Psalms 147:15

He sendeth forth his commandment [upon] earth: his word runneth very swiftly.

He sendeth forth {H7971} his commandment {H565} upon earth {H776}: his word {H1697} runneth {H7323} very swiftly {H4120}.

He sends his word out over the earth, his command runs swiftly.

He sends forth His command to the earth; His word runs swiftly.

He sendeth out his commandment upon earth; His word runneth very swiftly.

Commentary

Psalms 147:15 beautifully illustrates the omnipotence and active involvement of God in His creation. The verse states, "He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly." This powerful declaration emphasizes God's absolute authority and the immediate, effective nature of His divine will.

Context of Psalms 147

Psalm 147 is a magnificent hymn of praise, extolling God for His greatness and His gracious care for both His people and His creation. The psalm moves between celebrating God's power over the natural world—sending snow, frost, and ice, and then melting them with His word (verses 16-18)—and His specific covenant relationship with Israel, giving them His statutes and judgments (verses 19-20). Verse 15 serves as a bridge, highlighting the mechanism by which God governs both nature and nations: through His powerful and swift word.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Sovereignty and Power: The verse underscores God's ultimate control over all things on earth. His "commandment" is not merely a suggestion but a decree that carries absolute authority and power to bring about His will.
  • Effectiveness of God's Word: When God speaks, it is not an empty utterance. His "word runneth very swiftly," meaning it is instantly effective and accomplishes precisely what He intends without delay or hindrance. This reflects the biblical truth that God's word will not return to Him void.
  • Immediacy and Speed: The phrase "runneth very swiftly" conveys the idea of rapid execution. There is no resistance or delay in the fulfillment of God's commands, whether they pertain to the elements of nature or the course of human events. Just as God spoke creation into existence in Genesis 1, His word continues to uphold and govern it with unparalleled speed.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "commandment" here is dabar (דָּבָר), which can mean 'word,' 'thing,' 'matter,' or 'decree.' This term carries a sense of active force and effectiveness. The word for "word" in "his word runneth" is imrah (אִמְרָה), which refers to a spoken utterance or saying. The pairing emphasizes that God's spoken decrees are not just declarations but active, powerful forces that immediately bring about their intended effect. The swiftness implies that nothing can impede God's purposes.

Practical Application and Reflection

For believers, Psalms 147:15 offers immense comfort and reassurance. It reminds us that the same powerful God who controls the vast cosmos and sends forth His commands with swift execution also governs our lives. His promises are sure, and His purposes will be fulfilled. We can trust in His active providence, knowing that His word is always effective and quick to accomplish His will. This verse encourages us to rely on God's unchanging character and the unfailing power of His word in every circumstance.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Job 37:12 (9 votes)

    And it is turned round about by his counsels: that they may do whatsoever he commandeth them upon the face of the world in the earth.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:1 (7 votes)

    ¶ Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you:

  • Matthew 8:8 (6 votes)

    The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.

  • Matthew 8:9 (6 votes)

    For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this [man], Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth [it].

  • Matthew 8:13 (6 votes)

    And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, [so] be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour.

  • Psalms 33:9 (6 votes)

    For he spake, and it was [done]; he commanded, and it stood fast.

  • Psalms 107:20 (5 votes)

    He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered [them] from their destructions.