Psalms 104
Outline
1-4 | The Majesty of the Lord
5-9 | Seen in the Creation of the Earth
10-13 | Seen in the Provision of Nourishing Water
14-17 | Seen in the Provision of Food for Man and Beast
18-23 | Seen in the Daily Cycles of Creation
24-26 | Seen in the Seas and their Creatures, Small and Great
27-30 | Seen in Sustaining All Creatures by His Spirit
31-35 | The Psalmist’s Commitment to Worship the Lord
Reflections
Paul writes in Romans that God’s hidden attributes can be seen in His creation.
Romans 1:20-21 NASB For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. 21 For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
I believe that is what the psalmist is speaking of in this psalm. Spurgeon in his “Treasury of David,” like Paul, makes this point about who and what is to be worshiped when pondering the universe.1
Observe also, that the wonder expressed does not refer to the creation and its greatness, but to Jehovah himself. It is not “the universe is very great!” but “Thou art very great.” Many stay at the creature, and so become idolatrous in spirit; to pass onward to the Creator himself is true wisdom.
As you reflect on this psalm, take time to consider the intricacies of each aspect of a created thing. A building, as simple or complex as it may be, first must have someone who thinks up the idea, then plans its structure, furnishings, sustaining systems, and overall appearance, and in turn sets in motions its construction and maintenance. It doesn’t just appear overnight or in an instance.
I believe the same is true for the universe. You can’t help but notice the elements of design inherent in it, down to the very smallest detail, as you ponder each aspect of the universe and how it operates. God is truly clothed in majesty and His hidden attributes can clearly be seen in His creation.
Bless the Lord, O my soul.
Praise the Lord! — Psalms 104:35b
Lord God, Creator and Sustainer of the Universe, may we never cease to worship You and may we never stop at the creation and not worship its Creator. Lord we pray that all who ponder Your creation would see Your handiwork in it and declare Your majesty. May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
1 — Spurgeon, Charles H. The Treasury of David – An Expository and Devotional Commentary on the Psalms in 7 Volumes. Public Domain, 1885.
Psalms_104_RL_GodsMajestyDisplayedInTheCareOfHisCreation.pdf
