Psalms 22:23

Ye that fear the Lord, praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel.

Psalms 22:23 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 22 begins with a cry of distress, even asking why God has forsaken the speaker. Yet the psalm turns toward trust in deliverance and ends with a call to praise. This verse is the turning point where the rescued one invites the whole congregation to join in thanksgiving.

Meaning

The verse addresses “ye that fear the Lord.” In Scripture, this fear is not terror but reverence and awe, a deep respect for God’s holiness, power, and authority. Those who fear God honor Him as Lord. The verse gives three commands: praise Him, glorify Him, and fear Him. Praise means to worship and thank God for who He is and what He has done. Glorify means to recognize His greatness and give Him honor. To fear Him again means to continue in humble reverence.

The phrases “seed of Jacob” and “seed of Israel” both point to the descendants of Jacob, who was also called Israel. This repetition makes the call strong and clear. It is not limited to a small group but includes all who belong to God’s covenant people. The call is also open to Gentiles who believe, for they are joined to God’s people through faith. The proper response to God’s saving work is public praise, not silent gratitude alone.

Biblical connections

This psalm is often called messianic because parts point to Jesus Christ. Verses 1 through 21 describe suffering that reminds us of the cross. Here in verse 23, the call to praise comes after that suffering. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, people from every nation are invited to fear and glorify God. The New Testament teaches that Gentile believers are grafted into the same covenant community (Romans 11:17-24). So this verse looks forward to all who fear God, from every background, worshiping together.

Application

This verse calls us to examine our hearts. Do we truly fear the Lord with reverence and awe? Our worship should flow from that fear. We are not to keep gratitude private but to praise God openly with other believers. Worship is both personal and corporate. Let us respond to God’s faithfulness by giving Him praise, glory, and reverent fear all our days.

Reflection

Consider how God has delivered you. Has He answered a prayer, given strength, or shown mercy? Let that memory move you to praise. The fear of the Lord is the foundation for true worship. When we see His majesty, we cannot help but glorify Him. May our lives be a continual offering of praise to the God who saves.