Psalm 139:6 – “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Psalm 139:6, David reflects on the depth of God’s knowledge and presence, which he has been describing in the preceding verses. After contemplating how God knows every thought, every word, and every movement, David is overwhelmed by the realization. He says that this knowledge is “too wonderful” and “too lofty” for him to grasp. This isn’t simply intellectual knowledge but a profound awareness of God’s intimate care and complete understanding of every aspect of our lives.
David isn’t just saying that God is smart or wise; he’s acknowledging that God’s understanding is beyond human comprehension. It’s too vast, too perfect, and too complete for our finite minds to fully understand. This verse expresses a sense of awe and humility in the face of God’s greatness.
Historical Context
David wrote this psalm during a time when people viewed the gods of surrounding cultures as distant and uninterested in human affairs. But the God of Israel is different—He knows His people intimately and cares deeply for them. For David, who experienced both the highs of victory and the lows of personal failure, understanding that God knew him completely and still loved him was a source of comfort and amazement.
In David’s time, kings, leaders, and prophets often sought knowledge through counsel or signs. But David acknowledges that God’s knowledge surpasses anything that humans can achieve. God’s understanding isn’t dependent on information gathered or advice given; it is innate and infinite.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s omniscience—His all-knowing nature. For believers, recognizing that God’s knowledge is beyond our understanding should bring us to a place of humility and trust. It means that even when we don’t understand why things happen the way they do, God’s perspective is perfect, and His plans are ultimately for our good.
David’s reaction to God’s knowledge is one of awe rather than fear. For believers, this verse encourages us to rest in the fact that God sees the bigger picture. We don’t have to figure everything out or have all the answers because God already does. His wisdom and knowledge cover every detail of our lives, even the ones we cannot see.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 139 is a beautifully written psalm, filled with poetic imagery and rich language. In verse 6, David uses phrases like “too wonderful” and “too lofty” to convey the idea that God’s knowledge is beyond reach. The language here is expressive and emotional, showing that David is moved deeply by the thought of God’s omniscience. The word “wonderful” in the Hebrew context doesn’t just mean pleasant but something awe-inspiring and miraculous—something that leaves a person speechless. The word “lofty” suggests height or elevation, indicating that God’s wisdom is far above human comprehension.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
- Romans 11:33 – “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out!”
- Job 42:2-3 – Job acknowledges, “Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.”
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 139:6 is a powerful reminder that God’s knowledge and wisdom are far greater than our own. In a world that often values self-reliance and the pursuit of knowledge, this verse calls us to trust in God’s perfect understanding instead. When we face difficult situations or unanswered questions, we can rest in the truth that God knows what we cannot see. This awareness should lead us to surrender our need for control and trust that God is guiding our steps, even when we don’t have all the answers.
This verse also teaches us to respond with humility when faced with the mysteries of life. We don’t need to have everything figured out because God already does. Recognizing our limitations while trusting in God’s infinite wisdom allows us to experience peace, even in times of uncertainty.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
The fact that God’s knowledge is beyond our understanding doesn’t mean He is distant or uncaring. On the contrary, His perfect knowledge is evidence of His deep love for us. God’s knowledge isn’t just about facts—it’s personal and relational. He knows us better than we know ourselves and still chooses to love us completely. This kind of love is beyond human comprehension. It reassures us that even when we don’t understand why things happen the way they do, we can trust that God is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus embodies the wisdom and knowledge of God in human form. In Colossians 2:3, Paul writes that in Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Throughout His ministry, Jesus demonstrated supernatural knowledge, such as when He knew the thoughts of the Pharisees (Luke 5:22) or when He spoke into the personal lives of those He encountered, like the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:17-19).
Jesus also invites us to trust in God’s wisdom rather than leaning on our own understanding. In Matthew 11:28-30, He calls those who are weary and burdened to come to Him, promising rest for their souls. Jesus knows our struggles, our questions, and our doubts, and He invites us to rest in His perfect knowledge and love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does it make you feel to know that God’s knowledge is beyond anything you can comprehend?
- Are there areas in your life where you are struggling to trust God’s wisdom? What might it look like to surrender those concerns to Him?
- How can Psalm 139:6 encourage you in times of uncertainty or when you don’t have all the answers?
- In what ways can you find peace in the truth that God’s thoughts and plans are higher than your own?
- How can Jesus’ example of perfect wisdom and understanding guide you in your relationship with God and others?
Reflecting on these questions can help you grow in trust, humility, and awe for God’s perfect wisdom. Knowing that God’s knowledge is far beyond our own can lead us to deeper faith and a more surrendered life.