Psalms 111:6
He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.
Psalms 111:6
Verse 6 proclaims: “He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.” Here the psalmist describes God’s mighty works as revealing his power to the people, with the aim of granting them a rightful inheritance among the nations. In the ancient world, “heritage of the heathen” signals a reversal of fortunes: not merely conquering, but inclusion into God’s redemptive embrace. God’s powerful deeds testify to his sovereignty over all peoples, nations, and land. The psalm thus weaves together a vision of universality (God’s rule over the world) and particularism (the covenant people’s special relationship with God). The line invites trust in God’s plan to extend blessing beyond Israel to the wider world, foreshadowing the turning of Gentiles toward Yahweh in salvation history. The verse sits within Psalm 111’s celebration of God’s mighty acts, underscoring that power is exercised for the sake of covenant fulfillment.
This verse highlights God’s redemptive purpose to extend his people’s inheritance beyond borders. It foreshadows the inclusion of the nations through the Messiah, aligning with New Testament themes of Gentile inclusion (Ephesians 2; Romans 11). The “power of his works” is a witness to God’s ability to enact his promises and transform history. The Psalm emphasizes God’s faithfulness to his covenant and his intention to bring blessing to all peoples through his people, now reframed in Christ as the people of God made one in him.
How does this shape today? It invites Christians to be a people who bear witness to God’s power through acts of mercy, justice, and generosity that cross cultural boundaries. Engage in cross-cultural outreach, support international missions, or foster inclusive communities where the gospel is proclaimed and demonstrated as good news for all nations. Reflect on how your own “inheritance” in Christ invites you to steward resources, gifts, and opportunities for the benefit of others beyond your immediate circle. Seek to be a conduit of blessing to people who may be far from God, showing that God’s power is for healing, reconciliation, and unity.
Cross-References: Isaiah 45:4–6; Romans 15:12; Ephesians 2:11–22; Colossians 1:27; Galatians 3:28