Psalm 111:1a; 112:1a; 113:1a, 9b; 115c; 116:19c; 117a

PRAISE THE LORD!

These particular psalms are a running commentary on reason to praise the Lord, each one declaring with emphasis and expression, "Praise the LORD!"  Without citing each verse, take in the cascade of wonder:

• Great in works
• Great in righteousness
• Great in graciousness
• Great in compassion
• Great in provision
• Great in truth
• Great in justice
• Great in uprightness
• Great in redemption
• Great in blessing
• Great in glory
• Great in name
• Great in lifting
• Great in miracles
• Great in lovingkindness
• Great in help
• Great in protection
• Great in power
• Great in salvation
• Great in bounty

With this knowledge, and with this reality, we can say with the psalmist (115:2-3), "Why should the nations say, 'Where, now, is their God?'  But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases."  And what pleases Him are His children.  God does not come to  us with a tightly closed fist.  He blesses us with open hands, and His hands are good hands.  "May the LORD give you increase, you and your children.  May you be blessed of the LORD, Maker of heaven and earth," (115:14-15).