Psalms 149:6-9

[6] Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, and a twoedged sword in their hand; [7] To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people; [8] To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; [9] To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.

What is the context of Psalms 149:6-9?

What does Psalms 149:6-9 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

The Lord"s will for Israel was that she overcome and defeat God"s enemies on the earth. This would establish righteousness in the world and exalt the God of Israel as the sovereign Lord (cf. Deuteronomy 32:1-6; Deuteronomy 32:23; Joshua 1:1-8). Israel praised and glorified God, not just in word but also in deed, by carrying out His will for her (cf. Nehemiah 4:9; Nehemiah 4:16-23). These verses may grate on the sensibilities of Christians who have a different way of obeying God today. Nevertheless, when the psalmist composed this hymn, Israel"s destruction of wicked neighbors was her way of expressing obedience to God.

This psalm is a helpful reminder, to us who are believers, that praising God does not just involve praising Him with our lips. It must also include obeying Him with our lives.