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 135:5–14. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The psalmist had suggested to us the goodness of God, as the proper matter of our cheerful praises; here he suggests to us the greatness of God as the proper matter of our awful praises; and on this he is most copious, because this we are less forward to consider.
I.He asserts the doctrine of God's greatness (Psa 135:5):
The Lord is great, great indeed, who knows no limits of time or place. He asserts it with assurance, "I know that he is so; know it not only by observation of the proofs of it, but by belief of the revelation of it. I know it; I am sure of it; I know it by my own experience of the divine greatness working on my soul." He asserts it with a holy defiance of all pretenders, though they should join in confederacy against him. He is not only above any god, but above all gods, infinitely above them, between him and them there is no comparison.
II.He proves him to be a great God by the greatness of his power, Psa 135:6.
1.He has an absolute power, and may do what he will: Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he, and none could control him, or say unto him, What doest thou? He does what he pleases, because he pleases, and gives not an account of any of his matters.
2.He has an almighty power and can do what he will; if he will work, none shall hinder.
3.This absolute almighty power is of universal extent; he does what he will in heaven, in earth, in the seas, and in all the deep places that are in the bottom of the sea or the bowels of the earth. The gods of the heathen can do nothing; but our God can do any thing and does do every thing.
III.He gives instances of his great power,
1.In the kingdom of nature, Psa 135:7. All the powers of nature prove the greatness of the God of nature, from whom they are derived and on whom they depend. The chain of natural causes was not only framed by him at first, but is still preserved by him.
(1.)It is by his power that exhalations are drawn up from the terraqueous globe. The heat of the sun raises them, but it has that power from God, and therefore it is given as an instance of the glory of God that nothing is hidden from the heat of the sun, Psa 19:6. He causes the vapours to ascend (not only unhelped, but unseen, by us) from the earth, from the ends of the earth, that is, from the seas, by which the earth is surrounded.
(2.)It is he who, out of those vapours so raised, forms the rain, so that the earth is no loser by the vapours it sends up, for they are returned with advantage in fruitful showers.
(3.)Out of the same vapours (such is his wonderful power) he makes lightnings or the rain; by them he opens the bottles of heaven, and shakes the clouds, that they may water the earth. Here are fire and water thoroughly reconciled by divine omnipotence. They come together, and yet the water does not quench the fire, nor the fire lick up the water, as fire from heaven did when God pleased, Kg1 18:38.
(4.)The same exhalations, to serve another purpose, are converted into winds, which blow where they list, from what point of the compass they will, and we are so far from directing them that we cannot tell whence they come nor whither they go, but God brings them out of his treasuries with as much exactness and design as a prudent prince orders money to issue out of his exchequer.
2.In the kingdoms of men; and here he mentions the great things God had formerly done for his people Israel, which were proofs of God's greatness as well as of his goodness, and confirmations of the truth of the scriptures of the Old Testament, which began to be written by Moses, the person employed in working those miracles. Observe God's sovereign dominion and irresistible power,
(1.)In bringing Israel out of Egypt, humbling Pharaoh by many plagues, and so forcing him to let them go. These plagues are called tokens and wonders, because they came not in the common course of providence, but there was something miraculous in each of them. They were sent upon Pharaoh and all his servants, his subjects; but the Israelites, whom God claimed for his servants, his son, his first-born, his free-born, were exempted from them, and no plague came nigh their dwelling. The death of the first-born both of men and cattle was the heaviest of all the plagues, and that which gained the point.
(2.)In destroying the kingdoms of Canaan before them, Psa 135:10. Those that were in possession of the land designed for Israel had all possible advantages for keeping possession. The people were numerous, and warlike, and confederate against Israel. They were great nations. Yet, if a great nation has a meek and mean-spirited prince, it lies exposed; but these great nations had mighty kings, and yet they were all smitten and slain - Sihon and Og, and all the kingdoms of Canaan, Psa 135:10, Psa 135:11. No power of hell or earth can prevent the accomplishment of the promise of God when the time, the set time, for it has come.
(3.)In settling them in the land of promise. He that gives kingdoms to whomsoever he pleases gave Canaan to be a heritage to Israel his people. It came to them by inheritance, for their ancestors had the promise of it, though not the possession; and it descended as an inheritance to their seed. This was done long before, yet God is now praised for it; and with good reason, for the children were now enjoying the benefit of it.
