Connect Psalm 148:9 with Genesis 1:31 on creation's goodness. Setting the Scene “mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,” (Psalm 148:9) “And God looked upon all that He had made, and indeed, it was very good.” (Genesis 1:31) What We Notice • Psalm 148 calls the entire created order—animate and inanimate—to praise. • Genesis 1 ends the creation narrative with God’s own declaration that everything He made is “very good.” • The same mountains, hills, fruit trees, and cedars praised in Psalm 148 are included in the “very good” verdict of Genesis 1. Creation’s Goodness in Stereo • Genesis 1:31 provides the divine evaluation: creation’s intrinsic goodness. • Psalm 148:9 provides the creaturely response: creation’s enthusiastic praise. • Together they form a loop—God declares creation good, and creation echoes back praise for His goodness. Supporting Passages • Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of God…” • Romans 1:20 – Creation reveals God’s “eternal power and divine nature.” • 1 Timothy 4:4 – “For every creation of God is good…” Implications 1. Dignity of the Material World – If mountains and fruit trees are “very good,” they are not disposable backdrops but God-honoring participants in praise. 2. Human Stewardship – Genesis 2:15 shows Adam placed in the garden “to work it and keep it.” Caring for creation supports its ongoing praise. 3. Worship Beyond Words – Psalm 148 expands worship outside sanctuary walls. Observing a cedar swaying in the wind is witnessing a sermon preached by creation itself. 4. Christ-Centered Fulfillment – Colossians 1:16-17 reminds us “all things were created through Him and for Him.” The goodness and praise of creation find their ultimate focus in Christ. Practical Takeaways • Spend time outdoors as an act of worship, joining creation’s chorus. • Thank God audibly when you notice the beauty of hills or the fragrance of fruit trees. • Steward resources wisely—protecting that which God calls “very good.” • Use Psalm 148 as a template for daily gratitude, naming specific elements of creation you encounter. Conclusion Genesis 1:31 affirms the goodness of what God made; Psalm 148:9 invites that good creation to praise. When we recognize both truths, our worship becomes richer, blending God’s affirmation with creation’s applause. |
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