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Commentary on the Psalms
Book 5
Psalm 107
Like chapter 106, this chapter speaks of God's mercy. The focus here, though, is on the redeemed and God's work with them. First, He redeemed them from sin and [from] many different places. Without Him, those now saved would still be wandering in the desert. He let them cry to Him, though, and leads them to a place to inhabit.
The psalmist then says how worthy God is of praise, a phrase that is repeated many times (vss 8,15,21,31). He did give us the desire for goodness, no matter how deep [the] darkness we remain due to our rebellion in sin. God also brought their heart down so that they would repent and He could then break their sin bands. He in fact destroys all bhtat bind in [our] sin nature. Though our own foolishness often cause the trouble, He still forgives and even sent his word to heop heal (and avoid other troubles).
We should thus praise and declare His works for He allows us to work and [He] controls the environment in which we work. The psalmist uses the sea as his example since it seems so uncontrolled, but also poooints out that even calm streams and fertilized fields are His as well. In fact, man himself as a created being is kept by Him, the wise, observing, merciful and understanding King. What a reason to praise!
Psalm 108
David, as the psalm writer, seems to be emphasizing the work of God over nations. He begins by saying this hsa fixed his heart on praise of God and on getting to [do the same]. In fact, this great thing has not only led him to encourage his people but also all [other] nations to exalt the God of mercy who is above all, so he will deliver His people.
[What is] the "great thing"? God has said He will [rejoice] in His holiness [through saving His people] (vs 7). David rejoices in this and plans his conquest for God [over] Israel's enemies by protecting those who are His. God wouldn't cast His people off, would He? They realize, after all, any help from man is useless, but [God] allows all [their] victories.
Psalm 109
This psalm is again written by David, though this time it also is a call to God to judge. Wicked men are overwhelming him by lying against him, saying hateful things to him, [directing] causeless attacks on [him], and responding to his good with evil. David also asks God to judge since he has prayed for and shown good to [them inspite of] their evil. David even suggests punishment such as having evil, or even demonic, advisors given to [them], making [their] prayer useless, condemning [them] quickly when [they] are judged, removal from position, death, total destruction of [their] family line[s] after hard times, destruction of property, no mercy shown to [them], and [the] results of sin on [their] children's lives.
The enemy neglected to show any mercy, persecuted those in need, tried to totally destroy the depressed, loved cursing others (not just vocal profanity, but actually trying to remove blessings), and, as mentioned earlier, the personal attacks on David, God's servant. In summary, David only asks that the adversary be rewarded with what he would do to others. Verses 21-29 show this is not just a vengeful attitude he has. David has endured and asks this since he has become weak in his endurance [through] depression struggled against, fasting prayed through, and reproach shown by [his adversary]. He asks only God's mercy on him by the curse on them, so that [the] Lord's name is shown mightily and so he can praise [the] Lord for His help.
Psalm 110
David here acts as prophet, showing the coming priest-king. He begins with the LORD speaking to his Lord - a picture of the Trinity - giving Him authority over his enemies. The LORD then sends the "rod of thy strength" (The Spirit?) out to gather to the Lord, who is in control, making His people willing to serve as He acts as priest for them. Those unwilling, who are their own kings, will be judged by this priest-king [even as they are used as instruments of destruction].
The brook (also the Spirit?) will strengthen Him in this. In other words, God the Father (LORD) sent the Son (Lord) under the Spirit's power (rod) to gather His people and [to] act as priest for [them]. Some day, though [the] Son waits now, He will come by [the] power of the brook (Spirit) to rule and destroy His enemies.
[Jim admitted in a note at the top of the page "stay up
night before - all night." Within the text he strikes
through "Christmas" and "Fellow RTV students"
which he had written apparently while half asleep. This shows
that the following was probably written after Christmas vacation
in January, 1999. His thoughts were divided, but he still got his
devotions in.]
Psalm 111
The psalmist begins by showing God's greatness with his great world, showing His power. His wonderful attributes are currently shown on [the] basis of basic food [which] He delivers, for example. They [his people], in love for their nation, live right, knowing that [the nation] roams from Him. Only God can send redemption by His holy name.
