Psalms 124:8
Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.
Original Language Analysis
בְּשֵׁ֣ם
is in the name
H8034
בְּשֵׁ֣ם
is in the name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
2 of 6
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
of the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
3 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
עֹ֝שֵׂ֗ה
who made
H6213
עֹ֝שֵׂ֗ה
who made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
4 of 6
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Cross References
Psalms 121:2My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.Acts 4:24And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:Jeremiah 32:17Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:Psalms 115:15Ye are blessed of the LORD which made heaven and earth.Psalms 134:3The LORD that made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion.Genesis 1:1In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Historical Context
The confession 'maker of heaven and earth' appears repeatedly in Scripture (Genesis 14:19, 22; Psalm 115:15; 121:2; 134:3; 146:6), especially in contexts of deliverance or blessing. This affirmation distinguishes Israel's God from pagan deities associated with limited domains. The Creator controls all reality; therefore, no threat exceeds His power to deliver.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's identity as Creator serve as foundation for confidence in deliverance?
- What is the significance of help being 'in the name of the LORD' rather than merely 'from' the LORD?
- How does the universal scope ('heaven and earth') apply God's past deliverances to future situations?
- In what ways does creation doctrine support practical faith during trials?
- How might this verse serve as a confession of faith during times of threat or fear?
Analysis & Commentary
The psalm concludes with a theological affirmation: 'Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.' This verse provides the foundation for all preceding deliverance - help comes from the Creator God. The phrase 'name of the LORD' represents God's revealed character, reputation, and presence. To find help 'in the name' means trusting God's character and covenant faithfulness. The description 'who made heaven and earth' establishes God's ultimate authority and power - as Creator of all, He controls all. If God made heaven and earth, then enemy nations, proud waters, and fowlers' snares are all subject to His sovereignty. This verse moves from specific historical deliverance to universal theological truth applicable to all situations. Creator-God is Deliverer-God. The psalm ends with confident confession that can sustain God's people through future trials.