King James Version
What Does Psalms 68:28 Mean?
“Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.”
Psalms 68:28 · KJV
Context
26
Bless ye God in the congregations, even the Lord, from the fountain of Israel. from: or, ye that are of the fountain of Israel
27
There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council, the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali. and their: or, with their company
28
Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.
29
Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.
30
Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people that delight in war. the company: or, the beasts of the reeds scatter: or, he scattereth
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe prayer 'Thy God hath commanded thy strength' acknowledges that all power comes from divine command, not human ability. 'Strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us' recognizes God as both initiator and sustainer of His work. Believers cannot maintain what God begins—ongoing divine power is necessary. This anticipates Paul's teaching that God both begins and completes His work in believers (Philippians 1:6).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Israel's existence and victories depended entirely on God's power, not their military might. Recognizing this dependence prevented prideful self-reliance and maintained humble trust in God's provision.
Reflection Questions
- What spiritual work has God begun in you that requires His ongoing strength to complete?
- How do you distinguish between self-effort and Spirit-empowered service?
- In what areas are you tempted to rely on human strength rather than God's commanded power?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsאֱלֹהִ֑ים2 of 8
“O God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
עֻ֫זֶּ֥ךָ3 of 8
“thy strength”
H5797strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)
אֱלֹהִ֑ים5 of 8
“O God”
H430gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
פָּעַ֥לְתָּ7 of 8
“thou hast wrought”
H6466to do or make (systematically and habitually), especially to practise
לָּֽנוּ׃8 of 8
H0Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 68:28 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 68:28 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge