Old Testament
Psalms 115:1
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Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for your mercy and for your truth's sake.
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Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth’s sake.
What Psalms 115:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving glory to God rather than seeking personal recognition or honor. The psalmist acknowledges that any praise or glory should be directed to the Lord because of His mercy and truth. It reflects a humble attitude, recognizing that human achievements are insignificant compared to God's greatness. The repetition of 'not to us' highlights the desire to deflect any glory away from ourselves and instead focus on God's character and actions. The mention of God's mercy and truth serves as a reminder of His faithful and loving nature, which is the foundation for why He deserves all glory. This verse encourages believers to live in a way that honors God, acknowledging that all good things come from Him and that our lives should reflect His goodness and truth.
How to apply Psalms 115:1 to your life
In our daily lives, we should strive to give credit to God for our successes and blessings. This means recognizing His role in our achievements and expressing gratitude. By doing so, we cultivate a humble spirit and encourage others to see God's goodness and truth in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Keep studying Psalms 115:1
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 115:1 mean?
Psalms 115:1 emphasizes that glory should be given to God rather than to ourselves. It highlights the importance of humility and recognizing God's mercy and truth as the reasons for His deserving of praise.
What is the meaning of 'give glory' in Psalms 115:1?
In Psalms 115:1, 'give glory' means to honor and praise God for His character and actions. It reflects the idea that all recognition should be directed to God, acknowledging His mercy and truth.
How can I apply Psalms 115:1 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 115:1 by giving credit to God for your achievements and blessings. This practice fosters gratitude and humility, helping you to recognize God's role in your life.
Why does Psalms 115:1 repeat 'not to us'?
The repetition of 'not to us' in Psalms 115:1 emphasizes the desire to deflect glory away from ourselves and focus solely on God. It reinforces the message of humility and the importance of honoring God's character.
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