Psalm 104:1-35
Q.1. What past event filled the Psalmist with awe for God? What change made the earth more habitable? – (Ps.104:1-9)
The Psalmist began by describing the absolute supremacy of God, highlighting His sovereignty and splendour in the heavenlies, and the permanency of planet earth – He established the earth upon its foundations, So that it will not totter forever and ever – (Ps.104:5). To be sure, terrible disasters and tribulation are predicted to come upon the world system (c.f. Mt.24:36). Some fear that the earth will be destroyed by global warming, solar flares, a nuclear war, epidemics, and asteroids. However, God assured us that the earth will literally – never move out of its place (Ps.104:5). The Psalmist considered the awesome power of God which was displayed in the world-wide flood of Noah. God completely re-landscaped the pre-flood world – 6 … The waters were standing above the mountains. 7 At Your rebuke they fled, at the sound of Your thunder they hurried away. 8 The mountains rose; the valleys sank down to the place which You established for them. 9 You set a boundary that they may not pass over, so that they will not return to cover the earth (Ps.104:6-9). The upheaval of the flood is now restrained because God has placed a boundary on these geographical features (Ps.104:9).
Q.2. What do the provision of seasons and balance in the animal world tell us about God? – (Ps.104:10-30)
Much of the Psalm was given to describing the extensive and yet intricate protection and provision God gives to all His creatures (Ps.104:11-26). Even at night He cares for all the nocturnal animals. He gives the creatures their life until they return to the dust (Ps.104:29-30). Consideration of how the seasons and the creatures relate, allows for only one conclusion – O Lord, how many are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all; The earth is full of Your possessions (Ps.104:24).
Q.3. How did the Psalmist’s meditation impact him? What is the lesson for us? – (Ps.104:31-35)
After considering all that this great God did to sustain His creation, the Psalmist expressed his desire for – the glory of the Lord to endure forever (Ps.104:31). Recognizing God’s awesome power, filled him with praise and gladness – Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; as for me, I shall be glad in the Lord (Ps.104:34 c.f. Ps.104:32). The key lesson is for us is to maintain such a high view of God, that we can retain confidence that no one can thwart His purposes, regardless of our experiences. In faith the Psalmist cried out, – Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; As for me, I shall be glad in the Lord (Ps.104:34)