Psalm Number

Commonplace –

“Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God” (Psalm 147:6).

This is a psalm of high praise and devotion. David delights the reader with many attributes of God, upon which it is good to meditate. Here he tells us that “it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely” (v.1.). Of God, David says:

1. He builds up Jerusalem.
2. He gathers together the outcasts.
3. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
4. He tells the number of the stars.
5. He calls the stars by name.
6. He is great in power.
7. His understanding is infinite.
8. God lifts up the meek.
9. He casts down the wicked to the ground.
10. He covers the heavens with clouds.
11. He prepares rain for the earth.
12. He makes grass grow upon the mountains.
13. He gives food to the beasts and young ravens.
14. He takes pleasure in those who revere Him and those who hope in His mercy.
15. He strengthens the gates of His people.
16. He blesses His children’s children.
17. He brings peace to His children.
18. He fills His children with the finest wheat.
19. He sends forth His commandments; His word runs quickly.
20. He gives snow and frost; He casts forth ice.
21. He sends out His word, which brings warmth.
22. He causes the wind to blow.
23. He causes water to flow.
24. He shows His statutes and His judgments to His people, He does this for no one else.

Once again, David gives us an exemplary psalm for praising God, naming His wonderful attributes and works. After pondering this list, our place is put right in the world. What was big before now finds its rightful place in our day, and God rises to take His place, ordering our day aright. How can we but help praising God with David after this? It is pleasant to sing praise to God. As Matthew Henry notes, “This is another psalm of praise” (638). Let us put it in our memory and keep it close at hand, calling it forward when times are challenging and comfort is needed.

Works Cited

Henry, Matthew. “Psalm 147.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary On the Whole Bible: New Modern Edition. Volume 3 and Volume 6, Hendrickson Publishers, Inc., March 1996.

Holy Bible: Giant Print with Study Aids. Dugan Publishers, Inc., 1984.

© 2025 Angela Hormberg