Hearing this, the psalmist speaks of God's wisdom {never heard of here against their great skeptical ear. God will see evil and is shocked to find [his] son in such superstition}. [Jim inserted this here, though I don't see it in the text, JHM, Sr] God can conquer and thus we should trust Him and come in humble obedience.
Psalm 112
This passage speaks of the blessing God sends on those who are enjoying His word. God will increase their family and bless with money [at whatever] times He wishes. Most importantly, He lets them grow more righteous and use these processes and gifts to grow more -- giving and not expecting [any] return, secure in [their] stand, unafraid of evil since [they] trust God to deliver [them] and to judge [their] enemies. All these kind acts will exalt one who is already righteous, but the wicked will be greived at good works, since they (the wicked) will melt away in God's judgment. All [the] wicked will fail in [the] end.
Psalm 113
This psalm, like others, speaks of praising God. It was the first of several psalms sung together during passover, meaning [the] Lord may have sung this or any psalm up to 118. Verse 3 shows the continuing mature of the prais - a daily thing. Why should we praise daily? His place as Lord - He is higher and more glorious than any nation or even heaven. No one [person] or thing is close to being likde Him in His greatness and yet He humbles himself to act in those things under Him, heaven and earth.
He especially helps those in need, lifting the poor to princes. Note [that] He parallels this with a barren woman helping raise children - an important task, motherhood is. What a song for [the] Lord to sing at Passover -- he had stepped down and this reminds [us] of [his] purpose - to raise poor sinners to [be] princes of God.
Psalm 114
The psalmist points to history as an indication of God's power over nature. The Exodus of those He ruled over is what the psalmist focused on, which is emphasised in that this is sung each Passover. The splitting of the Red Sea, water from the Rock, and Sinai's quakes are all referred to. What a reminder of God's power this was to all Israel each year. And since Christ sang [this] at [the] Last Supper, what a reminder for Him of the power he had to redeem and yet, the power He wouldn't use to free [him]self from [the] agony of [the] cross.
Psalm 115
The psalmist her begins by knocking away any glory that may come to God's people rather that to Him as the true and merciful one. Nations, though, may choose instead of bringing glory to his people to mock them, unable to see God. God, though, does as He pleases and reveals to those He wants. All their gods can't really do anything and those who trust them are just as hopeless.
Israel's trust in the Lord will protect and help them, blessing them and all, small and great, who trust Him. He will allow, for example, family growth. He made it all and yet gave [the] earth for man to run, which [the] devil "captured" and brought death, an ability not to praise God. We must praise Him now and evermore due to this allowed loss. Christ came, though, as He no doubt was reminded in singing this at Passover, to do things not to His glory but [to] His Father's. He is powerful to save over all idoles set up and llows some of all who choose death to choose to praise by salvation by Him.
Psalm 116
The psalmist here gives a reason to sing and praise, which is our love for God. Our love is expressable because He allowed it, and listens for it. Our prayer comes when we realize sin arond us and call on His deliverance of [our] souls. God in His grace always helps those who humble themselves so and delivers them from death and falling into sin.
This should lead us to speak of His work - saving us from our great affliction. We also immediately begin to see others' sin and speak of [it] (vs 11), desire to give to [the] Lord (vs 12), call on him more now that we're saved (vs 13), keep our promises (vs 14), meet with His people (vs 15), and even be ready to die fro Him (vs 16).
The psalmist then says all this is true of him and he will continue to serve and worhip because it is. He doesn't praise [him]self through all those traits, but [he praises] God. Remember, too, that Christ would have sung [this] at [the] Last Supper as a vivid reminder of wht would result from his death. What an encouraging song to Him it must have been!
Psalm 117
{[Jim wrote] I skipped this Sunday in reading, but having memorized [this psalm] I thought over [it]. Now I read and write up}
First, we can praise God as seen here for his attributes. Note the two mentioned: Merciful kindness - Old Testament's closest word for grace; and truth that endures - shows [the] covenant-keeping nature of God. In the end, both will be praised by al nations - even those [that ate] unsaved. They will see an praise God who is truthful in his judgment, while showing [that] he is great enough to mercifully prevent all from being judged.
What truth this short psalm shows and what a reminder it must have been for Christ as he sang of what he had left (praise of all) in order to fulfill those very attributes!
