Psalms 118:17
I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
David faced repeated near-death experiences—Goliath, Saul's spear, fleeing through wilderness, Philistine enemies, Absalom's rebellion. Each deliverance deepened his testimony. His Psalms recount God's saving works for future generations. Post-exile Israel similarly experienced corporate preservation—Cyrus's decree, return from Babylon, temple rebuilding despite opposition, survival despite Persian plots (Esther). Each deliverance authenticated YHWH as living God. Early Christians faced martyrdom but testified fearlessly (Acts 7:54-60, Revelation 2:10, 13). Some were preserved to continue testifying (Paul: Acts 14:19-20, 2 Corinthians 11:23-27); others died as martyrs whose blood seeded church growth.
Questions for Reflection
- How does viewing preserved life as opportunity for testimony transform daily living?
- What specific "works of the LORD" has God enabled you to declare through deliverance from danger?
- How can believers faithfully testify to God's works whether preserved from death or called to martyrdom?
Analysis & Commentary
"I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD." The confident assertion lo amut ki echyeh (I shall not die but live) expresses faith in preservation through mortal danger. Mut (die) indicates physical death; chayah (live) means to remain alive, be preserved. The purpose: va'asaper ma'asei Yah (and I will declare the works of Yah). Saper (declare/recount/proclaim) means to tell, number, make known. Ma'asei (works/deeds) encompasses God's saving acts. Deliverance from death isn't for self-preservation but for testimony—preserved life becomes platform for declaring God's works. This anticipates Paul's testimony: "I will not die, but live" to proclaim Christ (Acts 20:24, Philippians 1:21-26). Christian life's purpose is God's glory through testimony.