IV.He triumphs in the perpetuity of God's glory and grace.
1.Of his glory (Psa 135:13): Thy name, O God! endures for ever. God's manifestations of himself to his people have everlasting fruits and consequences. What God doeth it shall be for ever, Ecc 3:14. His name endures for ever in the constant and everlasting praises of his people; his memorial endures, has endured hitherto, and shall still endure throughout all generations of the church. This seems to refer to Exo 3:15, where, when God had called himself the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, he adds, This is my name for ever and this is my memorial unto all generations. God is, and will be, always the same to his church, a gracious, faithful, wonder-working God; and his church is, and will be, the same to him, a thankful praising people; and thus his name endures for ever.
2.Of his grace. He will be kind to his people.
(1.)He will plead their cause against others that contend with them. He will judge his people, that is, he will judge for them, and will not suffer them to be run down.
(2.)He will not himself contend for ever with them, but will repent himself concerning his servants, and not proceed in his controversy with them; he will be entreated for them, or he will be comforted concerning them; he will return in ways of mercy to them and will delight to do them good. This verse is taken from the song of Moses, Deu 32:36.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
The sky above, the earth and ocean’s mightydepths,
The orbs presiding over day and over night,
The winds and tempests, lightnings, showers of rain and clouds,
The polar stars, the star of evening, heat and snow,
The fountains, hoarfrosts, precious veins of ore and streams,
One in their might one both the Father and the Son,
And that one splendor generated by one light
With all the Godhead’s plenitude of brightness shone.
In God one undivided being operates,
And by one power was created all that is,
The rugged cliffs and level plains and mountain dells,
Wild beasts, the fowl of air and reptiles, all that swim,
The beasts of burden, cattle, oxen, mammoth brutes,
The flowers and shrubs, the vines, the herbs and woodland groves,
All plants that shed their fragrance, plants that food supply.
"Raising the clouds from the ends of the earth" [Psalm 135:7]. We see these works of God in His creation. For the clouds come from the ends of the earth to the midst thereof, and rain; you scan not whence they arise. Hence the prophet signifies this, from "the ends of the earth," whether it be from the bottom, or from the circumference of the ends of the earth, whencesoever He wills He raises the clouds, only from the earth. "He has made lightnings into rain." For lightnings without rain would frighten you, and bestow nothing on you. "He makes lightnings unto rain." It lightens, and you tremble; it rains, you rejoice. "He has made lightnings unto rain." He who terrified you, Himself causest that you should rejoice. "Who brings the winds out of His treasures," their causes are hidden, you know not whence they come. When the wind blows, you feel it; why it blows, or from what treasure of His wisdom it is brought forth, you know not; [John 3:8] yet you owe to God the worship of faith, for it would not blow unless He had bidden who made it, unless He had brought it forth who created it.
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Summary
Psalms 135:7 is a profound declaration of Yahweh's absolute and meticulous control over the natural world, particularly atmospheric phenomena. It portrays God not merely as a distant creator, but as the active orchestrator of the water cycle, storm systems, and wind patterns, demonstrating His unparalleled power, wisdom, and sovereign dominion over all creation. This verse serves as a powerful testament to His unique greatness, distinguishing Him from lifeless idols and providing a solid foundation for worship and trust in His ongoing providence.
Context
Literary Context
Psalms 135 is a hymn of praise, opening with a fervent call for God's servants to praise the Lord. It forms part of a larger collection of psalms (Psalms 135-136) that collectively emphasize God's sovereignty, His mighty acts in history, and His incomparable nature, sharply contrasted with the impotence of human-made idols. Specifically, verses 5-7 mark a crucial transition from recounting God's historical acts (such as the Exodus and the conquest of nations in verses 8-12) to extolling His supremacy over creation. Verse 5 lays the theological groundwork, declaring, "For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods," setting the stage for the subsequent demonstration of this greatness in the natural realm. Verse 6 further asserts His cosmic authority, stating, "Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places." Psalms 135:7 then provides concrete examples of this universal control, detailing His specific orchestration of weather patterns, thereby reinforcing the psalmist's foundational assertion of God's unmatched power and authority. This immediate context underscores that God's control over nature is a direct manifestation of His divine will and omnipotence, inviting awe and worship.
