Psalms 107:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 107:21
21 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
Chapter Context
Psalms 107 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, obedience, mercy. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 107:21
21 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
Analysis
This is the third occurrence of the refrain (see vv. 8, 15). After the healing scenario, it again calls for thanksgiving. The consistency demonstrates that all of God's deliverances—from lostness, imprisonment, or sickness—equally merit praise. God's wonderful works encompass diverse forms of salvation, but all proceed from His goodness and covenant love (chesed). The repeated call suggests that praise is both duty and delight: redeemed people should overflow with thanksgiving for God's saving works.
Historical Context
In post-exilic worship, this liturgical refrain created rhythm for thanksgiving. Testimonies of various deliverances (geographical, political, physical) all culminated in the same response: praise for God's goodness. This pattern continues in Christian worship—diverse testimonies of salvation, healing, provision, and deliverance all lead to unified doxology. Heaven's worship follows this pattern: diverse redeemed peoples singing unified praise (Revelation 5:9-10; 7:9-12).
Reflection
- Why does every form of God's deliverance merit the same response of praise?
- How can diverse testimonies create unity in worship?
- What role should thanksgiving play in response to God's wonderful works in our lives?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 107:8