God’s Mercy is Not Limited to My Faithfulness
December 22, 2019
Commentary
In this passage we see how the Lord was constantly having trouble with His people and had to bring judgement on them because of their disobedience; yet He also constantly responded to their cries. In spite of God’s faithfulness to Israel her history was filled with faithlessness and ingratitude. “Therefore was the wrath of the Lord kindled against his people” (v. 40) and “He gave them into the hand of the heathen” (v. 41). The psalmist recites the sad story of the time of the Judges and many of the kings. Israel was detested (abhorred) by the Lord (v. 40), discarded by the Lord (vv. 41-42) and delivered over and over again (vv. 43-46).
Because of Israel’s sin, “Their enemies hated them” (v. 41) and ruled over them (v. 42). If God had not been gracious to them this would be the end of their story. In spite of their rebellions and murmurings, God still heard their prayers and pitied them (v. 46).
Confession is over and petition begins (vv. 47-48). The writer asks God to end their exile. He recognizes that the return from Babylon was only a partial one but that some time in the future God will end Israel’s exile (v. 47a). Israel will be gathered back in the land, not partially but completely. When Christ returns Israel will recognize Him and “triumph in His praise” (v. 47).
God allowed trouble to come to Israel in order to help them. The same is true for us. Our troubles can be helpful because they (1) humble us, (2) drive us closer to God, (3) vitalize our prayers, (4) allow us to experience God’s faithfulness, (5) make us more dependent upon God, (6) encourage us to submit to God’s will, and (7) make us more compassionate toward others.
Application
This is a beautiful picture of God’s great love for His people who deserved only judgment. Fortunately, God’s compassion and mercy toward me is not limited to my faithfulness to Him. He was merciful to send His Son to die for my sins.
Psalms 106:40– 48 (NET)
40 So the Lord was angry with his people and despised the people who belonged to him.
41 He handed them over to the nations, and those who hated them ruled over them.
42 Their enemies oppressed them; they were subject to their authority.
43 Many times he delivered them, but they had a rebellious attitude, and degraded themselves by their sin.
44 Yet he took notice of their distress, when he heard their cry for help.
45 He remembered his covenant with them, and relented because of his great loyal love.
46 He caused all their conquerors to have pity on them.
47 Deliver us, O Lord, our God. Gather us from among the nations. Then we will give thanks to your holy name, and boast about your praiseworthy deeds.
48 The Lord God of Israel deserves praise, in the future and forevermore. Let all the people say, “We agree! Praise the Lord!”