Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 112

Read Psalms 112

Verses 1-10

PSALM 112

Ps 112:1-10. This Psalm may be regarded as an exposition of Ps 111:10, presenting the happiness of those who fear and obey God, and contrasting the fate of the ungodly.

1. True fear produces obedience and this happiness.

Verses 2

2, 3. Temporal blessings follow the service of God, exceptions occurring only as they are seen by God to be inconsistent with those spiritual blessings which are better.

Verses 3-4

4. light—figurative for relief (Ps 27:1; 97:11).

the upright—are like God (Lu 6:36; Ps 111:4).

Verses 5

5-9. Generosity, sound judgment in business, and confidence in God, form a character which preserves from fear of evil and ensures success against enemies. While a man thus truly pious is liberal, he increases in substance.

Verses 6

6. not be moved—(compare Ps 13:4; 15:5).

Verses 7-8

8. heart is established—or, firm in right principles.

see his desire—(Ps 50:23; 54:7).

Verses 9-10

10. Disappointed in their malevolent wishes by the prosperity of the pious, the wicked are punished by the working of their evil passions, and come to naught.

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory (1871). Public domain.