Give Thanks to the Lord: Experiencing God’s Enduring Love in Psalm 136

✨ Executive Summary

Psalm 136 is a powerful hymn of thanksgiving, overflowing with gratitude for God’s countless acts of creation, deliverance, and provision. The recurring refrain, “For His mercy endures forever,” serves as a constant reminder of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. This psalm, often used in liturgical settings, invites us to reflect on the historical context of Israel’s journey, from the Exodus to their inheritance in the Promised Land, and to recognize God’s hand in every aspect of our own lives. Through a verse-by-verse commentary, we will explore the profound theological implications of this psalm, drawing upon Patristic insights and Coptic Orthodox traditions to deepen our understanding of God’s enduring love and learn how to give thanks to the Lord in all circumstances.

Psalm 136 is a song of pure gratitude, each verse echoing the fundamental truth of God’s unwavering love. Let us delve into the depths of this beautiful hymn, exploring its historical roots, theological significance, and practical applications for our modern lives, so that we may truly give thanks to the Lord for His enduring mercy.

📖 Commentary Sections

Psalm 136:1

Original Hebrew: הוֹדוּ לַיהוָה כִּי־טוֹב כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ

KJV: O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

NKJV: Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.

The psalm begins with a direct call to action: “Give thanks to the Lord.” This is not merely a suggestion, but a command. The reason given is simple yet profound: “for He is good.” This goodness is not a fleeting attribute, but an essential part of God’s very being. The refrain, “For His mercy endures forever,” immediately establishes the psalm’s central theme – God’s unwavering chesed (חֶסֶד), often translated as loving-kindness, mercy, or steadfast love. This verse sets the tone for the entire psalm, emphasizing the foundational importance of gratitude in our relationship with God.

St. Basil the Great, in his homily on Psalm 33, writes: “Ἡ γὰρ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ ἀένναος πηγή, ἀεὶ ῥέουσα καὶ ποτίζουσα τὰς ψυχὰς τῶν πιστῶν” (He gar charis tou Theou aennāos pēgē, aei rheousa kai potizousa tas psychas tōn pistōn) – “For the grace of God is an ever-flowing spring, constantly flowing and watering the souls of the faithful.” (Basil, Homilia in Psalmum 33, PG 29:325). This highlights the inexhaustible nature of God’s grace, mirroring the psalm’s refrain. Remember, you can find resources to help you learn more about spirituality and faith, even free resources, at resources.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a daily practice of gratitude. Start each day by thanking God for His goodness and mercy, even in the midst of challenges. Recognizing His presence in our lives transforms our perspective and strengthens our faith.

Psalm 136:2-3

Original Hebrew: הוֹדוּ לֵאלֹהֵי הָאֱלֹהִים כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ הוֹדוּ לַאֲדֹנֵי הָאֲדֹנִים כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ

KJV: O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.

NKJV: Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His mercy endures forever. Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever.

These verses emphasize God’s supreme authority and sovereignty. He is not merely a god among gods, but the “God of gods,” the ultimate source of all power and authority. Similarly, He is the “Lord of lords,” ruling over all earthly rulers and dominions. This assertion of God’s supremacy reinforces the idea that He is worthy of our utmost reverence and thanksgiving. The repetition of the refrain underscores the unchanging nature of His merciful rule.

St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Gospel of John, writes: “Οὐκ ἔστιν ἕτερος Θεὸς παρὰ τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν, ὁ ὢν ἐπὶ πάντων Θεὸς εὐλογητός εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας.” (Ouk estin heteros Theos para ton Kyrion hēmōn Iēsoun Christon, ho ōn epi pantōn Theos eulogētos eis tous aiōnas.) – “There is no other God besides our Lord Jesus Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever.” (Cyril of Alexandria, Commentarii in Ioannis Evangelium, Book 1, Chapter 9). This affirms the unique and supreme divinity of Christ within the Trinity.

Spiritual Application: Acknowledge God’s authority in every area of your life. Surrender your will to His, trusting that His plans are always for your ultimate good. Remembering His sovereignty helps us to navigate life’s challenges with faith and confidence.

Psalm 136:4-9

Original Hebrew: לְעֹשֵׂה נִפְלָאוֹת גְּדֹלוֹת לְבַדּוֹ כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ לְעֹשֵׂה הַשָּׁמַיִם בִּתְבוּנָה כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ לְרֹקַע הָאָרֶץ עַל־הַמָּיִם כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ לְעֹשֵׂה אוֹרִים גְּדֹלִים כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ אֶת־הַשֶּׁמֶשׁ לְמֶמְשֶׁלֶת בַּיּוֹם כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ אֶת־הַיָּרֵחַ וְכוֹכָבִים לְמֶמְשֶׁלֶת בַּלָּיְלָה כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ

KJV: To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever: The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever: The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever.

NKJV: To Him who alone does great wonders, For His mercy endures forever; To Him who by wisdom made the heavens, For His mercy endures forever; To Him who laid out the earth above the waters, For His mercy endures forever; To Him who made great lights, For His mercy endures forever— The sun to rule by day, For His mercy endures forever; The moon and stars to rule by night, For His mercy endures forever.

