Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 19

The Heavens Declare the Glory of GodThis section helps us see that God’s invisible qualities—His power and greatness—are seen in the things He has made. The sky and everything in it show us proof of God every day. When we look at nature, especially the sun, moon, and stars, we are reminded that there is a Creator. These wonders of creation are not just for our use and enjoyment. They are signs that teach us about God’s glory, wisdom, and kindness. All people everywhere can see these things, so no one has an excuse not to know about God. Even though the heavens do not speak with words, their message about God reaches the whole world.v. 1: The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands . The beauty and order of the heavens show us that God is powerful and wise. The sun, moon, and stars could not have made themselves; they are God’s handiwork (Psalm 8:3 ).

v. 2: Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge . Every day and every night, creation continues to tell us about God. The regular change from day to night shows God’s order and faithfulness. This is part of God’s promise, just as He promised that day and night will not stop while the earth remains (Genesis 8:22; Jeremiah 33:20 ).

v. 3: There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard . Creation’s message about God is understood everywhere, no matter what language people speak (Genesis 10:31 ).

v. 4: Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world . The message about God’s power and glory reaches every place on earth. Paul reminds us that the Gentiles also received this message through creation, so they have no excuse if they ignore God (Romans 10:18; Romans 1:20 ).

v. 5: In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, like a champion rejoicing to run his course (Psalm 19:4-5 ). The sun rises each day with brightness and joy, like a bridegroom who is happy on his wedding day, or a strong runner ready for a race (John 3:29 ).

v. 6: It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is hidden from its heat . The sun moves across the sky every day, bringing warmth and light to everything on earth. Nothing can hide from its heat or its light.As we read and sing these verses (Psalm 19:1-6 ), we should thank God for the blessings we receive through creation. But we should also look beyond the sun and stars to the true “Sun of righteousness,” who is Jesus Christ.

The Excellency of the ScripturesGod’s greatness is seen in creation, but His goodness and wisdom are shown even more in the Bible. The Scriptures are a gift from God that teach us about Him, guide us in living rightly, and give us hope. Nature reveals God’s power, but the Bible reveals His will for our lives and the way to be saved. The psalmist explains how valuable God’s word is—more than anything else on earth. He also shows how God’s word helps us, warns us, and leads us to pray for God’s help and forgiveness.v. 7: The law of the Lord

v. 8: The statutes of the Lord

v. 9: The precepts of the Lord

v. 10: The fear of the Lord

v. 11: They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb (Psalm 19:10 ). God’s word is worth more than any treasure and is sweeter than the best food. When we love God, we value His word more than anything else. The joy and satisfaction it brings is better than any pleasure in the world.

v. 12: By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward (Psalm 19:11 ). God’s word warns us about danger and teaches us what is right. If we obey God’s word, there will be great reward both now and in the future (Ezekiel 3:17 ).

v. 13: Who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults (Psalm 19:12 ). God’s law shows us our sins—even the ones we do not realize. We all make mistakes we do not see, so we must ask God to forgive our secret faults (1 John 1:7 ).

v. 14: Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then I will be blameless, innocent of great transgression (Psalm 19:13 ). We need God’s help to keep us from committing sins on purpose. These are very serious sins, and we must pray that they do not take control of our lives (Numbers 15:28-30 ). v. 15: May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord