Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 67

Prayer for God’s Blessing and the Spread of His KingdomThis psalm shows the writer’s deep love for God and his excitement about God’s plans. The psalmist is filled with devotion and hope, and he looks forward to the time when God’s kingdom will grow and reach all people. He begins by praying for the happiness and success of God’s people, and then he prays for the whole world to know and worship the Lord

v. 2: He asks that God’s way would be known everywhere: That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations . The psalmist wants everyone, not just the Jews, to know God’s laws and His salvation. He prays that God’s truth and love will reach all people, so that everyone can walk in God’s way and be saved (Deuteronomy 4:8; Psalm 50:23 ).

v. 3: He prays, Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee . The psalmist wants all nations to worship God, not just a few. He hopes that when people hear the gospel, they will have reasons to praise God and join together in worship (Acts 8:8; Daniel 5:4 ).

v. 4: He says, O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth . The psalmist wants all people to rejoice because God rules the world with fairness. He is happy that God is the true King and Judge, and he wants everyone to be glad about God’s good rule (Psalm 22:28; Matthew 28:19 ).

v. 5: He repeats, Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee . This shows how much he desires for everyone to worship God together. He knows that praising God brings joy and unity among people.

v. 6: The psalmist looks forward to a time of blessing: Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us . When people turn to God, the earth will be fruitful, and God will give His people good things. The blessings of the gospel can also bring blessings to the land (Acts 14:17; Isaiah 4:2 ).

v. 7: He ends with confidence: God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him (Psalm 67:7 ). The psalmist believes that God’s blessings will lead people everywhere to respect and worship Him. As more people see God’s goodness, they will want to join His people and honor Him with reverence and love.