When was the last time you paused to reflect on all the incredible things God has done in your life?
Psalm 111 invites us to celebrate God’s works, reminding us that His faithfulness and righteousness are reasons to live in gratitude and awe.
Key Verse: “Great are the works of the Lord; they are studied by all who delight in them.” – Psalm 111:2 (NASB)
Background Context: Psalm 111 is a psalm of praise that celebrates God’s mighty deeds and His enduring faithfulness. It calls us to remember God’s actions throughout history and to worship Him for His justice, mercy, and provision. Each verse is packed with reasons to honor God, from His gracious and compassionate nature to the eternal truth of His commands. This psalm encourages us to meditate on God’s works and to respond with wholehearted worship and obedience.
(Summarized and continued after scripture)
The LORD Praised for His Goodness.
1Praise the LORD!
I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart,
In the company of the upright and in the assembly.
2Great are the works of the LORD;
They are studied by all who delight in them.
3Splendid and majestic is His work,
And His righteousness endures forever.
4He has made His wonders to be remembered;
The LORD is gracious and compassionate.
5He has given food to those who fear Him;
He will remember His covenant forever.
6He has made known to His people the power of His works,
In giving them the heritage of the nations.
7The works of His hands are truth and justice;
All His precepts are sure.
8They are upheld forever and ever;
They are performed in truth and uprightness.
9He has sent redemption to His people;
He has ordained His covenant forever;
Holy and awesome is His name.
10The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
A good understanding have all those who do His commandments;
His praise endures forever.
Reflection on Psalm 111:
- Delighting in God’s Works: The psalmist opens with, “Great are the works of the Lord; they are studied by all who delight in them” (Psalm 111:2). This verse calls us to intentionally reflect on God’s actions in our lives and in the world. Studying His works deepens our faith and gratitude, helping us see His hand in every situation. Are you taking time to delight in what God has done? Set aside moments to remember His blessings and reflect on His faithfulness.
- God’s Works Reveal His Character: As the psalm unfolds, each line highlights attributes of God—His righteousness, compassion, faithfulness, and power. In verses 3-4, we see that God’s deeds reveal His glorious splendor and enduring righteousness, reminding us that His character is the foundation of His works. Reflecting on what God has done is a way to know Him more deeply, growing in awe of His holiness and love. When we focus on His character, our worship becomes richer and more meaningful.
- The Provision and Faithfulness of God: Verse 5 reminds us that God provides for those who fear Him, remembering His covenant forever. God’s provision is not just material but spiritual, as He sustains us with strength, wisdom, and guidance. His faithfulness to His promises assures us that He is always with us, even when life is challenging. What are some ways God has provided for you recently? Thank Him for His care and faithfulness, trusting that He will continue to meet your needs.
- The Power of God’s Redemption: In verse 9, the psalmist declares, “He has sent redemption to His people; He has ordained His covenant forever.” This points us to God’s ultimate act of love through the redemption offered in Jesus Christ. God’s covenant is eternal, and His love is unbreakable. This assurance of redemption gives us hope, reminding us that we are not only forgiven but also restored to relationship with Him. Embrace the gift of redemption, letting it shape your identity and your purpose.
- A Call to Obedience and Awe: The psalm closes with, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments” (Psalm 111:10). Reflecting on God’s greatness and goodness leads us to a holy reverence and a desire to obey Him. Obedience is our response to God’s faithfulness, and it brings us into deeper understanding and intimacy with Him. As we honor His Word, we grow in wisdom, guided by the truth that He is worthy of our trust and devotion.
Summary Key Points:
- Reflecting on God’s Works Deepens Our Faith: Taking time to remember God’s actions in our lives and in history strengthens our gratitude and trust in Him.
- God’s Works Reveal His Faithful Character: The more we know God’s actions, the more we understand His compassion, righteousness, and love.
- Trusting God’s Faithful Provision: God’s provision is both physical and spiritual, reminding us that He meets our needs and keeps His promises.
- Rejoicing in Redemption: Our redemption through Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s love, reminding us of His unbreakable covenant with us.
- Living in Reverence and Obedience: Recognizing God’s greatness leads to wisdom and obedience, as we honor Him with lives that reflect His truth.
Application: Take time this week to reflect on specific ways God has been faithful in your life. Consider keeping a journal to document His works and answered prayers as a reminder of His goodness. Spend time in prayer, thanking Him for His character and His actions. Ask God to give you a heart of wisdom and a renewed desire to obey His Word, knowing that He is worthy of your reverence and trust.
Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your wonderful works and Your faithful love. Thank You for the ways You have provided, redeemed, and sustained us. Help us to remember Your deeds and to live in awe of Your greatness. Fill us with a heart of gratitude and wisdom, and guide us to walk in obedience to Your Word. May our lives reflect Your glory, and may we honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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