Psalms 111

Psalms 111:1-10

the Works of the Lord Psalms 111:1-10 A fresh series of psalms begins here, of which the dominant note is Hallelujah. This and the next are similar in construction, each being alphabetical; that is, the verses begin with the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. The first is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving at the contemplation of Jehovah’ s works; and the second describes the righteousness which His chosen derive from Him. They are the work of an unknown minstrel, but anonymity is characteristic of the highest work. When a man has achieved a really noble and beautiful work, he is indifferent to the judgment and praise of his fellows. Let us, as Psalms 111:2 suggests, take pleasure in God’ s works and seek them out. It is well to acquaint ourselves with some branch of natural study for this purpose. But the wealth of truth hidden in the precepts of the Word of God, Psalms 111:7, will still better repay us. God’ s works in nature, providence, and grace will be our theme and joy for eternal ages. A veil, however, is now on our eyes and a lethargy on our tongues. What precious phrases are scattered through this psalm! Full of compassion; meat for his own ever mindful of his covenant; redemption sent to his people; the covenant commanded forever. What strong consolation for those who have fled for refuge! In the closing verses wisdom is used, as in Solomon’ s time, of the intuitions of the pure heart.

The works of the Lord This Psalm was probably written after the return from the Captivity. The circumstances of the new colony were poor and depressing. And the aim of the religious leaders of the people was to get them to look up to God and expect from Him a gracious repetition of the marvelous works of the past. That word, works, is the keynote of the Psalm, occurring constantly (Psalms 111:2-4; Psalms 111:6-7); also the word ever (Psalms 111:3; Psalms 111:5; Psalms 111:8-10). When tempted to lose heart, because of present difficulty, let us go back on the former deeds of the right hand of the Lord. This Psalm is an alphabetical acrostic.

Psalms 111:1. I will praise the Lord It is not enough to call on others to praise. Each of us must do so, as a matter of personal duty.

Psalms 111:2. The works of the Lord are great Let us search them out–the works of the Lord in nature, with telescope or microscope, on Alpine solitude, by mountain stream or in the great world of human life. We must seek, if we would find. For it is God’s pleasure to hide things.

Psalms 111:3. His work Notice the singular. All the “works” (Psalms 111:2) are the WORK, emanating from one source, tending to one result. “One law; one plan; one far-off Divine event.”

Psalms 111:5. He will ever be mindful of his covenant Judge not God by his delays but by his promises. “He waits that He may be gracious.”

Psalms 111:6. The heritage of the heathen What a heritage is ours in Christ! (Romans 8:17).

Psalms 111:7. The works of his hands are verity and judgment They are “Yea and Amen in Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Psalms 111:9. He sent redemption unto his people Type of the redemption of Christ (Revelation 5:9).

Psalms 111:10. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom The fear of God here mentioned is childlike fear, which dreads to offend and is compatible with perfect love. To have this is to have a wisdom which enters into God’s secrets, reads his meaning and understands Himself. If you want to have a good understanding of things, men and God, you will get it best by being right with God. The standpoint from which we view things is of the utmost importance to our right understanding of them. The margin gives another reading, a good success. But note that all depends on obedience. Those that do, know. Act up to all you know and you will know more (John 7:17). Do God’s will and He will prosper you.