Praise to the God of Creation, Providence, and Grace
T. W. Chambers, D. D. Psalm 33:1-22 Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.… I. THE CALL TO PRAISE, AND ITS REASONS (ver. 1-11). The first word of ver. 1 means not simply to "rejoice" (as A.V.), but to express the emotions aloud. The subjects of the invitation are addressed as "righteous" and "upright," because this was their ideal character of what they ought to be as the true Israel of God, and to them as such it was every way suitable to show forth Jehovah's praise. It was quite otherwise with the wicked (Psalm 1:16; Mark 1:25; Mark 3:12; Acts 17:18). In ver. 2 the call is to use harp and lyre with the song, the first mention of musical instruments in the Psalter. The Hebrews used wind and stringed and percussive instruments, but their precise nature cannot well be determined. II. GOD'S SPECIAL FAVOUR TO HIS PEOPLE (Vers. 12-22). They were His heritage; not simply a temporary possession, but one enduring by hereditary succession through a long course of ages. Their security and happiness in having Jehovah for their God is enforced anew by the assertion of His omniscience. Men can be surprised or overtaken: not so the all-seeing One. He fully understands all their doings, their origin, their motive, their purpose. All is evident at a glance. Hence His will is supreme, and all persons and things are comprehended in His control of the world. What material strength cannot do for those who rely upon it, is secured to believers by the eye of Jehovah. That eye is directed toward those who wait for His loving-kindness. The three concluding couplets finely express the attitude of the Church in all ages — waiting, hoping, trusting. "The whole history of Israel may be summed up in Jacob's dying words, 'I have waited for Thy salvation, O Jehovah.'" (T. W. Chambers, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright. WEB: Rejoice in Yahweh, you righteous! Praise is fitting for the upright.