1 Praise is due to you, O God, in Zion,
and to you shall vows be performed.
2 O you who hear prayer,
to you shall all flesh come.
3 When iniquities prevail against me,
you atone for our transgressions.
4 Blessed is the one you choose and bring near,
to dwell in your courts!
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house,
the holiness of your temple!
5 By awesome deeds you answer us with righteousness,
O God of our salvation,
the hope of all the ends of the earth
and of the farthest seas;
6 the one who by his strength established the mountains,
being girded with might;
7 who stills the roaring of the seas,
the roaring of their waves,
the tumult of the peoples,
8 so that those who dwell at the ends of the earth are in awe at your signs.
Comment: I’ve split this relatively short psalm into two. Why? Because there are so many verbs or words relating to how God deals with people! Verse one talks about vows, which is a word not in common use these days. It means more than a promise, which needs the adjective ‘solemn’ associated with it. In the past it included commitment to a person (including God) or a cause! A vow is a very strong commitment! God 1. Hears – not only what comes out of the mouth but what emanates from the heart and the brain as well! 2. Atones – an infrequently used word these days. It means making peace between individuals so that a relationship is restored. God is in this business centred around the Cross of Jesus 3. Chooses – Often I think that this somehow tied with Him giving us the choice to choose! 4. Satisfies – He doesn’t let us be satisfied with our present situation, but He calls us to where life is enriching and satisfying! 5. Answers – prayers, yes but much more quickly I think that He answers the real issues of life! 6. Gives hope – The hope which He offers is not vague and ‘whishy-washy’ but evidence based hope such as seen in the Resurrection and Ascension and Promised return of Jesus! 7. Strengthens – we all have inherent strengths and weaknesses but Jesus lifts far beyond our natural capabilities as we rely on Him! 8. Deserves awe – An awe which is not frequent enough our world, our country, our church or in me. He is truly awe inspiring as Creator, Saviour, Sustainer, Judge and FatherI
Psalm 145: 3 – Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness is unsearchable.
Prayer: I stand amazed in Your Presence, O Great and Wonderful Father!
As I read it! 