The theme of praising the LORD continues in Psalm 147 from beginning to ending (1, 20) as well as in the middle (12). In verse 1, I immediately see three reasons to praise Yahweh in song: it’s good, it’s pleasant & it’s fitting. From verses 2-3 some Bible teachers believe this song was composed after Israel returned from exile to Jerusalem. Whereas they were brokenhearted while in exile (Psalm 137), Yahweh rebuilt Jerusalem, gathered the exiles back and healed their wounded hearts (Psalm 126). This shouldn’t surprise me, because the sovereign Lord of the universe determines the number of stars and gives them all names (4). He is “abundant in power” and has infinite understanding (5). If he cares so much for inanimate objects, how much more for his own people. Truly he cares about the humble but resists & opposes the proud (6). Such an exalted view of God should be the content of the songs I sing (7). God governs what happens with the clouds and the earth to give rain and grow grass and provide food for his creatures (8-9). Surely he will provide for me. God is not impressed with the strength of horses or the speed or agility of humans as much as he is please when someone respects and hopes or trusts in his constant love (10-11).
God’s people were called to praise him because he was the one to restore them back to Jerusalem. Through Nehemiah God fortified their city gates and provided their children with security & safety. They once again had peace and prosperity (14). I, too, am called to praise the LORD any time he restores me to fellowship after I have sinned against him and received his forgiveness (1 John 1:9). But the greatest blessing God gave Israel (and me!) was his word. God’s word governs nature (15-18) and guides his people (19-20). It’s God’s word that set Israel apart from all the other nations. This was Israel’s best gift and greatest distinction. Best of all was when God’s Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld his glory, full of grace & truth (John 1:14). This is the Church’s great blessing, too. It’s God’s word – both the Old and New Testaments – that distinguishes God’s people today from the world. It’s in that gracious and glorious word of God – both written & living – that we experience the saving and healing power for hearts broken by sin. This truly is reason to PRAISE THE LORD!
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