TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Psalms 111:1–5. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The title of the psalm being Hallelujah, the psalmist (as every author ought to have) has an eye to his title, and keeps to his text.
I.He resolves to praise God himself, Psa 111:1.
What duty we call others to we must oblige and excite ourselves to; nay, whatever others do, whether they will praise God or no, we and our houses must determine to do it, we and our hearts; for such is the psalmist's resolution here: I will praise the Lord with my whole heart. My heart, my whole heart, being devoted to his honour, shall be employed in this work; and this in the assembly, or secret, of the upright, in the cabinet-council, and in the congregation of Israelites. Note, We must praise God both in private and in public, in less and greater assemblies, in our own families and in the courts of the Lord's house; but in both it is most comfortable to do it in concert with the upright, who will heartily join in it. Private meetings for devotion should be kept up as well as more public and promiscuous assemblies.
II.He recommends to us the works of the Lord as the proper subject of our meditations when we are praising him - the dispensations of his providence towards the world, towards the church, and towards particular persons.
1.God's works are very magnificent, great like himself; there is nothing in them that is mean or trifling: they are the products of infinite wisdom and power, and we must say this upon the first view of them, before we come to enquire more particularly into them, that the works of the Lord are great, Psa 111:2. There is something in them surprising, and that strikes an awe upon us. All the works of the Lord are spoken of as one (Psa 111:3); it is his work, such is the beauty and harmony of Providence and so admirably do all its dispensations centre in one design; it was cried to the wheels, O wheel! Eze 10:13. Take all together, and it is honourable and glorious, and such as becomes him.
2.They are entertaining and exercising to the inquisitive - sought out of all those that have pleasure therein. Note,
(1.)All that truly love God have pleasure in his works, and reckon all well that he does; nor do their thoughts dwell upon any subject with more delight than on the works of God, which the more they are looked into the more they give us of a pleasing surprise.
(2.)Those that have pleasure in the works of God will not take up with a superficial transient view of them, but will diligently search into them and observe them. In studying both natural and political history we should have this in our eye, to discover the greatness and glory of God's works.
(3.)These works of God, that are humbly and diligently sought into, shall be sought out; those that seek shall find (so some read); they are found of all those that have pleasure in them, or found in all their parts, designs, purposes, and several concernments (so Dr. Hammond), for the secret of the Lord is with those that fear him, Psa 25:14.
3.They are all justly and holy; His righteousness endures for ever. Whatever he does, he never did, nor ever will do, any wrong to any of his creatures; and therefore his works endure for ever (Ecc 3:14) because the righteousness of them endures.
4.They are admirable and memorable, fit to be registered and kept on record. Much that we do is so trifling that it is not fit to be spoken of or told again; the greatest kindness is to forget it. But notice is to be taken of God's works, and an account to be kept of them (Psa 111:4). He has made his wonderful works to be remembered; he has done that which is worthy to be remembered, which cannot but be remembered, and he has instituted ways and means for the keeping of some of them in remembrance, as the deliverance of Israel out of Egypt by the passover. He has made himself a memorial by his wonderful works (so some read it); see Isa 63:10. By that which God did with his glorious arm he made himself an everlasting name.
5.They are very kind. In them the Lord shows that he is gracious and full of compassion. As of the works of creation, so of the works of providence, we must say, They are not only all very great, but all very good. Dr. Hammond takes this to be the name which God has made to himself by his wonderful works, the same with that which he proclaimed to Moses, The Lord God is gracious and merciful, Exo 24:6. God's pardoning sin is the most wonderful of all his works and which ought to be remembered to his glory. It is a further instance of his grace and compassion that he has given meat to those that fear him, Psa 111:5. He gives them their daily bread, food convenient for them; so he does to others by common providence, but to those that fear him he gives it by covenant and in pursuance of the promise, for it follows, He will be ever mindful of his covenant; so that they can taste covenant-love even in common mercies. Some refer this to the manna with which God fed his people Israel in the wilderness, others to the spoil they got from the Egyptians when they came out with great substance, according to the promise, Gen 15:14. When God broke the heads of leviathan he gave him to be meat to his people, Psa 74:14. He has given prey to those that fear him (so the margin has it), not only fed them, but enriched them, and given their enemies to be a prey to them.
