How great is our God!
Introduction
Psalm 111 begins with a resounding note of praise – literally “Hallelujah”! It was probably written for the Jewish remnant that returned to Jerusalem from exile in Babylon, encouraging them – and us – not to dwell on the difficulties we may be facing right now, but to look back and remember the greatness of our God.
Psalm 111 is one of the acrostic psalms – that is, each line begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. A number of psalms are written in this style. It was intended to help people memorise the words. It would also be good for us to memorise this psalm as we ponder the amazing works of God.
A – Remember God’s amazing works
- In what ways are we to worship the LORD? (verse 1)
- What words are used here to describe the LORD and his amazing works? (verses 2-3)
- Why do you think the LORD has caused his works to be remembered? (verse 4)
Remembering is an important concept in the Bible. God instituted acts of remembrance such as the Passover meal and communion. These are more than just human remembrances like ANZAC Day. God wanted to ensure that his people would not forget the awesome works that he has done: works that tell of his glory and majesty; works we should ponder and delight in; works that shape the very way we live and work and worship.…
B – Remember how God has blessed us
- Write a list of the characteristics of God that are mentioned in these verses. Turn this list into your own psalm of praise and say or sing it aloud.
- What are two ways the psalmist says God has blessed his people? (verses 6 and 9)
- Read John 3:16. How has God provided redemption for us?
The redemption mentioned in the psalm is probably referring to God’s amazing rescue of his people when he brought them out of their slavery in Egypt and led them to the Promised Land. But this rescue points to an even greater rescue that is made possible by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Jesus redeems us from sin and death. Ephesians 1:7 says: In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. This is our rescue and our eternal hope. Let’s remember how much God has blessed us!
C – Remember that to Christ belongs eternal praise
- Do the words ‘fear of the LORD’ seem a bit strange to you? What do you think ‘The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom’ means?
- How would you explain to someone the difference between ‘being afraid of something’ and ‘fearing the LORD’?
Fear of the LORD means having a right reverence for God. It is being amazed at his goodness and greatness. It is realising that he is not like us. It is acknowledging that his majesty and power and glory are far beyond our understanding. Fear of the LORD helps us realise our true place in this world. It leads us to follow, honour and obey Christ. Fear of the LORD should cause us to fall down before him and worship – for to him belongs eternal praise!
Let’s praise God in song!
How Great is Our God/How Great Thou Art (Living Stones); How Great is the Greatness of God (Boswell/Fowler/Papa) Love of God (Townend); Ascribe Greatness to our God the Rock (West/King).
Thanks. Always good to be reminded to Praise the Lord for who He is & what He means to me.