These verses celebrate God as the Creator of the universe. He is the one “who alone does great wonders,” highlighting the uniqueness of His creative power. The psalm specifically mentions the creation of the heavens, the earth, the sun, the moon, and the stars, emphasizing the order and intentionality of God’s creation. “By wisdom,” God created the heavens, demonstrating that His creative acts are not arbitrary but are guided by divine intelligence. The stretching out of the earth above the waters refers to the separation of land and sea, a fundamental act in preparing the earth for life. These verses underscore God’s power, wisdom, and care in creating the world we inhabit.

St. Augustine, in his *Confessions*, reflects on the wonder of creation: “Interroga terram, interroga mare, interroga aera, interroga celum, interroga universa: respondent tibi quod fecerunt illa. Mutat aspectum suum terra, mutat aspectum suum mare, mutat aspectum suum aer, mutat aspectum suum celum, mutat aspectum suum universitas rerum: sed non mutat aspectum suum creator.” (“Question the earth, question the sea, question the air, question the sky, question everything: they answer you that they did not make themselves. The earth changes its appearance, the sea changes its appearance, the air changes its appearance, the sky changes its appearance, the whole universe of things changes its appearance: but their Creator does not change his appearance.”) (Augustine, *Confessiones*, Book 10, Chapter 6). This highlights the unchanging nature of the Creator in contrast to the ever-changing creation.

Spiritual Application: Appreciate the beauty and order of creation as a reflection of God’s glory. Take time to observe the natural world, marveling at its complexity and design. Remember that God’s creative power is still at work in the world today, sustaining and renewing all things.

Psalm 136:10-15

Original Hebrew: לְמַכֵּה מִצְרַיִם בִּבְכוֹרֵיהֶם כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וַיּוֹצֵא יִשְׂרָאֵל מִתּוֹכָם כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ בְּיָד חֲזָקָה וּבִזְרוֹעַ נְטוּיָה כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ לְגֹזֵר יַם־סוּף לִגְזָרִים כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וְהֶעֱבִיר יִשְׂרָאֵל בְּתוֹכוֹ כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וְנִעֵר פַּרְעֹה וְחֵילוֹ בְיַם־סוּף כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ

KJV: To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever: And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever: With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever: And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever: But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever.

NKJV: To Him who struck Egypt in their firstborn, For His mercy endures forever; And brought out Israel from among them, For His mercy endures forever; With a strong hand, and with an outstretched arm, For His mercy endures forever; To Him who divided the Red Sea in two, For His mercy endures forever; And made Israel pass through the midst of it, For His mercy endures forever; But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea, For His mercy endures forever.

These verses recount the pivotal event of the Exodus, when God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The striking of Egypt’s firstborn was a devastating judgment, demonstrating God’s power over the Egyptians and His commitment to His people. God brought Israel out of Egypt “with a strong hand and with an outstretched arm,” emphasizing the might and sovereignty of His intervention. The dividing of the Red Sea was a miraculous act that allowed the Israelites to escape their pursuers, while the drowning of Pharaoh and his army symbolized the complete defeat of their oppressors. These events serve as a powerful reminder of God’s ability to deliver His people from any form of bondage.

The story of the Exodus is central to Coptic Orthodox theology, representing God’s liberation of humanity from the bondage of sin. The crossing of the Red Sea is often seen as a prefigurement of baptism, where believers are cleansed from sin and enter into a new life in Christ.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s power to deliver you from your own “Egypts” – the struggles, addictions, and oppressive circumstances that hold you captive. Remember that just as He delivered Israel, He can and will deliver you, if you trust in Him.

Psalm 136:16-22

Original Hebrew: לְמוֹלִיךְ עַמּוֹ בַּמִּדְבָּר כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ לְמַכֵּה מְלָכִים גְּדֹלִים כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וַיַּהֲרֹג מְלָכִים אַדִּירִים כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ לְסִיחוֹן מֶלֶךְ הָאֱמֹרִי כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וּלְעוֹג מֶלֶךְ הַבָּשָׁן כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וְנָתַן אַרְצָם לְנַחֲלָה כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ נַחֲלָה לְיִשְׂרָאֵל עַבְדּוֹ כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ

KJV: To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever: And Og king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever: And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever: Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever.

NKJV: To Him who led His people through the wilderness, For His mercy endures forever; To Him who struck down great kings, For His mercy endures forever; And slew famous kings, For His mercy endures forever; Sihon king of the Amorites, For His mercy endures forever; And Og king of Bashan, For His mercy endures forever; And gave their land as a heritage, For His mercy endures forever; A heritage to Israel His servant, For His mercy endures forever.

