What does Psalm 66:14 mean?
Scripture doesn't tell us exactly who recorded this psalm. Nor do we know the nature of this psalmist's "trouble." He has already declared his intention to make an offering to the Lord while also fulfilling his vows (Psalm 66:13). Here, it seems that those vows were made when the psalmist was under some threat or other stress. Rather than shrugging off his vows as insincere, the writer intends to honor his commitments to the Lord.Scripture doesn't forbid making vows, but it discourages vows from being made casually (Numbers 30:2; Proverbs 20:25). A promise made to God should always be kept (Deuteronomy 23:21–23). Failure to honor promises to God is tantamount to lying to Him. Jesus advocated against making spontaneous vows at all (Matthew 5:33–37).
Psalm 66:13–20 addresses God, then the congregation. This comes after calling upon the nations to worship God because of His marvelous deeds on behalf of Israel. The psalmist wants to tell the assembled people that God heard his prayer and answered it. He concludes this section by praising God for answering prayer and extending His loyal love.
This psalm appeals to the entire world to worship the Lord. His great works, such as giving Israel safe passage through the Red Sea, should be praised. Because God watches the world, no one should presume they can rebel without consequences. God tested Israel heavily but brought the nation to an abundant place. The psalmist declares that he will fulfill his vows and offer sacrifices, because God answered his prayer. Verses 1–9 speak to the nations of earth; verses 10–15 are spoken to God; verses 16–20 are addressed to the congregation.
