Psalms 19

Ps 19:1-14.

After exhibiting the harmonious revelation of God's perfections made by

His works and His word, the Psalmist prays for conformity to the Divine

teaching.

1. the glory of God--is the sum of His perfections

(Ps 24:7-10;

Ro 1:20).

firmament--another word for "heavens"

(Ge 1:8).

handywork--old English for "work of His hands."

2. uttereth--pours forth as a stream; a perpetual testimony.

3. Though there is no articulate speech or words, yet without

these their voice is heard (compare Margin).

4. Their line--or, "instruction"--the influence exerted by their tacit

display of God's perfections. Paul

(Ro 10:8),

quoting from the Septuagint, uses "sound," which gives the same

sense.

5, 6. The sun, as the most glorious heavenly body, is specially

used to illustrate the sentiment; and his vigorous, cheerful, daily,

and extensive course, and his reviving heat (including light), well

display the wondrous wisdom of his Maker.

7-9. The law is described by six names, epithets, and effects. It

is a rule, God's testimony for the truth, His special and general

prescription of duty, fear (as its cause) and judicial decision. It is

distinct and certain, reliable, right, pure, holy, and true. Hence it

revives those depressed by doubts, makes wise the unskilled

(2Ti 3:15),

rejoices the lover of truth, strengthens the desponding

(Ps 13:4; 34:6),

provides permanent principles of conduct, and by God's grace brings a

rich reward.

12-14. The clearer our view of the law, the more manifest are our

sins. Still for its full effect we need divine grace to show us our

faults, acquit us, restrain us from the practice, and free us from the

power, of sin. Thus only can our conduct be blameless, and our words

and thoughts acceptable to God.