Psalm 150:6 – “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse serves as the final declaration of the entire Book of Psalms, calling on every living thing to praise God. The phrase “everything that has breath” is a sweeping invitation to all creation—humans, animals, and anything that breathes—to join in worship. The focus is on life itself; as long as there is breath in your lungs, you are invited to praise God. It highlights that praising God is not just for a select group of people or reserved for special occasions—it’s for everyone, everywhere, and at all times. The repetition of “Praise the Lord” at the end emphasizes the importance of this call to worship.
Historical Context
The Book of Psalms was a collection of songs and prayers used by the people of Israel in worship. Psalm 150 is the last Psalm, bringing the book to a grand conclusion with a universal call to worship. Historically, these Psalms would have been used in public gatherings at the temple, during festivals, and in times of celebration. The call for “everything that has breath” to praise God reflects the belief that all of creation exists to glorify its Creator. In ancient Israel, praising God was not only a personal act but also a communal one, where the entire community, and even all living things, were invited to join in lifting their voices to God.
Theological Implications
This verse carries a profound theological message: that all of life is meant to glorify God. It emphasizes that worship is the natural response to being alive. As creatures made by God, our purpose is to praise Him. Theologically, it also suggests that praising God is not just something we do—it’s an expression of who we are. By calling on “everything that has breath” to praise the Lord, the Psalmist is affirming that God’s greatness is so vast that every living thing should acknowledge it. This also shows that God’s love and care extend to all creation, not just to humanity.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 150:6 uses simple yet powerful language to close out the Book of Psalms. The repetition of “Praise the Lord” serves as both a command and an invitation, emphasizing the importance of worship. The use of the word “breath” connects to the very essence of life, reminding readers that as long as we are alive, our purpose is to praise God. The structure of this final verse ties together the entire theme of the Psalms, which is about praising God in all circumstances. It’s an inclusive, universal call to worship that leaves no one out.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 2:7 – “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.”
- Psalm 103:1 – “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.”
- Isaiah 42:10 – “Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth.”
- Revelation 5:13 – “Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!’”
These cross-references show that from the beginning of creation to the end of time, the purpose of life is to praise God. All creatures, whether in heaven or on earth, are called to acknowledge God’s greatness.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 150:6 is a reminder that our very existence is an opportunity to worship God. It calls us to use our breath—not just for speaking or singing, but for praising our Creator. This verse challenges us to see every day as a gift and an opportunity to glorify God with our words, actions, and attitudes. Whether in good times or bad, as long as we have breath, we are called to praise the Lord. This call to worship is not just for Sunday mornings or specific religious gatherings—it’s meant to be a continuous part of our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by showing that He delights in the praise of all His creation. God is not distant or uninterested; He desires a relationship with every living being. The fact that God invites “everything that has breath” to praise Him shows His inclusive and welcoming nature. God’s love is evident in the way He created us with the ability to praise Him, and He finds joy in our expressions of love and gratitude. This verse emphasizes that God values each of us and our praises, no matter how simple they may be.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus came to restore the broken relationship between God and humanity, making it possible for us to worship God in spirit and in truth. In John 4:23, Jesus said that the Father seeks true worshipers who will worship Him in spirit and truth. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, we are given the ultimate reason to praise God—He has saved us and given us eternal life. In Philippians 2:10-11, we are told that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. This aligns with Psalm 150:6, where every living thing is called to praise God. Jesus is the fulfillment of the call to worship, showing that all of creation finds its true purpose in glorifying God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you make praising God a daily part of your life?
- What are some ways you can use your breath—not just your words—to glorify God?
- In what areas of your life do you need to be more intentional about expressing praise to God?
- How does knowing that God invites all of creation to worship Him change the way you see your role in God’s world?
- How can the example of Jesus inspire you to live a life filled with praise, even in difficult circumstances?
Psalm 150:6 is a powerful call for all of creation to recognize the greatness of God. It challenges us to live lives that are filled with praise, using every breath we have to honor our Creator. As followers of Christ, we are invited to join in this eternal chorus of praise, knowing that God delights in the worship of His people.