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Commentary on Psalms 33 verses 1–11
Four things the psalmist expresses in these verses:
I. The great desire he had that God might be praised. He did not think he did it so well himself, but that he wished others also might be employed in this work; the more the better, in this concert: it is the more like heaven. 1. Holy joy is the heart and soul of praise, and that is here pressed upon all good people (Psa 33:1): Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous; so the foregoing psalm concluded and so this begins; for all our religious exercises should both begin and end with a holy complacency and triumph in God as the best of being and best of friends. 2. Thankful praise is the breath and language of holy joy; and that also is here required of us (Psa 33:2): "Praise the Lord; speak well of him, and give him the glory due to his name." 3. Religious songs are the proper expressions of thankful praise; those are here required (Psa 33:3): "Sing unto him a new song, the best you have, not that which by frequent use is worn, thread-bare, but that which, being new, is most likely to move the affections, a new song for new mercies and upon every new occasion, for those compassions which are new every morning." Music was then used, by the appointment of David, with the temple-songs, that they might be the better sung; and this also is here called for (Psa 33:2): Sing unto him with the psaltery. Here is, (1.) A good rule for this duty: "Do it skilfully, and with a loud noise; let it have the best both of head and heart; let it be done intelligently and with a clear head, affectionately and with a warm heart." (2.) A good reason for this duty: For praise is comely for the upright. It is well pleasing to God (the garments of praise add much to the comeliness which God puts upon his people) and it is an excellent ornament to our profession. It becomes the upright, whom God has put so much honour upon, to give honour to him. The upright praise God in a comely manner, for they praise him with their hearts, that is praising him with their glory; whereas the praises of hypocrites are awkward and uncomely, like a parable in the mouth of fools, Pro 26:7.
II. The high thoughts he had of God, and of his infinite perfections, Psa 33:4, Psa 33:5. God makes himself known to us, 1. In his word, here put for all divine revelation, all that which God at sundry times and in divers manners spoke to the children of men, and that is all right, there is nothing amiss in it; his commands exactly agree with the rules of equity and the eternal reasons of good and evil. His promises are all wise and good and inviolably sure, and there is no iniquity in his threatenings, but even those are designed for our good, by deterring us from evil. God's word is right, and therefore all our deviations from it are wrong, and we are then in the right when we agree with it. 2. In his works, and those are all done in truth, all according to his counsels, which are called the scriptures of truth, Dan 10:21. The copy in all God's works agrees exactly with the great original, the plan laid in the Eternal Mind, and varies not in the least jot. God has made it to appear in his works, (1.) That he is a God of inflexible justice: He loveth righteousness and judgment. There is nothing but righteousness in the sentence he passes and judgment in the execution of it. He never did nor can do wrong to any of his creatures, but is always ready to give redress to those that are wronged, and does it with delight. He takes pleasure in those that are righteous. He is himself the righteous Lord, and therefore loveth righteousness. (2.) That he is a God of inexhaustible bounty: The earth is full of his goodness, that is, of the proofs and instances of it. The benign influences which the earth receives from above, and the fruits it is thereby enabled to produce, the provision that is made both for man and beast, and the common blessings with which all the nations of the earth are blessed, plainly declare that the earth is full of his goodness - the darkest, the coldest, the hottest, and the most dry and desert part of it not excepted. What a pity is it that this earth, which is so full of God's goodness, should be so empty of his praises, and that of the multitudes that live upon his bounty there are so few that live to his glory!
III. The conviction he was under of the almighty power of God, evidenced in the creation of the world. We "believe in God," and therefore we praise him as "the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth," so we are here taught to praise him. Observe,
1.How God made the world, and brought all things into being. (1.) How easily: All things were made by the word of the Lord and by the breath of his mouth. Christ is the Word, the Spirit is the breath, so that God the Father made the world, as he rules it and redeems it, by his Son and Spirit. He spoke, and he commanded (Psa 33:9), and that was enough; there needed no more. With men saying and doing are two things, but it is not so with God. By the Word and Spirit of God as the world was made, so was man, that little world. God said, Let us make man, and he breathed into him the breath of life. By the Word and Spirit the church is built, that new world, and grace wrought in the soul, that new man, that new creation. What cannot that power do which with a word made a world! (2.) How effectually it was done: And it stood fast. What God does he does to purpose; he does it and it stands fast. Whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever, Ecc 3:14. It is by virtue of that command to stand fast that things continue to this day according to God's ordinance, Psa 119:91.
