Psalms
Psalm 111
KJV
Praise ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.
His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion.
He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.
The works of his hands are verity and judgment; all his commandments are sure.
They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.
He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
Overview
Psalm 111 is an alphabetic hymn of praise celebrating God's works, righteousness, compassion, provision, covenant faithfulness, redemption, and enduring commands. It concludes by locating true wisdom in reverent allegiance to the Lord.
Setting and context
A communal hymn of praise shaped as an acrostic, inviting God's people to study, remember, and trust the character revealed in divine works and covenant faithfulness.
Themes
Praise · Works of God · Righteousness · Compassion · Covenant · Provision · Redemption · Wisdom · Fear of the Lord
Reflection
Study God's works carefully, remember grace and provision without turning them into entitlement, practice trustworthy obedience, and understand the fear of the Lord as reverent allegiance rather than coercive terror.
Reading notes
The psalm praises God's provision and covenant faithfulness without promising uninterrupted wealth, health, or immunity from suffering. The verse recalls Israel's covenant history and does not authorize modern conquest, dispossession, ethnic supremacy, or political domination. Biblical reverence is not permission for intimidation, trauma, coercive control, or spiritual abuse.
Key passages
Psalm 111:2: God's works are great and worthy of careful study. Psalm 111:5: God's provision is connected with covenant remembrance, not a prosperity guarantee. Psalm 111:10: The fear of the Lord begins wisdom and leads toward faithful practice.
Questions readers ask
What does it mean to study God's works in Psalm 111:2? It means attentive reflection on what God has done, not hostility to evidence, learning, history, or careful inquiry. What is the fear of the Lord in Psalm 111:10? It is reverent awe, allegiance, humility, and accountable obedience before God; it is not psychological terror or permission for religious leaders to intimidate others.