Variety: Psalm 148v1-14

The poet paints a vivid image of the natural world. But there’s more going on here than meets the eye. The references to sea creatures, the stormy wind and the depths are nods to pagan mythical figures: Tiamat, the divine sea monster; Baal, the storm god believed to control the weather and ‘the depths’, a code word for the forces of chaos.  

The poet lists these scary characters with a wry smile. They’re neither gods nor demons, but simply part of nature. They depend on their Creator, who keeps them going every second of the day. Only God, the maker and sustainer of all, deserves our worship.

Bible Society

Psalm 148, NKJV

Praise the LORD!

Praise the LORD from the heavens; 
Praise Him in the heights! 
Praise Him, all His angels; 
Praise Him, all His hosts! 
Praise Him, sun and moon; 
Praise Him, all you stars of light! 
Praise Him, you heavens of heavens, 
And you waters above the heavens!

Let them praise the name of the LORD, 
For He commanded and they were created. 
He also established them for ever and ever; 
He made a decree which shall not pass away.

Praise the LORD from the earth, 
You great sea creatures and all the depths; 
Fire and hail, snow and clouds; 
Stormy wind, fulfilling His word; 
Mountains and all hills; 
Fruitful trees and all cedars; 
Beasts and all cattle; 
Creeping things and flying fowl; 
Kings of the earth and all peoples; 
Princes and all judges of the earth; 
Both young men and maidens; 
Old men and children.

Let them praise the name of the LORD, 
For His name alone is exalted; 
His glory is above the earth and heaven. 
And He has exalted the horn of His people, 
The praise of all His saints – 
Of the children of Israel, 
A people near to Him.

Praise the LORD!