Worship the majestic God who made us with worth and dignity.

Psalm 8 is a praise psalm that marvels over creation and reflects on the worth of humanity.

vv. 1–2—The LORD’s name is par excellence—the most majestic name in all creation. His glory is above the heavens, for He made them. The helpless and vulnerable cry to Him. He deals with the vindictive enemies.

Transcendence: God is distinct and separate from creation. He is wholly above creation and beyond all that He has made.

vv. 3–4—We see a movement from greater (the heavens) to the lesser (humanity) and discover something remarkable—

The LORD remembers humanity. He takes care of the children of humankind. The term “Take Care” is the verb for “Visits.” In relation to the LORD visiting, it refers to the impact He has on one’s destiny. People are transformed when God “Visits.”

Immanence: God is present and active within creation. In His transcendence, He is distant and far, but He is present and close in His immanence.

vv. 5–8—Four verbal phrases that highlight the Imago Dei (Image of God—Genesis 1:26–27):

God made every person a little lower than heavenly beings.
God crowned everyone with glory and honor.
God gave dominion to all people.
God put all things under humanity’s feet (Romans 16:20).

v. 9—This phrase bookends the psalm and leads us to focus on the middle of the song, particularly verses five and six. Verse five appears in Hebrews 2:6–9 and relates this passage to the incarnation of Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:27, the Apostle Paul alludes to verse 6, claiming all things, including death, will be placed under the feet, the dominion of Jesus.