Historical & Cultural Context
The psalm likely originates from a period when ancient Israel was surrounded by nations that worshipped various deities associated with natural forces. For instance, Baal was the prominent Canaanite storm god, believed to control rain, thunder, and fertility. In this polytheistic environment, the psalmist's emphatic declaration of Yahweh's sole and absolute control over rain, lightning, and wind served as a powerful polemic against these pagan beliefs. Unlike the unpredictable, often capricious, and limited gods of the surrounding cultures, the God of Israel is presented as the deliberate, orderly, and singular master of all creation. The phrase "ends of the earth" (H7097) would have evoked the vastness of the known world, emphasizing the universal scope of God's dominion, not merely a localized or tribal influence. The concept of "treasuries" (H214) for wind or rain was a common ancient Near Eastern motif, where deities were thought to store and release these elements. However, here it is uniquely attributed to Yahweh, stripping other deities of any claim to such power and affirming that these vital elements for life are under His direct, intentional, and sovereign management, not subject to the whims of lesser gods.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Psalms and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights Divine Sovereignty over Nature, asserting that God is not merely the initial Creator but the ongoing Sustainer and active controller of all natural processes. This theme is echoed throughout Scripture, from the initial creation account to later prophetic declarations of God's power over elements, as seen in Jeremiah 10:13. Secondly, it underscores God's Omnipotence and Majesty, demonstrating His immense power through His command over vast and often unpredictable forces like storms and wind. This evokes a profound sense of awe and worship, as seen in Psalm 29, which vividly describes the majesty of God's voice in a thunderstorm. Lastly, the verse implicitly points to God as the Provider and Sustainer of Life. The vapours, lightning, and rain are integral to the water cycle, which is essential for agricultural fertility and human survival. By orchestrating these, God demonstrates His providential care for His creation, ensuring the conditions necessary for life, a theme beautifully elaborated in Psalm 104, which depicts God's meticulous provision for all living things.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word refers to a "rising mist" or "cloud." In this context, it specifically denotes the moisture that ascends from the earth, forming clouds, which is the initial stage of the atmospheric water cycle. The use of this term emphasizes the subtle yet fundamental beginning of the process that culminates in rain, all under God's direct initiation and control. It highlights His involvement in even the most minute and foundational aspects of natural phenomena.
This term signifies "lightning" or a "gleam." It highlights the dramatic, powerful, and often awe-inspiring manifestation of God's control over meteorological phenomena. The psalmist specifically notes that God "maketh lightnings for the rain," implying a purposeful, ordered connection between these powerful flashes and the life-giving precipitation that follows, rather than a random or chaotic occurrence. This phrase suggests divine design in what might otherwise appear as destructive forces.
This word denotes a "depository," "storehouse," or "treasure-house." Applied to the wind, it conveys the imagery of God having an inexhaustible reserve of wind, which He releases and directs at His sovereign will. This metaphor emphasizes God's complete control, suggesting a deliberate and controlled deployment of these forces, rather than a chaotic or accidental event. It underscores His limitless power and resources in governing the natural world.
Verse Breakdown
"He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth"
This clause describes the initial phase of the hydrological cycle, attributing the evaporation and ascent of moisture from the entire globe directly to God's agency. It emphasizes His universal reach and intricate involvement in the foundational processes that sustain life, highlighting that even the unseen and subtle movements of nature are under His meticulous command. This demonstrates His omnipresence and continuous activity throughout creation.
"he maketh lightnings for the rain"
This phrase reveals God's purposeful orchestration of powerful atmospheric events. Lightning, often perceived as destructive or random, is here presented as a divinely appointed precursor or accompaniment to life-giving rain. This suggests a designed order in what might appear chaotic, where even the most dramatic displays of power serve a benevolent purpose in God's grand design for His creation, ensuring the conditions necessary for flourishing life.
"he bringeth the wind out of his treasuries"
This final clause employs vivid imagery to convey God's absolute control over the wind. The "treasuries" metaphor implies a limitless supply and a deliberate, intentional release of wind, whether for gentle breezes or mighty storms. It underscores that the wind, a force often associated with unpredictability and untamable power, is entirely subject to God's will, emerging from His divine storehouses at His command, reinforcing His ultimate authority over all natural forces.