Psalm 118
Like the last few psalms, Christ probably sang this one at [the] Lord's Supper. The psalm begins by calling for praise of the Lord's mercy. Christ's whole purpose was to show this mercy through the hardship of the cross. He, if anyone, knew [the] harm man would inflict, but verses 6 through 7 show this harm [to be] useless with the Lord on his side and [that the Lord] will judge those [who] hate him.
Trust in God, is, after all, better than trusting man and princes. After all, even if [the] nations of [our] enemies surround us, God can keep us safe by destroying them. Their hardest attacks are deflected by [the] Lord's help. He gives us rason to sing as our strength and salvation, exalted by his own work. Death won't come, but life [will], to declare His word. Hard times will come but death (separation from God) won't; since Christ died death is followed [by] life.
This opened [the] gates of righteousness so that His people can be saved. All this is done by the rejected cornerstone, by the Lord's direction. God made the day and we can rejoice in that since it allows us to call for salvation. In David's day this blessed salvation "in the name of the Lord" was coming to be a sacrifice. Christ was reminded [of this] singing of the results of His death and was encouraged by [the] psalmist's constant praise of God in this event.
Psalm 119:1-72
This is the longest passage in the Bible and it teaches how the Bible, God's written word, should be apprectiated. What great appreciation we must have for so much to be written on [this Book]. The passage uses eight synonyms to describe God's word:
(These terms [are] all defined in Scofield notes.) [p 658, The New Scofield Reference Bible, New York: Oxford University Press, 1967] But what do these verses say about all these terms?
First, blessings are promised to those whose seek God with [a] whole heart through obeying [the] law/testimonies/way. This involves keeping [ones] self from error (by [following] precepts) and obeying commands. The psalmist (vs 5) realizes he [has] failed in this and desires to obey [God] so he can be blessed by not being ashamed and being able to praise [Him]. He asks God not to forsake [him] while he works on keeping His statutes.
Realizing these blessings that come from obeying, the psalmist, secondly, shows how [God's] word can help [one] to obey - it will cleanse the way of those that heed it. Those that wholly seek [God] still need God's preservation (vs 10). Some ways to do this include memorizing (vs 11), asking [the] Lord to teach (vs 12), declaring [the Word] (vs 13), rejoicing in [it] (vss 14-15), and meditation (vs 15).
Thirdly, the psalmist reminds the psalmist reminds [us] that we should use [the] word to remind [us that] we are servants of God and dependent upon Him for life (vs 17), understanding of [the] law (vss 18, 24), protection from those who hate His word and mock [his people] (vss 21-23), and for the desire to study (vs 19-20).
Fourth, we must ask Him to bless our study to bless our study to be able to proclaim his word (vs 26-27). This involves removal of our natural sin tendencies (vs 25, 29), a working toward truth (vs 30), calling on his strength in depression (vs 28), and a constant reference to [the] truth we know (vss 31-32).
Fifth, the psalmist shows [that] we must constantly refer to [God's] power, not just to know the truth, but to continue in [it]. (This differs from [the] second point in that there [we] didn't know how to obey at first. Here continuance, not just starting in obedience, is shown as necessary.) This constancy comes by more teaching by Him (vs 33), instruction with understanding given by Him (vs 34), encouragement by Him to study His word (vss 36, 40), help to avoid bad things (vs 37), stabalizing in stands (vs 38), and help [to] avoid fear (vs 39).
Sixth, and most important so far, it shows why we desire all of the above - His word is used to save by His mercy (vs 41). This is the answer for those who reproach (vs 42), our motive for continuance in [the] law (vs 43), our security of truth (vs 43), our ability to be free of sin (vs 45), and to stand and speak our beliefs (vs 46). Thus we continue in his word all due to salvation (vss 47-48).
Seventh, the word provides comfort when trials come (vss 49-50, 52, 54). We may have to deal with [the] proud (vss 51, 69), those who ignore [the] word to live wickedly (vs 53), or those that hurt and sin against us (vs 61), but as we remeber His word (vs 59), keep it (vss 56-57, 60), ask His help (vss 59, 62), and join with others who do (vs 63), we will actually grow in [times of] trouble. He will mercifully teach us how to see troubles (vs 66) and draw us, to keep [us] closer to [His] word, through troubles (vss 67-68, 71). Now wonder the psalmist says God's word is better than riches (vs 72). God deals well with us even in trials (vss 65, 68)!
