What does Psalm 118:4 mean?

Prior verses (Psalm 118:1–2) involved the nation of Israel and the priests. Here, the call to proclaim the Lord's faithful, loyal love is directed to all who believe. Those who "fear" God are those who follow Him in sincere, submissive, humble faith (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 34:9). This extends beyond the borders of the nation of Israel to the entire world. Those who "fear the Lord" in this context are all who obey God's Word and worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24).

Though God used Israel as His primary tool in the Old Testament era (Psalm 33:12; John 4:22), His plan was always to bring salvation to anyone who would believe (Jeremiah 31:31–34). In eternity, there will be people of all races, cultures, and languages (Revelation 7:9).

The Hebrew word hesed describes God's unfailing and consistent love (Exodus 34:6). The Lord demonstrated this to Israel despite their sin (Jeremiah 29:10–14). He promised it to result in a new covenant (Jeremiah 31). This blessing extended to the entire world, as Jesus demonstrated love to His disciples to the very end of His earthly life (John 13:1), while serving as the ultimate expression of God's love (John 3:16). The apostle John repeated his appreciation for this (1 John 3:1), and God's love was a key concept for Paul (Romans 8:37–39).