Psalm 33:1-22
Q.1. For what reason is it appropriate to praise God? In what ways can we worship and praise God? Where does God show forth His power? What special relationship does Israel have? – (Ps.33:1-12)
Firstly, the Psalmist praised God – For the word of the Lord because it is upright, and all His work is done in faithfulness (Ps.33:4). He also praised God for creation – By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and by the breath of His mouth all their host … For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast (Ps.33:6 & 9). He also acknowledged God’s sovereign control over the nations – 10 The Lord nullifies the counsel of the nations; He frustrates the plans of the peoples. 11 The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart from generation to generation Ps.33:10-11). Unlike the leaders of nations – He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the lovingkindness of the Lord (Ps.33:5). Few nations could claim to acknowledge God. Only one was chosen for His own – Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen for His own inheritance (Ps.33:12).
Q.2. Do the other nations matter to God? In what way? How is victory assured in battle? On whom is the special focus of God’s attention? What difference does this make? – (Ps.33:13-22)
God’s choice of Israel does not preclude His special care for us – 13 The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men; 14 From His dwelling place He looks out On all the inhabitants of the earth, 15 He who fashions the hearts of them all, He who understands all their works (Ps.33:13-15). He fashioned us, understands us, and watches over ALL the sons of men. Jesus clearly sees the need for a wise strategy. However, ultimately victory comes from God (Ps.33:16-17 c.f. Lk.14:28-32). Regardless of nationality – the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope for His lovingkindness (Ps.33:18). There is special deliverance, provision, protection, and care for those who belong to the Lord (Ps.33:19-20). We all do need to know that there will be times of testing when we must wait upon Him, so that He might do – according as we have hoped in You (Ps.33:22).