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September 23 - Psalm 111-113
FOCUS PASSAGE: Psalm 113
Psalm 113 is a beautiful hymn of praise that magnifies the greatness of God while celebrating His tender care for the humble. It serves as the opening psalm of the "Egyptian Hallel" (Psalms 113–118), a collection traditionally sung during the Jewish Passover. The psalm reminds believers that the Lord who rules over the universe is also deeply concerned with the needs of ordinary people.
Psalm 113 begins with a threefold call to worship: "Praise the LORD! Praise, O servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD!" (Psalm 113:1). Worship is not reserved for special occasions or certain people. All who belong to God are called to praise Him continually. Verse 2 declares, "Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and forevermore." God's praise is not limited by time. He deserves our worship every moment because His character never changes.
Verses 3-4 expand the scope of God's praise to include the entire earth. "From the rising of the sun to its going down the LORD's name is to be praised." Every nation, language, and culture should recognize His glory. The Lord is "high above all nations," and His glory rises above the heavens themselves. He reigns supreme over every earthly kingdom and every human accomplishment.
The psalm then asks a profound question: "Who is like the LORD our God?" (v. 5). The obvious answer is no one. God is utterly unique. He dwells in the highest heavens, yet verse 6 says He "humbles Himself to behold the things that are in the heavens and in the earth." Even the vast universe is beneath His majesty, yet He graciously stoops to notice His creation. This reveals both His transcendence and His compassion.
Verses 7-9 provide remarkable examples of God's grace. He "raises the poor out of the dust" and "lifts the needy out of the ash heap." In biblical times, sitting in dust or ashes symbolized poverty, grief, and disgrace. God delights in reversing human circumstances. He gives dignity to those whom society overlooks and seats them "with princes." He also "grants the barren woman a home, like a joyful mother of children." In ancient Israel, barrenness often carried deep sorrow and social shame. God demonstrates His mercy by transforming sorrow into joy. These verses anticipate His dealings with women such as Hannah and ultimately point to His saving work through Jesus Christ, who came "to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).
Psalm 113 teaches that true greatness is found not merely in power but in compassionate love. God is infinitely exalted, yet He lovingly reaches down to rescue the helpless. For Christians, this truth is seen most clearly in Jesus Christ, who left the glory of heaven, humbled Himself, and became obedient to death on the cross so that sinners might be lifted into God's family. Therefore, believers can praise the Lord with confidence, knowing that the God who reigns over heaven is also the God who knows their needs, hears their prayers, and graciously lifts the humble. "Praise the LORD!" is not only the psalm's opening command but also its fitting conclusion for every grateful heart.