Psalms 107:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 107:8
8 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 sacrifice, mercy, holiness. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 107:8
8 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
Analysis
This is the psalm's first refrain (repeated in vv. 15, 21, 31). 'Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness' is both wish and exhortation—expressing desire that people would respond appropriately to God's goodness. 'Praise' (yadah, יָדָה) means to give thanks, confess, acknowledge. 'For his goodness' points to God's character as motivation. 'And for his wonderful works to the children of men' adds God's deeds toward humanity. The refrain emphasizes that God's redemptive acts toward humanity deserve public thanksgiving. The 'Oh that' suggests that proper praise is rare—most don't adequately thank God despite His goodness and works. This rebukes human ingratitude.
Historical Context
Each occurrence of this refrain follows a deliverance scenario, calling for appropriate response. Throughout Scripture, God's mighty acts are meant to evoke worship (Exodus 15; Judges 5; 2 Samuel 22). Yet humans characteristically fail to thank God adequately (Luke 17:17-18). The psalm's repeated refrain hammers home that experiencing God's deliverance demands thanksgiving, which many neglect.
Reflection
- Why do people fail to adequately praise God despite His goodness and works?
- What is the relationship between experiencing God's deliverance and giving thanks?
- How can we cultivate a lifestyle of continual thanksgiving for God's wonderful works?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Psalms 78:4, 107:15, 107:21, 107:31, 147:1, Isaiah 63:7
- References Lord: Psalms 111:4
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 32:29, Daniel 6:27