Psalms 111
Psalms 111 is part of “Book V: The Deuteronomy Book” (107–150) in the outline of Psalms.
Psalms 111 summary
This and divers of the psalms that follow it seem to have been penned by David for the service of the church in their solemn feasts, and not upon any particular occasion. This is a psalm of praise. The title of it is "Hallelujah - Praise you the Lord," intimating that we must address ourselves to the use of this psalm with hearts disposed to praise God. It is composed alphabetically, each sentence beginning with a several letter of the Hebrew alphabet, in order exactly, two sentences to each verse, and three a piece to the last two.
Read the full introduction
This and divers of the psalms that follow it seem to have been penned by David for the service of the church in their solemn feasts, and not upon any particular occasion. This is a psalm of praise. The title of it is "Hallelujah - Praise you the Lord," intimating that we must address ourselves to the use of this psalm with hearts disposed to praise God. It is composed alphabetically, each sentence beginning with a several letter of the Hebrew alphabet, in order exactly, two sentences to each verse, and three a piece to the last two. The psalmist, exhorting to praise God, I. Sets himself for an example (Psa 111:1). II. Furnishes us with matter for praise from the works of God. 1. The greatness of his works and the glory of them. 2. The righteousness of them. 3. The goodness of them. 4. The power of them. 5. The conformity of them to his word of promise. 6. The perpetuity of them. These observations are intermixed (Psa 111:2-9). III. He recommends the holy fear of God, and conscientious obedience to his commands, as the most acceptable way of praising God (Psa 111:10).
Source: Matthew Henry, Commentary on the Whole Bible (1706–21; Romans–Revelation completed by Nonconformist ministers). Public domain. Digital text: Free Use Bible API (bible.helloao.org).
Psalms 111 (ASV)
American Standard Version (public domain)
Great Are the Works of the Lord
1Praise ye Jehovah. I will give thanks unto Jehovah with my whole heart, In the council of the upright, and in the congregation. 2The works of Jehovah are great, Sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. 3His work is honor and majesty; And his righteousness endureth for ever. 4He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: Jehovah is gracious and merciful. 5He hath given food unto them that fear him: He will ever be mindful of his covenant. 6He hath showed his people the power of his works, In giving them the heritage of the nations. 7The works of his hands are truth and justice; All his precepts are sure. 8They are established for ever and ever; They are done in truth and uprightness. 9He hath sent redemption unto his people; He hath commanded his covenant for ever: Holy and reverend is his name. 10The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all they that do [his commandments]: His praise endureth for ever.