Psalm 150 serves as a most excellent conclusion to the Psalter. Three important prepositions—in, for, and with—help to succinctly summarize the theme of the Jews’ hymnal.
- “in” describes a location. “Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty firmament!” (v. 1). Jehovah’s praiseworthiness ought to be recognized and expressed on earth—“in His sanctuary”—and in heaven—“in His mighty firmament”. Every creature He has given life to ought to praise Him.
- “for” provides a reason and a degree. “Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness!” (v. 2). The Almighty God is due worship because of His mighty deeds. The praise given the Almighty God ought to correspond to His pre-eminent and excellent greatness.
- “with” tells of the instruments to be used. Since the composer of this psalm was living under a covenant where God had authorized instruments which could be played with one’s hands (see 2 Chronicles 29:25), he instructs his fellow Jews to praise Him with the sound of the trumpet, lute, harp, timbrel, flutes, stringed instruments, and loud clashing cymbals (vv. 3-5). In the new and better covenant, God has authorized everyone who worships Him to each use two instruments—his voice and his heart. We are to sing and make melody in our hearts to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19).
The final verse of the final psalm provides a clear and concise conclusion to the Psalter: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!”
Amen and Amen!
