John Calvin Commentary Psalms 103:22

John Calvin Commentary

Psalms 103:22

1509–1564
Protestant
John Calvin
John Calvin

John Calvin Commentary

Psalms 103:22

1509–1564
Protestant
SCRIPTURE

"Bless Jehovah, all ye his works, In all places of his dominion: Bless Jehovah, O my soul." — Psalms 103:22 (ASV)

Bless Jehovah, all ye his works. The Psalmist, in conclusion, addresses all creatures. For although they may be without speech and understanding, yet they ought, in a way, to re-echo the praises of their Creator. He does this for our sake, so that we may learn that there is not a corner in heaven or on earth where God is not praised. We have less excuse if—when all the works of God by praising their Maker reproach us for our sloth—we do not at least follow their example.

The specific mention of all places of his dominion, seems intended to stir up the faithful to greater ardor in this practice. For if even those countries where his voice is unheard ought not to be mute in his praise, how can we lawfully remain silent—we to whom he opens his mouth, anticipating us with his own sacred voice? In short, David shows that his purpose in recounting God’s benefits and magnifying the extent of his empire was to motivate himself even more to the practice of praising him.