Psalm 98 – A Joyful Song of Praise
Psalm 98 is a psalm of celebration. It calls all people and all creation to rejoice because of God’s wonderful works, His salvation, and His righteous judgment. It looks back to what God has done and forward to the day when He will judge the world in justice.
Verses 1–3 – Sing a New Song
“O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things…”
The psalm begins by calling God’s people to sing a new song. A new song is a fresh expression of praise for God’s new acts of mercy and power. God’s “right hand” and “holy arm” speak of His strength and ability to save.
God’s salvation is not hidden. He has revealed His righteousness before the nations. Israel experienced this through God’s deliverance, but these verses also point forward to Jesus Christ, through whom God’s salvation is offered to the whole world.
Lesson: Every fresh experience of God’s grace should produce fresh praise.
Verses 4–6 – Let Everyone Rejoice
The invitation widens from Israel to the whole earth.
People are called to:
- Make a joyful noise.
- Sing praises.
- Use harps and musical instruments.
- Blow trumpets before the King.
Worship in the Bible is joyful, reverent, and centred on God. The focus is not on entertainment but on honouring the Lord.
Lesson: Worship should be filled with joy because God reigns.
Verses 7–9 – Even Creation Rejoices
The sea, rivers, and hills are pictured as praising God.
This poetic language reminds us that all creation belongs to its Creator. Nature itself longs for the day when God will restore everything under His perfect rule (see Romans 8:19–22).
The reason for this universal praise is clear:
“For he cometh to judge the earth.”
God’s judgment is good news for those who trust Him because He judges with:
- Righteousness
- Fairness
- Truth
Unlike human judges, God’s judgments are always perfect.
Lesson: The return of Christ will bring justice, righteousness, and peace to the whole earth.
Main Themes of Psalm 98
- Praise God for His marvellous works.
- Celebrate God’s salvation.
- Worship with joyful hearts.
- God’s salvation is for all nations.
- Creation itself praises its Creator.
- Look forward to Christ’s righteous reign.
Psalm 98 and Jesus Christ
Christians see Psalm 98 ultimately fulfilled in Jesus:
- He is God’s salvation revealed to the world.
- He is the King who deserves all praise.
- He will return to judge the earth in righteousness.
- His kingdom will be marked by justice and peace.
Practical Application
Ask yourself:
- Do I still sing a “new song,” or has my worship become routine?
- Am I thankful for God’s salvation every day?
- Does my life reflect the joy of knowing Christ?
- Am I looking forward to Christ’s return with hope?
Psalm 98 reminds us that our praise should not be occasional but continual. Because God has saved us, reigns over us, and will one day make all things right, every believer has reason to rejoice.
Key verse:
“O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things.” — Psalm 98:1 (
GOD IS A GOOD GOD
GOD KNOWS, GOD LOVES, GOD CARES
Written for Georges Web Ministries.com
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27th July 2026