Psalm 115 Explained
“Not unto us, but unto Thy Name give glory”
Psalm 115 teaches us that God alone deserves all honour, praise and trust. It contrasts the living God with lifeless idols and reminds God’s people that the Lord remembers and blesses everyone who trusts Him.
1. Give all the glory to God — verses 1–2
“Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory.”
The writer does not seek praise for himself. Every victory, blessing and answered prayer comes from God’s mercy and faithfulness. As Christians, we must be careful not to take credit for what the Lord has done.
When unbelievers ask, “Where is their God?” we can answer with confidence: our God is in heaven, and He remains in complete control.
2. The foolishness of idols — verses 3–8
The gods worshipped by the surrounding nations were made from silver and gold by human hands. They had mouths but could not speak, eyes but could not see, ears but could not hear and feet but could not walk.
An idol may have the appearance of power, but it has no life. Those who trust in idols eventually become spiritually like them—unable to see God’s truth, hear His voice or walk in His ways.
Modern idols are not always statues. Money, possessions, popularity, power and even ourselves can become idols when they take God’s rightful place in our hearts.
3. Trust in the Lord — verses 9–11
Three groups are called to trust God:
- The people of Israel
- The priests—the house of Aaron
- Everyone who fears the Lord
The same promise is given to them all:
“He is their help and their shield.”
People may disappoint us, wealth may disappear and human institutions may fail. However, the Lord remains faithful. He helps His people in their weakness and shields them in times of danger.
4. The Lord remembers and blesses — verses 12–15
“The LORD hath been mindful of us: he will bless us.”
What a comforting truth: God has not forgotten His people. He sees their prayers, struggles, faithfulness and tears. He promises to bless those who fear Him, both small and great. No faithful believer is too unimportant to be noticed by God.
His blessings are not always riches or an easy life. They may come as peace, strength, wisdom, protection and spiritual growth.
5. Live to praise the Lord — verses 16–18
God has given the earth to humanity as a place in which to live, serve Him and bring glory to His name. Therefore, we should not waste the life He has given us.
The psalm ends with a firm declaration:
“But we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore. Praise the LORD.”
The main message
Psalm 115 asks us where we have placed our trust. Lifeless idols cannot hear, answer, save or protect us. The living God can.
We must give God all the glory, trust Him as our help and shield, remember that He has not forgotten us and use our lives to praise Him.
Not unto us, O Lord, but unto Your name be all the glory.
For Georges Web Ministries
13th September 2026
God is a good God
God Knows , God Loves. God cares