The Psalmist reflects on a personal experience of being in distress and calling out to God, receiving both an answer and strength in response. This dual action emphasizes the relationship between the believer and God, where trust and communication are vital. Commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke provide insightful analyses of this passage.

• Matthew Henry: He notes that during periods of deep affliction, believers can experience a profound sense of support when they turn to God in earnest prayer. Henry emphasizes that God’s answers may not always come in the form we expect, but the inner strength we gain from His presence is immeasurable.
• Albert Barnes: He discusses the importance of God's readiness to hear our cries. Barnes asserts that this verse illustrates God's immediate attention to our prayers and emphasizes the spiritual empowerment that comes from His response. The act of crying out to God is depicted not only as a request for help but also as an intentional act of seeking a deeper relationship with Him.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke emphasizes the personal nature of the relationship between the Psalmist and God. He highlights how the Psalmist found not just relief from his distress but also a renewed strength in his soul, suggesting that such strength comes from the assurance of God’s presence and faithfulness.

Psalms 138:3 can be cross-referenced with several passages that explore similar themes of divine response and strength. Below are significant references:

• 1 John 5:14-15 - Emphasizes the confidence we have in approaching God, asserting His willingness to answer our prayers.
• Isaiah 40:29-31 - Illustrates God's power to give strength to the weary and those who are weak.
• Philippians 4:6-7 - Encourages prayer and tells us to present our requests to God, assuring us of peace in return.
• James 1:5 - Invites believers to seek wisdom through prayer, demonstrating God's readiness to give generously to those who ask.
• Psalm 46:1 - Declares God as a refuge and strength, particularly in times of trouble.
• 2 Corinthians 12:9 - Reveals how God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness.
• Psalm 50:15 - Encourages us to call upon God in the day of trouble, and He will deliver us.
• Matthew 7:7 - Reinforces the promise that those who ask will receive, seeking will find, and knocking will result in the door being opened.

Utilizing cross-references is an essential tool for deepening Bible study. It allows believers to trace thematic links and find comfort and strength through Scripture. Utilizing a Bible concordance or Bible cross-reference guide can help identify connections that illuminate the intent and message of the scriptures. Here are some methods to enhance your study using cross-referencing:

• Use a Bible reference resource to locate key terms and their occurrences across different books of the Bible.
• Explore cross-referencing Bible study methods to examine how themes like prayer, distress, and divine assistance appear throughout the Bible.
• Incorporate thematic Bible verse connections by grouping verses that discuss God’s responses to our prayers.
• Consider how specific verses, such as Psalms 138:3, connect with narratives in both the Old and New Testaments.

Psalms 138:3 serves as a powerful reminder of the personal nature of God's interaction with us. The verse reassures believers that their cries do not go unheard and that God's response brings not only answers but also strength. Engaging in comparative Bible verse analysis and exploring cross-referenced themes deepens understanding and appreciation of the interconnectedness found throughout Scripture.