Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 33

An Exhortation to Praise GodIn this psalm, the writer encourages everyone to praise God. He shares his deep desire for more and more people to join in worship, saying that the more voices praising God together, the more it is like heaven. David reminds us that joyful praise should be at the heart of our worship, and that our songs, thanksgiving, and music should be filled with skill, energy, and sincerity. Praising God is beautiful and fitting for those who are upright and love Him.v. 1: David calls all righteous people to rejoice in the Lord

v. 2–3: He urges everyone to praise God with music and singing. He says, Praise the Lord

v. 4–5: David shares his high view of God’s word and works. He says, For the word of the Lord

v. 6–7: David is convinced of God’s almighty power, especially seen in creation. He says, By the word of the Lord

v. 8–9: Because God is the Creator, everyone on earth should respect and worship Him. David says, Let all the earth fear the Lord

v. 10–11: David finds peace in knowing that God is in control of the world. He says, The Lord

God’s Sovereign PowerIn this section, we learn to give God the glory for His control over all people and nations. God watches over everyone, knows every heart, and rules over every power on earth. It is not human strength or wisdom that brings safety or success, but God’s will and favor. True happiness belongs to those who belong to the Lord

v. 13–15: God sees every person on earth from heaven. He not only watches us but understands every thought and feeling. The Lord

v. 16–17: Human power cannot save us. David says, There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength. A horse is a vain thing for safety (Psalm 33:16–17 ). Armies, strength, and weapons are useless without God. Our trust should be in Him, not in what people can do (Deuteronomy 17:16 ).

v. 18–19: God’s special care is for those who fear Him and trust His love. Behold, the eye of the Lord

v. 20–21: God’s people wait and trust for His help. David says, Our soul waiteth for the Lord

v. 22: The psalm ends with a prayer: Let thy mercy, O Lord