Psalms 138:5 Meaning: Why Kings Sing of God's Ways
Yes, they will sing of the ways of Yahweh, for Yahweh’s glory is great!
Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord: for great is the glory of the Lord.
Yea, they shall sing of the ways of Jehovah; For great is the glory of Jehovah.
And they sing in the ways of Jehovah, For great is the honour of Jehovah.
And they shall sing in the ways of Jehovah, for great is the glory of Jehovah.
Meaning in one sentence
Psalm 138:5 meaning: Why do kings sing of Yahweh's ways? This devotional explores how God's glory draws praise from all nations.
Context
David wrote Psalm 138 as a personal thanksgiving. He had called out to God in trouble, and God answered him, strengthening his soul. From that experience of grace, David looks outward. He envisions something bigger: all the kings of the earth hearing God’s words and joining in praise. Verse 5 sits at the heart of that vision. The kings do not just admire God from a distance; they sing of His ways. The word ways points to how God acts, His faithfulness, His providence, His salvation. And the reason for their singing is simple: God’s glory is great. It is visible, weighty, and impossible to ignore.
Key Words
Three Hebrew words carry the weight of this verse. First, the verb shir (to sing). It means more than making music; it is an open, joyful declaration. When people see what God has done, they cannot stay silent. Singing is the natural response to unmistakable goodness.
Next, derekh (way). This word covers a road, a journey, and a manner of life. Here it is plural: the ways of Yahweh. Not just one path but His whole pattern, how He leads, provides, rescues, and keeps promises. The kings are not singing about abstract ideas; they are celebrating concrete acts of God in history.
Finally, kavod (glory). Its root meaning is weight or heaviness. When the Bible says God’s glory is great, it means His presence is substantial, full of worth and majesty. The kings do not simply admit God is impressive; they are overwhelmed by the reality of who He is. All three words together paint a picture: when God’s ways come into view, His weighty glory moves people to joyful praise.
How Christians Read This Verse
Christians across traditions have read this verse as a promise of worldwide worship. Many see the kings as literal rulers bowing before God, fulfilling Old Testament hopes that all nations would stream to Zion. Others understand the kings as a picture of everyone in authority or influence, showing that no human rank is above the reach of God’s glory. Some commentators, like Albert Barnes, emphasize that kings and commoners meet on the same level before God, both as people and sinners, and that shared humility deepens praise. Anglicans and Reformed writers often highlight the phrase 'ways of the Lord' as God’s providential dealings, while Wesleyan interpreters stress the joy that comes when even the powerful discover God’s character. The exact timing of this singing remains open, but all agree: God’s glory is great enough to draw every tongue.
A common misunderstanding
Living This Out
This week, you do not need a crown to sing of God’s ways. Look for one specific way God has acted in your life recently. It might be a quiet answer to prayer, a moment of unexpected peace, or a provision you did not ask for. Let that one way become your song. You do not have to sing out loud if that is not natural. You can write it down, speak it to a friend, or hold it in your heart as a quiet thank You. The kings in this verse heard God’s words and responded. You have heard them too. Let God’s glory, not your circumstances, decide your song today.
Main takeaway: God’s glory is so great that it draws joyful praise from every nation, and His ways are always worthy of our song.
For Families
For ages 5, 8
Kings are very important people, but even kings sing about God because He is so great. When you see how God helps you, you can sing too, even if it is just a happy thank You in your heart.
For ages 9, 12
This verse says that powerful leaders someday will sing about God’s ways, meaning how He works and takes care of people. Think about a time God helped you or your family. That is one of His ways. When you notice it, you can celebrate it. You do not have to be a king to tell someone what God has done. Your words can be a song of praise.
Questions People Ask
What does 'the ways of Yahweh' mean in Psalm 138:5?
It refers to God's actions and methods in guiding His people, His faithfulness, providence, salvation, and keeping of promises. The Hebrew word derekh can mean a road, a journey, or a manner of life. Here it is plural, describing God's entire pattern of dealing with His people throughout history.
Who are 'they' in 'they will sing'?
The previous verse (Psalm 138:4) says 'all the kings of the earth' will give thanks to Yahweh when they hear the words of His mouth. So 'they' refers to those kings. It envisions world leaders joining in praise, a picture of all nations recognizing God's glory.
Is this verse a prophecy about the future?
Many Christians read it as prophetic, pointing to a time when people of every rank and nation will worship God together. Some see it fulfilled partially as the gospel spreads, while others look forward to its full meaning when every knee bows. Both views agree the verse shows God's ultimate purpose to gather praise from all peoples.
How is God's glory 'great'?
The Hebrew word for glory (kavod) carries the sense of weight, honor, and worth. When the verse says 'great is the glory of the Lord,' it means God's majestic presence and character are overwhelmingly substantial. His glory is not a small thing, it fills the earth and demands a response of praise.
For pastors & researchers
Hebrew interlinear, 8 commentaries & word study