Psalm 33:4-12

The word of God

Praise for God is a choice we make. David exclaims often in the Psalms: “I will praise the Lord.” But praise also flows naturally and in a nearly automatic way from any reflection upon the person and activity of the Lord. For example, consider the praise of this psalmist.

God’s word is upright. (v. 4)

The word of God is honest. He tells us the truth openly, without trickery or deceit. We can trust what He has said because He stands by it without fail. All of God’s actions are faithful to His word because of His perfect integrity. His knowledge and wisdom mean that He never makes a mistake that He needs to retract. His power and presence mean that circumstances can never thwart Him.

He loves righteousness and justice. The earth is full of His lovingkindness. (v. 5)

Crookedness, treachery, bribery, oppression, and cheating are abhorrent to God. He opposes such behavior but delights in things that are right and just. Despite the forces of evil at work in the world, God’s kind and beneficial care fill our surroundings and bless us every day. The earth is temperate and habitable. We eat and breathe and see and taste. The ungodly are no different than the godly in this privilege.

The word of the Lord made the heavens. (v. 6)

All of the vast celestial fireworks display was simply called into existence by the command of God. He gathered all the vast deeps of earth’s oceans with their roaring, restless power by the barest mention. This matchless power and creativity calls us to stand in awe of Him. He is the one who is impressive and worthy of praise. At His command all of these continue in their active existence radiating their proof of the glory of God.

The counsel of the Lord stands forever. (v. 11)

God’s word directs the course of history even at an international level. Nations may make plans, but the Lord frustrates those plans however He chooses. His counsel and planning prevail. He is the sovereign God who exercises authority over all human power in every generation. Israel is so particularly blessed to be the people He has chosen for His inheritance. He has given them the privilege of being the keepers of the oracles of God. Any nation will find blessing if its people will be worshipers of the most High.

Worship the Lord. Praise Him for all that He is and all that He does. Observe that He merely speaks and it is so. These considerations call forth thanks and love and trust and praise. Praise is becoming to the upright.

Pursuit of wisdom for today from the Ancient of Days

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