Psalm 98
Psalm 98 is a song that calls us to sing a “new song” to the Lord. This isn’t about learning new words or melodies; it’s about offering fresh praise from a heart overwhelmed by God’s greatness.
The psalm celebrates who God is, what He has done, and what He will do. Its words reflect the joy and gratitude of a people who recognize God’s hand in their lives.
But what is this new song about? Let’s review the themes of this “new song” and how they apply to us today.
1. A Song of Victory – Psalm 98:1
“O sing unto the Lord a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.”
We serve a victorious God! This verse declares that God has done marvelous things and has won the victory with His power and might. God doesn’t lose. He conquered sin, death, and the grave, and His victory is eternal.
As Christians, we are on the winning side. Sadly, many believers live as though they are defeated, allowing circumstances or fears to rob them of joy. But that’s a choice, not a reality. Jesus reminds us in John 16:33, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
When we remember who God is and what He has done, we can live in victory, knowing that our home is in heaven and our God will ultimately overthrow this fallen world.
2. A Song of Salvation – Psalm 98:2-3
“The Lord hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen.”
Salvation is the central theme of our faith. It’s the greatest gift God has given us—a home in heaven, bought and paid for by the blood of Jesus. Salvation isn’t something we earn; it’s entirely by God’s grace.
John 14:6 says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” No one is good enough or holy enough to save themselves. Only through Jesus can we be saved. This is the heart of the gospel, and it’s why we sing a song of salvation.
3. A Song of Righteousness – Psalm 98:2-3
“His righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen.”
God doesn’t just save us—He also gives us His righteousness. When we trust in Christ, God no longer sees us as sinners. Instead, He sees the righteousness of His Son.
How is this possible? 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains, “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” Through Jesus’ blood, our sins are washed away, and we stand clean before a holy God.
4. A Song of Mercy – Psalm 98:3
“He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.”
Mercy is God withholding the punishment we deserve. None of us are worthy of His forgiveness, yet He extends it to us because of His great love.
Lamentations 3:22 tells us, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.” God’s mercy should lead us to gratitude and humility. It should also remind us to extend mercy to others. Jesus said in Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”
5. A Song of Truth – Psalm 98:3
“He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.”
God’s truth is a firm foundation. Just as He guided Israel through the wilderness with a pillar of cloud and fire, He guides us today with His Word and His Spirit.
John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” God’s Word provides direction, comfort, and correction. It shows us how to live and points us to the Savior.
We are not left to wander aimlessly. God has given us His Spirit of truth to guide us, convict us, and empower us to live for Him.
Psalm 98 reminds us to sing a new song to the Lord—a song of victory, salvation, righteousness, mercy, and truth. Each of these themes points us back to God’s greatness and His love for us.
Let’s live each day in the victory He’s given us, rejoicing in His salvation, clothed in His righteousness, thankful for His mercy, and guided by His truth. When we do, our lives will truly be a song of praise to Him
