The first time we saw Psalm 148 in week 25, we focused on the breadth of praise to the King as all creation had come near. Today, we focus on a different statement in this Psalm, “Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded, and they were created.” Everything noted in this text praises God for the same reason: it exists because He spoke.

This Psalm places us in good company with angels, heavenly armies, celestial bodies, sea monsters, mountains, cattle, kings, princes, young, old, men and women, all together. No one gets a special seat. The kings stand in the same choir as the cattle and hailstorm, and the child stands right beside the judge; everyone on equal footing.

Ever since the first temptation in the Garden when the serpent told Eve “you will be like God”, the human heart has wanted to be the one exalted, the one to sit at the center and have the world arranged around us and our desires. Psalm 148 gently puts us back where we belong, reminds us of our place in this creation. We’re creatures, also made by His command, and verse 13 reminds us that “His name alone is exalted.”

However, it’s important to remember this isn’t a demotion. It’s more like a homecoming. In Eden, Adam and Eve weren’t diminished by being creatures; they flourished as image-bearers who walked with God and cared for His world. Pride promised more and left us with a colossal mess. When we once again take our place in creation’s choir, we discover the freedom of not having to be God. We get to finally and completely be who were were made to be.

At the close of the Psalm, we see that God “has raised up a horn for his people”. This is a picture of strength and salvation, and those “close to Him” are drawn into praise. Zechariah would later use that same picture for Jesus. In Him, the One through whom all things were created took on flesh and became a creature among creatures so our proud wandering hearts could be brought near and restored in true worship.

Do you sometimes notice your heart wanting to be at the center of things, admired or in control? What would it look like for you to take your place among all creation and simply praise the One who made you?

Father, You commanded, and everything was created, including me. Forgive me for the pride that wants to be at the center and the fear that grasps for control. Humble my heart and teach me the freedom of being Your creature. Thank You for drawing near to me in Jesus. Let my life join the praise of heaven and earth, because Your name alone is exalted. Amen.

“One place my heart needs to step out of the center and simply praise God is __________________.”