When Repetition Isn't Overused

I have this disdain for filler words because it comes across as less than sure, or at worse, unintelligent. I’ve overheard my share of conversations where the word “like” inserts itself just about every fifth word, and the English teacher in me wants to scream, “Please stop! You’re literally killing me.” Which sparks another debate -am I literally dying? Well, no, but it certainly feels like I’m dying. 

Certainly, repeating yourself isn’t all bad. Repetition can signal something of significance. And when used well, it can, in fact, be so subtle that it’s almost imperceptible. Take, for instance, Psalm 145. Not until after several readings did I notice that the word “all” had been used over 10x in the last section of the psalm. When I looked again, the word stood out in flashing lights, pleading for attention:

[13] Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
and your dominion endures throughout all generations.

[The LORD is faithful in all his words
and kind in all his works.]

[14] The LORD upholds all who are falling
and raises up all who are bowed down.

[15] The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food in due season.

[16] You open your hand;
you satisfy the desire of every living thing.

[17] The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and kind in all his works.

[18] The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.

[19] He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;
he also hears their cry and saves them.

[20] The LORD preserves all who love him,
but all the wicked he will destroy.

[21] My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD,
and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever. (ESV)

The “all” here is purposeful. It’s intent is to recall to us as people of God that His reign is all encompassing. Is His kingdom not forever? Is there no one that He is not able to save? Is He not good in His works? Is He not worthy of praise from every living being? 

There is a sneaky, persistent lie that tells me He is not able, that He does not see the plight of His children, that a godly life bears no merit. And then I read Psalm 145, and the repetition serves to defeat my cynicism, reminding me that indeed, our God is above all, and with all my being I yet praise Him.