What would it look like if everything—sun, stars, animals, and people—joined together to worship YHWH?
Psalm 148 calls all creation to give praise to the LORD. It is a powerful reminder that worship is not just the act of a few devoted individuals, but the rightful response of everything that God has made. From the heights of heaven to the depths of the earth, from angels to sea creatures, from rulers to children—all are summoned to glorify the One who created and sustains all things.
Key Verse:
“Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above earth and heaven.”
—Psalm 148:13 (NASB)
Background Context:
Psalm 148 is part of the final crescendo of the Book of Psalms—five psalms (146–150) that all begin and end with “Praise the LORD” (Hallelujah). This psalm is unique in its universal call to worship: heavenly beings, celestial bodies, weather patterns, mountains, animals, and all people. The psalmist brings all things under one banner of praise to the Creator.
It reminds us that the LORD’s glory is not confined to temples, rituals, or specific places. His name alone is exalted above everything, and every created being has reason to praise Him.
(Continued and expanded after scripture.)
The Whole Creation Invoked to Praise the LORD.
1Praise the LORD!
Praise the LORD from the heavens;
Praise Him in the heights!
2Praise Him, all His angels;
Praise Him, all His hosts!
3Praise Him, sun and moon;
Praise Him, all stars of light!
4Praise Him, highest heavens,
And the waters that are above the heavens!
5Let them praise the name of the LORD,
For He commanded and they were created.
6He has also established them forever and ever;
He has made a decree which will not pass away.
7Praise the LORD from the earth,
Sea monsters and all deeps;
8Fire and hail, snow and clouds;
Stormy wind, fulfilling His word;
9Mountains and all hills;
Fruit trees and all cedars;
10Beasts and all cattle;
Creeping things and winged fowl;
11Kings of the earth and all peoples;
Princes and all judges of the earth;
12Both young men and virgins;
Old men and children.
13Let them praise the name of the LORD,
For His name alone is exalted;
His glory is above earth and heaven.
14And He has lifted up a horn for His people,
Praise for all His godly ones;
Even for the sons of Israel, a people near to Him.
Praise the LORD!
Reflection on Psalm 148
Heaven and Earth Alike Are Called to Praise
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The psalm begins with a call to the heavens—angels, sun, moon, stars, skies, and waters above the skies (vv.1–6).
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Then it shifts to the earth—sea creatures, fire, hail, snow, wind, mountains, trees, beasts, cattle, insects, and birds (vv.7–10).
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All of these created things are obedient to their Creator and exist to reflect His glory.
Every Person Has a Role in Worship
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People of all kinds are included: kings, rulers, young men, maidens, old and young alike (vv.11–12).
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No one is too powerful or too lowly. Every individual is invited to respond to the greatness of God.
Why Should We Praise Him?
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Because His name alone is exalted (v.13).
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Because His glory is above earth and heaven (v.13).
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Because He has lifted up a horn for His people—a reference to strength, victory, and salvation through His Anointed One, the Messiah (v.14).
This Psalm Is Also Prophetic
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The “horn” lifted up for His people (v.14) points to Yeshua the Messiah. Luke 1:69 affirms this when Zechariah says:
“He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David.” -
So even here in this psalm, we glimpse the coming Savior who would unite heaven and earth in redemption.
Summary Key Points
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All of creation is designed to give glory to God.
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Every being, from the angels in heaven to children on earth, is called to praise Him.
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God’s name and glory surpass all things—He alone is worthy of worship.
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The “horn” lifted up for His people ultimately points to Yeshua, our Savior and King.
Application
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Spend time outdoors or under the night sky and reflect on how all creation praises God just by being what He created it to be.
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Examine your own heart: Are you fulfilling your purpose in glorifying the One who made you?
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Join in the worship of creation—sing praises, speak truth, and live a life that reflects the holiness of the One who saved you.
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Point others to the “horn of salvation”—Yeshua. Let your life be a visible testimony of His power and mercy.
Closing Prayer
Lord of heaven and earth, You are worthy of all praise. From the stars above to the sea below, all creation declares Your glory. Help me to join in that song, not just with my voice but with my life. Let my worship be genuine, and may it lead others to glorify You as well. I praise You for the salvation You’ve provided through Yeshua, the true horn lifted up for Your people. In His name, Amen.
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD!
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.