Written By: God through Inspiration
Penned By: David, Asaph, Solomon, Heman, Ethan, Moses, and the Sons of Korah
Date Penned: (1440-586 BC)
Overview: Poetry for the Expression of Praise and Worship to God (c 1-150)
Theme: The Fifth Book of Psalms (c 107-150)
Message: The Scope of God's Care (v 1-9)
Psalms 113 Commentary
(113:5-9) A Person's Value - In God's eyes, a person's value has no relationship to his or her wealth or position on the social ladder. Many people who have excelled in God's work began in poverty or humble beginnings. God supersedes the social orders of this world, often choosing his future leaders and ambassadors from among social outcasts. Do you treat the unwanted in society as though they have value? Do you see them as God does? Demonstrate by your actions that all people are valuable and useful in God's eyes.
(113:7-9) God's Glory - The psalm writer emphasizes the glory and transcendence of God in this song. But in conclusion, he shows how the heights of God's glory and wonder are matched by his compassion for those who have been laid low by life circumstances. Here the writer draws particular attention to two kinds of people that God particularly cares for: the poor and the childless. The ancient world save special honor to the wealthy and those who had many children, especially sons. Our own cultures today tend to ignore and disparage the poor and those unable to have children. We learn here that God honors and fulfills the desires of those the world forgets the most. Ultimately, this promise will be fulfilled in the new heaven and new earth, where Jesus will restore all creation and provide for all of our needs (Revelation 21-7). But what about today? How can we better love those who are suffering in these ways in our communities and churches? In what ways is God calling you to give and serve?
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