Psalms
Psalm 112
KJV
Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.
His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.
Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.
Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.
Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.
He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.
His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.
He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.
The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.
Overview
Psalm 112 is a wisdom-shaped acrostic portrait of the person who delights in God's commands. It connects reverence, generosity, justice, resilience, care for the poor, and a steady heart, while contrasting this life with the frustration of the wicked.
Setting and context
A companion acrostic to Psalm 111, shifting from the character and works of God to the character formed in those who fear the Lord.
Themes
Fear of the Lord · Wisdom · Generosity · Justice · Steadfastness · Compassion · Poverty · Righteousness
Reflection
Let reverence for God shape generosity, fairness, courage, and practical care for others. Read the psalm as wisdom formation rather than a mechanical promise of wealth, perfect family outcomes, or immunity from bad news.
Reading notes
The psalm uses wisdom language about flourishing and character; it does not guarantee income, assets, health, or uninterrupted prosperity. It describes covenantal blessing in wisdom-poetry form, not a formula that removes children's agency or explains every family outcome. Steadfast trust can coexist with grief, anxiety, prudence, medical care, planning, and appropriate response to danger.
Key passages
Psalm 112:1: Blessedness begins with reverence for God and delight in his commands. Psalm 112:7: A steady heart trusts God without denying real danger or distress. Psalm 112:9: Enduring righteousness is expressed in generous care for the poor.
Questions readers ask
Does Psalm 112 promise material prosperity? No. It celebrates flourishing associated with reverence, justice, and generosity, but it is not a contract guaranteeing wealth or immunity from suffering. What does it mean not to fear bad news? It describes a heart anchored in trust, not emotional numbness, denial of facts, or refusal to take responsible action.