Psalm 136 - 5.8.24

Scripture

Psalm 136:1

 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.

Observation

Psalms 136 is a song. Most likely the priest would call out a statement about God (the first half of each verse) and the people would respond, “His love (or mercy) endures forever.” The first three verses speak to who God is. Verses 4-9 speak of His wonders. The rest of the book describes what He has done for His people. The Psalm ends with a command to give Him the thanks that He deserves.

I read it described as, “It seems that the Psalmist is exploring the parameters of God’s love and rule, and he finds that there are no limits to it. There are no limits to the merciful lovingkindness of God.”

Application

I am challenged by this Psalm to focus on God’s love and mercy and actively explore new ways to thank Him. I want to learn to respond to whatever comes my way with His love endures forever. When I hear my grandchildren laugh – His love endures forever. When I am disappointed or offended – His love endures forever. When I get a promotion at work – His love endures forever. When I am dealing with a health issue – His love endures forever.

· The past, present, or future will not end His mercy.

· The storms of life will not end His mercy.

· Distance from loved ones will not end His mercy.

· Death itself will not end His mercy.

· God’s never-ending mercy should make us merciful to others.

· God’s never-ending mercy should make us hopeful for others.

· God’s never-ending mercy should make us hopeful for ourselves.

Charles Spurgeon

Prayer

Thank you to my amazing, almighty, eternal, powerful, compassionate, and merciful God. Thank you for your love for me. May my answer always be – Your love and mercy endure forever.

- Debbie Dunn