Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make music on the harp to our God,
God stirs us to praise Him for two reasons: His power and wisdom shown in governing all creation, and His special mercy to His chosen Church, restoring it when it falls, gathering it when scattered. The Psalm likely arose after Jerusalem's rebuilding, when the people saw God's hand return them from captivity.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 147:1-20
In this paragraph the contrast announced in the former section is enlarged upon from another point of view, namely, as it is seen in nature and in providence. Sing unto the Lord with, thanksgiving; or rather, "respond to Jehovah." He speaks to us in his works, let us answer him with our thanks.
Praise is our bounden duty and our highest pleasure, for it is good in itself and good for us; it answers why we were made. The Lord rebuilds Jerusalem from ruins and gathers the scattered exiles, proving Himself worthy of our most exalted song.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 147:1-11