Psalm 118 is a powerful declaration of God’s goodness. It reminds us of His enduring love, His strength, and His salvation. This psalm was likely sung during Israel’s worship and festivals. It is also prophetic, pointing to Christ as the cornerstone.
These sample sermon outlines highlight key themes from Psalm 118. Each section focuses on a specific verse and its significance. These messages will encourage believers to trust in God, rejoice in His salvation, and stand firm on Christ.
Use these outlines to preach with confidence. Help others see God’s faithfulness and the hope we have in Him.
Sample Outlines for a Sermon on Psalm 118
#1. His Steadfast Love Endures Forever (Psalm 118:1)
Theme
God’s love never changes. His steadfast love is the foundation of our faith and the reason for our thanksgiving.
Introduction
Psalm 118 begins with a call to give thanks to the Lord because His love endures forever. This verse is repeated throughout Scripture, reminding us of God’s unchanging nature. In a world where love often fails, God’s love remains constant. This sermon encourages believers to reflect on God’s faithful love and respond with gratitude and trust.
Main Text
Psalm 118:1
Key Doctrines
1. God’s Love is Unchanging
- Human love is often conditional, but God’s love is steadfast. He does not waver based on circumstances. His love is eternal, rooted in His very nature. No matter what we face, we can rest in the assurance that His love remains the same.
- Scripture repeatedly affirms this truth. Lamentations 3:22-23 declares that His mercies are new every morning. Romans 8:38-39 assures us that nothing can separate us from His love. This foundational doctrine strengthens our faith in difficult times.
2. Thanksgiving is the Right Response
- Recognizing God’s steadfast love should lead us to thanksgiving. Gratitude is not based on our circumstances but on God’s unchanging character. When we remember His love, we find strength and joy in all situations.
- The Bible commands us to give thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Thanksgiving shifts our focus from problems to the greatness of God. It is an act of worship that draws us closer to Him.
3. God’s Love Calls for Trust
- Because God’s love is unchanging, we can fully trust Him. He does not fail, abandon, or forsake His people. Even when we don’t understand His ways, we can trust His heart.
- Trusting in God’s love means surrendering our worries and fears to Him. It means believing that His plans are good even when life is hard. Psalm 118:8 reminds us that it is better to trust in the Lord than in man.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How has God’s steadfast love been evident in your life?
- Why is thanksgiving an important response to God’s love?
- How can trusting in God’s love change the way you handle challenges?
- What are practical ways to remind yourself daily of God’s unchanging love?
- How can you share the message of God’s steadfast love with others?
Call to Commitment
God’s love is not just a theological idea—it is a reality that should shape our daily lives. If His love endures forever, we have every reason to trust Him. We have every reason to give thanks. Do not take His love for granted. Acknowledge it, celebrate it, and respond in faith.
Today, make a commitment to live in the light of His steadfast love. Choose to trust Him in every circumstance. Choose to give thanks no matter what. Let your heart be anchored in the truth that His love never fails.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for Your steadfast love that never changes. In a world of uncertainty, You remain our unshakable foundation. Your love is faithful through every trial and triumph. We give You thanks because You are good, and Your mercy endures forever. Help us to remember this truth daily.
Teach us to trust in Your love even when we don’t understand our circumstances. Fill our hearts with gratitude for all You have done. Let our lives be a testimony of Your unwavering faithfulness. May we share Your love with those around us and bring glory to Your name.
Amen.
#2. The Lord is My Strength and My Song (Psalm 118:14)
Theme
God is both our strength and our reason for praise. He gives us the power to endure and the joy to sing even in difficult times.
Introduction
Life is full of trials, but the believer does not walk alone. Psalm 118:14 declares that the Lord is our strength and our song. This verse reflects the experience of God’s people throughout history. When they faced danger, He was their refuge. When they were weak, He lifted them up. This sermon calls us to rely on God’s strength and rejoice in His salvation.
Main Text
Psalm 118:14
Key Doctrines
1. God Gives Strength to the Weak
- Human strength is limited. No matter how strong we think we are, life will bring moments that break us. But God’s strength is unlimited. He provides endurance, wisdom, and power for every challenge.
- Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. Paul also testifies in 2 Corinthians 12:9 that God’s power is made perfect in weakness. When we rely on Him, we find strength beyond our ability.
2. Praise is the Natural Response to Strength Received
- When God strengthens us, our response should be worship. He is not just a helper in trouble—He is the reason we rejoice. As we experience His faithfulness, our hearts are filled with gratitude and praise.
- The Israelites sang songs of victory after God’s deliverance (Exodus 15:1-2). Paul and Silas sang in prison despite their suffering (Acts 16:25). True faith sings, not because circumstances are perfect, but because God is faithful.
3. Salvation Brings Both Strength and Joy
- God’s strength is tied to His salvation. He does not just help us in daily struggles—He has saved us from sin and eternal separation. This is our greatest reason for rejoicing.
