Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.
The heavens
The phrase "The heavens" in Psalm 19:1 refers to the vast expanse of the sky and outer space, which in the Hebrew context is "שָׁמַיִם" (shamayim). This term encompasses everything above the earth, including the atmosphere, the celestial bodies, and the universe itself. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the heavens were often seen as the realm of the divine, a place where God's presence and glory were manifest. The heavens are a testament to God's creative power and majesty, serving as a canvas that displays His handiwork. The vastness and beauty of the heavens inspire awe and reverence, reminding us of the infinite nature of God.

declare
The word "declare" is translated from the Hebrew word "סָפַר" (saphar), which means to recount, relate, or proclaim. This verb suggests an active, ongoing communication. The heavens are not silent; they are actively proclaiming the glory of God. This declaration is continuous and unending, a perpetual testimony to God's greatness. The use of "declare" implies that the message of God's glory is clear and accessible to all who observe the heavens, leaving humanity without excuse for recognizing the Creator.

the glory of God
"The glory of God" refers to the visible manifestation of God's presence and attributes. In Hebrew, "glory" is "כָּבוֹד" (kabod), which conveys the idea of weightiness, honor, and splendor. The glory of God is His inherent majesty and divine nature, which is reflected in the beauty and order of creation. The heavens, in their vastness and complexity, reflect God's glory by showcasing His power, wisdom, and creativity. This phrase emphasizes that the natural world is a reflection of God's character and serves as a witness to His existence and sovereignty.

the skies
"The skies" is a translation of the Hebrew word "רָקִיעַ" (raqia), which refers to the firmament or the expanse above the earth. In the biblical cosmology, the skies are seen as a dome-like structure that separates the waters above from the waters below. The skies are a part of God's creation that display His craftsmanship and serve as a backdrop for the celestial bodies. They are a testament to the order and precision with which God has structured the universe, further highlighting His glory and majesty.

proclaim
The word "proclaim" comes from the Hebrew "נָגַד" (nagad), meaning to announce, declare, or make known. This verb indicates that the skies are actively communicating a message. Just as the heavens declare, the skies proclaim, suggesting a harmonious and unified testimony to God's handiwork. The proclamation is not hidden or obscure; it is evident and accessible to all who look up. This continuous proclamation serves as a reminder of God's presence and His ongoing involvement in the world.

the work of His hands
"The work of His hands" refers to the creative acts of God, emphasizing His role as the divine craftsman. In Hebrew, "work" is "מַעֲשֶׂה" (ma'aseh), which denotes an action or deed, and "hands" symbolize power and skill. This phrase highlights the intentionality and care with which God has fashioned the universe. The imagery of God's hands at work conveys a sense of intimacy and personal involvement in creation. It reminds us that the world is not a product of random chance but the deliberate and purposeful work of a loving Creator. The beauty and complexity of the natural world are a reflection of God's artistry and serve as a testament to His glory.

Persons / Places / Events
1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 19, David was the second king of Israel and a man after God's own heart. He often expressed his awe of God's creation in his psalms.

2. Heavens
Refers to the sky or the celestial realm, which in biblical times was seen as a testament to God's majesty and creative power.

3. God
The Creator, whose glory and handiwork are revealed through the natural world.

4. Skies
The visible expanse above the earth, which, like the heavens, serves as a canvas displaying God's craftsmanship.

5. Creation
The act of God bringing the universe into existence, which is continually celebrated and acknowledged through the natural world.
Teaching Points
The Revelation of God in Nature
Nature is a testament to God's existence and attributes. Observing the heavens can lead us to a deeper understanding of His glory and power.

God's Glory in Creation
The beauty and order of the universe reflect God's majesty. As believers, we should take time to appreciate and worship God for His creation.

The Call to Worship
Recognizing God's handiwork in the skies should inspire us to worship Him. Our response to creation should be one of awe and reverence.

The Testimony of Creation
Creation itself is a witness to God's greatness. It speaks to all people, regardless of language or culture, about the Creator's power and divinity.

Living in Awe of the Creator
As we go about our daily lives, we should cultivate a sense of wonder and gratitude for the world God has made, allowing it to draw us closer to Him.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does observing the natural world help you understand the glory of God as described in Psalm 19:1?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the appreciation of God's creation into your daily worship and prayer life?

3. How does the message of Psalm 19:1 connect with the creation account in Genesis 1, and what does this reveal about God's character?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt particularly moved by the beauty of nature. How did that experience impact your relationship with God?

5. How can the testimony of creation, as described in Psalm 19:1, be used as a tool for evangelism and sharing your faith with others?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 1
The creation account in Genesis provides the foundational understanding of God as the Creator, whose handiwork is evident in the heavens and the earth.

