Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 99

The Dominion of God.This psalm celebrates the reign of God as King over all creation. It reminds us that God governs the world through His providence and rules His people by His grace. This truth—that the Lord reigns—is the foundation of all true religion. It was a source of joy for the Jewish people and is now the triumph of the Christian church. God’s rule brings both awe and comfort: awe for His enemies and comfort for His people.v. 1: The psalmist declares, The Lord

v. 2: The psalmist continues, The Lord

v. 3: He adds, Let them praise your great and awesome name! Holy is he! . God’s name is both great and awe-inspiring. His holiness makes Him worthy of all praise. This is the same holiness that the angels in heaven celebrate, crying out, Holy, holy, holy (Isaiah 6:3 ).

v. 4: The psalmist says, The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob . God’s rule is marked by fairness and justice. He gave Israel righteous laws and ensured that justice was carried out among His people. Even the kings of Israel, like David, ruled under God’s authority and were expected to reflect His justice (2 Chronicles 19:6 ).

v. 5: The psalmist concludes, Exalt the Lord

Divine Justice and Mercy.This section shows how blessed Israel was to be led by godly leaders like Moses, Aaron, and Samuel. These men were close to God and acted as spiritual guides and intercessors for the people. Their lives show us how God combines justice with mercy, and how He answers those who seek Him with obedience and faith.v. 6: The psalmist remembers, Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel also was among those who called upon his name. They called to the Lord

v. 7: The writer continues, He spoke to them in the pillar of cloud; they kept his testimonies and the statute that he gave them . God communicated with Moses, Aaron, and Samuel in special ways, especially through the cloud in the desert. They listened carefully to His instructions and did what He commanded. God’s close friendship with them was a great blessing, and it encouraged the people to trust in God’s presence even when they could not see such signs every day (Exodus 16:10 ).

v. 8: The psalmist says, O Lord

v. 9: The section ends with a call: Exalt the Lord