4/13/21
Augustine. Exposition on the Book of Psalms. Schaff, Philip (editor). New York: Christian Literature Publishing Co, 1886. Nicene and Post-Nicene Church Fathers: Series 1: Volume VIII. Re-published 2014, Catholic Way Publishing. Kindle electronic edition, ISBN-13: 978-1-78379-372-3.
“Psalm 112"
Augustine briefly observes that this Psalm is related with the conversion of Haggai and Zechariah. Verse one, then, speaks of the blessing of fearing God (Augustine Psalms, loc. 338460, par. 2). Though life is full of trials, there is profit in God's commands. Verse two, then, speaks of a godly offspring (Augustine Psalms, loc. 338464, par .3). This may be compared to a harvest yet to come.
Augustine sees the blessing of God as particularly attractive since it is affordable to anyone, from a poor widow to a rich tax collector. This brings glory and riches to the household of faith (Augustine Psalms, loc. 338468, par. 3).
Verse four pictures God's blessing as a light in a dark place. It guides God's people into all righteousness (Augustine Psalms, loc. 338477, par. 4). The idea of generosity then emerges in verse five.
Because of God's wisdom poured out on them, God's people are steadfast (v. 6). They have discretion which will protect their integrity (Augustine Psalms, loc. 338489, par. 5). The picture of courage and faith continues in verses seven and eight.
Augustine finds that the believer has confidence (v. 9) but that his generosity is scorned by the ungodly (v. 10). Anger has engative consequences, such as frustration (Augustine Psalms, loc. 338506, par. 7). On the contrary, God's word lasts forever.