Verses 1-20

A song of praise in which the Psalmist recounts God's mercies (1) in restoring Jerusalem, (2) in helping those cast down, (3) in caring for the animal world, and (4) in the changing seasons.

2. Build up] i.e. rebuild, after the captivity.

7. Sing praise] better, 'make melody.'

10. Against self-reliance.

11. Hope in his mercy] better, 'wait for His lovingkindness.'

17. Morsels] crumbs (of bread). Frost and snow at Jerusalem are comparatively rare. A change soon follows: cp. Psalms 147:18.

19, 20. The writer returns to God's doings for Israel. Judgments] better, 'ordinances,' revealed only to Israel.