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Psalm 107:1 - The Enduring Love of God.Psalm 107:1 (NIV) Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.INTRODUCTION This psalm speaks of four different types of people in distress and how God rescues them: wanderers (107:4-9), prisoners (107:10-16), the distressed (107:17-20), and the storm-tossed (107:23-30). No matter how extreme our calamity, God is able to help us. He is loving and kind to those who are distressed. [Life Application SB] COMMENTARY PEARL Some of the saddest songs in the world are about lost loves; country music excels at these mournful tunes. Johnny Cash, who wrote the No. 1 hit "I Walk the Line" as a sign of commitment to his first wife while he was on tour, ended up stepping over the line when his drug addiction contributed to ending his marriage. We may sing, "I keep a close watch on this heart of mine," but, unfortunately, "the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked" (Jeremiah 17:9). Today's Bible promise describes One who never falters on His commitment to us. God "is good," and "His mercy endures forever." The word mercy in Hebrew (chesed) is difficult to translate into English. It is sometimes translated "love," but that can mean many different things - like romance, friendship, or even a craving for chocolate. God's love is multifaceted, like a diamond. It is described as lovingkindness and tender mercy (Psalm 103:4); it is not only giving but self-sacrificing, willing to die for the sake of others (John 15:13; Romans 5:8). Such extravagant love was most clearly shown when Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world. It is not surprising that many hymns focus on the sacrifice of Christ - "The Old Rugged Cross," "Jesus Paid It All," "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," and "What Wondrous Love Is This." Perhaps the saddest song that will ever be sung will be from the anguished heart of God, who will mourn over those who have forever rejected His grace. Let us be among those who sing a song of thanks because we received His persistent mercy. Heavenly Father, I open my heart to receive Your divine love and tender kindness. I praise You for showing mercy and patience to all Your children. [The Most Amazing Bible Promises by Amazing Facts] CLOSING THOUGHT "Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out!" God has done so much for us, and we have so much for which to thank him (see Psalm 103). He wants us to tell everyone all that he has done. These verses are not so much a mandate to witness as a declaration that when we live in God's presence, we will not be able to keep this glorious experience to ourselves (see also Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20). What has God done for you? Is there someone you can tell? [Life Application SB] LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY Psalm 107:1 - TRUE THANKSGIVING! https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20221125-0902.html Psalm 107:1 - THANKSGIVING! http://www.abible.com/devotions/2021/20211125-0907.html Psalm 23:6 - JESUS' GOODNESS AND UNFAILING LOVE. https://www.abible.com/devotions/2024/20240106-0747.html Psalm 103:2 - Fully Praise The Lord And Remember All The Good Things He Has Done https://www.abible.com/devotions/2023/20230219-0934.html LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT https://abible.com/links/ |