Psalm 119:73-160
Verse 73 begins with creation and this really shows [the] way to live up to our created purpose throughout this section. God's word is still the focus for this change, but it is [about] its use in contact with other Christians (vss 74, 79), in our faithfulness through trouble (vss 74, 79), and in our faith [byn which] He will bring peace and comfort (vss 75-77). We must be sound in His word, though, so we are not ashamed as Adam and Eve were (vs 80).
Second, we are shown trouble, even when trusting, may last a while and even wear us down (vss 81-84). Enemies will continue attacks, but we mustn't give up on His word (vss 85-87). Instead, we should ask His help more dilligently (vss 82, 84-88). Thirdly, we are reminded that the law is sure forever (vs 89), as is His faithfulness (vs 90). All generations are able to abide since He enpowers (vss 90-91). Even each individual is secure, given spiritual (and physical) life by Him as His [own] (vss 92-94). The wicked's wait for destruction is fruitless - [God's] word will perfect instead, though [it] is broad in every area and will thus take time (vss 95-96).
Fourth, we are shown His commands are never ending instruction. As [we] meditate on them (vs 97), we gain wisdom from God, who is present with us, over [our] enemies (vs 98), teachers (vs 99), and the "ancients" (vs 100). Part of this is remaining faithful to Him and obedient to avoid evil (vss 101-102). As we do, we come to enjoy his word and hate falsehood (vss 103-104). Fifth, these never-ending words are useful to avoid trouble. They show us the way (vs 105), whow us how [the] Lord works in trouble (vs 107), make us giving (vs 108), show [the] seriousness of our part in our Christian life (vss 106, 109, 112), help avoid tempation (vs 110), and build a continuing relationship in [the] family with God (vs 111).
Sixth, besides just helping [us] avoid trouble, the testimony of God is a help in trouble. It reminds us who we need to avoid (vss 113, 115), provides safety (vs 114), keeps us uplifted in trouble (vss 116-117) and reminds [us] He will jucge [the] wicked, both as a comfort (vss 118-119) and a warning (vs 120). Seventh, it is a judge of our actions. As we act justly, we can cry to God for defense (vss 121-122) and understanding how to serve (vss 123-125). We must leave vengence to him (vs 126) and our love for his word will only grow (vss 127-128).
Eighth, it leaves us desiring more understanding no matter our state. We may be simple (vss 134, 143-144), sympathetic for others' needs (vss 136, 139), or asking direction (vss 133, 135, 144), but God's word is still wonder and totally righteously faithful (vss 129, 137-138, 142, 144). Nineth, it causes us to anticipate His work as we obey (vss 145-146). His precepts show nature follows His pattern (vss 147-148), and we can expect it to continue thus. His willingness to approach us is also anticipated to protect us from trouble (vss 148-152), in affliction (vss 153-154), and in his considering our responses to [a] firm stand (vs 157), desperation for help (vs 154, 156), an sympathy (vs 158) based in our love for Him, seen in our trust in his word (vss 159-160).
Psalm 119:161-176
Precepts given by God are our secure defense against takeing offense at trouble. Trouble comes mostly from others (vs 161), but we can still rejoice at His word (vs 162), avoiding lying (vs 163), give God the praise (vs 164), get peace (vs 165), and hope by the salvation of his message (vs 166). Trouble, though, can't effect the truh in or soul (vs 169) for deliverance (vs 170), with praise (vs 171). Witness will follow as we see His salvation [for which] we ask evein if we fail at times (vs 172-176).
[This last devotion apparently was the result of a "busy day" following days that allowed for plenty of time.This was possibly a weekend followed by a Monday morning. I say this because this would logically have fit on the previous section IF he had had time.]
Psalm 120
The psalmist here calls on the Lord in [a time of] trouble. Apparently, he is being lied about and asks what these liars think will happen du to their lies. The psalmist then answers with what will happen in verse four. Though the symbols are a bit confusing, the message is clear: lying leads to painful results. The psalmist also realizes that his troubles are his fault for being with the wrong crowd which he now realizes aer against his goals of peace and declares a woe on himself. He realizes only [the] Lord, not himself, can save him from trouble.
Psalm 121
The psalmist here begins with a question. In seeing the mountains, he wonders where his help is from -- a rhetorical question since he knows the answer -- It is the Lord who who created it all. This Lord, though, is not just our creator, but our defender and one who never rests at that. This may be by keeping trouble away, but it may just be preservation from evil continually from now on.
David wrote this psalm to show how much he appreciates God's house. He first states how glad he is to be invited to God's house. He is, in fact, glad even to be in the city God has set aside for glorifying His name. In other words, anything with God's people is a joy, not just worship.
Jerusalem was built as a central location for Israel's worship and thus David is glad for crowds (vss 3-4). However, since it also governmental center, the psalmist ask for prayer, from any worshippers who may come, for peace and prosperity in the palace especially.
However, for the sake of all Israel, especially spiritual [Israel], David asks peace for Jerusalem. hw often do I pray for [the] church, governing bodies, and the well-being of those around me?
Psalm 123
The psalmist here is looking to the powerful God of mercy as [a man who is] His servant. He literally begs for mercy -- three times! He realizes how needy he is since [he and his people] are filled with contempt at others - especially those who [have] lifted themselves up to a high position. Though this isn't always good (pride in vs 4), the psalmist's emphasis is that their contempt isn't either.
Psalm 124
David again writes this psalm to show how helpless they [God's people] would be without God's help when enemies arise. He shows they would be totally destroyed, overwhelmed as by a flood by the pride of their enemy. Thanks should be given to the Lord for keeping us from their attack. In fact, he even saves us when [we are] trapped. What a great God, who is our creator.
Psalm 125
This chapter, again by comparison to jerusalem, shows an aspect of our response to God. Instead of worsip here, though, Jerusalem's location shows the abiding, surrounding protection we receive when we put our trust in God (vss 1-2). He will not allow the wicked to rule over us or hurt us as neither may lead us to do wickedly. Instead, the psalmist asks [God's] good be given to the upright inn heart, who avoid wicke ways. Those who chose the crooked path will be led forth with "workers of iniquity" under [the] Lord's judgment. Israel, thou, will remain at peace.
Psalm 126
The psalmist here is prophecying the people's response when they, by [the] Lord's work, return from captivity. First, they don't believe it (vs 1). Second, they break inot joyful sonys, praising the great things God has done (vss 2-3).
The psalmist shows, too, though this came by prayer (vs 4), and reminds them [that] sorrow must come before the joy of reaping. Israel gainsed the benefits of the loss of idolotry and more teaching in synogogues. What benefits may we gain by trouble?
Psalm 127
The Lord, through Solomon, is focussing on the home. he shows that no home can be built or kept safe apart from His help. Worry then is also useless -- God is in control and we can thus rest easy. Children may be a reason for this worry but God gives them as a reward. They are a strengthening factor and a protection in the family.
Joy comes to the man who has a "quiver full of them" -- should be willing to have many kids, for among other things they will protect our reputation from enemies. What a challenge to kids that is -- to protect their protectors from a bad reputation.
Psalm 128
This psalm shows how fearing God and obeying Him will bless a person. First, we will see the results of our work and receive joy through [that]. Second, our family provides constant beneficial blessings as we follow God, like a growing, fruitful plant.
Third, the Lord promises (as He has all this - vs 4) to bless the city around us all our life. Finally, the Lord promises long, peaceful life on those who trust Him. What reasons to trust Him!
Psalm 129
This psalm starts with Israel mentioning a lasting affliction ("from my youth"). This affliction, though continual, isn't effective in prevailing against them. Even when it seems like the wicked are tearing them up like a man plowing a field, the Lord is righteous and will cut down the wicked, confused as they [attempt to] cut down Zion and turned back before they can. They are only as strong as grass on the roof, [that is,] very shor-lived and not abundant or worth reaping. They are made non-beneficial and none will bless them either.
