Commentary on Psalm 139:13–14 (NKJV)

Passage

Psalm 139:13–14 (NKJV):

13 For You formed my inward parts;

You covered me in my mother’s womb.

14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Marvelous are Your works,

And that my soul knows very well.

Context and Insights

Psalm 139 is a profound meditation on God’s omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence. Written by David, it reflects on the intimate and personal knowledge God has of each individual. Verses 13–14 specifically highlight God’s role as the Creator, intricately involved in the formation of human life.

Theological Teaching

Psalm 139:13–14 underscores several key theological principles:

God’s Sovereignty in Creation: These verses affirm that God is the sovereign Creator who meticulously forms each person. The phrase “You formed my inward parts” indicates God’s active role in creating every aspect of our being, from our physical bodies to our innermost thoughts and emotions 2.
The Sanctity of Life: The passage emphasises the sanctity and value of human life. The declaration “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” reflects the belief that every human being is created with purpose and dignity. This aligns with the view that life is sacred from conception, as God is intimately involved in the creation process 6.
God’s Immanence: The verses highlight God’s immanence, meaning His presence and involvement in the world. The imagery of being “covered in my mother’s womb” suggests that God’s care and protection begin even before birth 12.
Human Response to God’s Works: The appropriate response to recognising God’s creative power is praise. David’s exclamation, “I will praise You,” serves as a model for believers to acknowledge and worship God for His marvellous works 11.

Application to Modern Christian Living

For modern Christians, Psalm 139:13–14 offers several practical applications:

Affirmation of Identity: Believers can find comfort and confidence in knowing that they are uniquely created by God. This understanding can combat feelings of inadequacy and promote a healthy self-image rooted in God’s design 7.
Respect for Life: The passage calls Christians to uphold the sanctity of life in all its stages. This includes advocating for the unborn, caring for the vulnerable, and respecting the dignity of every individual 9.
Worship and Gratitude: Recognising God’s intricate work in creation should lead to a life of worship and gratitude. Believers are encouraged to praise God not only for their own creation but also for the beauty and complexity of all His works 8.
Trust in God’s Plan: Understanding that God has a purpose for each person can help believers trust in His plan, even when faced with challenges or uncertainties. This trust is rooted in the knowledge that God is intimately involved in their lives 10.

Bibliography

Bible Texts:
- Psalm 139:13–14 (NKJV) – [Bible Gateway]([object Object])
- Psalm 139:1-3, 23-24 (NKJV) – [Bible Gateway]([object Object])
Commentaries and Articles:
- “Enduring Word Bible Commentary Psalm 139” – [Enduring Word]([object Object])
- “Psalms 139:13-14 Meaning and Commentary” – [Bible Study Tools]([object Object])
- “Psalm 139: Being Known by God” – [Reformed University Fellowship]([object Object])
- “Too Wonderful for Me, Psalm 139” – [The Grace Scripts]([object Object])
- “5 Inspiring Lessons We can Learn from Psalm 139:14” – [Becoming Christians]([object Object])
- “The 7 Most Important Lessons to Learn from Psalm 139” – [Becoming Christians]([object Object])
- “Psalm 139: All Life is Precious” – [Clarifying Catholicism]([object Object])
- “Detail-Oriented: Developing a Psalm 139 Lifestyle” – [David Jeremiah]([object Object])
- “Living a Purposeful Life Sermon” – [Sermon Central]([object Object])

This commentary provides an understanding of Psalm 139:13–14, highlighting its theological significance and practical applications for modern believers.

Source(s)

1. Psalms 139:13-14 Meaning and Commentary – Bible Study Tools

2. 5 Inspiring Lessons We can Learn from Psalm 139:14

3. Psalm 139: Being Known by God – Reformed University Fellowship

4. Too Wonderful for Me, Psalm 139 – The Grace Scripts

5. The 7 Most Important Lessons to Learn from Psalm 139

6. Psalm 139: All Life is Precious – Clarifying Catholicism

7. Detail-Oriented: Developing a Psalm 139 Lifestyle

8. Living a Purposeful Life Sermon by Sermon Research Assistant, Psalm 139 …

9. Bible Gateway passage: Psalm 139:1-3, Psalm 139:13-14, Psalm 139:23-24 …

10. Bible Gateway passage: Psalm 139:1-3, Psalm 139:13-14, Psalm 139:23-24 …

11. Enduring Word Bible Commentary Psalm 139