Psalms – Chapter 18

Old Testament15 Verses

1Unto the end. A Psalm for David.

2The heavens shew forth the glory of God, and the firmament declareth the work of his hands.

3Day to day uttereth speech, and night to night sheweth knowledge.

4There are no speeches nor languages, where their voices are not heard.

5Their sound hath gone forth into all the earth: and their words unto the ends of the world.

6He hath set his tabernacle in the sun: and he as a bridegroom coming out of his bridechamber, Hath rejoiced as a giant to run the way:

7His going out is from the end of heaven, And his circuit even to the end thereof: and there is no one that can hide himself from his heat.

8The law of the Lord is unspotted, converting souls: the testimony of the Lord is faithful, giving wisdom to little ones.

9The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts: the commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.

10The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring for ever and ever: the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.

11More to be desired than gold and many precious stones: and sweeter than honey and the honeycomb.

12For thy servant keepeth them, and in keeping them there is a great reward.

13Who can understand sins? from my secret ones cleanse me, O Lord:

14And from those of others spare thy servant. If they shall have no dominion over me, then shall I be without spot: and I shall be cleansed from the greatest sin.

15And the words of my mouth shall be such as may please: and the meditation of my heart always in thy sight. O Lord, my helper and my Redeemer.

Reflection for Today

The message of Psalms Chapter 18 unfolds within the broader narrative of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. Catholic theology, drawing on the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589), sees in this chapter a call to deeper faith. The principle that God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him guides our interpretation.

The Church Fathers, including St. Augustine, St. Jerome, and St. John Chrysostom, devoted themselves to explaining Scripture for the faithful. Their insights, preserved in the Church's Tradition, continue to illuminate our reading. The Catechism reminds us that "the Church has always venerated the divine Scriptures as she venerated the Body of the Lord" (CIC 103).

As you engage with this chapter, bring your questions, struggles, and hopes to the text. God's Word addresses the whole person—mind, heart, and will. Through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, we receive the grace to live what we read. May this chapter strengthen your faith and deepen your love for Christ and His Church.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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