Psalm 68

Psalm 68 is a song of praise to God. It tells how God saves His people and defeats their enemies. It shows God as a strong protector who cares for those who are weak. It also remembers how God helped Israel in the past, especially when they traveled through the desert.
The psalm celebrates God as King. It describes His power over the earth and all nations. Mountains shake, and the earth trembles at His presence. This shows that God is greater than anything else. His strength is for the good of His people.
This psalm also speaks about God’s care for the poor and those who suffer. He gives a home to those who are alone. He frees prisoners and gives them joy. God is not far away; He helps those who need Him the most.
The psalm ends with joy and thanksgiving. God is praised for His blessings and His help. It invites everyone to honor Him with songs and praise. Psalm 68 reminds us that God is strong and kind. He protects, saves, and blesses His people.
A Song from Israel’s Past
This song is in the second section of the Book of Psalms. That part goes from Psalm 42 to Psalm 72. Many of the psalms in this section speak about God as King and protector. They often tell how God helps His people in times of trouble.
The psalm is linked to David. His name is given at the start, so it is believed he wrote it. David was a shepherd, a warrior, and later a king. He often sang about God’s help in battle and His care for Israel. This psalm fits that theme.
It seems to come from a time when God gave His people victory. Some think it may have been sung when the Ark of the Covenant was carried to Jerusalem. The psalm has words of joy, as if people were marching and singing together.
The song remembers God’s help long ago. It speaks of God leading His people through the desert and giving them a home. This shows how the people of Israel trusted God through their history. It is a song that praises both His strength and His care.
God Who Saves and Cares
This psalm shows God as a mighty savior. He defeats His enemies and protects His people. In Catholic teaching, this reminds us that God is always at work in the world. He fights against evil and leads His people to safety. His power is not only for the past. It is still true for us today.
The psalm also shows God’s care for the weak. He gives a home to those who are alone. He lifts up the poor and frees those in chains. Catholics see this as a sign of God’s mercy. It points to Jesus, who came to serve the poor and bring freedom from sin.
Another theme is God as King. The psalm calls people to sing and rejoice because God reigns over all nations. Catholics believe this kingship is fulfilled in Christ. Jesus is the true King who rules with justice and love.
The psalm ends with praise and thanksgiving. It calls everyone to bless God for His goodness. In Catholic prayer, we join in this same praise. At Mass and in our own prayer, we remember God’s blessings and give thanks.
A Song for Our Lives Today
This psalm speaks to us even now. It reminds us that God is strong and never forgets His people. When we feel weak or afraid, we can trust that God is with us. He is the same God who helped His people long ago.
It also calls us to care for others. God lifts up the poor and gives hope to those who suffer. We are called to do the same. When we help those in need, we show God’s love in the world. This is part of living our faith each day.
The psalm teaches us to praise God in every part of life. We can thank Him for blessings and trust Him in hard times. Catholics do this in prayer, in the Mass, and in daily life. Singing praise, like the people of Israel did, brings us closer to Him.
It also reminds us to look forward with hope. God’s promise of help is for all times. As Catholics, we see this hope in Jesus, who saves us and leads us to eternal life. This psalm is a reminder to live with joy and trust in God’s care.
A Prayer Based on Psalm 68
God Who Stays With Us
Lord, you are strong and good.
You protect those who call to you.
You do not forget anyone.
Be close to us when we feel small and lost.
You give a home to those who are alone.
You bring joy to those who are sad.
Help us to welcome others as you welcome us.
Show us how to care for people who feel left out.
You lead your people through hard times.
Help us trust you when life feels unsure.
Guide our steps when we do not know what to do.
Stay with us in every moment.
You are King over all the earth.
But you care for each of us too.
Thank you for the good things we have.
Teach us to be thankful every day.
We will sing to you with our lives.
We will praise you in the way we speak and act.
Help us to share your love with others.
Be our strength and our joy always.
A Song Heard in Our Worship
This psalm is part of the readings we hear at Mass. It is used on days when the Church celebrates God’s power and care for His people. Its words of praise and trust fit well with the message of hope we hear in other readings.
