What does Psalms 103:18 mean?

To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. Psalms 103:18

Explanation

Psalm 103:18 focuses on the theme of covenant faithfulness. It highlights the blessing and favor bestowed on those who not only understand the covenant made with God but actively engage in living out its terms – keeping his commandments. More than mere acknowledgment, this verse underscores the importance of remembering God’s commandments and intentionally putting them into practice as a measure of loyalty and devotion to the covenant relationship with God.

Historical Context

Psalm 103 is attributed to King David and is considered a psalm of thanksgiving, adoration, and reflection on the character and acts of God. The historical context suggests that this psalm was composed during the time of the united monarchy in Israel, a period when the Israelites were keenly aware of their covenant relationship with Yahweh. This covenant, initially established with Abraham and later reaffirmed with Moses at Sinai, formed the basis of Israel’s law, society, and relationship with God.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Psalm 103:18 underscores God’s continued faithfulness to those in covenant with Him. In the Old Testament, keeping the covenant involved moral and ritual observance of the law given to Moses. This remembrance and adherence were crucial for maintaining a right relationship with God.

In Christian theology, this verse can be interpreted as pointing to the New Covenant, believed to be inaugurated by Jesus Christ. Here, the focus shifts from strict legal adherence to a law to a more intimate relation characterized by love, grace, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit enabling believers to live out God’s commandments.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Psalm 103:18 include the continuous reflection on and adherence to one’s relationship with God, whether this is seen as a relationship governed by the law (as in Judaism) or by grace through faith (as in Christianity). Remembering and obeying God’s commandments can translate into leading a life of integrity, moral uprightness, service to others, and loyalty to God’s Word.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 7:9: “Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;”
• John 14:15: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
• James 1:25: “But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.”

Language Study

The Hebrew word for “keep” is “שָׁמַר” (shamar), which implies guarding, observing, or giving heed. The term for “covenant” is “בְּרִית” (berit), which refers to a binding agreement or treaty between two parties. The word “remember” translates from “זָכַר” (zakar), indicating not just cognitive recollection but also a calling to mind that leads to action. The Hebrew term for “commandments” is “מִצְוַת” (mitsvah), typically referring to the laws or ordinances given by God which require obedience.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, covenants, and law codes played vital roles, such as the Code of Hammurabi in Babylon. Such codes often had religious significance, delineating the relationship between the divine and human realms. Similarly, in Judaism, the Torah represents both the law and a covenantal framework with God.

Scientific Perspectives

There isn’t a direct scientific perspective on this verse. However, modern psychology recognizes the benefits of ritual and routine in forming habit and character, which could loosely relate to the practice of remembering and doing as a way to reinforce one’s identity and values, as encouraged in this verse.

Commentaries

Reputable Biblical commentaries elaborate on Psalm 103:18, noting how this verse serves as an integral component of the Psalm, encapsulating the theme of God’s mercy being experienced by those who are in a covenant relationship with Him. Matthew Henry’s Commentary reflects on the continuity of this mercy through generations for those who are faithful. The Pulpit Commentary emphasizes the generational aspect as well, noting the enduring nature of God’s covenant with those who obey. Both commentaries observe that there is a conditional aspect to the blessings promised in the verse—they are guaranteed for those who are committed to upholding their end of the covenant agreement.