2.What he made. He made all things, but notice is here taken, (1.) of the heavens, and the host of them, Psa 33:6. The visible heavens, and the sun, moon, and stars, their hosts - (2.) Of the waters, and the treasures of them, Psa 33:7. The earth was at first covered with the water, and, being heavier, must of course subside and sink under it; but, to show from the very first that the God of nature is not tied to the ordinary method of nature, and the usual operations of his powers, with a word's speaking he gathered the waters together on a heap, that the dry land might appear, yet left them not to continue on a heap, but laid up the depth in store-houses, not only in the flats where the seas make their beds, and in which they are locked up by the sand on the shore as in storehouses, but in secret subterraneous caverns, where they are hidden from the eyes of all living, but were reserved as in a store-house for that day when those fountains of the great deep were to be broken up; and they are still laid up there in store, for which use the great Master of the house knows best.
3.What use is to be made of this (Psa 33:8): Let all the earth fear the Lord, and stand in awe of him; that is, let all the children of men worship him and give glory to him, Psa 95:5, Psa 95:6. The everlasting gospel gives this as the reason why we must worship God, because he made the heaven, and the earth, and the sea, Rev 14:6, Rev 14:7. Let us all fear him, that is, dread his wrath and displeasure, and be afraid of having him our enemy and of standing it out against him. Let us not dare to offend him who having this power no doubt has all power in his hand. It is dangerous being at war with him who has the host of heaven for his armies and the depths of the sea for his magazines, and therefore it is wisdom to desire conditions of peace, see Jer 5:22.
IV. The satisfaction he had of God's sovereignty and dominion, Psa 33:10, Psa 33:11. He over-rules all the counsels of men, and makes them, contrary to their intention, serviceable to his counsels. Come and see with an eye of faith God in the throne, 1. Frustrating the devices of his enemies: He bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought, so that what they imagine against him and his kingdom proves a vain thing (Psa 2:1); the counsel of Ahithophel is turned into foolishness; Haman's plot is baffled. Though the design be laid ever so deep, and the hopes raised upon it ever so high, yet, if God says it shall not stand, neither shall it come to pass; it is all to no purpose. 2. Fulfilling his own decrees: The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever. It is immutable in itself, for he is in one mind, and who can turn him? The execution of it may be opposed, but cannot in the least be obstructed by any created power. Through all the revolutions of time God never changed his measures, but in every event, even that which to us is most surprising, the eternal counsel of God is fulfilled, nor can any thing prevent its being accomplished in its time. With what pleasure to ourselves may we in singing this give praise to God! How easy may this thought make us at all times, that God governs the world, that he did it in infinite wisdom before we were born, and will do it when we are silent in the dust!
The loud noise is a certain inarticulate sound, when those who are fighting side by side in a war shout out in unison with each other. Sing, then, in harmony and in agreement and in union through charity.
"Sing unto Him a new song:" sing unto Him a song of the grace of faith. "Sing skilfully unto Him with jubilation" [Psalm 33:3]: sing skillfully unto Him with rejoicing.
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SUMMARY
Psalms 33:3 serves as a vibrant divine imperative, summoning the faithful to engage in worship that is both innovative and excellent, expressing their praise with fresh enthusiasm and profound artistry. This verse encapsulates a profound call for dynamic, heartfelt, and skilled musical adoration, reflecting a vibrant and ever-renewing relationship with God that continually finds new reasons for exuberant celebration and reverent proficiency in His presence.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalms 33:3 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message regarding worship. The most prominent device is the Imperative Mood, evident in the direct commands "Sing" and "play." This grammatical structure creates a sense of urgency and direct instruction, emphasizing that these are not merely suggestions but divine expectations for how God's people are to approach Him in worship. The phrase "new song" functions as a rich Metaphor for fresh, heartfelt, and continually renewed praise, signifying a dynamic and responsive relationship with God that moves beyond mere ritualistic observance. The verse also utilizes Parallelism through the juxtaposition of "skilfully" and "with a loud noise." While not strictly synonymous or antithetical, this pairing creates a complementary relationship: "skilfully" highlights the quality and intentionality of worship, while "with a loud noise" emphasizes its enthusiastic and uninhibited expression. This suggests that true worship is both artful and ardent, combining precision with profound passion. Furthermore, "loud noise" can be interpreted as a form of Synecdoche, where a part (audible sound) represents the whole (full, unreserved, and public declaration of praise that engages the entire being and community).
