Psalms 147:20

He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the Lord.

Psalms 147:20 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 147 closes with this verse, bringing together the psalm’s themes of praise and thanksgiving. The psalm celebrates God’s care for Jerusalem, His power over creation, and His tender regard for the brokenhearted. The final verse climaxes these themes by declaring the uniqueness of God’s revelation to Israel and calling for praise in response.

Meaning

The opening clause, “He hath not dealt so with any nation,” points to God’s distinctive covenant with Israel. In the Old Testament, God chose Israel as His special people, entering into a covenant with them and showing them unique favour, protection, and guidance. The word “so” refers back to the preceding verse, where God declares His word to Jacob and His statutes and judgments to Israel. No other nation received this direct revelation of God’s laws and ordinances.

The second clause, “and as for his judgments, they have not known them,” contrasts the nations’ ignorance with Israel’s privilege. The nations did not receive the Mosaic Law, nor did they fully understand God’s ways of working and executing justice. Their awareness of God’s plans and purposes was limited compared with Israel’s. This does not mean other nations had no knowledge of God at all, but that they did not receive the special covenantal revelation given to Israel.

The verse ends with the exhortation, “Praise ye the LORD.” This call to worship appears throughout the Psalms and invites the worshiper to respond to God’s grace with heartfelt gratitude and adoration. It is a fitting response to the privilege of knowing God’s judgments and His unique dealings with His people.

Application

This verse reminds believers of the privilege of receiving God’s Word and His judgments. With that privilege comes responsibility, as Israel was called to be a light to the nations. For Christians, the challenge is to treasure God’s revelation, live according to His statutes, and extend His love to those who have not yet known His judgments.

Reflection

Consider the unique favour God has shown in revealing Himself through His Word. Let this awareness stir you to sincere praise and worship, and to share the knowledge of His judgments with others.