SCRIPTURE: “I will give to the LORD the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the LORD, the Most High” (Psalm 7:17 ESV).
OBSERVATION: David wrote this psalm during a season of false accusation and opposition. After appealing to the LORD as righteous Judge and describing the certain end of the wicked, David concluded with a vow of worship. He resolved to give thanks to the LORD for His righteousness and to sing praise to His name. By identifying God as Yahweh Elyon—the LORD, the Most High—David declared that Israel’s covenant God was also the supreme ruler over all creation. His praise was rooted not merely in deliverance, but in God’s righteous character and sovereign authority.
APPLICATION: This verse teaches us that God’s righteousness is inherently worthy of praise. We are tempted to thank God only when justice is visible or outcomes are favorable, but David modeled a deeper faith. We can choose to give thanks because the LORD is righteous by nature, even when circumstances remain unresolved. Gratitude becomes an intentional act of trust anchored in who God is and in His ultimate judgment.
David also committed to sing praise to the name of Yahweh Elyon. Worship was not passive; it was vocal, joyful, and God-centered. When we call Him “the Most High,” we acknowledge that our covenant-keeping God reigns above every power, authority, and situation. As we lift our eyes from our troubles to His unchanging sovereignty, we respond rightly, giving thanks for His righteousness and singing praise to His great name. In this way, we live out the truth that the LORD Most High is worthy of our praise!
PRAYER: Dear Father, we thank You for Your righteousness. Teach us to give thanks not only for what You do, but for who You are. Help us choose praise in every season as we exalt Your great name, Yahweh Elyon, the LORD Most High. May our lives reflect trust in Your sovereign rule and perfect plan. In Jesus’ name, amen.