Psalm 130
This psalm is a song of aperson asking [for] forgiveness. First, he realizes the depths he is in. Second, he asks [the] Lord to listen -- he knows where [his] help comes from. Third, he realizes hs sins are so great he can't stand if God doesn't forgive [him]; though, since He does we have a reason to fear Him.
Fourth, we learn that redemption may take time -- other portions of [the] Bible show God forgives when asked but [the] results [of sin] and [the] depths we're at take time to change. Finally, we wee redemption is national and not just individual and suould thus give us hope in [God's] mercy [which is] totally sufficient.
Psalm 131
The psalmist here begins by vowing not to be proud or try to act in maters highter than he understands. He says he'll calm down like a child who has been breastfed and is now stopping -- satisfied with God, in this case. The psalmist then asks Israel to hope in God, as he has, forever.
Psalm 132
This psalm is a call on God to remember his promises due to David keeping his [promise] not to rest until a place for the temple was found. As a result, Ephraim even could rise up to worship. The Lord has a place for his worship to rest. The psalmist then asks for righteous priests and joyful people to continue with His presense for David's sake.
God had, after all, sworn to put David's line on the throne as long as they kept His commands (this implies Solomont wrote this early on) since He chose Zion as a whole. God's answer comes in verses 14-18. He does desire to rest among people, providing for them physically (vs 15) and spiritually (vs 16). He will keep the promise of a Davidic king that will light His annointed's way. All the king's (that is, Christ's) enemies will fail but he will not, but rather [he will] flourish.
Psalm 133
This psalm by David speaks of how good it is to have family unity. David had experience in [such unity] -- many brothers and many kids. Unity is compared with the oil that made Aaron a priest -- a basis that holds Israel together as a basic command of God.
If unity is followed, so is much of God's law. David also compares it to the dew of Hermon and the dew that falls on Zion. [It is] necessary for crops in such a dry area. This shows how [the] Lord blesses -- not just with life, but also with everlasting life.
Psalm 134
This psalm encourages us to bless God at all times, as his servants, serving, even evenings. As we bless Him, He promises to bless us -- which his creative power shows he can do.
Psalm 135
This psalm once again shows how worht God is of praise. First, he is praiseworthy simply since we are his servants and aer pleasantly blessed that He chose us as His people. Second, He is great (greater that any false god) because of His acts of control of nature (vss 6-7), of miracles (vs 8), of regular wars (vss 9-12) and of judgment (vs 14).
Third, He is eternal (vs 13) and affects all generations. Fourth, He is unlike idols which are man's work (vs 15), can't act (vss 16-17), and in reality [are] useless. The men who worship idols are the same -- by [their] own work, [they] can't act right and are useless in accomplishing goo and giving worship.
For all these reasons, God should be blessed by leaders of state and church as well as [by] every individual. May I call others to do as the psalmist does here.
Psalm 136
The message of this psalm is obvious -- God is merciful in all [his] dealings with us, forever. However, the ways He shows his mercy emphasize other traits. Verse one shows he is good and [that] we should give thanks for that. Verses 2 through 4 show that He is greater thatn any other god or lord, since He is able to do wonders.<>p> Remember, all these are signs and pictures of His mercy. The psalm lists several wonders wich include:
1. Creation (vss 5-9)
Note that creation was by His wisdom and each [thng] had a purpose -- Heaven to show that wisdom, earth to [be out of] the waters, and lights to rule day and night. His mercy doesn't end in just making us though.
2. His deliverance (vs 10-21)
Note that His mercy includes judgment on Egypt, Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, as much it includes the protection of Israel. All [these] traits can be expressed [because He] is everlasting in mercy. Some are even miraculously expressed.
3. His Heritage Provided (vss 19-26)
Note how these divide His provisions: promises mercifully fulfilled, spiritual need mercifully cared for, and daily provision of needs as verses 1 and 26 show how we should respond to such mercy -- praise!
Psalm 137
This psalm was obviously written during the exile, probably early on. The captive Israel weeps in remebering Zion -- now they are desiring the place of God's blessing. they hang their harps on willows to show how they feel, unable to sing even when their captives command it.
