Psalms 103:1

PSALM CIII

God is praised for his benefits to his people, 1, 2;

he forgives their iniquities, and heals their diseases, 3;

redeems their lives, crowns them with loving-kindness, 4;

satisfies them with good things, renews their youth, 5;

he helps the oppressed, makes his ways known, is merciful and

gracious, and keeps not his anger for ever, 6-9;

his forbearance, and pardoning mercy, 10-12;

he is a tender and considerate Father, 13, 14;

the frail state of man, 15, 16;

God's everlasting mercy, and universal dominion, 17-19;

all his angels, his hosts, and his works, are invited to praise

him, 20-22.

NOTES ON PSALM CIII

The inscription in the Hebrew, and in all the Versions, gives this Psalm to David; and yet many of the ancients believed it to refer to the times of the captivity, or rather to its conclusion, in which the redeemed Jews give thanks to God for their restoration. It is a Psalm of inimitable sweetness and excellence; contains the most affectionate sentiments of gratitude to God for his mercies; and the most consoling motives to continue to trust in God, and be obedient to him.

Verse Psalms 103:1. Bless the Lord] He calls on his soul, and all its faculties and powers, to magnify God for his mercies. Under such a weight of obligation the lips can do little; the soul and all its powers must be engaged.