Psalms 107
BSB1 Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever. 2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy 3 and gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south. 4 Some wandered in desert wastelands, finding no path to a city in which to dwell. 5 They were hungry and thirsty; their soul fainted within them. 6 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress. 7 He led them on a straight path to reach a city where they could live. 8 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. 9 For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. 10 Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and chains, 11 because they rebelled against the words of God and despised the counsel of the Most High. 12 He humbled their hearts with hard labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help. 13 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. 14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke away their chains. 15 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. 16 For He has broken down the gates of bronze and cut through the bars of iron. 17 Fools, in their rebellious ways, and through their iniquities, suffered affliction. 18 They loathed all food and drew near to the gates of death. 19 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. 20 He sent forth His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit. 21 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. 22 Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and declare His works with rejoicing. 23 Others went out to sea in ships, conducting trade on the mighty waters. 24 They saw the works of the LORD, and His wonders in the deep. 25 For He spoke and raised a tempest that lifted the waves of the sea. 26 They mounted up to the heavens, then sunk to the depths; their courage melted in their anguish. 27 They reeled and staggered like drunkards, and all their skill was useless. 28 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He brought them out of their distress. 29 He calmed the storm to a whisper, and the waves of the sea were hushed. 30 They rejoiced in the silence, and He guided them to the harbor they desired. 31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His loving devotion and His wonders to the sons of men. 32 Let them exalt Him in the assembly of the people and praise Him in the council of the elders. 33 He turns rivers into deserts, springs of water into thirsty ground, 34 and fruitful land into fields of salt, because of the wickedness of its dwellers. 35 He turns a desert into pools of water and a dry land into flowing springs. 36 He causes the hungry to settle there, that they may establish a city in which to dwell. 37 They sow fields and plant vineyards that yield a fruitful harvest. 38 He blesses them, and they multiply greatly; He does not let their herds diminish. 39 When they are decreased and humbled by oppression, evil, and sorrow, 40 He pours out contempt on the nobles and makes them wander in a trackless wasteland. 41 But He lifts the needy from affliction and increases their families like flocks. 42 The upright see and rejoice, and all iniquity shuts its mouth. 43 Let him who is wise pay heed to these things and consider the loving devotion of the LORD.
Study Notes — Psalms 107
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Psalms 107
- Themes from Psalms 107
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Psalms 107
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins by calling all people to give thanks to God for His goodness and mercy, citing the examples of those who have been redeemed from captivity, the hungry and thirsty who have been satisfied, and those who have been healed from sickness. It then describes the experiences of travelers, prisoners, and the sick, who have all been rescued by God. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God, and by warning against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience. Key verses include Psalms 107:1, Psalms 107:8, and Psalms 107:31.
Context for the Chapter
Psalms 107 is part of the fifth book of the Psalms, which is a collection of psalms that emphasize the importance of trusting and obeying God. The chapter is likely a post-exilic psalm, written after the Israelites had returned from their captivity in Babylon. It may have been written to commemorate the rebuilding of the Temple or the restoration of the Jewish community in Jerusalem. The chapter's themes of deliverance, mercy, and thanksgiving are consistent with the broader context of the Psalms, which emphasize the importance of trusting and obeying God in all circumstances.
Heart Application
The chapter's emphasis on giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy should prompt believers to reflect on their own experiences of rescue and salvation. It should also encourage them to express gratitude to God for His provision and nourishment, and to trust in His goodness and mercy in all circumstances. Additionally, the chapter's warning against rebellion and disobedience should prompt believers to examine their own hearts and lives, and to seek to fear and obey God in all things.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Psalms 107 is a chapter that emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy. It describes the experiences of various groups of people who have been rescued by God, and calls on all people to acknowledge and thank Him for His goodness. The chapter's message can be summarized in the words of Psalms 107:1, "Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever!" This verse sets the tone for the entire chapter, emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude to God for His deliverance and mercy.
Voices from the Church
“The mercy of God is not a mere sentiment, but a great fact, which has been demonstrated in the experience of countless thousands.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The psalmist exhorts us to give thanks to God, not only for His benefits, but also for His mercy, which endures forever.”
— John Calvin
“The greatest sin is not to acknowledge the mercies of God, and to refuse to give thanks for them.”
— Martin Luther
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction: Call to Thanksgiving (Psalms 107:1-3) — The chapter begins by calling all people to give thanks to God for His goodness and mercy, citing the example of those who have been redeemed from captivity.
- The Experience of Travelers (Psalms 107:4-9) — The chapter describes the experience of travelers who have been rescued by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His provision and nourishment.
- The Experience of Prisoners (Psalms 107:10-16) — The chapter describes the experience of prisoners who have been rescued by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His deliverance and mercy.
