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Commentary on Psalms 104 verses 10–18
Having given glory to God as the powerful protector of this earth, in saving it from being deluged, here he comes to acknowledge him as its bountiful benefactor, who provides conveniences for all the creatures.
I. He provides fresh water for their drink: He sends the springs into the valleys, Psa 104:10. There is water enough indeed in the sea, that is, enough to drown us, but not one drop to refresh us, be we ever so thirsty - it is all so salt; and therefore God has graciously provided water fit to drink. Naturalists dispute about the origin of fountains; but, whatever are their second causes, here is their first cause; it is God that sends the springs into the brooks, which walk by easy steps between the hills, and receive increase from the rain-water that descends from them. These give drink, not only to man, and those creatures that are immediately useful to him, but to every beast of the field (Psa 104:11); for where God has given life he provides a livelihood and takes care of all the creatures. Even the wild asses, though untameable and therefore of no use to man, are welcome to quench their thirst; and we have no reason to grudge it them, for we are better provided for, though born like the wild ass's colt. We have reason to thank God for the plenty of fair water with which he has provided the habitable part of his earth, which otherwise would not be habitable. That ought to be reckoned a great mercy the want of which would be a great affliction; and the more common it is the greater mercy it is. Usus communis aquarum - water is common for all.
II. He provides food convenient for them, both for man and beast: The heavens drop fatness; they hear the earth, but God hears them, Hos 2:21. He waters the hills from his chambers (Psa 104:13), from those chambers spoken of (Psa 104:3), the beams of which he lays in the waters, those store-chambers, the clouds that distil fruitful showers. The hills that are not watered by the rivers, as Egypt was by the Nile, are watered by the rain from heaven, which is called the river of God (Psa 65:9), as Canaan was, Deu 11:11, Deu 11:12. Thus the earth is satisfied with the fruit of his works, either with the rain it drinks in (the earth knows when it has enough; it is a pity that any man should not) or with the products it brings forth. It is a satisfaction to the earth to bear the fruit of God's works for the benefit of man, for thus it answers the end of its creation. The food which God brings forth out of the earth (Psa 104:14) is the fruit of his works, which the earth is satisfied with. Observe how various and how valuable its products are.
1.For the cattle there is grass, and the beasts of prey, that live not on grass, feed on those that do; for man there is herb, a better sort of grass (and a dinner of herbs and roots is not to be despised); nay, he is furnished with wine, and oil, and bread, Psa 104:15. We may observe here, concerning our food, that which will help to make us both humble and thankful. (1.) To make us humble let us consider that we have a necessary dependence upon God for all the supports of this life (we live upon alms; we are at his finding, for our own hands are not sufficient for us), - that our food comes all out of the earth, to remind us whence we ourselves were taken and whither we must return, - and that therefore we must not think to live by bread alone, for that will feed the body only, but must look into the word of God for the meat that endures to eternal life. Let us also consider that we are in this respect fellow-commoners with the beasts; the same earth, the same spot of ground, that brings grass for the cattle, brings corn for man. (2.) To make us thankful let us consider, [1.] That God not only provides for us, but for our servants. The cattle that are of use to man are particularly taken care of; grass is made to grow in great abundance for them, when the young lions, that are not for the service of man, often lack and suffer hunger. [2.] That our food is nigh us, and ready to us. Having our habitation on the earth, there we have our storehouse, and depend not on the merchant-ships that bring food from afar, Pro 31:14. [3.] That we have even from the products of the earth, not only for necessity, but for ornament and delight, so good a Master do we serve. First, Does nature call for something to support it, and repair its daily decays? Here is bread, which strengthens man's heart, and is therefore called the staff of life; let none who have that complain of want. Secondly, Does nature go further, and covet something pleasant? Here is wine, that makes glad the heart, refreshes the spirits, and exhilarates them, when it is soberly and moderately used, that we may not only go through our business, but go through it cheerfully. It is a pity that that should be abused to overcharge the heart, and unfit men for their duty, which was given to revive their heart and quicken them in their duty. Thirdly, Is nature yet more humoursome, and does it crave something for ornament too? Here is that also out of the earth - oil to make the face to shine, that the countenance may not only be cheerful but beautiful, and we may be the more acceptable to one another.
