and all that fills it
This phrase emphasizes the fullness of creation participating in worship. It includes marine life and all elements within the sea, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's dominion. The inclusion of all that fills the sea points to the interconnectedness of creation and its collective purpose to glorify God. This can be connected to Romans 8:19-22, where creation eagerly awaits the revelation of the children of God, indicating a future restoration and harmony.

the world
The term "world" here refers to the earth and its inhabitants, extending the call to worship beyond the sea to the entire planet. This universal call to praise reflects the biblical theme of God's global reign and His desire for all nations to acknowledge Him. It aligns with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, underscoring the inclusivity of God's kingdom.

and all who dwell in it
This phrase includes every living being, emphasizing the personal responsibility of individuals to recognize and worship God. It reflects the biblical teaching that all humanity is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and is therefore called to reflect His glory. The call for all inhabitants to join in praise anticipates the eschatological vision in Revelation 7:9, where a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the throne of God, worshiping Him.

Psalm 98:7 opens with, “Let the sea resound”. The psalmist summons the massive, untamed oceans to erupt in praise. Think of other moments when the sea is pictured as a worshiper—like Psalm 93:3-4, where the roaring waves proclaim the Lord’s majesty, or Revelation 5:13, where every creature “in the sea” joins heaven’s chorus. Creation is not silent background scenery; it is an active choir directed by its Maker (Isaiah 55:12).

Key takeaways:

• God’s glory is so immense that even inanimate creation is called to voice it.

• If the vast sea is expected to “resound,” how much more should redeemed people raise their voices?

The call widens: “and all that fills it.” Every fish, coral reef, current, and droplet is included. Psalm 104:25-26 paints the seas “teeming with creatures beyond number,” and Job 38:16 reminds us God alone knows its deepest springs. Nothing in the marine world is exempt from praising its Creator—whether seen or unseen (Colossians 1:16).

Consider:

• The thoroughness of God’s ownership; there are no “neutral zones.”

• The Lord’s intimate knowledge of even the hidden trenches underscores His worthiness to receive praise from them.

The psalm then broadens further: “the world.” Here the stage shifts from ocean to the whole terrestrial sphere. Similar language appears in Psalm 24:1, “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” Romans 1:20 says creation continually displays God’s invisible attributes, leaving humanity without excuse. Every ecosystem, mountain range, and desert plain is summoned to the same anthem the seas began.

Reflection points:

• Worship is not limited by geography; it is a global mandate.

• God’s sovereignty spans every continent and climate, reinforcing the universal reach of His redemption (John 3:16).

Finally, the psalmist lands on humanity: “and all who dwell in it.” Every person—regardless of nation, status, or background—is called to join this cosmic chorus. Psalm 150:6 echoes, “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.” Acts 17:26-27 reminds us God made every nation “so that they would seek Him.” Worship is therefore both a privilege and an obligation grounded in our Creator-creature relationship (Revelation 14:7).

Practical implications:

• Praise is not optional; it is the rightful response of every living soul.

• Our evangelism invites others into this universal symphony, fulfilling Jesus’ commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

Psalm 98:7 layers its summons: seas, sea life, the whole planet, and every inhabitant—all are commanded to sound forth God’s praise. From hidden ocean depths to crowded city streets, nothing is outside the scope of this call. If creation lifts its voice, believers should all the more lead the song, joyfully declaring the greatness of the Lord who reigns over all.

"Listen! the mighty Being is awake

And doth with His eternal motion make

A sound like thunder everlastingly."

WORDSWORTH.