Psalms111

Psalms 111 begins with a call to praise the Lord with one's whole heart in the assembly. It extols God's great, honorable, and glorious works, emphasizing His enduring righteousness, graciousness, and compassion. The psalm concludes by declaring that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and His praise endures forever.

A Pledge of Wholehearted Praise

1
Praise the LORD! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart, in the council of the upright, and in the congregation. ​

The Greatness of God's Works

2
The LORD’s works are great, pondered by all those who delight in them. ​
3
His work is honor and majesty. His righteousness endures forever.
4
He has caused his wonderful works to be remembered. The LORD is gracious and merciful. ​

God's Provision and Eternal Covenant

5
He has given food to those who fear him. He always remembers his covenant. ​
6
He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. ​
7
The works of his hands are truth and justice. All his precepts are sure. ​
8
They are established forever and ever. They are done in truth and uprightness.
9
He has sent redemption to his people. He has ordained his covenant forever. His name is holy and awesome! ​

The Beginning of Wisdom

10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. All those who do his work have a good understanding. His praise endures forever! ​

Study Notes for Psalms 111

Verse 1

The psalm opens with the command 'Hallelujah' (Praise ye the LORD), reinforced by the psalmist’s personal commitment to worship. The praise is intended for both the intimate setting of 'the upright' and the larger 'congregation' of Israel.

Verse 2

God’s 'works' refer to His mighty acts in creation and history, especially the deliverance of Israel. They are 'sought out' by those who delight in understanding God's nature and actions, suggesting a scholarly or devotional pursuit.

Verse 4

God ensures His 'wonderful works' are commemorated, often through festivals and Sabbath observance. This verse highlights God's character as gracious and compassionate (a phrase frequently associated with the covenant name of God, Yahweh).

Verse 5

The provision of 'meat' (food/sustenance) symbolizes God's faithfulness in sustaining His people, both physically and spiritually. The promise that He will 'ever be mindful of his covenant' grounds immediate provision in eternal commitment.

Verse 6

This refers specifically to the conquest of Canaan, demonstrating God's power to fulfill His promises by giving Israel the land previously occupied by the 'heathen' nations.

Verse 7

The works and commands of God are characterized by 'verity' (truth and dependability) and 'judgment' (justice). This means God’s actions are reliable, moral, and consistent with His nature.

Verse 9

The sending of 'redemption' primarily recalls the Exodus, the foundational act establishing Israel as God’s people. The term 'reverend' (or awesome/terrible) emphasizes the profound holiness and majesty associated with God's saving power.

Verse 10

This verse serves as a powerful summary and conclusion, echoing wisdom literature (Proverbs 1:7). True wisdom is not mere intellectual knowledge but the moral posture of reverence and obedience toward God's commands.

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