2.Nay, the divine providence not only furnishes animals with their proper food, but vegetables also with theirs (Psa 104:16): The trees of the Lord are full of sap, not only men's trees, which they take care of and have an eye to, in their orchards, and parks, and other enclosures, but God's trees, which grow in the wildernesses, and are taken care of only by his providence; they are full of sap and want no nourishment. Even the cedars of Lebanon, an open forest, though they are high and bulky, and require a great deal of sap to feed them, have enough from the earth; they are trees which he has planted, and which therefore he will protect and provide for. We may apply this to the trees of righteousness, which are the planting of the Lord, planted in his vineyard; these are full of sap, for what God plants he will water, and those that are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God, Psa 92:13.
III. He takes care that they shall have suitable habitations to dwell in. To men God has given discretion to build for themselves and for the cattle that are serviceable to them; but there are some creatures which God more immediately provides a settlement for. 1. The birds. Some birds, by instinct, make their nests in the bushes near rivers (Psa 104:12): By the springs that run among the hills some of the fowls of heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches. They sing, according to their capacity, to the honour of their Creator and benefactor, and their singing may shame our silence. Our heavenly Father feeds them (Mat 6:26), and therefore they are easy and cheerful, and take no thought for the morrow. The birds being made to fly above the earth (as we find, Gen 1:20), they make their nests on high, in the tops of trees (Psa 104:17); it should seem as if nature had an eye to this in planting the cedars of Lebanon, that they might be receptacles for the birds. Those that fly heavenward shall not want resting-places. The stork is particularly mentioned; the fir-trees, which are very high, are her house, her castle. 2. The smaller sort of beasts (Psa 104:18): The wild goats, having neither strength nor swiftness to secure themselves, are guided by instinct to the high hills, which are a refuge to them; and the rabbits, which are also helpless animals, find shelter in the rocks, where they can set the beasts of prey at defiance. Does God provide thus for the inferior creatures; and will he not himself be a refuge and dwelling-place to his own people?
Let Celsus then say distinctly that the great diversity among the products of the earth is not the work of Providence but that a certain fortuitous concurrence of atoms gave birth to qualities so diverse, and that it was owing to chance that so many kinds of plants and trees and herbs resemble one another, and that no disposing reason gave existence to them, and that they do not derive their origin from an understanding that is beyond all admiration. We Christians, however, who are devoted to the worship of the only God, who created these things, feel grateful for them to him who made them, because not only for us but also (on our account) for the animals that are subject to us, he has prepared such a home, seeing “he causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of humans, that they may bring forth food out of the earth and wine that makes glad the heart of people, and oil to make their faces to shine, and bread that strengthens humans’ hearts.” But that he should have provided food even for the most savage animals is not a matter of surprise, for these very animals are said by some who have philosophized [on the subject] to have been created for the purpose of affording exercise to the rational creature. And one of our own wise men says somewhere, “Do not say, What is this? or Wherefore is that? for all things have been made for their uses. And do not say, What is this? or Wherefore is that? for everything shall be sought out in its season.”
Having learned these things and been fully assured that what seems to be bread is not bread, though sensible to taste, but the body of Christ; and that what seems to be wine is not wine, though the taste will affirm that it is so, but the blood of Christ; and that of this David sang long ago, saying, “And bread strengthens a person’s heart, to make his face to shine with oil,” “strengthen you your heart,” by partaking of it as spiritual, and “make the face of your soul to shine.” And so having it unveiled with a pure conscience, may you “reflect as a mirror the glory of the Lord” and proceed from glory to glory, in Christ Jesus our Lord, to whom be honor and might and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
"Bringing forth grass for the cattle, and green herb for the service of men" [Psalm 104:14]. This is true, I perceive; I recognise the creation: the earth does bring forth grass for the cattle, and green herb for the service of men. But I perceive the words, "You shall not muzzle the mouth of the ox which treads out the grain: Does God take care for oxen? For our sakes therefore the Scripture says it." [1 Corinthians 9:9] How then does the earth bring forth grass for the cattle? Because "the Lord has ordained that they which preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel." He sent preachers, saying unto them, "Eat such things as are set before you of them: for the labourer is worthy of his hire." [Luke 10:7-8] ...They give spiritual, they receive carnal things; they give gold, they receive grass...."If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great matter if we shall reap your carnal things?" [1 Corinthians 9:11] This the Apostle said, a preacher so laborious, so indefatigable, so well tried, that he gives this very grass to the earth. "Nevertheless," he says, "we have not used this power." He shows that it is due to him, yet he received it not; nor has he condemned those who have received what was due. For those were to be condemned who exact what is not due, not they who accept their recompense: yet he gave up even his own recompense. You do not cease to owe to another, because one has given up his dues, otherwise you will not be the watered earth which brings forth grass for the cattle.... You receive spiritual things, give carnal things in return: to the soldier they are due, to the soldier you return them; you are the paymaster of Christ. "Who goes a warfare any time at his own charges? Who plants a vineyard, and eats not of the fruit thereof? Or who feeds a flock, and eats not of the milk of the flock? I speak not thus, that it should be so done unto me." [1 Corinthians 9:7, 15] There has been such a soldier as gave up his rations of food even to the paymaster: yet let the paymaster pay the rations....