6.They are earnests of what he will do, according to his promise: He will ever be mindful of his covenant, for he has ever been so; and, as he never did, so he never will, let one jot or tittle of it fall to the ground. Though God's people have their infirmities, and are often unmindful of his commands, yet he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"These are the great works of the Lord, sought out unto all His wills" [Psalm 111:2]: through which mercy forsakes none who confesses, no man's wickedness is unpunished. [Hebrews 12:6] ...Let man choose for himself what he lists: the works of the Lord are not so constituted, that the creature, having free discretion allowed him, should transcend the will of the Creator, even though he act contrary to His will. God wills not that you should sin; for He forbids it: yet if you have sinned, imagine not that the man has done what he willed, and that has happened to God which He willed not. For as He would that man would not sin, so would He spare the sinner, that he may return and live; He so wills finally to punish him who persists in his sin, that the rebellious cannot escape the power of justice. Thus whatever choice you have made, the Almighty will not be at a loss to fulfil His will concerning you.
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Summary
Psalm 111:2 powerfully declares the immense scope and profound significance of God's actions, asserting that these divine "works" are not only magnificent and awe-inspiring but are also diligently investigated, deeply appreciated, and joyfully cherished by all who genuinely delight in the Lord. This verse serves as a foundational call to a passionate, intentional, and worshipful pursuit of understanding God's character, wisdom, and power as revealed through His deeds, fostering a deeper relationship of adoration and gratitude.
Context
Literary Context
Psalm 111 is a masterfully constructed acrostic psalm, where each line or pair of lines commences with successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. This intricate poetic form, shared notably with Psalm 112, signals a complete, comprehensive, and perfectly ordered declaration, underscoring the totality and perfection of the truths conveyed regarding God's character and actions. The psalm opens with a resounding "Hallelujah" in Psalm 111:1, immediately establishing a tone of exuberant praise and thanksgiving. Following this introductory call to worship, verse 2 specifically elaborates on the nature of these divine deeds ("The works of the LORD are great") and the appropriate, joyful response of humanity to them ("sought out of all them that have pleasure therein"), setting the theological stage for the subsequent verses that detail God's specific acts of redemption, provision, and judgment, all of which elicit further praise.
Historical & Cultural Context
Composed likely for communal worship, instruction, or personal meditation within ancient Israel, Psalm 111 reflects the theological understanding of a people whose very identity was inextricably linked to God's historical interventions. The "works of the LORD" would have immediately brought to mind foundational covenantal events such as the miraculous Exodus from Egypt, the solemn giving of the Law at Sinai, the miraculous conquest of Canaan, and God's ongoing providential care and protection for His chosen people. In a culture where divine activity was perceived as the primary driver of both history and the natural world, the call to "seek out" these works was an urgent invitation to meditate deeply on God's active presence and unwavering faithfulness within their national story and personal lives. The emphasis on "pleasure" or "delight" (חֵפֶץ, chephets) underscores a crucial devotional posture, distinguishing a mere intellectual acknowledgment of God's deeds from a heartfelt, worshipful, and transformative engagement with His self-revelation.
