He sends out his word, and melts them; he makes his wind blow and the waters flow.
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 sendeth out his word, and melteth them. When the frost is sharpest, and the ice is hardest, the Lord intervenes; and though he doth no more than send his word, yet the rocks of ice are dissolved at once, and the huge bergs begin to float into the southern seas.
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