“THE PSALMIST’S PRAISE OF GOD’S BLESSINGS” PSALM 65:1-13

Psalm 65 is a beautiful thanksgiving psalm. Although the occasion for the writing of this psalm is uncertain, it does not negate the fact that God has indeed blessed His people with abundant blessings. In reading this psalm, I feel the urge to join the psalmist in Psalm 106:1-2, 48 as he exclaims: “Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever. Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? Who can shew forth all His praise? Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting’ and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord.”

David begins this psalm with praise as he proclaims “1Praise waiteth for thee, O God, in Sion: and unto thee shall the vow be performed. O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come” (vv. 1-2). David extols the Lord, for the Lord heard his prayer and forgave people’s transgressions (vv. 3-4) Not only does

David praise God for His redemption, but in verses 5-8, he praises God for His mighty acts in creation: “Which by His strength setteth fast the mountains; being girded with power: Which stilleth the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people” vv.6-7).

Because of the Lord’s abundant blessings on the land, nature shouts for joy (vv. 9-13). David sites this evidence of the Lord’s provision, “The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy, they also sing” (v. 13). Yes, we need to praise God everyday of our existence for His bountiful blessings, as the psalmist in Psalm 34:1-4 affirms: “I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make here boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

May God Bless!