Psalm 136

Psalm 136 (2 Chronicles 7.3, 6)

We can neatly divide this psalm in two parts. The first is proclaiming God’s goodness based on the story of Creation. The second is proclaiming God’s goodness based on how He delivered Israel from captivity. Taking these two parts, we can see this psalm praises God for all that is in the Torah from Genesis to Deuteronomy.

The psalm stands out among all the psalms for the repetition of “for His steadfast love endures forever.” We know this psalm as the “Great Hallel” psalm and it was associated with the Feast of Passover. Today, it is used more as a call to worship (Davidson, 1998).

Attempt to listen to this psalm the way they may have read it by using two choirs to sing the lines. The choir to the left sang the historical truth and the choir to the right sang the refrain of God’s never-ending mercy. Hallelujah!

The meaning of the repeated phrase must include God’s faithfulness to who He is and what He has promised to do. To translate this with that meaning of חסד included: “for His faithfulness to Himself will never end” or “His Word stands with surety.” So, considering the ever-changing economy, culture, and world we live in, isn’t it great to know that He will never change? His truth is always true, no matter the circumstances and no matter what others claim.

Do you readily proclaim God’s goodness to those around you by what you do and what you say? Do they hear the choirs that resound the marvel of God’s faithfulness in your gait?

This might be a good exercise for each of us to do today: write one thing that God has done for you or in your family and write the refrain after it. Now, do this each day for a month. Compile the list in chronological order and upload it here. Let others see God’s goodness in you.

Media

  • Psalm 136 – Forerunner
  • Chris Tomlin – Forever
  • His Love Endures Forever

    ©2012 Teach for God Ministries. Used by Permission.

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    Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: By David R Williamson. ©2012 Teach for God Ministries. Website: www.teach4god.com

Author: Pastor David

David R Williamson is the founder of Teach for God Ministries. He holds degrees from Grace Bible College, Grand Canyon University, Grace Theological Seminary, and Walden University. David has been actively involved in ministry since 1979. He has ministered in various ministries from Sunday School teacher, Youth Pastor, to English Pastor in Taiwanese churches, including teaching ten years at the Junior High school level. Currently, David is teaching at Hillcrest Christian School at the High School level. He is also pulpit supply and retreat speaker for churches and other religious organizations. He is happily married to Karen with three children: Joshua, Kazlyn, and Joseph

1 thought on “Psalm 136”

  1. I think it is universally common for us to forget the good things God has done for us and rather focus on the bad aspects of our lives. This psalm is a wonderful reminder of the blessings God has bestowed upon His people and His faithfulness through all circumstances. To know that His love is never-ending is a blessing that we should daily embrace with thankfulness.

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