In his exposition of Psalm 111, Henry Law examines the theme of praise as central to the believer's expression of worship. He articulates several motivations for heart-felt adoration, arguing that true praise must engage the entire being—emotionally and physically—in both private and communal settings. Key scripture references, such as verses 1-10, highlight God's eternal works, righteousness, and the redemptive covenant He maintains with His people, reinforcing the Reformed belief in the faithfulness of God’s covenant promises (Genesis 17:7, Ephesians 1:7). Law emphasizes the significance of understanding God's works as not merely historical events but as ongoing witnesses to His character, thereby urging believers to continually respond to God's grace with gratitude and praise, reinforcing their identity as part of a covenant community.
Key Quotes
“Praise is the tribute which never can be fully paid.”
“The works of His hands ever supply matter. They are a treasure-house of wonders.”
“The everlasting covenant in Christ secures unfailing blessings.”
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments.”
What does the Bible say about praise?
The Bible emphasizes that praise is an essential expression of love and gratitude toward God.
Additionally, praise reflects our understanding of God's character and His covenant faithfulness. This Psalm illustrates how the works of the Lord are not merely historical facts but ongoing declarations of His glory and righteousness. As the faithful witness to God's eternal nature, our praise should grow in response to our deepening appreciation of His grace and compassion in our lives, further encouraging a communal spirit of worship among believers.
How do we know God's grace is true?
God's grace is evident through His covenants and the works He does for His people.
Moreover, the psalm illustrates that God's works, which are honorable and glorious, provide ample evidence of His grace. When believers reflect on the history of God's actions and their experiences of His faithfulness, they can see tangible manifestations of His grace. Therefore, God's grace is validated not only by scriptural declarations but also through the lived experience of His covenant people.
Why is God's covenant important for Christians?
God's covenant ensures His unchanging promises and faithfulness towards His people.
Furthermore, the covenant is the basis for understanding redemption and grace. The sacrifice of Christ, as the fulfillment of the covenant, allows believers to experience forgiveness and restoration. This relationship invites Christians into a life of worship and obedience, acknowledging God's sovereignty and expressing gratitude for His merciful dealings. In essence, the covenant anchors the believer’s faith and demonstrates God's enduring love and righteousness.
Praise is the one theme of this enrapturing Psalm. Various motives call to this homage. May they all excite response in our adoring hearts!
1. "Praise the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation."
Praise is the tribute which never can be fully paid. Beginning in time, it will swell throughout eternity. Not only should our lips rejoice in this grace; we should exhort others to the godly exercise. Precept should enforce the duty; example should mark out the path. This praise should issue from hearts overflowing with grateful love. Shame on all meager utterance and all cold expression! The whole heart, with every affection, should be rapturously engaged. We should thus testify our love, not only in seasons of retirement, but publicly in the assemblies of the sanctuary.
2-4. "The works of the Lord are great, sought out by all those who have pleasure in them. His work is honorable and glorious; and His righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonderful works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious, and full of compassion."
Calls to praise exceed all number. The works of His hands ever supply matter. They are a treasure-house of wonders. They are worthy of our constant study. The more we discover, the more we shall find fullness of delight. As our pleasure expands, the more praise should blaze as a flaming torch. His works, also, are all worthy of Himself. They reflect the glory of His righteousness. This feature is indelibly stamped on all. As time rolls on these works endure. The remembrance of them has immortal life. From generation to generation they declare His essence, and testify that grace and tenderness ever flow from His throne.
5-6. "He has given food to those who fear Him; He will ever be mindful of His covenant. He has shown His people the power of His works, that He may give them the heritage of the heathen."
Ample provision satisfies the needs of His people. Tender care watches over them. In all this marvelous arrangement, these gracious dealings proclaim Him as our faithful Father. The everlasting covenant in Christ secures unfailing blessings. This covenant never can be broken. Therefore the stream of blessings never can be stopped. Special wonders were exhibited to His chosen people of old. The heathen were driven out, that His people might occupy the promised inheritance.
7-8. "The works of His hands are verity and judgment; all His commandments are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness."
The works of the Lord are echoes to the glories of His word. They are the accomplishment of His sure promises. They are bright mirrors in which we may read His verity and judgment. No power of opposing foes can contravene His decrees. While we read His truth in all the wonders of His hand, let us abound more in grateful thanksgiving.
9-10. "He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever; holy and reverend is His name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever."
The bright crown of His works is the redemption of His people. This is the substance of His everlasting covenant. It is our wisdom to regard with awe the marvels of His dealings. Let us fear and love. Let us love and praise.
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