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SUMMARY
Psalm 104:14 masterfully portrays God's active, meticulous, and continuous provision for all living creatures through the abundant vegetation of the earth. It highlights His sovereign role in causing grass to grow as sustenance for livestock and specific herbs for the benefit and service of humanity, culminating in the earth's divinely enabled capacity to yield life-sustaining food. This verse profoundly underscores the divine wisdom, benevolent care, and faithful sustenance embedded within the natural order, revealing God as the ultimate Provider who ensures the flourishing of both animal and human life.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Psalm 104 is a magnificent hymn of praise, celebrating God as the majestic Creator and faithful Sustainer of the cosmos. Often considered a poetic reflection on the creation accounts in Genesis 1, the psalm systematically surveys the various realms of creation, from the celestial heavens (vv. 1-9) to the terrestrial earth. Verse 14 is situated within a section (vv. 10-18) that focuses on God's provision of water and its life-giving effects, leading to the flourishing of vegetation. This specific verse marks a crucial transition from the general provision of water to the direct, tangible outcome: the growth of plants that sustain both animals and humans. It moves beyond the initial act of creation to emphasize God's ongoing, active involvement in maintaining the world He made, illustrating His detailed and practical care for His creatures.
Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, life was inextricably linked to agriculture and the often unpredictable cycles of nature. The availability of food was never guaranteed but depended heavily on consistent rainfall and fertile land. This precarious context made the concept of divine provision profoundly significant for survival. Unlike the capricious and often demanding deities of surrounding polytheistic cultures, the God of Israel is depicted as consistently benevolent, reliable, and actively involved in the daily sustenance of His creation. The psalm reflects a worldview where every aspect of natural productivity—from the sprouting of seeds to the ripening of harvests—is attributed directly to God's ongoing intervention. This fostered a deep sense of dependence and gratitude for His daily sustenance, which was literally a matter of life and death for ancient agrarian societies.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Psalm 104 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphatically highlights Divine Provision and Sustenance, showcasing God's active and continuous role in supplying the needs of His creation. This includes not only direct provision for humanity but also for animals, underscoring the comprehensive nature of His care. This theme resonates deeply with Jesus' teaching on God's meticulous care for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field, assuring humanity that God's provision for them is even greater, as beautifully articulated in Matthew 6:26. Secondly, the verse underscores the Order and Purpose in Creation, demonstrating that every element, specifically vegetation, serves a divinely ordained function within God's intricate design. The distinction between "grass for the cattle" and "herb for the service of man" underscores a purposeful differentiation in God's provision, echoing the initial creation mandate for humanity's sustenance in Genesis 1:29-30. Finally, the verse profoundly illustrates Dependence on God's Ongoing Care, emphasizing that the earth's ability to produce food is not inherent but a direct result of God's continuous working and blessing, reminding all of creation of its absolute reliance on the Creator for daily sustenance and life itself.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalm 104:14 employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound theological message. Parallelism is prominently featured in the balanced structure of "grass for the cattle, and herb for the service of man," which effectively highlights God's dual and distinct provision for both animals and humans, showcasing His comprehensive care. The repeated emphasis on divine agency through phrases like "He causeth" and "that he may bring forth" exemplifies Divine Action, leaving no doubt about God as the active, primary agent of creation's sustenance. The verse also utilizes a form of Merism by mentioning both "grass" (general vegetation, fodder) and "herb" (specific, useful plants for human consumption), thereby encompassing the full spectrum of plant life provided by God. While not explicit personification, the idea of the earth "bringing forth food" borders on a subtle Prosopopoeia, where the earth is depicted as actively yielding its produce, albeit entirely under divine impetus and direction.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a profound statement on God's active, ongoing providence and His meticulous care for His creation. It underscores the biblical truth that God is not merely a distant Creator but an immanent Sustainer, intimately involved in the daily provision of life. The distinction between provision for animals and for humans highlights God's comprehensive benevolence, while also subtly affirming humanity's unique role and needs within the created order. This divine provision is not a one-time act but a continuous flow of grace, reminding us that every meal, every blade of grass, and every flourishing plant is a tangible testament to God's faithfulness, wisdom, and unfailing love. It invites us to cultivate a posture of constant gratitude and trust in the One who reliably sustains all things.