Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 103

This psalm celebrates the Lord’s perfection, compassion, forgiveness, and goodness.

all that is within me, bless His holy name: Psalms 103 and 104 both start and end with this promise (103:1–2, 22; 104:1, 35; see also 146:1).

The psalmist offers praise for the Lord’s goodness.

The Lord revealed himself to Moses in special ways to strengthen his relationship with his people (see Exodus 34:6–7; Numbers 14:18).

If the Lord were to constantly accuse or remain angry forever, no one would be left (see Isaiah 54:7–8; 57:16).

God’s love and forgiveness have no limits and are complete.

The Lord is like a father to his children. This idea is central to the teachings of Jesus about God's fatherhood (see Matthew 5:43–48; 6:1; 10:19–20; 12:50; Luke 6:36; 12:29–32; John 8:31–59; 15:1–8; see also 2 Samuel 7:14; Jeremiah 3:19; 31:9; Malachi 1:6; 2 Corinthians 6:16–18).

The Lord compassionately cares for weak humans (see Psalm 37:2; 90:5; 92:7; 102:4; Isaiah 40:6–8).

from everlasting to everlasting the loving devotion of the LORD extends: The Lord’s kingdom is everlasting, so he commits himself to his people across many generations.

To obey God means to be faithful and loyal to him.

The psalmist urges the Lord's angels, servants, and messengers to praise the Lord.

• God's kingdom extends over all things, so all things are called to praise the Lord.

• The last phrase is similar to Psalm 103:1–2.