Psalm 66:17

I cried out to Him with my mouth and praised Him with my tongue.

Study Bible

I cried out to Him with my mouth
This phrase emphasizes the act of vocal prayer and supplication. In biblical times, crying out to God was a common practice, reflecting a deep sense of need or urgency. The act of crying out is seen throughout the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 3:4, Psalm 18:6) and signifies a personal and direct communication with God. It reflects the belief that God is attentive to the cries of His people (Exodus 3:7). The use of the mouth in prayer highlights the importance of spoken words in worship and supplication, as seen in the practices of ancient Israel.

and praised Him with my tongue.
Praising God with the tongue indicates a verbal expression of worship and gratitude. This phrase underscores the importance of acknowledging God's attributes and deeds through spoken praise. The tongue, as a symbol of speech, is often mentioned in the Bible as a powerful tool for both blessing and cursing (James 3:9-10). In the context of worship, it is used to glorify God, as seen in other Psalms (e.g., Psalm 34:1, Psalm 51:15). This act of praise is not only a personal expression but also a communal one, as the Israelites often gathered to sing and declare God's praises together, reflecting a shared faith and devotion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 66, traditionally attributed to David, who is expressing a personal testimony of God's deliverance and the response of praise.

2. God
The central figure to whom the Psalmist cries out and offers praise, highlighting His role as a deliverer and worthy of worship.

3. The Act of Praise
The event of vocalizing gratitude and worship, emphasizing the importance of verbal expression in one's relationship with God.

Teaching Points

The Power of Vocal Praise
Vocalizing praise is a powerful act of faith and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. It reinforces our trust in Him and can transform our perspective in difficult times.

Prayer as a Two-Way Communication
Crying out to God involves both speaking and listening. It is important to express our needs and gratitude while also being open to His guidance and response.

Praise as a Testimony
When we praise God publicly, it serves as a testimony to others of His goodness and faithfulness. Our praise can encourage and inspire those around us.

Consistency in Worship
Regularly praising God, regardless of circumstances, cultivates a heart of gratitude and aligns our focus with His eternal purposes.

The Role of the Tongue in Worship
The tongue is a powerful tool in worship. As James 3:9-10 reminds us, it can be used to bless or curse. Choosing to use it for praise honors God and edifies our spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of crying out to God with our mouth differ from silent prayer, and what impact can it have on our faith journey?

2. In what ways can vocal praise serve as a testimony to others about God's work in our lives?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance. How did you respond, and how can Psalm 66:17 inspire your future responses?

4. How can we cultivate a habit of consistent praise in our daily lives, even when circumstances are challenging?

5. Consider the role of the tongue in both worship and daily communication. How can we ensure that our speech aligns with the principles of praise and edification found in Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 34:1-4
This passage also emphasizes the importance of continually praising God and seeking Him in times of trouble, similar to the expression in Psalm 66:17.

James 5:13
This New Testament verse encourages believers to pray and sing praises, connecting the act of crying out to God with both prayer and worship.

Philippians 4:6-7
These verses highlight the peace that comes from presenting requests to God with thanksgiving, aligning with the Psalmist's practice of crying out and praising God.