- The Experience of the Sick (Psalms 107:17-22) — The chapter describes the experience of the sick who have been healed by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His mercy and provision.
- Conclusion: Call to Fear and Obey God (Psalms 107:23-43) — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God, and by warning against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience.
Core Doctrines
- The Goodness of God
- The chapter emphasizes the goodness of God, highlighting His mercy, compassion, and kindness towards those who are suffering or in need. This is seen in the repeated refrain of "give thanks to the Lord, for He is good".
- The Importance of Thanksgiving
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy, highlighting the need to acknowledge and express gratitude for His benefits. This is seen in the repeated call to "give thanks" and "sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving".
- The Dangers of Rebellion and Disobedience
- The chapter warns against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience, emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God. This is seen in the description of those who rebel against God and suffer the consequences, as well as the call to "fear the Lord" and "keep His commandments".
- The Provision and Nourishment of God
- The chapter emphasizes the provision and nourishment of God, highlighting His ability to meet the physical and spiritual needs of His people. This is seen in the description of God satisfying the hungry and thirsty, and filling the longing soul with goodness.
Lessons from Psalms 107
- The Importance of Gratitude — The chapter emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy, highlighting the need to acknowledge and express gratitude for His benefits.
- The Dangers of Rebellion and Disobedience — The chapter warns against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience, emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God.
- The Provision and Nourishment of God — The chapter emphasizes the provision and nourishment of God, highlighting His ability to meet the physical and spiritual needs of His people.
- The Goodness of God — The chapter emphasizes the goodness of God, highlighting His mercy, compassion, and kindness towards those who are suffering or in need.
- The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges.
Themes from Psalms 107
- Deliverance and Rescue — The chapter describes the experiences of various groups of people who have been rescued by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His deliverance and mercy.
- Thanksgiving and Praise — The chapter emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His benefits, highlighting the need to acknowledge and express gratitude for His goodness and mercy.
- The Goodness and Mercy of God — The chapter emphasizes the goodness and mercy of God, highlighting His compassion and kindness towards those who are suffering or in need.
- The Dangers of Rebellion and Disobedience — The chapter warns against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience, emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God.
- The Importance of Fearing and Obeying God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing and obeying God, highlighting the need to trust in His goodness and mercy and to seek to glorify Him in all aspects of life.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways in which God has delivered and rescued you, and how can you give thanks to Him for His mercy and goodness?
- How can you cultivate a heart of thanksgiving and praise, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges?
- What are some dangers of rebellion and disobedience, and how can you seek to fear and obey God in all things?
- How can you trust in God's goodness and mercy, even when you are unsure of what the future holds?
- What are some ways in which you can express gratitude to God for His provision and nourishment, and how can you seek to glorify Him in all aspects of your life?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction: Call to Thanksgiving (Psalms 107:1-3)
| 107:1 | The chapter begins by calling all people to give thanks to God for His goodness and mercy, citing the example of those who have been redeemed from captivity. |
| 107:2 | The psalmist exhorts those who have been redeemed to tell of God's goodness and mercy, and to sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving. |
2. The Experience of Travelers (Psalms 107:4-9)
| 107:4 | The chapter describes the experience of travelers who have been rescued by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His provision and nourishment. |
| 107:5 | The travelers were hungry and thirsty, but God satisfied their longing soul and filled their hungry soul with goodness. |
3. The Experience of Prisoners (Psalms 107:10-16)
| 107:10 | The chapter describes the experience of prisoners who have been rescued by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His deliverance and mercy. |
| 107:11 | The prisoners had rebelled against the words of God, and had despised the counsel of the Most High. |
4. The Experience of the Sick (Psalms 107:17-22)
| 107:17 | The chapter describes the experience of the sick who have been healed by God, emphasizing the importance of giving thanks for His mercy and provision. |
| 107:18 | Their soul abhorred all manner of food, and they drew near to the gates of death. |
5. Conclusion: Call to Fear and Obey God (Psalms 107:23-43)
| 107:23 | The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God, and by warning against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience. |
| 107:24 | They see the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Psalms 107?
The main theme of Psalms 107 is the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy, and the dangers of rebellion and disobedience. This is seen in the repeated refrain of "give thanks to the Lord, for He is good" and the description of those who rebel against God and suffer the consequences.
How can I apply the lesson of Psalms 107 to my life?
You can apply the lesson of Psalms 107 to your life by giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy, and by seeking to fear and obey Him in all things. This can involve reflecting on your own experiences of rescue and salvation, and seeking to express gratitude to God for His provision and nourishment.
What is the significance of the repeated refrain in Psalms 107?