Romans 1:20
This verse speaks to the idea that God's invisible qualities and divine nature are clearly seen and understood from what has been made, echoing the message of Psalm 19:1.

Isaiah 40:26
This passage invites us to lift our eyes and see who created the stars, emphasizing God's power and creative authority.
God Revealed in NatureR. Venting.Psalm 19:1
God Seen in NaturePsalm 19:1
God's Glory in the SkiesCanon Scott Holland.Psalm 19:1
God's Two Great PreachersHomilistPsalm 19:1
God's Works and WordHanford A. Edson, D. D.Psalm 19:1
God's Works and WordMonday Club SermonsPsalm 19:1
God's Works and WordBishop R. W. Warren.Psalm 19:1
Nature a PreacherHomilistPsalm 19:1
Nature in ScriptureA. Maclaren, D. D.Psalm 19:1
The Biblical Conception of NatureJ. O. Dykes, D. D.Psalm 19:1
The Comet and its TeachingsH. L. Wayland.Psalm 19:1
The Glory of GodCharles Beecher.Psalm 19:1
The Moral Law and the Starry HeavensJ. A. Jacob, M. A.Psalm 19:1
The Revelation in NatureTalbot W. Chambers, D. D.Psalm 19:1
The Revelation of the Prophecy of the HeavensSamuel Cox, D. D.Psalm 19:1
The Testimony of the Works and the WordJustin E. Twitchell.Psalm 19:1
The Voice of God in His WorksC. Clemance Psalm 19:1-6
God's Revelation of Himself in Nature and in His WordC. Short Psalm 19:1-10
Nature as a PreacherW. Forsyth Psalm 19:1-14
People
David, Psalmist
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Arch, Chief, Choirmaster, Clear, David, Declare, Declaring, Expanse, Firmament, Glory, Gt, Handiwork, Hands, Handywork, Heavens, Honour, Leader, Lt, Makes, Music, Musician, Music-maker, Overseer, Proclaim, Proclaims, Psalm, Recounting, Sheweth, Showeth, Shows, Skies, Sky, Sounding, Telling
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 19:1

     1045   God, glory of
     1100   God, perfection
     1105   God, power of
     1193   glory, revelation of
     1265   hand of God
     1325   God, the Creator
     1403   God, revelation
     4065   orderliness
     4272   sky
     5441   philosophy

Psalm 19:

     5420   music

Psalm 19:1-2

     4007   creation, and God
     4026   world, God's creation
     8702   agnosticism

Psalm 19:1-3

     4060   nature

Psalm 19:1-4

     1436   reality
     4006   creation, origin
     5029   knowledge, of God
     5196   voice
     5263   communication
     5374   languages
     6183   ignorance, of God
     8105   assurance, basis of
     8135   knowing God, nature of

Psalm 19:1-6

     1440   revelation, creation
     4212   astronomy
     4284   sun
     5816   consciousness
     8608   prayer, and worship

Library
Secret Faults
'Who can understand his errors? cleanse Thou me from secret faults.' PSALM xix. 12. The contemplation of the 'perfect law, enlightening the eyes,' sends the Psalmist to his knees. He is appalled by his own shortcomings, and feels that, beside all those of which he is aware, there is a region, as yet unilluminated by that law, where evil things nestle and breed. The Jewish ritual drew a broad distinction between inadvertent--whether involuntary or ignorant--and deliberate sins; providing atonement
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Open Sins
'Keep back Thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.'--PSALM xix. 13. Another psalmist promises to the man who dwells 'in the secret place of the Most High' that' he shall not be afraid for the terror by night, nor for the arrow that flieth by day, nor for the pestilence that walketh at noonday,' but shall 'tread upon the lion and adder.' These promises divide the dangers that beset us
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

"The Sun of Righteousness"
WE SHOULD FEEL QUITE JUSTIFIED in applying the language of the 19th Psalm to our Lord Jesus Christ from the simple fact that he is so frequently compared to the sun; and especially in the passage which we have given you as our second text, wherein he is called "the Sun of Righteousness." But we have a higher justification for such a reading of the passage, for it will be in your memories that, in the 10th chapter of the Epistle to the Romans, the Apostle Paul, slightly altering the words of this
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Secret Sins
Now, David, having seen God's law, and having praised it in this Psalm, which I have read in your hearing, he is brought, by reflecting on its excellency, to utter this thought, "Who can understand his errors?" and then to offer this prayer, "Cleanse thou me from secret faults." In the Lateran Council of the Church of Rome, a decree was passed that every true believer must confess his sins, all of them, once a year to the priest, and they affixed to it this declaration, that there is no hope of pardon
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857

