Scripture: Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them. Full of splendor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever. Psalm 111:2-3 ESV
Observation: Psalms 111 and 112 go together as an acrostic of the Hebrew alphabet, with each half verse beginning with a letter that follows the sequential order of the alphabet. So while Psalm 112 addresses our response to the Lord’s divine attributes, in this first psalm, the author (likely David) focuses on God’s faithful work in delivering his people to the Promise Land and extols the trustworthiness of all his works (111:1-6) and laws (11:7-9). David concludes his praise by urging Israel to fear the Lord, for a healthy fear fosters godly wisdom (a recurring theme which his son, Solomon, echoes in his proverbial writings).
Takeaway: In particular, the above two verses remind us of two significant aspects of the Lord’s faithful works. First, his creation reveals his majesty and righteousness. When we see the wonder of a newborn or the beauty of a sunset or a mountain range, we see his “splendor and majesty.” Moreover, as we ponder his wondrous works, we gain wisdom and knowledge of the intricacies of human life and our worldly habitat.
Second, as we study his works in greater depth, our discoveries reveal a deeper understanding of who he is. One such moment that struck me was when a friend (a research scientist) shared how he discovered a new element for data storage with our home-group Bible study. At that revelatory moment, he knew that he was in the presence of God and that the Lord had given him this insight to share with the world. That revered encounter drew him closer to his Creator and broadened his understanding of who God is and who he was as one member of the Lord’s handiwork. For, indeed, when we fear and revere God, we gain the wisdom and insight to confirm how “great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.”
Prayer: Father God, your works of establishing the universe and life within it are truly astounding! Would you please help us submit to the study of all aspects of your creation with a humble attitude that you are the author and we are the discoverers? Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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