The world’s an amazing place. Recall the marvel of a sunrise or sunset. Can you do justice to capturing the splendor? Have you ever stood at the edge of the ocean, staring at endless water from horizon to horizon? Can you adequately describe the impressive roar of a mighty waterfall? Have you stared up at the majesty of a mountain range or felt a peace and quiet that can only come from a perfect blanket of thick snow in the dead of winter? These all are works of the Lord—beautiful and great.
There’s such a confidence which runs through this psalm. Whoever wrote this passage wasn’t guessing or wishing, he was remembering God’s wondrous works (Psalm 111:4).
When we read this psalm, I hope we consider what a great invitation we’ve received: to look longer at what God has done. Psalm 111 invites us to linger in these truths: God has remembered His people and provided for His people (v.5). And He has ordained His covenant forever (v.9).
We shouldn’t just casually glance at His works; we should study them because His name is “holy and awe-inspiring” (v.9). That’s what God’s people have always been invited to do, and the invitation remains—especially during Lent.
And notice the movement between past- and present-tense language being used throughout the psalm. There is a reminder of what has been and what is still true of Him. Great are His works! And great have been His works! As we focus on this, we can let what we read about God’s past grace steady our present faith.
Especially in a season like Lent, God’s people are invited to study, remember, and praise His works together from a unique vantage point (v.1) because he “has sent redemption to his people” (v.9). It’s a reminder that our present faith is tied to past grace.
Let’s keep this in mind as we move toward the cross of Christ. Whether it’s with a ready and willing heart or a reverent tremble, we’re never crying out into the dark. This psalm points us to a God who moved toward us first.
So even if for just a moment, we pause. We linger. We stop and reflect on the things God has made and the things He has done.
Written by Canaan Chapman
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43 thoughts on "Psalms 108–112"
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Im glad this got more uplifting in Psalm 112. I needed it! I am behind on my reading but i am honestly struggling with the negativity especially in Psalm 109. It reads more like a curse from David. What a place he must have been in! I am regularly in awe of the wonders God has done but what struck me was Psalm 112 v7. ‘They will have no fear of bad news, their hearts are steadfast , trusting in the Lord’. Bad news seems to be coming in waves and i am going to make a conscious effort to whisper this verse to myself when the
Saw a sunset over the water this past weekend- awe-inspiring and beautiful indeed!
The daily views of a sunrise and sunset, vast trees dressed with green foliage waving in the wind, snow-capped majestic mountains, a quiet river, golden leaves, vibrant spring flowers in full bloom….the amazing beauty of God’s hand crafted creation often causes me to pause, take it in an offer up a word of praise to Him. The very often quietness and solitude that nature brings fills me in such a unique way and reminds me of the greatness of God.
As we read further in these Psalms we are reminded that in amongst evil, sin and destruction, God still works, moves and delivers and redeems, His hand is just and righteous. Staying true to our Savior does not guarantee no harm, pain or suffering but walking with the Lord, abiding in Him, seeking Him is how we see and know His faithfulness and also what wisely leads us. All through scripture, we read verses similar to ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his instructions have good insight. His praise endures forever.’ Psalm 111:10
Heavenly Father, each an everyday we can open our eyes and see your faithfulness and be reminded of the greatness of who you are. Thank you for the beauty of your creation and that it so deeply resonates with me. Thank you Father that your mighty hand is near and that when we seek you we find you and that your wisdom and truth can lead this wayward heart. I praise you Lord for who you are. Be lifted high abd exalted O Lord. Amen
Two songs come to mine from our passages today…Your Love O Lord by Third Day (actually based on Psalm 36 but similar to Psalm 108) and also Indescribable by Chris Tomlin. :)
Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: and thy glory above all the earth; Psalm 108:5
Thank you, God, for all You have done!
Oh My, David is really roused up in Psalm 109! He goes after the wicked hard with his words & persistent cry to the Lord for retribution against his enemies. Doubtless we have all had a night or two of such moans & wails over wrongs & misdoings! Yet, God has delivered calm & brought forth peace in the dawn. The Psalms repeatedly voice the very real & raw complexities of human emotion. We are free to let loose our pain & protest. (And notice, please, we may not always be ourselves the innocent beyond reproach!And seek our own forgiveness.) God knows His creatures. He will, in His way, set things right. He is faithful.
Last year, when I was going through a deep valley season, with storms around, and I felt lost being tossed in many directions, and the Lord gave me a song of deliverance. I remembered that afternoon, sitting on my couch, unsure what to do, feeling alone, holding the massive weight of fear, attacks, hidden persecution, misunderstandings, anger of others, and I sat, and I couldn’t even cry. I had a song on youtube playing quietly on my tv, I was not even listening to it, then THE SONG came on. And it is this song, I want to share with you today.
