Psalms 147:20
He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his iudgements, they haue not knowen them. Praise yee the Lord. Psalms 147:20 (KJV)
This verse concludes Psalm 147, a psalm of praise and thanksgiving that celebrates God’s greatness and His care for His people. It serves as a fitting climax to a hymn that repeatedly calls the worshiper to lift up gratitude to the Lord.
God’s distinctive dealings are highlighted in the opening clause. The wording emphasizes that the Lord has not dealt with any other nation in the same way He has dealt with His chosen people. In the Old Testament narrative God entered into a covenant with Israel, selecting them as a special people for Himself. Throughout their history He showed unique favour, protection, and guidance, underscoring a relationship that is unparalleled among the nations.
The second part of the verse points to the other nations’ unfamiliarity with God’s judgments. The drafts explain this in two ways: first, the nations did not receive direct revelation of God’s laws, commandments, and statutes as Israel did through the Mosaic Law; second, they lacked a full understanding of the ways in which God works and executes His justice. Their awareness of God’s plans and purposes was therefore limited compared with that of the Israelites.
The verse ends with an exhortation to “Praise ye the LORD.” This call to worship appears throughout the Psalms and functions as an invitation to all believers to express gratitude and adoration for God’s unique dealings with His people. It invites the worshiper to respond to God’s favour with heartfelt thanksgiving.
While Psalm 147:20 speaks specifically of God’s relationship with Israel, the New Testament expands the scope of God’s redemptive plan. Acts 10:34‑35 affirms that God shows no partiality toward any person or nation, and through Jesus Christ salvation is offered to all who believe, irrespective of nationality. Thus the verse can be understood both as a celebration of Israel’s special covenant and as a reminder of God’s inclusive love for all peoples.
May this study deepen your understanding of God’s unique dealings with His people and inspire you to offer sincere praise and worship to the Lord.