- Psalm 51:12 speaks of the “joy of salvation.” When we meditate on what Christ has done for us, our hearts are filled with praise. Strength and joy go hand in hand for the redeemed.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- In what areas of life do you need to rely more on God’s strength?
- How can worship transform the way you respond to challenges?
- What does it mean to find joy in God’s salvation?
- How can you encourage others to trust in God’s strength?
- What are ways to cultivate a heart of worship in your daily routine?
Call to Commitment
God is not asking us to be strong on our own. He is our strength. He is also our song. This means that every battle we face is already in His hands. When we learn to rely on Him, we will find supernatural endurance and unshakable joy.
Commit today to trust in His strength. Refuse to carry burdens alone. Choose to rejoice even in hardship, knowing that God is with you. Let your life reflect the truth that the Lord is your strength and your song.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our strength when we are weak. In every trial, You are our refuge. When we face difficulties, You sustain us. Your power never fails, and Your grace is always enough. Help us to lean on You in every moment.
Fill our hearts with songs of praise. Teach us to rejoice in Your salvation. Let our lives be a testimony of Your strength and faithfulness. May we encourage others to trust in You and give You the glory You deserve.
Amen.
#3. I Shall Not Die, But Live (Psalm 118:17)
Theme
God preserves the lives of His people for His purpose. Our lives are not defined by fear, but by faith in His promises.
Introduction
Fear of death is common, but for believers, life is secure in God’s hands. Psalm 118:17 is a declaration of confidence in God’s protection and purpose. The psalmist does not deny trouble but proclaims faith in the Lord’s power. This sermon encourages believers to trust in God’s sovereignty and live with boldness for His glory.
Main Text
Psalm 118:17
Key Doctrines
1. God Holds Authority Over Life and Death
- No person, illness, or circumstance can take our lives before God’s appointed time. He alone is sovereign over life and death. The enemy may threaten, but God has the final word.
- Job 14:5 states that our days are determined by God. Jesus reassures us in Matthew 10:29-31 that not even a sparrow falls without the Father’s knowledge. If He cares for the birds, how much more does He watch over us?
2. Believers Are Called to Live with Purpose
- God sustains us for a reason. Every breath we take is an opportunity to glorify Him. Our lives are not just about survival but about fulfilling His mission.
- Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are created for good works. Paul, in Philippians 1:21, declares, “To live is Christ.” We must embrace every day as a gift to serve Him.
3. Death is Not the End for the Believer
- While physical death is inevitable, it is not the end for those in Christ. Eternal life is promised to all who trust in Him. The fear of death loses its power when we believe in God’s greater plan.
- Jesus said in John 11:25-26, “Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live.” Because of Christ’s resurrection, death has lost its sting (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How does trusting in God’s sovereignty change your perspective on life and death?
- What does it mean to live with purpose in God’s kingdom?
- How can you encourage someone who is struggling with fear of death?
- What are ways to remind yourself daily of God’s promises for your life?
- How can you live more boldly for Christ without fear?
Call to Commitment
You were not meant to live in fear. Your life is in God’s hands. He has sustained you for a reason, and He will continue to guide you until your purpose is fulfilled. Do not let fear of the future keep you from living fully for Him today.
Choose to trust in His plans. Live with confidence, knowing that He is in control. Proclaim with faith, “I shall not die, but live,” and dedicate every day to glorifying His name.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for being the giver and sustainer of life. Our times are in Your hands, and nothing happens outside of Your will. We trust in Your purpose for our lives. Help us to live boldly, free from fear, and fully surrendered to Your calling.
Remind us daily that our lives are for Your glory. Strengthen our faith when we face uncertainty. Let us live with confidence in Your promises. May our lives be a testimony of trust in You, bringing others to the hope we have in Christ.
Amen.
#4. This is the Day the Lord Has Made (Psalm 118:24)
Theme
Every day is a gift from God. We are called to rejoice and be glad, regardless of our circumstances, because He is in control.
Introduction
Psalm 118:24 is a call to joy and gratitude. It reminds us that every day is created by God and filled with His purpose. Many people live in regret over the past or anxiety about the future, but this verse invites us to embrace the present with faith. This sermon encourages believers to trust in God’s plan for today and to live with hearts full of thanksgiving.
Main Text
Psalm 118:24
Key Doctrines
1. God is the Author of Every Day
- Every sunrise is an act of God’s sovereignty. He is the one who gives us life, breath, and purpose for each new day. Nothing happens by accident—each day is divinely appointed.
- Job 12:10 tells us that the life of every living thing is in God’s hands. Acts 17:28 reminds us that in Him, we live and move and have our being. Acknowledging God as the giver of each day changes how we approach life.
2. Rejoicing is a Choice
- Happiness often depends on circumstances, but joy is rooted in faith. Rejoicing in the Lord is a decision we must make daily, regardless of trials. This is not denying hardship but trusting God through it.