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Great Is Your Mercy (by Don Moen)
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Thank You for Your mercy
Thank You for Your grace
Thank You for Your Blood
That’s made a way
To come into Your presence
And glorify Your Name
Lord, I stand amazed at what I see
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Chorus:
Great is Your mercy toward me
Your loving kindness toward me
Your tender mercies I see
Day after day
Forever faithful to me
Always providing for me
Great is Your mercy toward me
Great is Your grace
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Your promises are ageless
Your Love will never end
To a thousand generations
Your covenant will stand
Showing grace and mercy
To those who fear Your name
Establishing Your righteousness and praise
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(Chorus)
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And it brought back to me an advice of a church pastor I listened to long long long time ago. The word given was MERCY, and he told me, to always appeal to the LORD on the basis of Mercy because He won’t turn us down. What other things can we come to Him with? Not our good deeds, not our obedience (because there is disobedience mixed in there too in the form of delayed obedience), what other basis can we come to the throne? Self righteousness is a filthy rag. Comparison to another Christian to get His attention? It is unwise to compare themselves among themselves, to measure themselves against themselves (2 Corinthians 10:12: … but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise). Come always on the basis of Mercy, because the LORD is rich in mercy. And that was the song GOD introduced to me that day (I had never known it and never heard of it), and I hold it dearly in my heart. Take heart sisters. Be strong. God got you even though He seemed quiet. He is always present. In the deepest moments of despair, the LORD will comfort us, through different languages of songs, through a hug of a child, through the joy of the beautiful yellow dandelions on the sidewalk as we pass by, through the sunshine, the beauty of a sunset, etc. He is good, and is always working even when we don’t notice.
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MIA FAITH- I have been thinking of you and the month of March and April, may the LORD keep you and comfort you, shine His face upon you. May the Lord give you and your loved ones great peace.
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Be blessed dear sisters.
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Thank you, Canaan, for this devotional today. So many good and uplifting reminders of God’s faithfulness and grace. Also, Psalm 112 vs. 7 quickly got my attention this morning. “He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the Lord.” I can’t trust in the Lord while fearing all the “what ifs” or present realities of this world. Lord God, increase my faith and trust in You alone. Cast off all fear and distrust of Your goodness and mercy. Amen!
Since we read Psalm 51, Keith Green’s song, “Create In Me A Clean Heart,” has been on replay in my mind. It’s a great song/prayer to have going through my thoughts. It’s definitely my hearts desires. And Keith Green brings back so many memories from my teenage years and when I first started walking with the Lord. Does anyone else remember him and his music?
Yes and yes! Thanks for sharing that song, Jane! ❤
Loved Keith Green. His lyrics were so deep! We still listen to his songs now and then. Truly gifted, sad to lose him at such a young age g age!!
He is so good!!!
Happy Friday sweeties! “…our present faith is tied to past grace.” I’m not to only one who loved this! If it weren’t for my faith in my Jesus, even when it’s hard. Even if it hurts and can’t breathe, all I have to do is look of what my Jesus has already done for me and I tell my self, “I can do hard things.” “I can do ALL things through (my JESUS) who gives me strength” God is SO good!!! I have been looking forward to today for a while. After work today, I will officially be on Spring Break! BREAK! So needed and sleep too! I WILL miss the little munchkins SO much! I wish you could see how “cute” they are and they loves us SO much! I’m going to miss them, but I’m so grateful I will be able to sleep in next week, so I will be joining you a tad bit later.
GM!
“Reverence for the Lord is the foundation of all wisdom. The rewards of wisdom come to all those who obey him!” Amen and amen! Yes, obedience is important. We want the Lord, our prayers to be heard, to have fellowship with him…yet, we don’t honor or obey His commands. They are there for our protection and best, but we want what the heart wants although the heart is evil. God, the creator, knows what we need. He will bless us tremendously, could we even imagine, but we must want to follow him.
“They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.” Love this, and I saw this lived out this week by my dear friend Stacey. When she was faced with overwhelming things to do, knowing she had no place to go, nothing to her name–but had perfect peace relying on the Lord. And he provided each step. When we would hit closed doors, she said there is a reason, and sure enough, the next door would be perfect! Instead of grumbling and complaining how hard it was, she praised and threw out God’s word all day! That is why seasoned believers need to be around newer believers–on fire for the Lord, and trusting completely in him! We see the fresh light, and it blesses us!
Today’s devotional- “a great invitation we’ve received: to look longer at what God has done. Psalm 111 invites us to linger in these truths: God has remembered His people and provided for His people (v.5). And He has ordained His covenant forever (v.9)
Nature reveals him, his people reveal him..His Spirit in us reveals him!! The Holy, Almighty God of the universe..Creator of all things loves us enough to care for us day by day, hour by hour, the very breath in our lungs. Our desires and longings, he is faithful and loving to his children. Let us praise him faithfully and fully.
