Psalm 106 Explained
Psalm 106 tells the story of God’s faithfulness and Israel’s repeated disobedience. Although God’s people continually failed Him, God remained merciful, heard their cries and remembered His covenant.
1. Praise the Lord for His goodness — verses 1–5
The psalm begins:
“Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.”
God deserves our praise because His goodness and mercy never end. The writer asks God to remember him and allow him to share in the joy and salvation of His people.
2. Israel repeatedly forgot God — verses 6–12
The people sinned just as their ancestors had done. Although God performed mighty miracles in Egypt, they quickly forgot them. At the Red Sea they doubted God, but He rescued them, divided the waters and delivered them from their enemies. Then they believed His words and sang His praises.
3. They soon forgot His works — verses 13–33
Sadly, their faith did not last. They became impatient, complained and gave in to sinful desires. They envied Moses and Aaron, worshipped a golden calf and refused to trust God’s promise concerning the Promised Land.
At times God was ready to judge them, but Moses stood before Him and pleaded for mercy. This reminds us of Jesus Christ, who intercedes for those who trust in Him.
4. They copied the sins of other nations — verses 34–43
After entering the Promised Land, the Israelites failed to obey God completely. They mixed with surrounding nations, worshipped idols and followed wicked practices. Their sin placed them in spiritual bondage and brought great suffering.
This warns us not to allow the values of the world to replace our devotion to God.
5. God heard their cries — verses 44–46
Despite everything they had done, God showed compassion:
“Nevertheless he regarded their affliction, when he heard their cry.”
God remembered His covenant and showed mercy. His discipline was real, but His love had not disappeared. Whenever His people genuinely cried out to Him, He listened.
6. A prayer for restoration — verses 47–48
The psalm ends with a prayer asking God to gather and save His people so that they may praise His holy name.
The main message
Psalm 106 shows us that:
- Human beings are quick to forget God’s goodness.
- Sin brings bondage, sorrow and painful consequences.
- God is faithful even when His people fail.
- God hears those who sincerely repent and call upon Him.
- We should continually remember, thank and praise the Lord.
Psalm 106 is not merely a record of Israel’s failures—it is also a wonderful testimony to the patience, mercy and covenant love of God. We may fail the Lord, but when we confess our sins and return to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us through Jesus Christ.
“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye the Lord.” — Psalm 106:48
GOD IS A GOOD GOD
GOD KNOWS, GOD LOVES, GOD CARES
Written for Georges Web Ministries.com
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17th August 2016