Key Themes
This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes pervasive throughout the Psalms and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights The Grandeur and Revelation of God's Works, asserting that all of God's actions—from the majestic act of creation to the intricate unfolding of redemption—are immense in scale, perfect in execution, and serve as His primary means of revealing His attributes, such as His omnipotence, infinite wisdom, perfect justice, and steadfast love. This resonates with the declaration in Psalm 19:1 that "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork." Secondly, the verse emphasizes the theme of The Joyful Pursuit of Divine Knowledge, underscoring that understanding God's works is not a dry, academic exercise but a passionate, intentional, and delightful endeavor for those who truly love and revere Him. This echoes the promise of diligent seeking found in Jeremiah 29:13, "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." Finally, it reinforces the theme of Worship and Appreciation as the Proper Response, implying that the ultimate purpose of engaging with God's works is to lead to deeper adoration, profound gratitude, and a life lived in delighted obedience to His ways, as beautifully articulated in Psalm 1:2 concerning delight in God's law.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
The Hebrew word מַעֲשֶׂה (maʻăseh) is a noun derived from the verb 'asah, meaning "to do," "to make," or "to accomplish." While appearing in its plural form in the KJV ("works"), the root maʻăseh refers comprehensively to deeds, actions, accomplishments, or creations. In this context, it encompasses the entire scope of God's activity, from the grand act of creation (e.g., Psalm 8:3) to His historical interventions (e.g., the Exodus, Psalm 105:5), His providential care, and His overarching redemptive plan. The plural form emphasizes the multitude, variety, and continuous nature of these divine actions, each revealing a distinct facet of God's character and purposes.
The Hebrew adjective גָּדֹול (gâdôwl) conveys immensity, power, impressiveness, and significance. When applied to God's works, it signifies that His deeds are not merely significant but are vast in scale, profound in their impact, awe-inspiring in their wisdom, and perfect in their execution. This word underscores the unparalleled nature of divine activity, setting God's works apart from anything humanly conceived or accomplished. It evokes a sense of wonder and reverence for the Creator's boundless capacity.
The term דָּרַשׁ (dârash) is a primitive root meaning "to tread or frequent," and by implication, "to follow (for pursuit or search)," "to seek or ask," and specifically "to worship." In its Pual participle form here, it indicates something that is "diligently sought," "inquired into," or "investigated." It implies an active, intentional, and thorough pursuit of understanding, not a passive observation. This word suggests a deep, intellectual, and spiritual curiosity that drives individuals to explore the intricacies, implications, and purposes of God's actions. It signifies a profound engagement that goes beyond mere acknowledgment to a desire for intimate knowledge.
The Hebrew word חֵפֶץ (chêphets) denotes delight, desire, longing, or pleasure. It signifies a strong, positive inclination or affection, often implying a willing and eager disposition. In this verse, it describes the internal motivation of those who "seek out" God's works. Their pursuit is not born out of obligation, fear, or detached academic interest, but from a genuine, heartfelt joy and satisfaction derived from contemplating God's greatness, goodness, and wisdom. This "pleasure" transforms the study of God's works into an act of worship, intimate communion, and profound spiritual nourishment.
Verse Breakdown
"The works of the LORD [are] great"
This opening clause establishes the inherent nature, magnitude, and superlative quality of God's actions. It is a declarative statement affirming that God's deeds, encompassing everything from creation to redemption, are characterized by immensity, power, and awe-inspiring majesty. This declaration sets the stage, presenting the objects of human contemplation as truly worthy of the highest regard, deepest study, and most profound worship.
"sought out of all them that have pleasure therein"
This second clause describes the divinely-intended human response to God's great works. It identifies a specific group—"all them that have pleasure therein"—who are characterized by a profound delight, earnest desire, or willing inclination towards God and His revelation. This intrinsic delight serves as the powerful motivation for them to actively and diligently "seek out," investigate, and meditate upon these works. The phrase implies a reciprocal relationship: God's works are objectively great, and those who truly value God will naturally be drawn to understand and appreciate them, finding immense joy and spiritual satisfaction in the process of discovery and contemplation.
