Psalms 107:20

Authorized King James Version

He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִשְׁלַ֣ח

H7971

He sent

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

דְּ֭בָרוֹ

H1697

his word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

וְיִרְפָּאֵ֑ם

H7495

and healed

properly, to mend (by stitching), i.e., (figuratively) to cure

וִֽ֝ימַלֵּ֗ט

H4422

them and delivered

properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn

מִשְּׁחִיתוֹתָֽם׃

H7825

them from their destructions

a pit-fall (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?