“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble”

(Psalm 107:1–2, ESV)

The pattern of Psalm 107 is particularly easy to see in the English Standard Version with the word “Some” in vv. 4, 10, 17, 23. Each section reveals a situation that “some” people encounter in life:

• Some wander in the wilderness and are doomed to death (vv. 4-9)
• Some are enslaved and sit in darkness. (vv. 10-16)
• Some have invited destruction and death as the consequence of their sin (vv. 17-22)
• Some faced near death as they went about their dangerous vocation as sailors upon story seas (vv. 23-30).

In every instance, whether self-inflicted or providential, the Lord responded with “steadfast love” toward his people because he is the faithful, covenant-keeping God. That is how the Lord God Almighty acted toward Israel, and that is how he responds to his Bride, the Church.

The question for you, if you are a Christian: how do you respond when God has acted? So many times we are vocal in our cries, our needs, and our complaints, and yet we are silent in our praises to the Lord for his goodness to us. We call people, we post to Facebook, we tell our church prayer groups and we tell friends of our need. But when God answers? Crickets.

As verses 1-2 say, let us give thanks to the Lord for his goodness, and let all those who are Redeemed, say so! What is your reason for giving thanks? And have you been as vocal in your praise as you have been in your complaint and cries for help?

I invite you to share your praises in the comments how the Lord has recently answered your prayers so that you might encourage others who are still seeking answers.