Literary Devices
Psalms 135:7 is rich in Imagery, painting vivid pictures of natural phenomena under divine control. The "vapours ascending," "lightnings for the rain," and "wind out of his treasuries" all create strong mental images that convey God's power and active involvement in the daily operations of the world. Personification is also evident, as God is presented as an active agent who "causeth," "maketh," and "bringeth," attributing human-like actions of intentionality, purpose, and control to the divine being. The phrase "out of his treasuries" functions as a powerful Metaphor, comparing God's command over the wind to a king or wealthy individual dispensing resources from a well-stocked storehouse. This metaphor emphasizes God's inexhaustible supply and sovereign distribution of natural forces, reinforcing His ultimate authority, wisdom, and the deliberate nature of His governance over creation.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse profoundly articulates the biblical doctrine of divine providence, asserting that God's involvement in creation extends far beyond its initial formation to its ongoing sustenance and meticulous governance. It portrays God as intimately engaged with the natural world, not as a deistic clockmaker who sets the universe in motion and then withdraws, but as an active, moment-by-moment orchestrator of its most fundamental processes. This active providence means that nothing in creation, from the smallest mist to the mightiest storm, operates outside of His sovereign will and purpose. The theological implication is that believers can trust in a God who is not only powerful enough to create but also intimately involved enough to sustain and direct all things for His glory and the good of His people, demonstrating His faithfulness and unwavering care.
Reflection and Application
Psalms 135:7 invites us to cultivate a profound sense of awe and worship in the face of God's majestic control over creation. In a world increasingly prone to secular explanations for natural phenomena, this verse serves as a vital reminder that behind every weather pattern, every drop of rain, and every gust of wind, stands the sovereign hand of God. This understanding should not diminish our appreciation for scientific discovery but rather deepen our wonder at the intricate design and continuous operation of the universe, all orchestrated by a divine intelligence. Recognizing God's meticulous control over forces far greater than ourselves should foster a deep trust in His ability to govern our lives, providing for our needs, protecting us from harm, and directing our paths. It encourages us to look beyond immediate circumstances to the ultimate orchestrator, finding peace and security in His unfailing providence, even amidst life's most turbulent storms, knowing that His purposes will prevail.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this verse imply God directly controls every single weather event, or is it more of a general statement about His power?
This verse strongly implies God's direct and specific control over weather events. The language "He causeth," "he maketh," and "he bringeth" uses active verbs, indicating His direct agency in the ascent of vapours, the formation of lightning for rain, and the release of wind from His "treasuries." While God often works through the natural laws He established at creation, this psalm emphasizes His immediate and personal involvement in these processes. It's not merely a general statement of power but a detailed affirmation of His active governance over the specific elements of weather, demonstrating that nothing in creation operates outside of His sovereign will. This perspective is consistent with other biblical passages that show God's direct intervention in weather, such as Him sending rain or drought (e.g., 1 Kings 17:1).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Psalms 135:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment and most profound expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. As the eternal Son of God, Jesus is not merely an agent of God's power but is Himself the very embodiment of the divine sovereignty over creation described in this psalm. The New Testament reveals that "all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist" (Colossians 1:16-17). This means that the "vapours," "lightnings," and "wind" mentioned in Psalms 135:7 are not only under the Father's control but are actively sustained and directed by Christ Himself. We see this demonstrated powerfully in His earthly ministry when He commanded the wind and the waves, and they obeyed Him, causing His disciples to marvel, "What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!" (Matthew 8:27). This miracle is a direct manifestation of the cosmic power Psalms 135:7 attributes to God. Furthermore, Christ's control over nature is not just a display of raw power but is intrinsically linked to His redemptive purpose. Just as God uses natural phenomena for His purposes (e.g., the plagues in Exodus 7), Christ's dominion over creation points to His ultimate authority to bring about a new creation, where the curse is reversed and all things are made new (Revelation 21:5). Thus, Psalms 135:7 is a glorious foreshadowing of the cosmic authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, through whom God's sovereign control over all creation is perfectly revealed and ultimately realized.