiet reflection and prayer, asking God to reveal areas where idols might have taken root.
Another way to apply this truth is by consciously choosing to spend more time in activities that draw you closer to God—reading Scripture, serving others, or participating in worship. These actions help dismantle the hold that idols may have over your life, redirecting your focus back to the one true source of joy and fulfillment: God Himself.
#4. A Devotional for Celebrating God’s Sovereignty (Psalm 135:6-7)
Scripture
“The Lord does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths. He makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth; he sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses.”
—Psalm 135:6-7
Reflection
In these verses, the psalmist celebrates God’s absolute sovereignty over all creation. God’s will is supreme, and He accomplishes whatever pleases Him. There is no limit to His authority—He reigns over the heavens, the earth, the seas, and everything within them. His control is so far-reaching that even the natural elements obey His commands, from clouds forming to lightning flashing and wind blowing. This imagery paints a picture of a God who is not distant but actively engaged in the workings of the universe, orchestrating all things according to His will.
This passage challenges us to consider how we view God’s sovereignty in our own lives. Do we see God as a distant ruler, or do we trust in His active involvement in every aspect of our world? The truth that God does as He pleases should bring us comfort, for it means that no situation or circumstance is beyond His control. When we face challenges, we can find peace in knowing that God is sovereign over them and that He is working everything out for His good purposes. Acknowledging God’s sovereignty leads to deeper trust and worship, as we surrender to His will, knowing that He is in control.
Prayer
Lord,
We praise You for Your unmatched sovereignty over all creation. You are the Creator of everything, and all things are under Your command. Thank You for the reminder that nothing happens outside of Your will. We ask that You help us to trust You more fully, knowing that You are in control of every detail of our lives. May we surrender our worries and concerns to You, confident that Your purposes will prevail.
Lord, help us to align our hearts with Your will. Teach us to trust in Your timing and Your power, and remind us that You are always working for our good. May our lives reflect the peace that comes from knowing You are sovereign over all.
Thank You for being our sovereign King.
Amen.
Application
To apply this passage, spend time in prayer acknowledging God’s sovereignty over every part of your life. Whether it’s a specific challenge you’re facing or an ongoing concern, lay it before God and trust that He is working it out for His purposes. Remind yourself daily that God is in control of all things, and use that truth to bring peace to your heart in the midst of uncertainty.
Another way to apply God’s sovereignty is by looking for ways to live out your trust in His control. Instead of taking matters into your own hands, practice surrendering your plans and desires to God. Seek His guidance in every decision, trusting that He knows what is best. This will deepen your faith and strengthen your relationship with Him as you recognize His active role in your life.
#5. A Devotional for Trusting in God’s Faithfulness (Psalm 135:8-12)
Scripture
“He struck down the firstborn of Egypt, the firstborn of men and animals. He sent his signs and wonders into your midst, Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants. He struck down many nations and killed mighty kings— Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the kings of Canaan—and he gave their land as an inheritance, an inheritance to his people Israel.”
—Psalm 135:8-12
Reflection
These verses recount God’s faithful actions in history, specifically in the deliverance of His people from Egypt. The psalmist reminds the Israelites of how God demonstrated His faithfulness through powerful acts of judgment against their enemies. The plagues on Egypt and the defeat of kings like Sihon and Og were clear signs that God was with His people. This historical context shows that God is not only a promise keeper but also a deliverer who actively intervenes in the world. Through these acts, He revealed His faithfulness to Israel, ensuring they would never forget His power and commitment.
For us today, these stories are a powerful reminder that God remains faithful to His people. Just as He demonstrated His power and faithfulness in the past, He will continue to do so in our lives. We may not see miracles like the ones recorded in this passage, but we can trust that God is still working on our behalf. He is faithful to His promises, whether in our daily lives or in the larger picture of His eternal plan. Reflecting on these acts of faithfulness strengthens our trust in God and reminds us that His timing is always perfect.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness to Your people throughout history. We are in awe of the mighty acts You performed in delivering Israel from Egypt and giving them victory over their enemies. Thank You for Your faithfulness to us, both in the past and in the present. We pray that we would learn to trust You more deeply, knowing that You are always working on our behalf.
