As expected of any hymnal, the book of Psalms has many compositions of praise. Psalm 66 definitely fits the mold. It bursts forth with this vigorous pronouncement: “Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name; make His praise glorious. Say to God, ‘How awesome are Your works! Through the greatness of Your power Your enemies shall submit themselves to You. All the earth shall worship You and sing praises to You; they shall sing praises to Your name’” (vv. 1-4).
Detailed in the remainder of the psalm is three reasons for the utter praiseworthiness of Jehovah. His sovereignty makes Him utterly praiseworthy (vv. 5-7). His providence makes Him utterly praiseworthy (vv. 8-15). His merciful answer to prayer makes Him utterly praiseworthy (vv. 16-19).
How accurate is the conclusion: “Blessed be God Who has not turned away my prayer nor His mercy from me!” (v. 20).
