Remember His Lovingkindness

“We all face various trials at different times in our lives (1 Pet. 1:5-7). God’s promise is that He is always with us and that He works all things for good for those who love Him (Rom. 8:28).” -Christopher Reeves

Psalm 107 begins the fifth book of the Psalms with a reminder of the lovingkindness of God. It is thought that this Psalm was written after the return of the Jews from their captivity in Babylon to the land of Israel. Six times in this Psalm the writer talks about the lovingkindness of the Lord. Four of these times he says, “Let them give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness, and for His wonderful acts to the sons of men” (Ps. 107: 8, 15, 21, 31).

The word translated as “lovingkindness” is hesed, which denotes loyal love, faithfulness, and kindness. According to George Robinson, hessed “…represents the generous, benevolent side of God, the quality of unconditional Divine Love. Hesed is often translated in this context as ‘love,’ ‘compassion,’ or ‘grace.’” The last verse of Psalm 107 encourages us to always remember the lovingkindness of God.

Psalm 107 also recounts examples of the Lord delivering His people from various troubles. He gathers them from the nations, He satisfies the hungry and thirsty, and He releases those who are imprisoned. When His people are oppressed because of rebellion or sin, He comes to their aid when they turn and call upon His name. He calms the oceans, makes the wilderness a fruitful land, and brings the needy out of their affliction and sets them in a secure and blessed place.

We all face various trials at different times in our lives (1 Pet. 1:5–7). God’s promise is that He is always with us and that He works all things for good for those who love Him (Rom. 8:28). It is here that we remember what the Psalmist tells us: “Who is wise? Let him give heed to these things and consider the loving kindnesses of the Lord” (Ps 107:43).

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1. Robinson, George. Essential Judaism: A Complete Guide to Beliefs, Customs & Rituals (pp. 377-378). Atria Books. Kindle Edition.