Psalm 145

In the comic strip BC, the caveman is having a crisis of faith. He cries out, “God, just show me YOU exist, and I’ll believe.”

Suddenly there’s an earthquake. A volcano erupts. Lightning strikes. Finally, a rainbow appears.

In the last frame the caveman is still pleading, “Please, God, just show me a sign!”

Some people will never believe regardless of the evidence. It reminds me of the philosopher Bertrand Russell who said that if he did meet up with God, he would challenge God by arguing, “You did not give me enough evidence.”

Actually, God has given us plenty of evidence. In fact, it is so apparent, so obvious, so visible, that the Bible does not argue the existence of God, it simply assumes it. And the worthy Ancients simply acknowledged what they observed and gave God the glory, honor, and praise for who He is.

Psalm 145 is one of those great Psalms of praise. Pause and take a moment to read this Psalm, or listen to it.

In this alphabetic Psalm David uses an acrostic to speak of God’s greatness. Since most of us are not familiar with the Hebrew language, I’m using alliteration to outline seven reasons why we praise God.

#1 POSITION.

Verses 1 and 2 identify His position, which speaks to His rank. His eminence. His authority. He is God. The Almighty. The Supreme Being.

He is our King. In Psalm 47:2 He is called “a great King. And “awesome.” He is the King of the kings of the earth. Rulers then and now derive their power from Him.

His position alone deserves glory and honor. The Psalmist uses three words. Extol, which is to exalt and set on high above all others. Bless, to give thanks for who He is. And praise, to celebrate.

#2 POWER

In verses 3 through 6 David refers to His “mighty acts, His “wondrous works,” and His “awesome deeds.” God’s power is demonstrated in His marvelous, miraculous works.

• The creation of the cosmos.
• The human race.
• The plant and animal kingdom.
• The beauty of the earth.
• The mighty flood.
• The formation of Israel from a barren womb.
• A virgin who conceived a son.
• God becoming a man.
• The power of the resurrection.

Like the Psalmist, we need to talk about them. Tell them to others. To our children. To future generations.

#3 PERSONALITY

Throughout the Psalm, David speaks of God’s nature. His identity. His personality traits. God is…

…Good.
…Righteous.
…Gracious.
…Compassionate.
…Slow to anger.
…Great in mercy.

Aren’t you thankful this is the kind of God we serve?

#4 PREEMINENCE

In verses 10 through 13 David reminds us that God is more than important or even prominent, He is preeminent. He’s over all things because He made everything. God has no rivals. No equals. He is in a class by Himself.

God is the GREAT I AM. He’s described with these expressions.

• Glorious majesty.
• Everlasting Kingdom.
• Dominion throughout all generations.

#5 PROVISIONS

All that we have (vs. 14-16) is due to God’s provisions for us. Not just food, clothing, and shelter. But our mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual needs. The desires of our heart, the longings of the spirit, and the burdens we bear can and will be satisfied with Divine assistance.

#6 PRESENCE

Note the progression in verses 18-19. The Lord is near. To all. Who call on Him. In Truth. Who fear Him.

You are never alone. God is here. He hears. And He cares.

#7 PRESERVATION

The Psalmist concluded by reminding us that God is the great Protector. He will preserve us. Protect us. Defend us. Uphold us. The wicked will be destroyed. And the righteous will be sustained and ultimately saved.

Look around. Look within. Look up. Don’t you see God’s greatness and goodness?

Praise God!

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman