Psalm 146

The last five psalms form a fitting conclusion to the Psalter. Each one is a Hymn of Praise which begins and ends with the word “Hallelujah,” translated “Praise the LORD!” In this one, it appears the Cantor call upon the congregation to praise the LORD to which the individual worshipers respond with a personal offering, “Praise the LORD O my soul” (verse 1).

This psalm contrasts trust in human beings with trust in the LORD.

“Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish” (Psalm 146.3–4).

Though the psalm begins with “Put not your trust in princes,” it is evident that the focus is not on a supreme human ruler but on the fact that he is just a mere man (note the parallel to ‘princes’ is ‘a son of man’). Another human is not a firm source of confidence since, like all others, he too will die and his plans not come to fruition.

On the other hand, the LORD alone is worthy of trust:

• He is the creator of all things (v 6)
• He metes out justice on earth (v 7)
• He supplies food to the poor and hungry (v 7)
• When one who has been wrongly imprisoned is set free, it is the LORD’s doing (v 7).
• When a blind person is made well, it is only a result of the LORD’s will (v 8)
• When a person has been cast down by troubles or oppression, only the LORD can make him stand erect (v 8)
• For example, the LORD takes the side of the widow and fatherless when they are wronged (v 9)
• But he stands against the wicked person in his attempt to gain unjustly (v 9)
• In other words, “the LORD reigns forever…to all generations!” (v 10).

This psalm is a reminder that only the LORD is a firm source of confidence in life. We are always tempted to put our trust in other people—we seek life and meaning in relationships and in employers. Though these are important to us, true life and the hope of justice can never be found in these things—we must always look to God alone for the significance and security we long for.