Lord, help us to remember Your faithfulness during times of uncertainty. When we face challenges or doubt Your promises, remind us of the ways You’ve already proven Yourself faithful. May we walk forward with confidence, knowing that You are the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Thank You for being our faithful God.
Amen.
Application
To apply this truth, take time to reflect on moments in your life where you’ve experienced God’s faithfulness. Write them down or share them with others, especially in times of doubt or difficulty. This will help you to remember and rely on God’s promises when challenges arise. You can also memorize Scripture passages about God’s faithfulness to carry them with you in difficult times, reminding yourself of His consistency and reliability.
Another way to apply this is by sharing God’s faithfulness with others. When you see someone struggling or doubting, remind them of God’s faithfulness to His people throughout history and in your own life. This not only encourages others but also strengthens your own faith, as you witness the impact of God’s steadfast love on those around you.
#6. A Devotional for Responding to God’s Goodness (Psalm 135:13)
Scripture
“Your name, Lord, endures forever, your renown, Lord, through all generations.”
—Psalm 135:13
Reflection
This verse emphasizes the eternal nature of God’s goodness and His name. Unlike earthly fame that fades away with time, the name of the Lord endures forever. His reputation and renown are not bound by time, and His goodness is reflected in every generation. The psalmist’s declaration serves as a reminder that God’s character and His goodness will never change. His name is not just remembered, it is revered, and it has always been worthy of praise. This passage calls us to recognize the eternal and unchanging goodness of God.
In response, we are called to honor God’s goodness by reflecting it in our own lives. When we focus on God’s enduring goodness, it should inspire in us a heart of gratitude and worship. Our response to His goodness is a life of praise, devotion, and obedience. As we meditate on His unchanging nature, we can find peace and assurance, knowing that the same God who was good yesterday is still good today and will be forever. This truth invites us into a deeper relationship with God, where our trust in His goodness is unwavering.
Prayer
Dear Lord,
Thank You for being the eternal source of goodness in our lives. Your name endures through every generation, and we praise You for Your unwavering faithfulness and love. Help us to remember Your goodness in every circumstance, and let it stir our hearts to respond with gratitude and worship. May our lives reflect Your goodness to those around us, showing the world that You are worthy of all praise.
Lord, we pray that we would always honor Your name in all that we do. Give us hearts that are filled with gratitude and praise for who You are. May our worship not just be in words but in actions that reflect Your goodness.
Thank You for being our eternal God.
Amen.
Application
To apply this truth, start each day by acknowledging God’s goodness in your life. Take a moment to reflect on the blessings and mercies you’ve received, even the small ones. This practice of thanksgiving will help keep your focus on God’s goodness and encourage a spirit of gratitude throughout the day.
Another way to respond is by actively sharing God’s goodness with others. When you recognize His goodness in your life, share your story with friends, family, or even strangers. This will not only encourage others but also strengthen your own faith as you speak of God’s enduring goodness.
#7. A Devotional for Declaring God’s Eternal Nature (Psalm 135:14)
Scripture
“For the Lord will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants.”
—Psalm 135:14
Reflection
In this verse, the psalmist highlights the eternal nature of God’s justice and compassion. The Lord’s actions are not bound by time—they are eternal and unwavering. God will vindicate His people, defending them against their enemies and righting wrongs, and He will have compassion on His servants, showing mercy and grace. This verse speaks to the eternal nature of God’s character—He is not only a just judge but also a compassionate Savior. His promises to His people endure forever, ensuring that He will act on our behalf, whether in times of trial or peace.
