135:4-7 The sovereignty of God is what called forth the poet's praise in this psalm. The Lord chose Israel as His special treasure (cf. Deut. 7:6). He is also greater than all the pagan gods because He does whatever pleases Him (cf. 115:3). This is obvious in His control of nature.
135:8-12 God's sovereignty is also clear from His control over Israel's history. He sent the plagues on Egypt even smiting Pharaoh's first-born. He also defeated many kings and subdued many nations to give Israel the Promised Land. Notable among these kings were Sihon and Og (Num. 21).
135:13-14 The everlasting Lord would continue to vindicate His people in His sovereignty because of His compassion.
135:15-18 In contrast to Israel's sovereign God, the idols of the nations are impotent (cf. 115:4-8). Verses 15-18 illustrate verse 5 as verses 8-12 prove verse 4.
