Bible Commentaries
Psalms 104

Verses 1-35

Again we have a great song of praise commencing and closing with the same note of personal praise. While in the former the dominant note is that of the mercy of Jehovah, here it is that of His majesty. The former is the song of love to Love. This is the song of loyalty to Royalty.

The psalm opens with a declaration of the essential greatness of God, and then proceeds in poetic language to describe the manifestations of His greatness in creation. All through, beneficent purpose is recognised. The springs among the valleys are for quenching of the thirst of birds and beasts. Grass and herbs are for service, and son on throughout.

Then in a burst of praise the singer recognises the dependence of all upon Jehovah. The hiding of His face is trouble, and if He withdraw breath, death ensues. Finally, he cries out for the continuity of the realisation of Divine purpose everywhere, in order that Jehovah may rejoice in His works. To this end he declares he will make the contribution of his personal worship. The conception is full of beauty. The widespread revelation of the power and glory of God makes its appeal to the individual responsibility of the one man.