What does "awesome deeds of righteousness" reveal about God's character and actions? Setting of Psalm 65:5 • David celebrates God’s answer to prayer “with awesome deeds of righteousness.” • The psalm praises God for forgiving sin (vv. 1–4), governing creation (vv. 6–8), and blessing the earth with abundance (vv. 9–13). • Verse 5 stands as the hinge—linking God’s grace toward people and His power over nature. Defining “Awesome Deeds of Righteousness” • “Awesome” signals jaw-dropping wonder that causes reverent fear. • “Deeds” highlights concrete acts, not mere intentions. • “Righteousness” underscores moral perfection—every act is just, holy, and good. • Together: God performs tangible works that both stun creation and align perfectly with His flawless standards. What the Phrase Reveals about God’s Character • He is actively engaged—responding to prayer, not aloof. • He unites power with purity—no miracle ever violates holiness. • He is reliable—righteous actions flow from His unchanging nature (Malachi 3:6). • He is Savior—“O God of our salvation” shows every mighty act aims at rescuing and restoring. How God Displays These Deeds • Redemption: “The LORD has done glorious deeds” in the Exodus (Exodus 15:11) and climaxed at the cross (Romans 5:8). • Judgment: Flood, plagues, and future wrath (Revelation 15:3–4) are awesome yet righteous. • Providence: He “still the roaring of the seas” (Psalm 65:7) and “provides rain for the earth” (Psalm 147:8). • Personal Deliverance: David’s victories (2 Samuel 22:17–20) and believers’ daily rescues (2 Timothy 4:18). Supporting Scriptures that Echo the Theme • Psalm 66:3 — “Say to God, ‘How awesome are Your deeds!’” • Psalm 145:17 — “The LORD is righteous in all His ways.” • Isaiah 45:8 — “Let righteousness spring up; I, the LORD, have created it.” • Romans 1:16-17 — “In the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed.” Why It Matters for Us Today • Confidence in Prayer: The God who answered David still answers “with awesome deeds of righteousness.” • Assurance of Justice: Evil will not win; His righteous acts will set everything right. • Motivation for Worship: Awe fuels adoration—“Come and see what God has done” (Psalm 66:5). • Call to Holiness: Those who trust a righteous God pursue righteous living (1 Peter 1:15-16). |
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