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 33:3 profoundly shapes our understanding of worship, asserting that true adoration is a dynamic, qualitative, and expressive response to God's ongoing work in the world and in our lives. It moves beyond mere obligation to a joyful, skilled, and uninhibited declaration of His worthiness. This verse affirms that God is not content with half-hearted or uninspired praise; He deserves our best, offered with a renewed spirit and fervent passion. The call for a "new song" speaks to the ever-unfolding revelation of God and our continuous discovery of fresh reasons to praise Him, ensuring that our worship remains vibrant and relevant to our current experience of His grace and faithfulness.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 33:3 offers timeless and profound guidance for contemporary worship, challenging believers to cultivate a heart that is continually fresh in its adoration and to offer their gifts with excellence and enthusiasm. It reminds us that worship is not a static ritual or a mere obligation, but a dynamic, living response to a living God who is constantly revealing Himself and acting in the world. We are encouraged to actively seek out new reasons for praise, reflecting on God's daily mercies, His ongoing work in our individual lives, and His sovereign hand in global events. This requires intentionally cultivating a spirit of gratitude, wonder, and spiritual alertness, allowing our praise to flow from a current and vibrant relationship with Him. Furthermore, the call to "play skilfully" compels us to develop our talents—whether musical, artistic, intellectual, or any other gift—and to dedicate them to God's glory with diligence, proficiency, and a commitment to excellence. Our worship, in all its forms, should reflect our highest effort, demonstrating our profound reverence and love for the Creator. Finally, "with a loud noise" invites us to worship with uninhibited joy and passionate expression, allowing our praise to be bold, expressive, and full of the celebratory spirit that truly befits the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "a new song" truly mean in this context?
Answer: "A new song" (Hebrew: shir chadash) signifies much more than simply a recently composed melody. The profound emphasis is on the freshness and renewal of the worshipper's heart and spirit. It implies praise that arises from a current, vibrant, and authentic experience of God's goodness, a new revelation of His character, or a recent act of His deliverance in one's life or in the world. It is about a continually revitalized spiritual response, ensuring that worship remains dynamic, heartfelt, and relevant to the ongoing, living relationship with God, rather than becoming stale, rote, or merely habitual. This concept is a recurring theme throughout the Psalms, as seen in Psalms 98:1, and finds its ultimate expression in the New Testament with the song of the redeemed in Revelation 5:9.
Does "play skilfully" imply that only musically talented people can truly worship?
Answer: Not at all. While "play skilfully" certainly serves as a direct encouragement for those with musical gifts to develop and utilize them to God's glory with excellence and diligence, the underlying principle of "skilfully" (Hebrew: yâṭab) applies broadly to all forms of worship and service. The root meaning of yâṭab is "to do well," "to do good," or "to make right." Therefore, it calls for intentionality, diligence, and offering our very best in whatever form our worship takes. Whether it's through singing, playing an instrument, serving others, giving generously, living a life of obedience, or exercising any spiritual gift, the call is to offer our utmost, not haphazardly, but with care, preparation, and dedication, reflecting the high value and reverence we place on God.
What is the significance of "with a loud noise"? Is quiet worship less valid?
Answer: The phrase "with a loud noise" comes from the Hebrew word tᵉrûwʻâh, which often refers to a shout of triumph, a trumpet blast, or a joyful clamor. It signifies an enthusiastic, uninhibited, and public declaration of praise, reflecting deep joy, confidence, and triumph in God's power and presence. It does not in any way invalidate quiet, contemplative, or intimate worship, which is also vital and deeply valued by God. Rather, it highlights the importance and validity of expressive, exuberant, and celebratory praise. It reminds us that worship can and often should be bold, audible, and full of fervent emotion, especially when celebrating God's mighty acts, His victories, and His sovereign reign. Many psalms encourage making a "joyful noise" unto the Lord, such as Psalms 100:1, emphasizing the communal and demonstrative aspect of praise as a public testimony to God's greatness.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 33:3, with its vibrant call for a "new song," skillful playing, and a "loud noise," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "new song" is preeminently the song of redemption, sung by those who have been given new life and a new covenant in Christ. This praise is inspired by the unparalleled work of salvation accomplished through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection. It is the song of the Lamb, as beautifully depicted in Revelation 5:9, where the redeemed sing a new song because Christ "purchased with your blood persons from every tribe and language and people and nation." Our worship becomes truly "new" because it is founded on the finished work of the cross, providing an eternally fresh and inexhaustible reason for praise. Furthermore, Christ Himself is the ultimate embodiment of "skillful" and perfect worship, offering His life as the flawless sacrifice, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:2). Through His Spirit, we are now enabled to offer spiritual sacrifices that are pleasing to God, as living stones built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5). The "loud noise" of praise finds its echo in the triumphant acclamations of Christ's victory over sin, death, and the grave, a joyful declaration that resonates throughout creation and culminates in the great multitude's thunderous shout of "Hallelujah!" in Revelation 19:1. Thus, our worship, inspired by the new covenant in His blood, is continually renewed, skillfully offered through His enabling Spirit, and joyfully proclaimed with the confident assurance of His eternal triumph.