Psalms 112

Psalms 112:1

Psalm 112: Rewards of the Righteous112:1 There is a close correspondence between this Psalm and the preceding one, both in its acrostic form and in its spiritual teaching. It takes up where Psalms 111 leaves offwith the man who fears the LORD and who practices wisdom. Several of the things that are said about the Lord in the first are applied to the godly man in the second. We see the Sun of Righteousness shining in all His glory in the 111th; here we see the believer, like the moon, reflecting that glory. By beholding the beauty of the Lord, the believer is changed into the same beauty by the Holy Spirit (2Co_3:18). “Praise the LORD!” These words frequently expressed the psalmist’s sentiments, and he has left a good example for the rest of us. Who is the happy man? It is the one who reverences and submits to the LORD, who delights greatly in His commandments, and proves it by obeying them. He reaps the benefits that flow from a life of practical godliness. Such as112:2 Distinguished Posterity. His descendants will occupy positions of power and prestige; they will be honored because of their godly heritage. (In interpreting these blessings for the Church Age, we are wise to transfer them from their earthly, material meaning to the spiritual counterpart.) 112:3 Prosperity. It is generally true that obedience to the Word of God saves men from waste and poverty. The results of his righteousness, that is, of his honesty, diligence, and frugality continue to distant generations. 112:4 Assured illumination. There is no guarantee of immunity from darkness, but there is the promise that light will rise in the darkness. In all the dark times of life the Lord shows Himself to be gracious, and full of compassion. 112:5, 6 Generosity. Things go better for the man who is generous and who doesn’t refuse to lend to others who are in genuine need. This man manages his business with discretion and justice. His life is built on a stable foundation, and he will be remembered long after he is gone. 112:7 Freedom from Fear. He doesn’t have to live in constant fear of bad news, of business reverses, of natural calamities. He is trusting in the LORD, and knows that nothing can happen to him apart from God’s will. 112:8 Confidence under Attack. Even his enemies do not upset his poise or calm. He is confident that though they might seem to have the upper hand at the moment, yet their downfall is certain, and he is on the winning side. 112:9 Lasting Fruitfulness and Honor. Because he has been generous, the results of his kindness to the poor will never cease to be remembered. He won’t have to hang his horn (symbol of strength) in shame. Rather his head will be crowned with plaudits. Paul quotes this verse in 2Co_9:9 to show the lasting benefits of generosity. 112:10 The Envy of the Wicked. When the wicked shall see the eventual vindication and permanent honor of the godly, they will be chagrined and envious. They will gnash their teeth in fury, then become unhinged and evaporate. All that they lived for shall perish with them. Barnes notes: This is in strong contrast to what is said in the Psalm would occur to the righteous. They would be prospered and happy; they would be able to carry out their plans; they would be respected while living, and remembered when dead; they would find God interposing in their behalf in the darkest hours; they would be firm and calm in the day of danger and of trouble; they would put their trust in the Lord, and all would be well. Surely there is an advantage . . . in being a friend of God.