Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 92

Praising God on the SabbathThis psalm was sung in the sanctuary on the Sabbath day—a day to remember God’s creation, His rest, and how He continues to care for the world. The Sabbath is not only a day to stop working, but also a day to do the holy work of praising God. Giving thanks and singing to God should be the center of our Sabbath, just as it points forward to the eternal rest believers will have through Jesus (Hebrews 4:9 ).v. 1: The psalmist encourages us: It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord

v. 2: We should praise God by telling others about His love and faithfulness: To declare your lovingkindness in the morning, and your faithfulness every night . Every day, both morning and night, we should remember and speak of God’s kindness and loyalty. This helps us start and end each day with gratitude.

v. 3: The psalmist mentions music in worship: On an instrument of ten strings, on the lute, and on the harp, with harmonious sound . Playing music that is respectful and fitting for worship can help us focus on God and celebrate His goodness.

v. 4: He gives his own example: For you, Lord

v. 5: He admires God’s greatness: O Lord

v. 6: He warns against ignoring God’s works: A senseless man does not know, nor does a fool understand this . People who do not think about God’s works and ways are foolish. They miss the real meaning of life and do not give God the honor He deserves (Psalm 28:5 ).

The Triumph of the Righteous; The Happiness of the RighteousIn this section, the psalmist rejoices in God’s works and justice. He reflects on the downfall of the wicked and the blessings of the righteous. The triumph of the righteous is not based on their own strength but on God’s power and faithfulness. This passage reminds us to trust in God’s justice and find joy in His blessings.v. 7: The psalmist observes, When the wicked spring up like grass, and when all the workers of iniquity flourish, it is that they may be destroyed forever . Although the wicked may seem to grow and succeed, their prosperity is short-lived. Their apparent success is not a sign of God’s favor but a step toward their ultimate destruction (Proverbs 1:32 ).

v. 8: He contrasts the wicked with God’s eternal greatness: But you, Lord

v. 9: The psalmist declares the fate of God’s enemies: For behold, your enemies, O Lord

v. 10: The psalmist rejoices in God’s blessings: But my horn you have exalted like a wild ox; I have been anointed with fresh oil . God strengthens and honors the righteous, lifting them up as a symbol of victory and giving them renewed blessings. The anointing with fresh oil represents joy, favor, and renewed strength.

v. 11: He looks forward to seeing justice: My eye also has seen my desire on my enemies; my ears hear my desire on the wicked who rise up against me . The psalmist is confident that God’s justice will prevail. He will witness the downfall of those who oppose him and God.

v. 12: The psalmist describes the righteous: The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon . The palm tree represents strength and fruitfulness, while the cedar symbolizes stability and endurance. The righteous are firmly rooted in God and flourish under His care.

v. 13: He explains why the righteous flourish: Those who are planted in the house of the Lord

v. 14: Even in old age, the righteous continue to bear fruit: They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing . Unlike trees that stop producing fruit when they grow old, the righteous remain spiritually fruitful. Their lives continue to glorify God and bless others.

v. 15: The psalm ends with praise for God’s faithfulness: To declare that the Lord