The Blessedness of Meekness

         Centuries before Jesus’ beatitude in His sermon on the mount, the Psalmist extolled the greatness and blessedness of meekness with these words: “the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the meek with salvation” (Psalm 149:4 KJV).    Send article as…

The Blessedness of Jesus’ Meekness

       Meekness is an oft misunderstood virtue.  Its best definition is “power under control”.  It is like a powerful medicine with tremendous potential to heal when used properly.  It is like a powerful horse with tremendous potential to labor when its strength is harnessed…

Another New Song

       Though others had sought to praise Jehovah with previous psalms, the composer of Psalm 149 rightfully believed that it was most fitting to write another.  Therefore, he writes, “Praise the Lord!  Sing to the Lord a new song and His praise in the assembly of saints” (v….

Three of Jehovah’s Unique and Praiseworthy Features

       As the composer of Psalm 148 concludes his paean of praise, He succinctly states three of Jehovah’s unique and praiseworthy features when he writes: “Let them praise the name of the Lord, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven.  And…

The Universal Praiseworthiness of Jehovah Part Two

       Psalm 148’s clarion call to zestful praise of Jehovah begins with the heavens (vv. 1-6; see yesterday’s post).  It concludes with an equally rousing call to earth’s creations—”Praise the Lord from the earth, You great sea creatures and all the depths; fire and hail,…

The Universal Praiseworthiness of Jehovah–Part One

       Because of William J. Kirkpatrick’s composition of the music and use of Psalm 148 as the lyrics, the song “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah!” probably has made this psalm the most recognizable and remembered of the Psalter’s “Hallelujah Chorus” (Psalms 146-150).    Send article as…

Spiritual Privileges and Spiritual Responsibilities

       The final two verses of Psalm 147 place in capsule form Israel’s spiritual privileges and her failure in her spiritual responsibilities.  Here, it is written, “He declares His word to Jacob, His statutes and His judgments to Israel.  He has not dealt thus…

The Unique Powers of God and His Word

       According to Psalm 147:15-18, the word of God governs nature in several unique ways.  Here, it is written, “He sends out His command to the earth; His word runs very swiftly.  He gives snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes; He casts out…