Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Great are the works of the LORDThe phrase "Great are the works of the LORD" immediately draws our attention to the magnitude and majesty of God's actions throughout history. The Hebrew word for "great" is "gadol," which conveys not only size but also importance and significance. This word is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's mighty acts, such as the creation of the world and the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. The "works" (Hebrew: "ma'aseh") of the LORD encompass all His deeds, both in creation and in His ongoing providence and governance of the world. These works are not only powerful but also purposeful, reflecting God's character and His plan for humanity. The use of "LORD" (Hebrew: "YHWH") emphasizes the covenantal relationship God has with His people, reminding us that His works are expressions of His faithfulness and love. They are pondered by all who delight in them Persons / Places / Events 1. The LORD (Yahweh)The central figure in this verse, representing the God of Israel, whose works are being praised. 2. The Psalmist The author of Psalm 111, traditionally attributed to King David, who is expressing admiration for God's works. 3. The Works of the LORD Refers to the acts of creation, providence, and redemption that God has performed throughout history. 4. The Delighters Those who take pleasure in and meditate on the works of the LORD, seeking to understand and appreciate them. Teaching Points The Magnitude of God's WorksGod's works are described as "great," indicating their vastness, complexity, and significance. Believers are encouraged to recognize and appreciate the magnitude of what God has done and continues to do. The Call to Ponder The Hebrew word for "pondered" (darash) implies seeking, inquiring, and studying. Christians are called to actively engage with God's works, seeking deeper understanding and insight. Delight in the Divine Those who delight in God's works are characterized by a joyful and eager attitude towards learning about and experiencing God's actions. This delight leads to a deeper relationship with God. Reflecting on Creation and Redemption God's works encompass both creation and redemption. Believers should reflect on how God's creative power and redemptive love are evident in their lives and the world around them. Encouragement to Share As believers ponder and delight in God's works, they are encouraged to share their insights and experiences with others, fostering a community of faith and wonder. Bible Study Questions 1. What specific works of the LORD in your life or in the world around you do you find most awe-inspiring, and why?2. How can you incorporate the practice of pondering God's works into your daily routine? 3. In what ways does delighting in God's works enhance your relationship with Him? 4. How do the creation accounts in Genesis and the descriptions of God's power in Job deepen your understanding of Psalm 111:2? 5. How can you share your reflections on God's works with others to encourage and build up the body of Christ? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 1The creation account, which exemplifies the "great works of the LORD" as He creates the heavens and the earth. Psalm 19:1 This verse speaks of the heavens declaring the glory of God, connecting to the idea of God's works being evident and worthy of contemplation. Romans 1:20 Paul discusses how God's invisible qualities and divine nature are understood through His creation, aligning with the theme of pondering God's works. Job 37-38 These chapters highlight God's mighty works in nature, prompting reflection and awe, similar to the sentiment in Psalm 111:2.
People PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Delight, Desiring, Pleasure, Pondered, Searched, Sought, Studied, Therein, WorksDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 111:2 5874 happiness 6688 mercy, demonstration of God's Library God and the Godly'His righteousness endureth for ever.'--PSALMS cxi. 3; cxii. 3. These two psalms are obviously intended as a pair. They are identical in number of verses and in structure, both being acrostic, that is to say, the first clause of each commences with the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, the second clause with the second, and so on. The general idea that runs through them is the likeness of the godly man to God. That resemblance comes very markedly to the surface at several points in the psalms, … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture December the Tenth the Only Wise Beginning Third Commandment The Ordinance of Covenanting Covenanting a Duty. The Holiness of God Covenanting Adapted to the Moral Constitution of Man. The Morning Light Josiah, a Pattern for the Ignorant. A Canticle of Love Covenanting According to the Purposes of God. Period ii. The Church from the Permanent Division of the Empire Until the Collapse of the Western Empire and the First Schism Between the East and the West, or Until About A. D. 500 Psalms Links Psalm 111:2 NIVPsalm 111:2 NLT Psalm 111:2 ESV Psalm 111:2 NASB Psalm 111:2 KJV Psalm 111:2 Commentaries Bible Hub |