Psalms 118:23 - "This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes."
The essence of Psalms 118:23 reflects recognition of divine intervention in the unfolding of events, highlighting a profound appreciation for the wonders that God accomplishes. This verse invokes a sense of awe and reverence, as it explicitly states that what has transpired is orchestrated by the Lord, thus attributing glory and marvel to Him.
Meaning and Interpretations
Insights gathered from noted public domain commentaries such as those by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke elucidate the multifaceted meanings behind this verse.
- Matthew Henry Commentary:
Henry emphasizes that the phrase "the Lord's doing" indicates the miraculous nature of events that align with God's will. He suggests that the recognition by witnesses of God's handiwork not only fosters gratitude but also encourages others to acknowledge His omnipotence.
- Albert Barnes Commentary:
Barnes interprets this verse as an affirmation of the faithfulness of God in responding to prayer. He notes that the implications of this verse extend beyond mere acknowledgment of what has happened; it is a proclamation of faith in God's ultimate plan, which surpasses human understanding.
- Adam Clarke Commentary:
Clarke provides a contextual analysis, linking the verse to the jubilant celebrations following victory and deliverance. He highlights the importance of recognizing God's work in both mundane and extraordinary circumstances, urging believers to ever keep their eyes open to His marvelous deeds.
Bible Verse Cross-References
This verse connects to several other biblical texts which explore similar themes of divine intervention and praise. Below are relevant cross-references that further illuminate the message of Psalms 118:23:
- Psalm 126:3 - "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." (Celebration of God's marvelous works).
- Isaiah 25:1 - "O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things." (Acknowledgment of God's faithfulness).
- 1 Peter 2:9 - "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (Proclamation of God’s marvelous deeds).
- Acts 2:19-20 - "I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below." (Foretelling and acknowledgment of God's power).
- John 9:3 - "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him." (God's works manifested through events).
- Revelation 15:3 - "Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty." (Praise for God’s marvelous works).
- Psalm 40:5 - "Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us." (Celebration of God's wondrous deeds).
Thematic Connections
The verse also invites thematic Bible verse connections across both Old and New Testaments, reinforcing the central theme of God's marvelous action:
- Exploration of God's fidelity and creative power as seen in Genesis 1 and Exodus 15:11, where His wondrous acts inspire reverence and awe.
- Interactions across the Gospels where Jesus attributes healing and miraculous works to His Father's glory (John 11:40).
- Linking of texts that illustrate God's providence and intervention throughout biblical history, as seen in the narratives of deliverance (Exodus 14:31).
Understanding Through Cross-Referencing
When engaging in cross-referencing Bible studies, Psalms 118:23 serves as a central point for reflecting on God's character and actions:
- How to use Bible cross-references: Utilize a Bible concordance or a cross-reference guide to trace threads of similar expressions of faith throughout Scripture.
- Comparative analysis: Comparing this verse with the context of Jesus’ miracles in the New Testament can reveal deeper insights into the continuity of God's work across both covenants.
- Thematic connections: Explore the thematic links such as joy, deliverance, and divine intervention, all woven throughout the biblical text.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Psalms 118:23 stands as a robust declaration of recognition and awe before the magnificent workings of God. It invites believers to delve deeper into the connections between Bible verses and discover the underlying themes of faith, divine intervention, and miraculous events. By engaging in comparative Bible verse analysis and cross-referencing biblical texts, we not only enrich our understanding but also deepen our appreciation for the marvelous deeds of the Lord.
