Psalms 72:18-19
Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The phrase "who alone does wondrous things" isn't just saying God is powerful; it's a profound declaration that only God is the true source of marvels. It highlights that human achievements, however grand, are dependent on God's power, and that the truly astonishing, world-altering acts are uniquely His. This verse invites us to look past the impressive feats of humanity and recognize the singular, divine power behind all that is truly wondrous.
This psalm, focused on the righteous reign of Solomon and pointing prophetically to the Messiah, concludes with a powerful doxology. After envisioning a future of peace, abundance, and universal blessing under this king, the psalmist breaks into praise, attributing all these wonderful outcomes to God. This final section blesses God for His unique power and glory, praying for that glory to fill the entire earth.
We often hear 'God is great,' but this verse zeroes in on a unique aspect of His power. What makes His 'wondrous things' different from anything else?
The phrase 'who alone does wondrous things' is a powerful declaration of God's unique sovereignty and power.
No Coincidence, Only God
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Why end a psalm about a king's reign with such a grand declaration about God? What's the connection?
Psalm 72 is a royal psalm, often interpreted as looking forward to the perfect reign of the Messiah. The concluding verses, including verse 18, serve as a powerful doxology—an expression of praise to God.
Praising the Source of Kingship
Understand the original words
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The divine personal name of God, revealed to Moses, signifying His self-existence, eternity, and covenant faithfulness to His people.
pele · Hebrew Noun
Uncommon, miraculous, or extraordinary acts performed by God that display His power, sovereignty, and holiness. These acts are often intended to evoke awe and recognition of His deity.
kabod · Hebrew Noun
The manifested presence, splendor, majesty, and brilliance of God's character and nature. It refers to the radiance that accompanies the revelation of who God is.
amen · Hebrew Adverb/Interjection
A term of affirmation used to confirm the truth of a statement or the sincerity of a prayer, meaning 'truly,' 'certainly,' or 'so be it.' It expresses trust and agreement with God's word.
This psalm is a prayer attributed to David for his son Solomon, envisioning a golden age of peace and justice. The verse 'Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things' functions as a concluding praise, acknowledging that such a glorious reign, even under a wise king like Solomon, is ultimately dependent on God's unique power and blessing.
c. 1010 BC
David Reigns as King
David, known for his deep faith and poetic skill, reigns over Israel, establishing Jerusalem as its capital. He longs for a lasting kingdom and a righteous successor.
c. 1000 BC— this verse
David's Prayer for Solomon
David, inspired by God, offers prayers and prophecies for his son Solomon's future reign, anticipating a period of unprecedented peace, prosperity, and justice. These prayers form the core of Psalm 72.
c. 970 BC
Solomon Begins His Reign
Solomon ascends to the throne, inheriting a stable kingdom. His early reign is marked by wisdom, justice, and significant building projects, including the First Temple in Jerusalem.
c. 960 BC
The Temple in Jerusalem is Completed
The magnificent Temple, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people, is finished under Solomon's reign. This fulfills prophecies of a stable and glorious house for God.
c. 930 BC
The United Monarchy Splits
Following Solomon's reign, the united kingdom of Israel divides into two: the northern Kingdom of Israel and the southern Kingdom of Judah. This division marks the beginning of a long period of division and conflict.
This passage echoes the sentiment of Psalm 72:18 by exclaiming, 'Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, working wonders?' It highlights God's unique power and marvelous actions, similar to the psalmist's declaration.
Isaiah 25:1This verse describes God as 'O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago, in faithfulness and truth.' It connects the idea of God's wondrous deeds with faithfulness and fulfillment of His plans, aligning with the awe expressed in Psalm 72:18.
Psalm 86:8This psalm directly asks, 'Among the gods there is no one like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours,' reinforcing the exclusivity of God's wondrous works mentioned in Psalm 72:18. It emphasizes that all other powers or deities are incomparable to the unique power of the Lord.
Nehemiah 9:17Here, the people confess, 'They refused to obey and were not mindful of your tremendous wonders that you performed among them, but became stubborn and appointed a leader to return to their slavery. But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love...' This passage links God's 'tremendous wonders' with His steadfast love and mercy, expanding on the nature of the 'wondrous things' praised in Psalm 72:18.
poolePsalms 72:18: "Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things."
Who hath given to his people such a glorious and excellent king and governor, and such wonderful blessings as they do and shall enjoy under his government.
jfbPsalms 72:18: "Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things."
18, 19. These words close the Psalm in terms consistent with the style of the context, while Ps 72:20 is evidently, from its prosaic style, an addition for the purpose above explained [see on [608]Ps 72:1].
The phrase "who alone does wondrous things" isn't just saying God is powerful; it's a profound declaration that only God is the true source of marvels. It highlights that human achievements, however grand, are dependent on God's power, and that the truly astonishing, world-altering acts are uniquely His. This verse invites us to look past the impressive feats of humanity and recognize the singular, divine power behind all that is truly wondrous.
This psalm, focused on the righteous reign of Solomon and pointing prophetically to the Messiah, concludes with a powerful doxology. After envisioning a future of peace, abundance, and universal blessing under this king, the psalmist breaks into praise, attributing all these wonderful outcomes to God. This final section blesses God for His unique power and glory, praying for that glory to fill the entire earth.
This psalm, focused on the righteous reign of Solomon and pointing prophetically to the Messiah, concludes with a powerful doxology. After envisioning a future of peace, abundance, and universal blessing under this king, the psalmist breaks into praise, attributing all these wonderful outcomes to God. This final section blesses God for His unique power and glory, praying for that glory to fill the entire earth.
"Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!" — The phrase "who alone does wondrous things" isn't just saying God is powerful; it's a profound declaration that only God is the true source of marvels. It highlights that human achievements, howeve…
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