Presumptuous Sins
I shall this morning, first of all, endeavor to describe presumptuous sins; then, secondly, I shall try, if I can, to show by some illustrations, why the presumptuous sin is more heinous than any other; and then thirdly, I shall try to press the prayer upon your notice--the prayer, mark you, of the holy man--the prayer of David: "Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins. " I. First, then, WHAT IS PRESUMPTUOUS SIN? Now, I think here must be one of four things in a sin in order to make it
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857

Sin Immeasurable
The subject of this morning--our own sin, and the error of our own hearts, is one which we sometimes think we know, but of which we may always be quite sure that we have only began to learn, and that when we have learned the most we shall ever know on earth, the question will still be pertinent, "Who can understand his errors?" Now, this morning I propose first of all, very briefly indeed, to explain the question; then at greater length to impress it upon our hearts; and lastly we will learn the
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 6: 1860

Prayer and the Word of God (Continued)
"Some years ago a man was travelling in the wilds of Kentucky. He had with him a large sum of money and was well armed. He put up at a log-house one night, but was much concerned with the rough appearance of the men who came and went from this abode. He retired early but not to sleep. At midnight he heard the dogs barking furiously and the sound of someone entering the cabin. Peering through a chink in the boards of his room, he saw a stranger with a gun in his hand. Another man sat before the fire.
Edward M. Bounds—The Necessity of Prayer

The Heavens Declare the Glory of God. --Ps. xix.
The Heavens declare the Glory of God.--Ps. xix. Thy glory, Lord, the heavens declare, The firmament displays Thy skill; The changing clouds, the viewless air, Tempest and calm Thy word fulfil; Day unto day doth utter speech, And night to night Thy knowledge teach. Though voice nor sound inform the ear, Well-known the language of their song, When one by one the stars appear, Led by the silent moon along, Till round the earth, from all the sky, Thy beauty beams on every eye. Waked by Thy touch,
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

The Law and the Testimonies. --Ps. xix.
The Law and the Testimonies.--Ps. xix. Thy law is perfect, Lord of light! Thy testimonies sure, The statutes of Thy realm are right, And thy commandments pure. Holy, inviolate Thy fear, Enduring as Thy throne: Thy judgments, chastening or severe, Justice and truth alone:-- More prized than gold,--than gold whose waste Refining fire expels; Sweeter than honey to my taste, Than honey from the cells. Let these, O God! my soul convert; And make Thy servant wise; Let these be gladness to my heart,
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

the Spacious Firmament on High
[970]Addison's: John Sheeles, c. 1720 Psalm 19 Joseph Addison, 1712 The spacious firmament on high, With all the blue ethereal sky, And spangled heavens, a shining frame, Their great Original proclaim. The unwearied sun from day to day Does his Creator's power display, And publishes to every land The work of an almighty Hand. Soon as the evening shades prevail, The moon takes up the wondrous tale, And nightly to the listening earth Repeats the story of her birth; Whilst all the stars that round
Various—The Hymnal of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the USA

The Promises of the Law and the Gospel Reconciled.
1. Brief summary of Chapters 15 and 16. Why justification is denied to works. Argument of opponents founded on the promises of the law. The substance of this argument. Answer. Those who would be justified before God must be exempted from the power of the law. How this is done. 2. Confirmation of the answer ab impossibili, and from the testimony of an Apostle and of David. 3. Answer to the objection, by showing why these promises were given. Refutation of the sophistical distinction between the intrinsic
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Letter xxii. St. Ambrose in a Letter to his Sister Gives an Account of the Finding Of...
St. Ambrose in a letter to his sister gives an account of the finding of the bodies of SS. Gervasius and Protasius, and of his addresses to the people on that occasion. Preaching from Psalm xix., he allegorically expounded the "heavens" to represent the martyrs and apostles, and the "day" he takes to be their confession. They were humbled by God, and then raised again. He then gives an account of the state in which their bodies were found, and of their translation to the basilica. In another address
St. Ambrose—Works and Letters of St. Ambrose

The Progress of the Gospel
Their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the end of the world. T he heavens declare the glory of God (Psalm 19:1) . The grandeur of the arch over our heads, the number and lustre of the stars, the beauty of the light, the splendour of the sun, the regular succession of day and night, and of the seasons of the year, are such proofs of infinite wisdom and power, that the Scripture attributes to them a voice, a universal language, intelligible to all mankind, accommodated to every capacity.
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

The Dryness of Preachers, and the Various Evils which Arise from their Failing to Teach Heart-Prayer --Exhortation to Pastors to Lead People Towards this Form Of
If all those who are working for the conquest of souls sought to win them by the heart, leading them first of all to prayer and to the inner life, they would see many and lasting conversions. But so long as they only address themselves to the outside, and instead of drawing people to Christ by occupying their hearts with Him, they only give them a thousand precepts for outward observances, they will see but little fruit, and that will not be lasting. When once the heart is won, other defects are
Jeanne Marie Bouvières—A Short Method Of Prayer And Spiritual Torrents

