Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

a new song--fresh, adapted to the occasion (Psa 40:3; Psa 96:1). play skilfully--(Compare Sa1 16:17).

Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.

In "word" and "breath"--or, "spirit," there may be an allusion to the Son (Joh 1:1) and Holy Spirit.

he spake--literally, "said." it was--The addition of "done" weakens the sense (compare Gen 1:3-10).

In God's providence He thwarts men's purposes and executes His own. heathen--literally, "nations."

The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.

looketh--intently (Isa 14:16).

fashioneth--or, "forms," and hence knows and controls (Pro 21:1). alike--without exception. considereth--or, "understands"; God knows men's motives.

Men's usual reliances in their greatest exigencies are, in themselves, useless.

On the war horse (compare Job 39:19-25). a vain thing--a lie, which deceives us.

Contrasted is God's guidance and power to save from the greatest earthly evil and its most painful precursor, and hence from all.

waiteth--in earnest expectation.

his holy name--(Compare Psa 5:12; Psa 22:22; Psa 30:4). Our faith measures mercy (Mat 9:29); and if of grace, it is no more of debt (Rom 11:6). Next: Psalms Chapter 34