Oh my goodness. I never knew. How faithful she is. And what a pivotal role you are.
What a God is coming to mind – Who thought I’d find You at the lowest place?
Who thought You’d feel me in the crowd?
Who knew You make good of my mistakes?
You’re nothin’ like I thought You were, You’re better
What a God, what a God (whoa)
What a God, what a God (whoa)
What a God, what a God
Oh, it’s who You are
What a God, what a God
(Yeah)
(Come on)
I thought You’d show up for perfection
‘Cause what kind of God looks for the lost?
They say it’s over for a sinner
Although You say, “No, it’s not, no, it’s not”
You say, “No, it’s not, no, it’s not”
What a God, what a God
What a God, what a God (yeah)
What a God, what a God (yeah)
What a God, what a God
What a God, what a God
Yeah
(SEU nation)
(Just good, good)
(Everything I need)
(Yeah)
If the highest place I reach is at Your feet
Then I’ve done it all
If the best thing that I’ve seen is Your glory
Then I’ve seen it all
Your love has changed my life, forever satisfied
God, You are my everything
If the highest place I reach is at Your feet
Then I’ve done it all
If the best thing that I’ve seen is Your glory
Then I’ve seen it all
Your love has changed my life, forever satisfied
God, You are- (come on, hands up) (my everything)
(If one word is the-)
If one word is the only thing You speak (oh, yeah)
Then I’ve heard it all
If I feel Your heart and never see Your hand
I still have it all
No treasure of this life could ever satisfy
God, You are my everything (whoa, God)
You are my everything (whoa, God)
You are my everything (what a God, what a God)
What a God, what a God
What a God, what a God
What a God, what a God
(Come on, let’s lift it up)
If the highest place I reached is at Your feet (then I’ve done it all)
Then I’ve done it all
If the best thing that I’ve seen is Your glory (then I’ve seen it)
Then I’ve seen it all (sing Your love has)
Your love has changed my life, forever satisfied (God, You are)
You are my everything
(If one word is the-)
If one word is the only thing You speak (then I’ve heard it all)
Then I’ve heard it all (if I)
If I feel Your heart and never see Your hand
I still have it all (there is no treasure)
No treasure of this life (could ever satisfy)
Could ever satisfy (you’re the one)
You are my everything
God, You are my everything
God, You are my everything
If the highest place I reach (is at your feet)
(Then I’ve done it all)
(If the best thing that I’ve seen is your glory)
Then I’ve seen it all
Your love has changed my life forever satisfied
God, you are (my everything)
If one word is the only
(If one word is the only thing You speak)
Then I’ve heard it all
If I (feel Your heart and never see Your hand)
Yeah, I still have it all
No treasure of this life could ever satisfy
God, You are my everything
(You are my everything)
Whoa, Jesus (You are my everything)
I’m satisfied with You
You are (my everything)
Whoa, I’m satisfied with You
You are (my everything)
You’re my admiration
You are (You are my everything), whoa, God
You are (my) everything, yeah
Yeah, yeah
(You are my everything)
Yeah, make it personal, yeah
(You are my everything)
(You are my everything)
(You are my everything)
(You are my everything)
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Bobby Walker / Brunes Charles / Chelsea Plank / Kenzie Walker / Roosevelt Stewart
What A God lyrics © Capitol CMG Publishing, Essential Music Publishing
Psalms 111 – “He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and merciful.”
Psalm 111:4 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/psa.111.4.ESV
The more we get to know God and have a relationship with Him, the more we remember all that He has done for us! Praise just comes!
Praying for all!
CANAAN CHAPMAN, thank you for these beautiful and encouraging examples and reminders to truly see and appreciate the wonders of God. The word that came to mind is GAZE. Merriam-Webster definition:
“to fix the eyes in a steady intent look often with eagerness or studious attention.”
May we intentionally focus on the things of God as we move from moment to moment.
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Psalm 111
He has paid a full ransom for his people.
He has guaranteed his covenant with them forever.
What a holy, awe-inspiring name he has!
10 Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom.
All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom.
Praise him forever!
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From Wiersbe NKJV Study Bible notes from Psalm 111:
“From the works of God it was an easy transition to the Word of God, for it is God’s Word that brought all things into being and that keeps things together (33:6–11).
God gave His law to His people so that they might enjoy His blessings. His righteousness is forever (111:3), but so are His covenants (vv. 5, 9) and His precepts (v. 8).
God’s Word is trustworthy, and we can rely on it.
His precepts are given in love, and His promises never fail.”
