Psalm 147 continues this section of hallelujah psalms.  The theme is that of praise to God.  Notice we are exhorted to praise the Lord for His mercies and care (vs. 1-11), and we are exhorted to praise Him for the salvation and prosperity which He gives to us (vs. 12-20).

Psalm 147:5 spoke to my heart this morning, "Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite."  I have experienced exceedingly difficult times at various points in my life, and I have always been encouraged by the truths expressed in this verse.  God is great!  God is of great power!  God's understanding is infinite!  Aren't you glad that God is not limited in any of His attributes?  God is limitless in power and understanding, we should, therefore, praise Him, for He is worthy.

Psalm 147:11 is another verse that stood out to me and encouraged my heart, "The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy."  At the very core of every believer should be a desire to please God.  Revelation 4:11 informs us that we were created to bring God pleasure.  I am always drawn to considering what brings God pleasure, for I desire to please Him.  We are reminded of two elements in verse 11 that give God pleasure: fearing Him, and hoping in His mercy.  We are naturally drawn to look at the physical realm of life when we need to focus on the heart because that is the primary focus of God.  The Lord told Samuel, "...the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7) The fear of the Lord produces righteous living while hoping in His mercy is a manifestation of faith.  

Today, I am encouraged because of the great God who loves me and cares for me.  I am glad He is limitless in His power and understanding.  Also, I am called, if I am going to please God, to stand in great fear and reverence of the Lord, and in faith, to look to Him for mercy.

May you have a good day as you meditate upon God's greatness and His love, and don't forget, Praise ye the LORD.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. Have you thanked God for His power and infinite knowledge? How do these two attributes bring you comfort?

2. How do you understand the greatness of God? How is God great?

3. How can you be assured that God takes pleasure in you?

4. List three things that you have learned that bring God pleasure?