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 104:14 calls us to a deeper awareness of God's omnipresent and faithful provision in our daily lives. In a world that often takes natural resources for granted, this verse reorients our perspective, reminding us that the food on our tables, the beauty of the fields, and the very sustenance of life are direct, miraculous gifts from the hand of our Creator. It invites us to move beyond a transactional or purely naturalistic view of life to one of profound gratitude, recognizing that our existence is entirely dependent on God's ongoing grace. This understanding should inspire us to responsible stewardship of the earth's resources, treating them not as commodities to be exploited, but as sacred trusts from God, to be managed wisely for the flourishing of all creation. Furthermore, it builds our trust in God's faithfulness, assuring us that the same God who reliably causes the grass to grow will also meet our deeper needs, both physical and spiritual, according to His perfect wisdom and inexhaustible love.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does the verse distinguish between "grass for the cattle" and "herb for the service of man"?
Answer: The distinction highlights God's comprehensive and tailored provision for all living things within His creation. "Grass" (חָצִיר, chatsir) generally refers to fodder, the common green vegetation that sustains grazing animals. "Herb" (עֵשֶׂב, eseb), on the other hand, often denotes more specific, cultivated plants like grains, vegetables, or medicinal plants that are directly useful for human consumption, sustenance, or other services. This differentiation underscores God's meticulous care, providing exactly what is needed for each category of His creation, demonstrating His wisdom in designing an ecosystem where both animals and humans are sustained according to their specific needs. It echoes the initial creation narrative in Genesis 1:11-12 where God commands the earth to bring forth "grass" and "herb yielding seed," showing a divine design for distinct purposes.
How does this verse reconcile God's provision with human effort in farming and agriculture?
Answer: This verse emphasizes God as the ultimate source and enabler of all growth, stating "He causeth" and "that he may bring forth." It does not negate human effort but rather establishes the divine foundation upon which all human labor depends. Farmers can sow seeds, till the soil, and irrigate, but it is God who provides the sun, rain, and the inherent life-giving properties of the earth that cause the seeds to sprout and grow. Human effort is a form of stewardship and co-laboring with God, utilizing the resources and natural laws He has established. Without God's ongoing act of "causing" growth, human agricultural efforts would be futile. Thus, the verse promotes humility and gratitude, recognizing that while we work, it is God who gives the increase, as seen in 1 Corinthians 3:7. Our labor is a response to His prior and ongoing provision.
Is the "food out of the earth" mentioned here solely physical, or does it have broader implications?
Answer: Primarily, the "food out of the earth" refers to physical sustenance, the literal nourishment derived from vegetation that sustains both animal and human life. However, within the broader biblical context, physical provision often points to deeper spiritual truths. Just as God provides physical bread, He also provides spiritual sustenance. This verse can serve as a powerful metaphor for God's comprehensive provision, reminding us that the same faithful God who sustains our bodies also sustains our souls. Jesus Himself taught that man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4). Therefore, while the immediate context is physical, the theological implications extend to God's all-encompassing care for every aspect of our being, inviting us to trust Him for both our material and spiritual needs.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 104:14, with its vivid depiction of God's meticulous and ongoing provision for all life through the earth's bounty, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is not only the agent through whom all things were created, but also the One in whom "all things hold together" (Colossians 1:16-17), actively sustaining the very processes described in the psalm. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "food out of the earth," not in a literal sense, but as the "Bread of Life" who came down from heaven to give life to the world (John 6:35). Just as God provides physical nourishment for the body, Christ provides spiritual nourishment for the soul, satisfying a hunger that no earthly food can appease. His teachings, particularly on God's care for the sparrows and the lilies of the field, as found in Matthew 6:25-34, powerfully echo the psalmist's confidence in God's unfailing provision, assuring His followers that if God sustains the natural world so perfectly, He will surely provide for His children. In Christ, the ongoing, benevolent care of God, celebrated in Psalm 104, is fully revealed and eternally secured, providing not just physical sustenance but eternal life and spiritual flourishing.