Literary Devices
Psalm 111:2 employs several literary devices to enhance its profound message. The entire psalm is an Acrostic, meaning each line or couplet begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. While not explicitly visible in this single verse, this overarching structure underscores the completeness, perfection, and deliberate craftsmanship of God's revelation, mirroring the perfection and comprehensive nature of His works themselves. Within the verse, the declaration "The works of the LORD are great" uses Emphasis to highlight the immense scale, significance, and inherent majesty of God's deeds, demanding attention and reverence. The phrase "sought out of all them that have pleasure therein" employs Personification or Anthropomorphism by attributing human emotions (pleasure, delight) and active intellectual pursuit (seeking) to the engagement with divine knowledge. This emphasizes the deeply personal, volitional, and joyful nature of engaging with God's self-revelation. The active verb "sought out" contrasts dynamically with the passive "are great," creating a powerful interplay between God's objective, unchanging reality and humanity's subjective, yet essential, active response.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Psalm 111:2 serves as a profound theological cornerstone, connecting the grandeur of God's actions to the spiritual disposition of His people. It teaches that God's works are not merely historical events or natural phenomena but are purposeful, revelatory manifestations of His character, designed to be understood, appreciated, and cherished. The verse underscores the biblical principle that true knowledge of God is not a detached intellectual exercise but a joyful, intentional, and diligent pursuit rooted in a heart that delights in Him. This delight transforms the study of God's deeds into an act of worship, fostering a deeper, more intimate relationship and confirming His faithfulness, righteousness, sand boundless love. It highlights that God's revelation is accessible and meant to be discovered by those with a receptive and eager spirit, leading inevitably to a life of praise, gratitude, and profound spiritual satisfaction.
Reflection and Application
Psalm 111:2 extends a profound and transformative invitation to every believer: to move beyond a casual acknowledgment of God's existence and power into a vibrant, active, and joyful exploration of His works. This means diligently studying His inspired Word, the Bible, where His redemptive history, covenant faithfulness, and unchanging character are most clearly revealed. It also involves observing the intricate beauty, order, and complexity of creation, recognizing the unmistakable fingerprints of the Creator in every detail, from the grand cosmos to the smallest organism. Furthermore, it calls us to reflect on God's providential hand in our personal lives, discerning His faithfulness, wisdom, and sovereign purpose in our circumstances, both joyful and challenging. When we approach God's works with a heart of "pleasure" and a spirit of intentional inquiry, our faith is deepened, our worship becomes more authentic and fervent, and our understanding of His boundless love, infinite wisdom, and omnipotent power expands exponentially. This active, delighted engagement transforms our spiritual journey from a passive reception of truth into an exhilarating, lifelong discovery of the living God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "sought out of all them that have pleasure therein" truly imply for believers today?
This phrase implies a profound and active engagement with God's revelation, driven by genuine delight and spiritual longing. It means that understanding God's works—His deeds, His creation, His interventions in history, and His ongoing providence—is not a passive activity but a joyful, intentional, and diligent pursuit. For believers today, it calls for a deep and consistent study of the Bible, which meticulously records God's great redemptive works and comprehensively reveals His character and purposes. It also encourages us to observe the natural world (as beautifully described in Psalm 19:1-4) and to reflect thoughtfully on God's providential hand in our own lives, seeking to discern His wisdom, faithfulness, and sovereign purpose in all circumstances. The "pleasure" or delight is absolutely key; it signifies that this pursuit is not a burdensome duty or a dry academic exercise, but a source of deep satisfaction, spiritual nourishment, and profound joy, stemming from a genuine love for God Himself and a desire to know Him more intimately.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Psalm 111:2 finds its ultimate, most glorious, and comprehensive fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament speaks of God's "great works" in creation and Israel's history, these were but preparatory acts and powerful foreshadows of the supreme work of redemption accomplished through Christ. Jesus Himself is the ultimate "work of the LORD," the very Word of God made flesh, through whom all things were created and through whom all things hold together (as profoundly declared in John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16-17). His miraculous birth, sinless life, sacrificial death on the cross, and glorious resurrection constitute the greatest, most profound, and most revelatory "works" of God, unveiling the unfathomable depths of divine love, perfect justice, and omnipotent power in a way previously unimaginable. It is through Christ that God's righteousness and faithfulness are fully displayed and made accessible to humanity (as seen in Romans 3:25-26). Therefore, those who "have pleasure" in the Lord now primarily "seek out" and delight in the person and finished work of Christ, for in Him, "are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). He is the ultimate revelation of the "great works of the LORD," inviting all who believe to a life of joyful contemplation, worship, and participation in God's redemptive masterpiece.