When His Ways are Incomprehensible

9 MARCH

O LORD, how great are Thy works! and Thy thoughts are very deep. Psalm 92:5

SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Psalm 139

Having spoken in general of the works of God, the psalmist proceeds to speak more particularly of God's justice in governing the world. Though God may postpone the punishment of the wicked, in due time He shows that He does not overlook or fail to perceive their sins. Furthermore, though God exercises His own children with the cross, He proves in the end that He is not indifferent to their welfare.

The Psalmist makes this particular point because much darkness is thrown upon the scheme of divine providence because of the inequality and disorder that prevail in human affairs. We see the wicked triumphing and applauding their own good fortune, as if there were no judge above. They also take advantage of divine forbearance for additional excesses because they are under the impression that they have escaped God's hand. The temptation is aggravated by the stupidity and blindness of heart that lead them to imagine that God exerts no control over the world and sits idle in heaven.

We know how quickly we can sink under the troubles of the flesh. The psalmist, therefore, intentionally selects this occasion to show the watchful care exerted by God over the human family. He begins by using the language of exclamation, for such is the dreadful distemper and disorder by which our understandings are confounded that we cannot comprehend the method of God's works, even when it is most apparent. We are to notice that the inspired writer is not speaking here of the work of God in the creation of the heavens and the earth, nor of His providential government of the world in general, but only of the judgments that He executes amongst men.

John Calvin

FOR MEDITATION: At times, life seems cruel and unfair. We see wickedness and injustice flourish all around us while goodness and justice suffer. We can only maintain a proper perspective by trusting that God is in control, says the psalmist. When has such trust been rewarded in your own life?

365 Days With Calvin

Selected and Edited by Joel R. Beeke