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
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SONG SHARES:
1) Pat Barrett – All This In A Name (Live)
Partial lyrics
King Jesus (c’mon)
My Savior
Your name be lifted high
We sing the name that opens the prison doors
We sing the name that everything bows before
No other name can save our lives
Jesus be lifted high
We sing the name who’s worthy of all our praise
We sing the name and it changes everything
No other name can save our lives
Jesus be lifted, be lifted high
Grave shaker, Storm tamer, My Savior
All this in a name
Heart healer, Joy giver, Soul winner
All this in a name
Grave shaker, Storm tamer, My Savior
All this in a name
Heart healer, Joy giver, Soul winner
All this in a name
All this in Your name
We sing the name that opens the prison doors
We sing the name that everything bows before
No other name can save our lives
Jesus be lifted high
We sing the name who’s worthy of all our praise
We sing the name and it changes everything
No other name can save our lives
Jesus be lifted, be lifted high
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And perfectly time for Lent- new from Michael W. Smith
2) Michael W. Smith – Hymn For Communion (Official Music Video)
Cee Cee, Wow, thank you for sharing Michael W. Smith’s, “Hymn For Communion.” I just watched the video and it is so good. Love it. I also listened to, “All This In A Name,” I hadn’t heard this one before either. So many great songs out there. I love that you share these.
Thanks, Jane! They were both newly posted. I just lived the MWS song! ❤
“Studying, remembering and praising His works…It’s a reminder that our present faith is tied to past grace.” This stood out to me today. Thank you Father, because we are recipients of your grace, which you gave to your people, and to us Gentiles, through your Son, Jesus. We love you, God. Thank you for loving us with your steadfast love.
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They do not fear bad news, they confidently trust in the Lord. So unlike the world are Christians. What a gift we have in the Lord!
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And
Amen! I need to remember to say this to my 3yo. She’s such a “look at the moon, look at the sky” kind of girl and I want to remind her that God made that!
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Depend on God (Psalm 108)
Be honest before God (Psalm 109)
Submit to God’s rule (Psalm 110)
Grow in reverence and wisdom (Psalm 111)
Live out trust with courage and generosity (Psalm 112)
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My heart is steady because the Lord is faithful. I will trust Him, surrender to Him, and reflect His goodness in all I do
I like this, Kimberly! Especially, “Live out trust with courage and generosity.”
“our present faith is tied to past grace.” Canaan Chapman
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Grace, as well as Mercy, was given from the beginning of time, starting with Adam & Eve all the way to us. Noticed or unnoticed, we received grace & mercy from our Lord yesterday, we will receive it today, and it will be there for us to receive tomorrow.
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Let’s look for His grace today and each day, sisters, and give thanks to the Lord.
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Grace Greater Than Our Sin, Julia H Johnston, 1910
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Chorus:
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
grace that is greater than all our sin.
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Good Morning, Mercy, Dylan Scott, Jason Crabb
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While I was sleeping, Lord, You were working
On a mess I made like only I can do
When I start thinking, I’m so far from You
I wake up to hear You whisper, “That’s not true”
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Good morning, mercy
You call me worthy
Feels like the sun shining on my face
Living’s good this side of grace
I meant to share that phrase and forgot! Thanks for sharing it! ❤
Great song! ❤
Searching, thank you for this song, “Good Morning Mercy”. I hadn’t heard it before. I’m adding it to my favorites. What a great way to start off the day.
It puts a little pep in my step :)
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I am always captivated by the sunrise and the sunset. I also crave being in and surrounded by nature. I always just thought it was a personality thing, but after reading the devotional today, I think I just want to be surrounded by God’s beautiful works. Thank you for praying for my school family last week. We are going into spring break, so I’m hoping this will be a positive reset. One of my boys is moving to a new school, so I pray he is loved and supported and that he and his family get the help they need. Going to stay joyful and grounded in God’s love and truth today. Have a blessed Friday!!
Me too, Kim! I never feel closer to God than when I’m witnessing His amazing creation.
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!
Ps. 108:1
“My heart is confident, God;
I will sing; I will sing praises
with the whole of my being.”
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Thankful to serve the God who spoke this world into existence and formed me in my mother’s womb. May all I do, think, and say today bring Him the honor and glory He deserves.
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CAT-TEE – praying your mom continues to improve and does not become too disoriented in the hospital.
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MELISSA LANCE – praying the Lord brings you His wisdom about moving.
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RHONDA J – continued prayers for Stacey’s immediate needs to be met in ways that only God can do!
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DANA F – continued prayers for your dad’s recovery.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom – Amen!
Amen!
Psalm 111 was an encouragement to me too this morning. It’s all good, but where else can we say of anything in this world: “all His instructions are trustworthy.”? All, not some, not most or the ones we like; but ALL. Established forever and ever, enacted in truth and in uprightness.
Thank You, Father for your direction and guidance. Keep our feet on Your path and our focus on You. The only One who will never fail or misdirect us! Amen.
We can let what we read about Gods past grace steady our present faith. Amen!