These verses highlight God’s guidance and protection of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. He “led His people through the wilderness,” providing for their needs and protecting them from danger. The psalm also celebrates God’s victories over powerful kings, such as Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan, who opposed Israel’s progress. God’s defeat of these kings paved the way for Israel to inherit the Promised Land, fulfilling His promises to Abraham and his descendants. The wilderness was a harsh environment, likely similar in vegetation and environmental composition to portions of the Sinai Peninsula today. This section highlights that our God is greater than any obstacle.

Spiritual Application: Recognize God’s guidance in your own life’s journey, even when you feel lost or uncertain. Trust that He will provide for your needs and protect you from harm. Remember that He is able to overcome any obstacle that stands in your way.

Psalm 136:23-26

Original Hebrew: שֶׁבְּשִׁפְלֵנוּ זָכַר לָנוּ כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ וַיִּפְרְקֵנוּ מִצָּרֵינוּ כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ נֹתֵן לֶחֶם לְכָל־בָּשָׂר כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ׃ הוֹדוּ לְאֵל הַשָּׁמָיִם כִּי לְעוֹלָם חַסְדּוֹ

KJV: Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever: And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.

NKJV: Who remembered us in our lowly state, For His mercy endures forever; And redeemed us from our enemies, For His mercy endures forever; Who gives food to all flesh, For His mercy endures forever. Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven! For His mercy endures forever.

These final verses emphasize God’s compassion and provision for all of creation. He “remembered us in our lowly state,” acknowledging our vulnerability and need for His help. He “redeemed us from our enemies,” both physical and spiritual, offering us salvation and freedom. God “gives food to all flesh,” sustaining all living beings with His abundant provision. The psalm concludes with a final call to “give thanks unto the God of heaven,” reaffirming the central theme of gratitude and praise for God’s enduring mercy.

St. John Chrysostom, in his homilies on the Gospel of Matthew, writes: “Μέγας ὁ Θεὸς καὶ θαυμαστὸς ἐν τοῖς ἔργοις αὐτοῦ.” (Megas ho Theos kai thaumastos en tois ergois autou.) – “Great is God and wonderful in His works.” (John Chrysostom, *Homiliae in Matthaeum*, Homily 15.8). This echoes the psalm’s celebration of God’s mighty and wonderful deeds.

Spiritual Application: Trust in God’s unfailing love and provision, knowing that He cares for you in every circumstance. Offer Him thanks for His countless blessings, both great and small. Remember that He is the source of all good things, and His mercy endures forever.

🤔 Reflections on God’s Enduring Love

Psalm 136 provides a framework for understanding and appreciating God’s steadfast love. Consider these reflections:

• God’s love is active: It’s not a passive feeling but an active force demonstrated through creation, deliverance, and provision.
• God’s love is constant: The repeated refrain emphasizes the unchanging nature of His mercy.
• God’s love is personal: He remembers us in our low estate and redeems us from our enemies.
• God’s love is universal: He provides for all of creation, demonstrating His care for every living being.
• Gratitude is essential: The psalm emphasizes the importance of expressing our thankfulness to God for His enduring love.
• His love is a source of strength: Knowing that God’s love endures forever empowers us to face challenges with faith and hope.

❓ FAQ

Q: Why is the refrain repeated in Psalm 136?
A: The repetition emphasizes the unchanging nature of God’s love and mercy. It serves as a constant reminder of His faithfulness and invites us to continually express our gratitude.

Q: How does Psalm 136 relate to the New Testament?
A: The New Testament reveals that God’s enduring love is perfectly manifested in Jesus Christ. His sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s mercy and redemption. The themes of deliverance and provision found in Psalm 136 are echoed in the New Testament’s teachings on salvation and eternal life.

Q: How can I apply the teachings of Psalm 136 in my daily life?
A: Cultivate a daily practice of gratitude, recognizing God’s blessings in every aspect of your life. Trust in His provision and protection, even in the midst of challenges. Remember that His love endures forever and that He is always with you.

Q: What does “chesed” mean?
A: Chesed (חֶסֶד) is a Hebrew word that encompasses loving-kindness, mercy, steadfast love, and faithfulness. It describes God’s unwavering commitment to His people and His gracious provision for their needs.

🕊️ Conclusion

Psalm 136 is more than just a historical recounting; it’s an invitation to experience God’s enduring love personally. As we meditate on the verses, the acts of creation, the Exodus, and the provision in the wilderness become mirrors reflecting God’s unwavering faithfulness in our own lives. We are reminded that in moments of darkness, despair, or uncertainty, we can always anchor ourselves in the truth that God’s mercy endures forever. Therefore, let us cultivate an attitude of constant gratitude, allowing the spirit of Psalm 136 to permeate our hearts, transforming us into living testaments to God’s boundless love. Let us give thanks to the Lord, not just with our words, but with our entire lives, reflecting His goodness and mercy to the world around us.

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Thanksgiving, gratitude, God’s love, mercy, steadfast love, creation, Exodus, deliverance, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic, faithfulness, provision

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Explore Psalm 136 verse-by-verse: Unlock deeper insights into God’s enduring love and find daily inspiration to give thanks to the Lord. Coptic Orthodox perspective included.