104:1ff This psalm is a poetic summary of God’s creation of the world as found in the first chapter of Genesis. What God created each day is mentioned by the writer as a reason to praise God. On day one, God created light (104:1, 2; Genesis 1:3); day two, the heavens and the waters (104:2, 3; Genesis 1:6); day three, land and vegetation (104:6-18; Genesis 1:9-13); day four, the sun, moon, and stars (104:19-23; Genesis 1:14-16); day five, fish and birds (104:25, 26; Genesis 1:20-23); and on day six, animals, people, and food to sustain them (104:21-24, 27-30; Genesis 1:24-31). God’s act of creation deserves the praise of all people.
104:5 The earth is built on God’s foundations, and he guarantees its permanence. Even though one day the heavens and the earth will be destroyed (2 Peter 3:10), he will create a new heaven and a new earth that will last forever (Isaiah 65:17; Revelation 21:1). The same power that undergirds the world also provides a firm foundation for believers.
104:24 Creation is filled with stunning variety, revealing the rich creativity, goodness, and wisdom of our loving God. As you observe your natural surroundings, thank God for his creativity. Take a fresh look at people, seeing each one as God’s unique creation, with his or her own special talents, abilities, and gifts.
104:26 Here “leviathan” almost certainly refers to a large and active sea creature.
104:29 Today many people are arrogant enough to think they don’t need God. But our every breath depends on the life he has breathed into us (Genesis 2:7; 3:19; Job 33:4; 34:14, 15; Daniel 5:23). Not only do we depend on God for life, but he wants the best for us. We should also desire to learn more of his plans for us each day.