Psalms 33

Ps 33 This hymn of creation (see also Pss 8, 19, 104, 145) might be a continuation of Ps 32. It exhorts readers to praise God (33:1-3), to recognize the power of his word in creation (33:4-7), and to fear the Creator (33:8-11). It offers hope to forgiven sinners (Ps 32) that they can live a new life in the fear of the Lord and under divine protection.33:1-3 The psalmist exhorts the godly to praise the Lord with melodies, with a new song, and with skillfully-played music.

33:4-7 God’s word displays his character and his power.

33:7 The nations surrounding Israel thought that the sea had divine power, but it is under God’s control, within boundaries that he set (see 104:8-10).

33:8-11 Fear of the Lord begins with awe for God and for his powerful word. His word created everything and continues to order and sustain creation. He frustrates the plans of people who oppose his will.33:8 The power of the Lord extends to all the nations (see 2; 96:1-3).

33:10 The plans and schemes of the mighty will not prevail, except by God’s will (see Isa 8:9-10).

33:11 God’s word still orders creation and will do so forever. • God’s intentions are marvelous (40:5; 92:5).

33:12 People who fear God are chosen as his inheritance (see 33:13-19); this excludes rebellious people (78:62).

33:13-19 From the heavens, the Lord searches out and cares for anyone who fears him (see 14:2-3).

33:16-17 army . . . great strength . . . warhorse: Even military might is under God’s control (see 33:10-11; Eccl 9:11).

33:18 God watches over all who live by his counsel (32:8). He protects, rescues, and remains close to them (34:15-22).

33:20-22 The godly respond to this magnificent vision of God’s power in creation and in the affairs of the world with an affirmation of trust, commitment, joy, and hope as they pray and wait for God’s rescue.

33:22 Using a play on words, the psalmist contrasts his people’s sure hope (Hebrew yakhal) in the Lord with the supposed strength (33:17; Hebrew khayil) of the horses of the wicked.