They reply [that] they can't sing of God's chosen place in a foreign land and ask God that they [might] forget how to use their right hand -- the better one -- if they forget God's place, or, if it isn't their main joy, tht they be unable to speak. They care so much that God's things and people (whid the city also represents) be not defamed and [they] ask God's punishment on those who encouraged [defamation] and [on those] who acted to destroy [them]. They realize God will bless a nation to overthrow these enemies and they add their blessings too.
Psalm 138
This psalm by David is obviously a psalm of praise to God; great praise due to the psalmist's whole-heartedness and God's own greatness above other gods due to His lovingkindness and truth. David chooses to worship in God's way and realizes the importance of His written word -- God has magnified it even over His name since He has chosen it to strengthen his people when they ask.
All nations will someday praise on hearing His word and sing of His greatness for he is great, greater than any can explain. His great place, though, doesn't keep him from the lowly. In fact He avoids the proud and instead shows the humpbe respect. Even in the midst of trouble, He protects them and helps against their enemies so that His perfecting will be complete in them. His mercy means He will never forsake those who are His works.
Psalm 139
This psalm, by David, shows the extent of God's knowledge. First, David focuses on [God's] personal knowledge of him, from his acts (vss 2-3) to his words (vs4), which leads Him to direct and protect these -- an amazing thought to [the psalmist] of Him (vss 5-6). This, he realizes, is the work of the Spirit (vs 7) who is in all places we can go -- heaven, hell, far, near, light or dark are allthe same to Him (vss 8-12).
[God] knew us personally from our conception and took part in it with personal, precious care (vss 13-17). His blessings continue now and will until we "awake" and even then (vs 18) -- in death -- He'll be there. In blessing, judgment will come (vss 18-20), but this justs helps us grow by knowing who to avoid and hate -- that is, those He hates (vss 21-24).
Psalm 140
This psalm, by David, is again a call for God's protection. This call is particularly for those evil, violent men who are always gathered for the hurt of others physically and with words. David focuses on these now for they are trying to disturb and trap him.
His answer to their purpose? Prayer! He asks God to keep their rebellious plans in check so they aren't exalted in pride. In fact, he asks their punishment be [that they be] thrown down by their own ways. He is sure God will estblish the righteous -- he knows His justice.
Psalm 141
Here again David is asking deliverance from his enemies who are trying to trap him (vss 9-10). however, his focus isn't on judgment but for the Lord's help in discernment of [the] proper words (vs 3), proper desires away from evil (vs 4), good frineds who rebuke him rightly (vs 5) and that he can pray for (vs 5), proper attitude in trouble (vss 6-7) and most of all, God's presence (vs 8).
Noteice, too, how he depends so much ongod to prepare him in such a way -- He realizes God is in total control and yet [He] is pleased when we ask Him things.
Psalm 142
David wrote this psalm while alone and being chased by Saul. Notice that in such trouble his first response is to cry to God with his supplication and complaint, showing it to him. God, of course, knows his way even in his distress. His enemies have lain traps for him, from which, with no human friends, deliverance and refuge seem unlikely until he realizes God is his defence and asks His deliverance from these strong enemies. He asks God to free him, by sending [the] righteous to surround him, knowing God will bountifully supply.
Psalm 143
David again records a prayer here in this psalm. He asks God to hear due to His faithful ritheousness and yet not judge since none are righteous in His sight among men. David makes supplications -- [a] request for aid due to the enemy afflicting his soul with depression, overwhelming him spiritually.
Even in this state, though, he remembers God's past work and word and desires Him [His presence} due to them. He asks God [to] deliver him quickly, by His mercy showing him the way, teaching him His will. All this is for [God's] sake since he serves Him.
Psalm 144
This psalm, again by David is a prayer. This prayer though, unlike most psalms, is a mixture of praise and request. David is praying about strength throughout though.
First, he blesses God for being his strength and teaching him how to use the strength He, as the Strongest Strength, lets him rule with. Second, while realizing God rules his ruling, David again wonders why so powerful a God even concerns Himself with weak man[kind].
Third, he realizes this question may not be answered and simply asks the power be displayed that He has to deliver him from evil people. Fourth, he praises God for actinf as he asked in protecting him. Finally, he explains why he wants God to use his power so -- so that not just he, but all who are so trusting of God's mithght may have strond steady children, material blessings to the fullest, strong labor from animals and [a] lack of crime and complaint. In other words, he asks God's strength so his people are happy in God in such a case (as when they are surrounded by evil doers).
