Psalms 86:10 - Commentary and Interpretation

Bible Verse: Psalms 86:10 - "For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God."

Meaning and Insights

This verse from Psalms 86 encapsulates a profound declaration of God's greatness and uniqueness. It emphasizes both His mighty acts and His singularity as the one true God. Let's explore the meaning through insights from esteemed public domain commentaries.

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry highlights that this verse is a recognition of God's incomparable greatness. He notes that the term "wondrous things" points to the miraculous nature of God's works which serve as evidence of His divine power and authority. Furthermore, he emphasizes the monotheistic assertion of "you alone are God," which aligns with the fundamental belief in the sovereignty of the Lord over all creation.

Albert Barnes' Insights

Barnes further reflects on the attributes of God relating to this verse. He notes how the psalmist expresses a deep sense of worship and reverence. The "wondrous things" signify not only the past acts of God but also the recognition of His ongoing involvement in the lives of believers. This verse serves as a call to acknowledge God's deeds and to affirm one’s faith in His omnipotence.

Adam Clarke's Evaluation

Clarke comments on the importance of personal relationship with God in understanding His greatness. He acknowledges that recognizing God's works fosters a deeper faith and trust in Him. Clarke also discusses he importance of prayer and supplication in the context of this verse, illustrating that a true understanding of God's nature invites believers to seek His help and guidance.

Cross-References

This verse can be linked to several other scripture passages that amplify its themes:

• Exodus 15:11: "Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?"
• Isaiah 43:10: "You are my witnesses, declares the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me."
• Jeremiah 32:17: "Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you."
• Psalm 77:14: "You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples."
• Psalm 145:3: "Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable."
• John 14:13: "Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
• Romans 11:36: "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen."

Thematic Connections

Understanding Psalms 86:10 opens the door to a broader study of God’s sovereignty and divine intervention throughout the Bible. Some thematic connections include:

• Attributes of God’s greatness and His sovereign will.
• The significance of monotheism in both the Old and New Testaments.
• God’s power in performing miracles and the importance of human acknowledgment of these acts.

Tools for Cross-Referencing

For those seeking to deepen their understanding of Psalms 86:10 and its connections, there are various tools and methods available:

• Bible Concordance: A comprehensive index of words and themes that allows users to quickly find related verses.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: These guides help trace themes and concepts throughout the scriptures.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Methods that help in understanding the narrative and doctrine through interconnected verses.
• Bible Reference Resources: Contextual resources that provide background information about specific verses to aid interpretation.

Long-Tail Keyword Application

For those interested in refining their study process further, phrases such as “How to find cross-references in the Bible” and “Identifying connections between Old and New Testament” resonate with the pursuit of deeper scriptural understanding.

Conclusion

Psalms 86:10 stands as a profound testament to God’s greatness and the need for believers to recognize and proclaim it. Linking this verse with others enhances its meaning and illustrates the cohesive narrative of God’s work throughout scripture. By employing tools for cross-referencing and embracing the connections within the Word, believers can cultivate a richer faith experience.