Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 112

The Character of the RighteousThis psalm begins with a call to praise the Lord

v. 2: These righteous people are also called upright. They are honest and sincere with both God and other people. As a result, God promises that their children will be strong and blessed on earth. The blessings given to the upright can reach to future generations, just as God promised to be a God to Abraham’s descendants (Psalm 112:2; Romans 11:28 ).

v. 3: God blesses these people with good things, sometimes with wealth and riches, as far as it is good for them. But more important, their righteousness lasts forever. Material riches may pass away, but the goodness and faithfulness of a righteous person will always remain. They keep their integrity even when life is easy, and this spiritual treasure is better than gold .

v. 4: Even when the upright face dark or difficult times, God brings them light and hope. This means they receive comfort and help when life is hard. When others feel lost or afraid, God gives his people strength and encouragement inside. Just as the Israelites had light during the darkness in Egypt, God’s people have hope in hard times (Psalm 112:4; Micah 7:8 ).

v. 5: The good person is generous and helps others by showing favor and lending to those in need. He acts from kindness, not for personal gain. He also uses wisdom and discretion in all his affairs, including how he gives and manages his resources. God teaches him how to use good judgment in everything, even in the words he speaks. Those who ask God for wisdom will receive it, especially in making wise decisions and helping others (Psalm 112:5; Psalm 37:26 ; Isaiah 28:26; James 1:5 ).

The Blessedness of the Righteous; The Misery of the WickedThis section describes the security and happiness of people who trust God, as well as the troubles of those who reject him. The righteous have firm foundations, lasting honor, and inner peace, even when life is hard. In contrast, the wicked are troubled and disappointed, especially when they see the blessings of those who love God. The difference between the righteous and the wicked is clear in this passage.v. 6: A good person is stable and cannot be shaken forever. Even if they face troubles or attacks from Satan and others, God keeps them strong. The righteous are remembered for their good lives, and their reputation lasts even after they are gone .

v. 7: The righteous do not fear bad news. Their hearts are steady because they trust in the Lord

v. 8: Their hearts are firm and confident. They are not afraid, and they wait patiently to see God deal with their enemies. One day, they will look back and see how God has helped them overcome every challenge (Psalm 112:8; 2 Timothy 3:11 ).

v. 9: The righteous give generously to the poor. Their kindness and good deeds are remembered forever. This generosity is called their "righteousness," and it lasts much longer than their money or possessions. God will honor them for their compassion, especially on the day when he rewards his people (Psalm 112:9; 2 Corinthians 9:9 ; 1 Peter 1:7 ).

v. 10: The wicked become upset when they see the happiness and success of the righteous. They feel angry and jealous, but their hopes and dreams will fail in the end. Their disappointment is deep, and their desires come to nothing, while the righteous enjoy God's blessing (Psalm 112:10; Psalm 49:14 ).