Then on that day David delivered first this psalm.
A psalm of thanksgiving
This, a composite psalm, represents a form of service rather than a psalm. The whole of it, with slight variations, found in Psalms 96:1-13; Psalms 105:1-15; Psalms 106:47-48. It celebrates redemption as unfolded in the history of Israel, proclaimed to the world, and triumphant in judgment. This part sets forth.
I. An exhortation to the noblest work--praising God. In three ways, chiefly, is this duty recommended.
1. In giving thanks to God.
(1) By singing psalms (verse 9).
(2) By social conversation.
(3) By glorying in His name (verse 10).
2. In seeking God.
(1) Earnestly.
(2) Joyfully.
(3) Continually.
3. In commemorating God’s works (verse 12).
II. Motives to influence us in this noblest work.
1. God’s great love.
2. God’s great manifestations of love.
3. God’s great dominion.
4. God’s great claims.
5. God’s vindication of these claims. (J. Wolfendale.)
A memorable day
Let us gather up a few of the lessons which Providence read out to humanity on that day.
I. That religion is a subject in which the leaders of the people should endeavour to interest the masses.
1. Religion is suited to the common and primary instincts of human nature.
2. Religion provides for the fallen condition of human nature.
II. That religion develops the distinctive characteristics of mankind. Through it “the thoughts of many hearts are revealed.” In the history of this “day” four states of mind are developed in relation to the Divine.
1. An enthusiastic interest in the Divine. Such was David’s state.
2. A stolid unconsciousness of the Divine. This was revealed in Uzzah’s conduct. To him the ark only appeared as a common chest. He was a type of those who engage in religious services without the religious spirit.
3. A calm confidence in the Divine. This was revealed in the conduct of Obed-edom. The terrible fate of Uzzah filled David with overwhelming excitement. The people were panic-stricken. But Obed-edom was calm. He took the ark into his own house for three months; he stands by a deserted cause.
4. A thoughtless contempt for the Divine. This was developed in Michal (1 Chronicles 15:29). She is a type of a class who despise religious observances, religious people, and religious services.
III. That religion is always associated with the cheerful and the generous.
1. Here is music.
2. Here is hospitality. True religion is evermore the parent of true philanthropy.
IV. That religion is the patron of the highest art as well as the inspirer of the holiest feelings (1 Chronicles 15:16-24). (Homilist.)