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The psalmist calls upon the whole creation, in its two great divisions of heaven and earth, to praise God. Things with and things without life, things rational and irrational, are summoned to join the mighty chorus. The psalm is an expression of the loftiest devotion, and embraces the most comprehensive view of the relation of the creature to the Creator.

I. IRRATIONAL CREATURES OF THE SEA, LAND, AND AIR ARE BIDDEN INTO THE CHORUS OF PRAISE. (Vers. 7, 10.) From the monsters of the sea to the creeping things of the earth. All life, in its various forms, owes itself to the creative life of God. All creatures, after their own manner, are an echo and reflection of the glory of God; and by sympathy we link them with us in the praise of God.

II. MATERIAL THINGS PRAISE GOD BY THEIR OBEDIENCE TO THE DIVINE LAW. (Vers. 8, 9.) "Stormy wind," that seems far from the control of law, is really obedient to it; like all the other elements - "fire and hail, snow and vapor" (Psalm 107:25). All fruitful life, "and all cedars" - examples of majesty and beauty - testify to the power and goodness of God. All things are alive to the man of religious sympathies.

III. ALL RANKS OF HUMAN BEINGS ARE SUMMONED TO PRAISE GOD.

"Kings and all their subjects.
Princes and judges of the earth;
Young men and maidens,
Old men and children." Each rank, each class, has its own theme and reason for praise and worship.

IV. THE GROUNDS OF PRAISE.

1. General. His Name is greater, more exalted, than the heavens and the earth.

2. Special. God has raised his people from deep degradation, and filled them with powers and exultation. "A people near unto him." - S.

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Parallel Verses

KJV: Praise the LORD from the earth, ye dragons, and all deeps:

WEB: Praise Yahweh from the earth, you great sea creatures, and all depths!