This promise of God’s eternal vindication and compassion provides comfort and assurance. When we face challenges or feel that justice is delayed, we can rest in the knowledge that God’s timing is perfect. He will not forget His people, and He will always act in our best interest. Reflecting on this truth should lead us to worship and trust God more deeply, knowing that His justice and mercy are unchanging. The God who is just today will be just tomorrow, and the God who is merciful will continue to show compassion for all eternity.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for Your promise to vindicate Your people and show compassion to Your servants. Thank You for Your eternal nature, which assures us that You will never fail to act justly and mercifully on our behalf. Help us to trust in Your perfect timing, knowing that You will always defend us and show us compassion. May we rest in the assurance that You are a just and compassionate God, who is always faithful to His promises.
Lord, we pray for patience and trust when we face times of trial, remembering that You will act for our good in Your perfect timing. Let us hold on to the hope that You will vindicate us and show mercy to those who trust in You.
Thank You for being our faithful and eternal God.
Amen.
Application
To apply this passage, make a conscious effort to remember that God’s justice and compassion are always at work, even when we don’t see immediate results. When facing injustice or difficulty, take comfort in the knowledge that God will vindicate you in His perfect timing. Trust that He is working behind the scenes for your good.
Another way to apply this truth is by being a reflection of God’s justice and compassion to others. As you experience His mercy, extend that same mercy to those around you, and be a witness to His love. In doing so, you participate in His eternal work of bringing justice and compassion to a broken world.
#8. A Devotional for Worshiping the Lord with Joy (Psalm 135:19-21)
Scripture
“Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord who minister in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; sing praise to his name, for that is pleasant. For the Lord has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession.”
—Psalm 135:19-21
Reflection
In these verses, the psalmist calls the people of Israel to worship the Lord with joy and gratitude. The call to praise is not just a command but a joyful response to the goodness of God. The Lord is worthy of praise because He is good, and His name is a source of delight. The Israelites are reminded that they are God’s chosen people, His treasured possession. This status should lead to an overflowing expression of praise, not out of obligation but as a natural response to God’s grace and goodness.
This joyful worship isn’t limited to the Israelites but extends to all who serve the Lord. For us today, the call to worship God with joy is just as relevant. We are invited to praise God not merely out of duty but with a heart full of joy for all that He has done for us. Recognizing God’s goodness and His faithfulness to His people leads to a worship that overflows with thankfulness. True worship is an expression of gratitude, and when we see ourselves as His chosen people, worship becomes a joy-filled response to God’s eternal love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for calling us to worship You with joy. We are overwhelmed by Your goodness and the privilege of being Your chosen people. Help us to cultivate hearts that rejoice in Your presence, knowing that You are good and worthy of all praise. May our worship not be a ritual, but a joyful expression of gratitude for all that You have done.
Lord, we ask that You help us to worship You with joy in every circumstance. When our hearts are heavy, remind us of Your goodness and faithfulness, so we may respond with joy and thanksgiving. Let our lives reflect the joy of being Your treasured possession.
Thank You for Your eternal love and grace.
Amen.
Application
To apply this passage, make worship a joyful part of your daily life. Begin and end each day by praising God for His goodness, even in the small things. Sing songs of praise, reflect on Scripture, or simply spend time in prayer, thanking God for His faithfulness.
Also, share your joy with others. When you gather with fellow believers, make worship a communal experience, lifting up God’s name together. Let your joy in the Lord be contagious, encouraging others to praise God with the same enthusiasm. This not only strengthens your own faith but also builds a community of joyful worshipers who glorify God together.
Conclusion
In Psalm 135, we are reminded of God’s greatness, His mighty works, and His unwavering faithfulness. Each devotional challenges us to reflect on His goodness, sovereignty, and eternal nature. As we embrace the call to praise Him, let our worship be a natural overflow of gratitude and joy. May we continually recognize His worth, trust in His faithfulness, and respond to His goodness with joyful hearts. Let these truths guide us in our daily lives, inspiring us to worship God not out of obligation but with genuine joy and thanksgiving for all He has done.