Introduction

This verse serves as a preamble to the characteristics and blessings of a righteous person. It emphasizes the theme of reverence for the Lord and the joy found in obedience to His commands, setting the tone for the rest of the psalm that elaborates on the virtues of the godly individual.

Exegesis of Key Phrases

• "Praise the LORD!"

  This call to praise signifies an important aspect of worship in the life of a believer. The Hebrew term 'Hallelujah' is both a command and an expression of joy, emphasizing the communal aspect of worship.

• "Blessed is the man"

  This beatitude mirrors the opening of the Book of Psalms (Psalm 1:1) and illustrates the beatification that comes through a proper relationship with God. The man referred to is not merely any man, but one who embodies the divine principles outlined.

• "who fears the LORD"

  The fear of the Lord encapsulates a deep-seated reverence and respect, acknowledging God’s holiness, authority, and power. It is integral to wisdom and righteousness (Proverbs 1:7), indicating a foundational attitude for the faithful.

• "who greatly delights in his commandments"

  This phrase conveys the active engagement of a believer's heart and mind towards God’s law. It speaks to the affection and joy one finds in obeying God, contrasting with mere compliance.

Theological Implications

The verse underscores the relationship between piety and morality. Fear of the Lord leads to a lifestyle marked by obedience and delight in His commandments, a theme echoed throughout Scripture. Believers are called to recognize that the commands of God are not burdensome (1 John 5:3) but lead to true fulfillment and blessing.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that this psalm reflects not only the happiness of the just man but also the blessedness of living in accordance with God’s will. He notes that "to fear God is the beginning of wisdom," and true delight in His commandments marks the character of the godly.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights that the term "blessed" here suggests a state of happiness that is both present and future. He elucidates that the person who reveres God will experience profound joy in obeying Him, which leads to genuine contentment in life.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out that fearing the Lord is connected to both worship and obedience. He argues that true reverence leads to a consistent lifestyle aligned with God's decrees, resulting in societal and personal well-being.

Practical Application

For pastors, students, and scholars, this verse serves as a foundation for understanding the dynamic relationship between reverence for God and the believer's joy in obedience. It challenges them to reflect on their understanding of God's commands, urging a shift from viewing them as restrictions to recognizing them as pathways to true blessing.

Moreover, it encourages the cultivation of a heart that delights in God’s word, fostering an environment where teaching and learning about God’s ways becomes vibrant and joyous.

Conclusion

Psalms 112:1 encapsulates the essence of a blessed life marked by the fear of the Lord and joyous obedience to His commandments. The insights gleaned from esteemed commentaries guide us in appreciating the deep and abiding relationship that characterizes the righteous. This verse calls for a reflection on our individual lives and the extent to which we embody the truths presented, serving as a mirror to our spiritual condition before God.