Psalm 145
David in this psalm, promises to daily praise God's name forever. He then gives his reasons: First, the Lord is great in unsearchable ways and thus deserves our praise. Second, He is so great [that] He deserves to have future generations learn of Him and praise Him. David promises to be the spokesman of God's majestic work so they will spread what they learn of Him, too.
Third, God's attributes are described since all are worthy of praise on their own merits. Fourth, His people can praise Him for the glorious kingdom that is also [ever]lasting. Fifth, God is worthy of praise for the upholding and provision of those who are weak or falling. Sixth, [God] answers those who are calling on Him desirous that he act and preserve them as he destroys the wicked they cry against. For all these reasons, David promises to praise.
Psalm 146
This psalm of praise seems to follow God's help rather that ask for it. The psalmist is encourageing himself to praise God as long as he lives. Man, even if a ruler, isn't totally dependable -- he can die and then his thoughts are useless.
The one who has God's help, though, is blessed since [God] made all things, keeps all truth to stabalize; provides food for the needy, and justice to those who are oppressed, sight to blind, lifting for the weak, and relief for strangers and widows. All this is form love for the righteous and is done by flipping [reversing] the wicked's plans. Best of all, god is everlasting, and personal. What a reason to praise!
Psalm 147
The psalmist begins by praising and calling for praise of God which he describes as pleasant and worthy. The Lord is bringing the outcast together [from among] his people, both to heal them physically and emotionally. He is personable and knowledgable as the fact [that] He knows every stars name shows. In fact, He is so great in His power that He is infinite in His understanding.
He uses these both to lift up the meek and destroy the wicked. We should thus sing faithfully to Him in praise. As if these aren't enough reason, He also sends rain, provides food for animals, is unconcerned about armies, and enjoys those who fear him, hoping in His mercy. As our praise brings Him joy, He blesses all the more and provides many crops and kids, allowing for [the] quick spread of His word.
The weather (ice and cold) [not only shows God's power but] also shows the state of man's heart which His word melts (vs 18) so that [the word] is spread to all His people. These were chosen and not everyone [was included] -- yet another reason to praise (vs 20).
Psalm 148
This psalm is simply a call to all creation to praise their creator. The psalmist begins by calling on angelic beings and those in heaven to do this (vss 1-2), but soon spreaed to the natural world He maintains (vss 3-6), the weather He directs (vss 7-8), plant and animals that show His creativity (vss 9-10) and all mankind, rulers or children (vss 11-12).
Why? Only He is exalted and glorious (vs 13). As his people, though, we have another reason -- our nearness to His heart will cause Him to specially consider us! What praise He deserves!
Psalm 149
This psalm seems to emphasize our part as God's children in His plan and encouragement to praise Him for it. First, the methods of praise are listed: singing new songs, as a cogretation; in dance; with instruments; and most all, with joy (vss 1-3).
Second, the reasons to praise Him are given: He is our Creator, our king; [and] He gives salvation to the meek (vss 2, 4). We should thus be ready to praise [God] anywhere, both glorious palces and on our own bed (vs 5). We are soldiers, as other passages say, and should lift our Captain's name inpraise while ready to fight (vs 6). We will figt -- He gave us the Word to help in judging and punishing people. This is as much an honor as any task he gives and should be praised equally.
Psalm 150
This psalm, the last of the psalms, sums up the main focus of the psalms -- praise to God. This call is specific: "Praise ye the Lord" (vss 1, 6) but not directed specifically to Israel or the world in general. In fact, the psalm begins by calling for praise both in the sanctuary and in the "firmament of His power" -- that is, creation in genreal.
This praise is definitely deserved both for what He has done and for who He is. Music is a key way to do this, [either] instrumental (vss 3-5), or vocal (vs 6). The fact [that] so many instruments are listed adds to the importance of instrumental worship -- basically all known instruments used. Even dance was used to praise God. This isn't to say God hasn't set limits, but that limits may not be as we [have been] taught and we must study His word to find what they are as He reveals -- always for his praise.