The verses often chosen speak of God helping the poor and giving strength to His people. These remind us that God’s care is not just for the past. It is for us today. When we hear this psalm, we are called to trust Him more.
The psalm is sometimes sung or spoken as the responsorial psalm. The Church invites us to join the praise of Israel. We respond with joy, just as they did long ago.
Hearing this psalm in the lectionary helps us remember God’s faithfulness. It connects us to the people who first sang it. It also prepares us to listen to the Gospel, where we see God’s promises fulfilled in Jesus.
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
God’s Kindness to Those in Need
Psalm 68:4-5, 6-7, 10-11 praises God for caring for those who are poor and alone. He protects orphans and widows, giving them a safe place and hope. God brings joy to those who follow Him. The psalm calls people to sing and rejoice because God is good and just.
It also thanks God for providing for His people. He gives rain to restore the land and makes it ready for His flock to live in. God gives what is needed to those who trust Him. The psalm reminds us to be thankful and to see His goodness in the ways He cares for us every day.
At Weekday Masses
- Monday of the 30th Week in Ordinary Time I – Psalm 68:2 and 4, 6-7ab, 20-21: God, Our Refuge and Strength
- Monday of the 7th Week of Easter – Psalm 68:2-3ab, 4-5acd, 6-7ab: God’s Mighty Deliverance
- Tuesday of the 7th Week of Easter – Psalm 68:10-11, 20-21: Praise God, Protector and Savior
- Wednesday of the 7th Week of Easter – Psalm 68:29-30, 33-35a, 35bc-36ab: God’s Mighty Sanctuary
Resources
Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork
Mountains Tremble, God Reigns
This beautiful image, inspired by the words of Psalm 68, is now available for download. It is perfect for parish bulletins, newsletters, or faith-based reflections. Share it to help others remember God’s strength and care. Use it to inspire prayer and praise in your community.
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Questions and Answers about Psalm 68
What is Psalm 68 about?
It is a song of praise to God. It tells how God saves His people, cares for the poor, and defeats His enemies. It celebrates God as King and protector.
Who wrote Psalm 68?
The psalm is linked to David. His name is given at the beginning, so it is believed he wrote it. It fits well with other songs he wrote about God’s help in battle and care for Israel.
Why is Psalm 68 important for Catholics?
It shows that God is strong and loving. It reminds us to trust Him, to care for those in need, and to give thanks. Catholics also see Jesus in this psalm. Jesus is the King who saves and cares for His people.
How is Psalm 68 used in Catholic worship?
It is read or sung at Mass as part of the responsorial psalm. The verses chosen help us praise God and remember His care for us. It connects us with the people of Israel, who also praised Him with these same words.
What can we learn from Psalm 68 today?
We learn to trust God in hard times. We are reminded to help the poor and those who suffer. We also learn to praise God with joy, thanking Him for all He has done for us.
God Who Leads and Cares
Psalm 68 is a song of praise to God. It tells how God leads His people and defeats their enemies. It shows Him as a strong King who rules over all the earth. Mountains shake, and the earth trembles at His presence.
The psalm also speaks about God’s care for the weak. He gives a home to those who are alone. He lifts up the poor and frees prisoners. This shows His kindness and mercy. Catholics see this as pointing to Jesus, who came to help the poor and save us from sin.
The psalm remembers God’s help in the past. It speaks of the desert journey and how God gave His people a home. It ends with joy and thanksgiving. Everyone is called to sing praise and honor Him.
For Catholics, this psalm reminds us to trust God. It calls us to praise Him in prayer and in Mass. It teaches us to care for others, as God cares for us.
Your Turn
Take time to read Psalm 68. Let the words remind you that God is strong and caring. Think about how He has helped you in your own life. This psalm is not just history. It speaks to us right now.
After you read it, share your thoughts in the comments. What verse stands out to you? How does it speak to you today? Your story can encourage others to trust God and praise Him too.