- Philippians 4:4 commands us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” Paul wrote this while in prison, proving that joy is not about comfort but about confidence in God’s goodness. Choosing to rejoice strengthens our faith.
3. Gratitude Transforms Our Perspective
- Thankfulness shifts our focus from problems to God’s provision. It turns complaints into praise and worry into worship. Gratitude reminds us of God’s past faithfulness and fuels our trust for the future.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 commands us to “give thanks in all circumstances.” This is not because every situation is good, but because God works all things for good (Romans 8:28). A grateful heart experiences God’s peace.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- How does recognizing God as the creator of each day change your attitude?
- What are practical ways to cultivate joy, even in difficult times?
- How can gratitude transform the way you handle challenges?
- What are specific things you can rejoice in today?
- How can you encourage others to embrace each day as a gift from God?
Call to Commitment
Every day is a new opportunity to trust God, worship Him, and walk in His purpose. Do not waste today in worry or regret. Choose to rejoice, knowing that God is in control. Even in challenges, His goodness remains.
Make a commitment to start each day with gratitude. Instead of focusing on what is wrong, focus on what is true—God is faithful, and His mercies are new every morning. This is the day the Lord has made. Will you choose to rejoice?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of today. You have given us life, breath, and purpose. Every moment is in Your hands, and nothing happens outside of Your control. Help us to rejoice, even when circumstances are difficult. Teach us to trust in Your plans.
Fill our hearts with gratitude. Let us wake up each morning with praise on our lips. Give us the strength to walk in faith, knowing that You are always with us. May our joy in You be a testimony to others, drawing them to Your love.
Amen.
#5. The Chief Cornerstone: Christ Our Foundation (Psalm 118:22)
Theme
Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our faith. He is the foundation on which we must build our lives.
Introduction
Psalm 118:22 is a prophetic verse that points directly to Christ. Though rejected by men, He became the cornerstone of salvation. This verse is quoted multiple times in the New Testament, emphasizing its importance. The world may reject Him, but those who trust in Him find an unshakable foundation. This sermon calls believers to build their lives on Christ and stand firm in Him.
Main Text
Psalm 118:22
Key Doctrines
1. Jesus is the Fulfillment of Prophecy
- Psalm 118:22 is fulfilled in Jesus, as confirmed in Matthew 21:42 and Acts 4:11. The Jewish leaders rejected Him, yet He became the foundation of God’s plan. His rejection was necessary for our redemption.
- Isaiah 53:3 describes Christ as “despised and rejected by men.” Yet His suffering led to our salvation. This teaches us that God’s ways are higher than ours. What the world rejects, God exalts.
2. Christ is the Only True Foundation
- A building is only as strong as its foundation. If we build our lives on anything other than Christ, we will fall. He alone is the unshakable rock of our faith.
- 1 Corinthians 3:11 declares that “no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Everything else—wealth, status, human wisdom—will crumble. Only Christ remains firm.
3. Rejection by the World is Inevitable
- Just as Christ was rejected, His followers will face opposition. The world does not understand God’s ways and often resists His truth. But rejection should not shake our faith—it is a sign that we belong to Him.
- John 15:18-19 reminds us that if the world hated Christ, it will hate His followers. Standing on Christ means being prepared for opposition. But our hope is in Him, not in the approval of men.
Questions for Application in Daily Life
- What does it mean to build your life on Christ as your foundation?
- How does knowing Jesus was rejected encourage you when you face opposition?
- What are ways to strengthen your faith so it remains firm in trials?
- How can you share the message of Jesus, the cornerstone, with those who do not know Him?
- Are there areas in your life where you need to fully surrender to Christ’s authority?
Call to Commitment
Jesus is not just a religious figure—He is the cornerstone of salvation. He is the firm foundation on which we must build our lives. If we stand on Him, we will never be shaken. If we reject Him, we have no hope.
Today, commit to making Christ the center of your life. Trust Him fully. Stand firm in His truth, even when the world rejects it. Build your life on the rock that will never fail—Jesus, the chief cornerstone.
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for sending Jesus, the cornerstone of our faith. Though the world rejected Him, He became our salvation. In Him, we find strength, hope, and security. Help us to build our lives on Him alone. Let us stand firm in the truth of Your Word.
Give us courage when we face opposition. Strengthen our faith so that we do not waver. Fill us with boldness to proclaim Christ as the only foundation. May our lives reflect His glory and draw others to Him.
Amen.
Closing Thoughts
Psalm 118 is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness, strength, and salvation. Each verse declares His goodness and calls us to trust in Him. Whether we face trials, rejection, or uncertainty, we can stand firm in His promises.
We are called to rejoice in every day He gives us. We are reminded that our lives are secure in His hands. Above all, we see that Christ is the foundation of our faith—the cornerstone that cannot be shaken.
May these truths shape our hearts, strengthen our faith, and lead us to live boldly for His glory.