Psalm 66:5 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds toward the children of man.

NIV: Come and see what God has done, his awesome deeds for mankind!

NASB: Come and see the works of God, Who is awesome in His deeds toward the sons of mankind.

CSB: Come and see the wonders of God; his acts for humanity are awe-inspiring.

NLT: Come and see what our God has done, what awesome miracles he performs for people!

KJV: Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men.

NKJV: Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men.

This continues an appeal to the entire world to praise God joyfully (Psalm 66:1–4). Here, the psalmist invites them to consider the incredible signs which God has given so we can know Him. This verse repeats (Psalm 66:3) use of the word "awesome," which implies something astounding or overwhelming. By His almighty power God performed miraculous deeds. Those acts gave both Israelites and Gentiles clear evidence of His power and sovereignty. The parting of the Red Sea is one such act (Psalm 66:6).

However, the Lord's works were not limited to that historic event. Creation testifies to His omnipotence and sovereignty (Psalm 19:1). Hebrews 11:3 says, "By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible." The world of diverse terrain, varied climates, unique life, what we can see of the planets and space, the orderly laws of nature—not to mention human life, itself—all bear witness to God's infinite power (Romans 1:18–20).

Psalm 66:1–9 opens with a call to praise extended to the entire world. The psalmist declares God's awesome might. He reflects on the Lord's incredible acts of power. Among these are His provision for Israel's safe passage through the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21–22). God is watching the whole earth; no one should arrogantly think they can defy Him. God's people should be particularly worshipful for the ways God has preserved them.

This psalm appeals to the entire world to worship the Lord. His great works, such as giving Israel safe passage through the Red Sea, should be praised. Because God watches the world, no one should presume they can rebel without consequences. God tested Israel heavily but brought the nation to an abundant place. The psalmist declares that he will fulfill his vows and offer sacrifices, because God answered his prayer. Verses 1–9 speak to the nations of earth; verses 10–15 are spoken to God; verses 16–20 are addressed to the congregation.

This is a psalm of thanksgiving, but the occasion that prompted it is unknown. It may have been written after the Lord defeated the Assyrians (Isaiah 36—37). Another possibility is that it was recorded following the return from Babylonian captivity (Ezra 1:2–3).

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.

Accessed 5/2/2024 9:24:37 AM