He hurls down his crystals of ice like crumbs; who can stand before his cold?
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
He casteth forth his ice like morsels. Such are the crumbs of hail which he casts forth, or the crusts of ice which he creates upon the waters. These morsels are his ice, and he casts them abroad. The two expressions indicate a very real presence of God in the phenomena of nature. Who can stand before his cold?
Jerusalem and Zion must praise God for their restored gates and strengthened walls, for their children multiplied and blessed. Safety comes not from bars alone but from God's blessing; peace in the land opens the way for Him to feed His people with the finest wheat.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 147:12-20