Photo credit Biblical Foundations for Freedom
The author of this Psalm describes God's works in general, then talks about the Lord's eternal righteousness, His graciousness, and His compassion. God's attributes are completely revealed in His mighty acts. Those acts include the created universe. We respond to the evidence of God at work by looking for more evidence while remembering them those already performed.
Romans 1:18-20 (HCSB)18 For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth,19 since what can be known about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them.20 For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse. We must recognize God for who He is, the creator of all things. (Bold mine)
At the end of the Psalm the writer lets us know that wisdom begins with the reverential respect (fear) of God. The fear of God is foundational to true wisdom. All other learning is worthless unless it’s built upon a knowledge of the Lord.
Solomon, in Proverbs, reiterates this same idea of the beginning of wisdom, and he includes that this fear (reverential respect), of God is also the beginning of our understanding, which comes through our relationship (knowledge of) with God.
Proverbs 9:10 (HCSB)10 “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Romans 1:18-20 (HCSB)18 For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth,19 since what can be known about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them.20 For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse. We must recognize God for who He is, the creator of all things. (Bold mine)
At the end of the Psalm the writer lets us know that wisdom begins with the reverential respect (fear) of God. The fear of God is foundational to true wisdom. All other learning is worthless unless it’s built upon a knowledge of the Lord.
Solomon, in Proverbs, reiterates this same idea of the beginning of wisdom, and he includes that this fear (reverential respect), of God is also the beginning of our understanding, which comes through our relationship (knowledge of) with God.
Proverbs 9:10 (HCSB)10 “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Praise For The Lord’s Works
Psalm 111 (HCSB)1 Hallelujah! I will praise the LORD with all my heart in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.2 The LORD’s works are great, studied by all who delight in them.3 All that He does is splendid and majestic; His righteousness endures forever.4 He has caused His wonderful works to be remembered. The LORD is gracious and compassionate.5 He has provided food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.6 He has shown His people the power of His works by giving them the inheritance of the nations.7 The works of His hands are truth and justice; all His instructions are trustworthy.8 They are established forever and ever, enacted in truth and in what is right.9 He has sent redemption to His people. He has ordained His covenant forever. His name is holy and awe-inspiring.10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.
Psalm 111 (HCSB)1 Hallelujah! I will praise the LORD with all my heart in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.2 The LORD’s works are great, studied by all who delight in them.3 All that He does is splendid and majestic; His righteousness endures forever.4 He has caused His wonderful works to be remembered. The LORD is gracious and compassionate.5 He has provided food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.6 He has shown His people the power of His works by giving them the inheritance of the nations.7 The works of His hands are truth and justice; all His instructions are trustworthy.8 They are established forever and ever, enacted in truth and in what is right.9 He has sent redemption to His people. He has ordained His covenant forever. His name is holy and awe-inspiring.10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.
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