Psalm 111 (NRSV)
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Verse 1Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Verse 2Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.
Verse 3Full of honor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever.
Verse 4He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds; the Lord is gracious and merciful.
Verse 5He provides food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant.
Verse 6He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations.
Verse 7The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy.
Verse 8They are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
Verse 9He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever. Holy and awesome is his name.
Verse 10The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever.
Devotion
This is a commemorative hymn of praise and thanksgiving of an individual and a community. They are at a festal assembly in which God’s present and past deeds, as well as God’s eternal presence, are extolled in song. One of the themes of the hymn is studying and meditating on God’s word. Those who do so are gifted with wisdom to discern God’s deeds: redemption and victory from bondage, sustenance and guidance.
We are continually renewed when we gather as community, singing God’s praises, listening to and studying God’s word and giving thanks as we share in the table of our Lord.
Prayer
Our faithful and eternal Lord, we pray that you would strengthen us as you gather us with your generous gift of love now and forever. Amen.