Of Deeper Matters, and God's Hidden Judgments which are not to be Inquired Into
"My Son, beware thou dispute not of high matters and of the hidden judgments of God; why this man is thus left, and that man is taken into so great favour; why also this man is so greatly afflicted, and that so highly exalted. These things pass all man's power of judging, neither may any reasoning or disputation have power to search out the divine judgments. When therefore the enemy suggesteth these things to thee, or when any curious people ask such questions, answer with that word of the Prophet,
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

The Pietist and the Perfectionist.
"He chastens us for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness."--Heb. xii. 10. Sanctification is a gracious work of God, whereby in a supernatural way He gradually divests from sin the inclinations and dispositions of the regenerate and clothes them with holiness. Here we meet a serious objection which deserves our careful attention. To the superficial observer, the spiritual experience of God's children seems diametrically opposed to this professed gift of sanctification. One says:
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Concerning Continence Also Itself Hath it not Been Most Openly Said...
43. Concerning continence also itself hath it not been most openly said, "And when I knew that no one can be continent unless God give it, this also itself was a part of wisdom, to know whose gift it was?" [2177] But perhaps continence is the gift of God, but wisdom man bestows upon himself, whereby to understand, that that gift is, not his own, but of God. Yea, "The Lord maketh wise the blind:" [2178] and, "The testimony of the Lord is faithful, it giveth wisdom unto little ones:" [2179] and, "If
St. Augustine—Of Holy Virginity.

Regeneration.
In the examination of this subject I will-- I. Point out the common distinction between regeneration and conversion. 1. Regeneration is the term used by some theologians to express the divine agency in changing the heart. With them regeneration does not include and imply the activity of the subject, but rather excludes it. These theologians, as will be seen in its place, hold that a change of heart is first effected by the Holy Spirit while the subject is passive, which change lays a foundation for
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

The Knowledge of God Conspicuous in the Creation, and Continual Government of the World.
1. The invisible and incomprehensible essence of God, to a certain extent, made visible in his works. 2. This declared by the first class of works--viz. the admirable motions of the heavens and the earth, the symmetry of the human body, and the connection of its parts; in short, the various objects which are presented to every eye. 3. This more especially manifested in the structure of the human body. 4. The shameful ingratitude of disregarding God, who, in such a variety of ways, is manifested within
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Need of Scripture, as a Guide and Teacher, in Coming to God as a Creator.
1. God gives his elect a better help to the knowledge of himself--viz. the Holy Scriptures. This he did from the very first. 2. First, By oracles and visions, and the ministry of the Patriarchs. Secondly, By the promulgation of the Law, and the preaching of the Prophets. Why the doctrines of religion are committed to writing. 3. This view confirmed, 1. By the depravity of our nature making it necessary in every one who would know God to have recourse to the word; 2. From those passages of the Psalms
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Word
The third way to escape the wrath and curse of God, and obtain the benefit of redemption by Christ, is the diligent use of ordinances, in particular, the word, sacraments, and prayer.' I begin with the best of these ordinances. The word . . . which effectually worketh in you that believe.' 1 Thess 2:13. What is meant by the word's working effectually? The word of God is said to work effectually when it has the good effect upon us for which it was appointed by God; when it works powerful illumination
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

The Shepherd-King
'And the Lord said unto Samuel, How long wilt them mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel! fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Beth-lehemite: for I have provided Me a king among his sons. 2. And Samuel said, How can I go? If Saul hear it, he will kill me. And the Lord said, Take an heifer with thee, and say, I am come to sacrifice to the Lord. 3. And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Conversion of all that Come.
"Turn Thou me and I shall be turned." --Jer. xxxi. 18. The elect, born again and effectually called, converts himself. To remain unconverted is impossible; but he inclines his ear, he turns his face to the blessed God, he is converted in the fullest sense of the word. In conversion the fact of cooperation on the part of the saved sinner assumes a clearly defined and perceptible character. In regeneration there was none; in the calling there was a beginning of it; in conversion proper it became a
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Effectual Calling
'Them he also called.' Rom 8:80. Q-xxxi: WHAT IS EFFECTUAL CALLING? A: It is a gracious work of the Spirit, whereby he causes us to embrace Christ freely, as he is offered to us in the gospel. In this verse is the golden chain of salvation, made up of four links, of which one is vocation. Them he also called.' Calling is nova creatio, a new creation,' the first resurrection. There is a two-fold call: (1.) An outward call: (2.) An inward call. (1.) An outward call, which is God's offer of grace to
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

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