Works Great and Studied

“Great are the works of the Lord,
    studied by all who delight in them.
Full of splendor and majesty is his work,
    and his righteousness endures forever.
He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered;
    the Lord is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
    he remembers his covenant forever.
He has shown his people the power of his works,
    in giving them the inheritance of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
    all his precepts are trustworthy;
they are established forever and ever,
    to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
    he has commanded his covenant forever.
    Holy and awesome is his name!
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
    all those who practice it have a good understanding.
    His praise endures forever!” Psalm 111:2-10

Throughout his moments, days, and years, the psalmist had observed a variety of the works of God. The greater his delight in their wide and captivating array, the more continual his outflow of praise. His increasing bounty of knowledge and wonder magnified and resounded through the ages the honor of his Lord.

Studying God’s works teaches about the God behind and above them. Consider fascinating intertwinings and habits of nature, and behold His creativity, beauty, order, balance, and delighted, intimate involvement. Study His ongoing ways and unfolding plans in history and see His perfect authority, compassion, holiness, and justice. Ponder His interactions with men and women and marvel at His love, mercy, ongoing care, benevolent discipline, and redemptive purposes. The Lord with eternal perspective works all things, past, present, and future, near and abroad, for the good of His children. We see with limited view, His is wide and long. (Psalm 113:5-6; Romans 8:28-30; 1 Corinthians 13:12)

The benefits of studying God’s great works are many. Wonder is enhanced, worship heightened. We develop fear of the Lord which increases wisdom. We grow in desire to stay in the flow of His works, breeding deeper intimacy, communion, dependence. And greater is our storehouse of wonders to tell abroad so others’ eyes are open and hearts warmed.

What are we doing practically to know God’s works? Do we recognize His hands in the wide world’s and our own everyday? When do we take time for regular, systematic study of His word- His ongoing interactions with men and nations, its exquisite foundation of doctrines and recording of history, its inspired poetry and capture and revelation of God’s heart? How are these familiarizing us with God’s attributes and character? How often do we pause in nature to marvel at dappled light, the way of a fuzzy caterpillar or spotted fish, or wooly clouds, or fuchsia blossoms, then trace the Creator’s hand and motivation? What have we gleaned about His intricate planning, mysterious designs, sense of humor? (Psalm 8:1,3-6; 104:1-24)

As our understanding increases, so should the robustness and variety of our praise. When and how and among whom are we exalting God in expressed kindness and conversation? Who needs to hear of His works so they can set their hope and joy in Him?

Lord, spur me on daily to gain greater understanding of Your works so I know You better and love and praise You more.