The repeated refrain in Psalms 107 emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy, and highlights the need to acknowledge and express gratitude for His benefits. This refrain serves as a reminder to trust in God's goodness and mercy, even in the midst of difficulties and challenges.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 107:1 → Psalms 100:5 | The theme of giving thanks to God for His goodness and mercy is also found in Psalms 100:5, which states "For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations". |
| 2 | Psalms 107:8 → Psalms 107:15 | The theme of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy is repeated throughout the chapter, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and expressing gratitude for His benefits. |
| 3 | Psalms 107:10 → Isaiah 61:1 | The description of prisoners who have been rescued by God is similar to the prophecy in Isaiah 61:1, which states "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound". |
| 4 | Psalms 107:17 → Matthew 9:12 | The description of the sick who have been healed by God is similar to the ministry of Jesus, who healed many people of their physical and spiritual ailments, as seen in Matthew 9:12. |
| 5 | Psalms 107:23 → Psalms 111:2 | The theme of fearing and obeying God is also found in Psalms 111:2, which states "The works of the Lord are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them". |
| 6 | Psalms 107:24 → Job 37:14 | The description of God's wonders in the deep is similar to the description of God's power and majesty in Job 37:14, which states "Listen to this, O Job; stand still and consider the wondrous works of God". |
| 7 | Psalms 107:31 → Isaiah 43:2 | The theme of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy is also found in Isaiah 43:2, which states "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you". |
| 8 | Psalms 107:32 → Hebrews 13:15 | The theme of offering the sacrifices of thanksgiving is also found in Hebrews 13:15, which states "Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name". |
| 9 | Psalms 107:33 → Genesis 1:10 | The description of God's power and majesty is similar to the description of God's creation in Genesis 1:10, which states "And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called He Seas: and God saw that it was good". |
| 10 | Psalms 107:43 → Proverbs 10:8 | The theme of fearing and obeying God is also found in Proverbs 10:8, which states "The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall". |
Sermons on Psalms 107
| Sermon | Description | |
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Let God Be in You by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God has chosen individuals from seemingly ordinary and unpromising backgrounds to serve Him. He encourages the audience, whether they a |
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Witchcraft in the Church by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of seeking power and position in the work of God without paying the right price. He uses the story of Simon in the book of Acts a |
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(1986 Prairie Series) 8 - Biggest Thing God Ever Said by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher discusses how God chooses individuals based on their hearts, rather than their outward appearance or qualifications. The preacher uses the example of D |
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The Power of His Resurrection by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of demonstrating the presence of God in every aspect of our lives. He uses the story of David and Goliath to illustrate the p |
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Strengthen Me Just Once - Alternate 2 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a genuine experience with God that requires sacrifice and dedication. He compares the pursuit of spiritual anointin |
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Authority and God's Word - Part 2 by Derek Prince | This sermon delves into the profound nature of God's Word as described in Hebrews 4:12, emphasizing its living and powerful essence that penetrates the deepest parts of our being. |
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How to Prosper in Hard Times by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being convicted by the Holy Ghost and acknowledging one's sins before God. He encourages the congregation to rejoice in th |
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Though He Slay Me, Yet Will I Trust Him by Charles E. Fuller | The video is a sermon transcript that begins with a young boy expressing his gratitude for being a Christian and his desire for his father to be saved. The sermon then transitions |
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Fresh Oil by Jack Hyles | In this sermon, the preacher begins by acknowledging the large crowd gathered in the building, including preachers from different states and countries. He prays for the Holy Spirit |
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Dvd 13 - the Final Challenge to the Church by Art Katz | This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life of integrity and character for the kingdom of God, focusing on the end-time role of God's people in proclaiming His salvation |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 107
Matthew Henry's commentary on Psalms 107 emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy. He notes that the chapter is a call to all people to acknowledge and express gratitude for God's benefits, and to fear and obey Him in all things. Henry also highlights the dangers of rebellion and disobedience, and emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's goodness and mercy. He notes that the chapter's themes of deliverance, mercy, and thanksgiving are consistent with the broader context of the Psalms, which emphasize the importance of trusting and obeying God in all circumstances. As Henry states, "The Lord is good, and His mercy endures forever; let us therefore give thanks to Him, and praise His name, and declare His works to the generation to come". Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Universality of God's Mercy
The chapter emphasizes that God's mercy and deliverance are available to all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. This is evident in the various groups of people who are described as being rescued by God, including travelers, prisoners, and the sick.
The Importance of Thanksgiving
The chapter repeatedly emphasizes the importance of giving thanks to God for His deliverance and mercy. This is seen in the repeated refrain of "let them give thanks" and "let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving".
The Dangers of Rebellion and Disobedience
The chapter warns against the dangers of rebellion and disobedience, emphasizing the importance of fearing and obeying God. This is seen in the description of those who rebel against God and suffer the consequences, as well as the call to "fear the Lord" and "keep His commandments".