Psalm 106:46

He made them objects of compassion to all who held them captive.

Study Bible

He made them
This phrase indicates divine intervention and sovereignty. The Hebrew root here is "נתן" (natan), meaning "to give" or "to make." It emphasizes God's active role in the lives of His people. Historically, this reflects God's consistent pattern of intervening on behalf of Israel, even when they were in exile or under oppression. It underscores the belief that God is not distant but intimately involved in the affairs of His people.

objects of compassion
The Hebrew word for "compassion" is "רחמים" (rachamim), which conveys deep mercy and tender love. This phrase suggests that God instilled a sense of mercy in the hearts of their captors. In a broader scriptural context, this reflects God's character as merciful and compassionate, as seen throughout the Old Testament. It serves as a reminder that even in judgment or discipline, God's mercy is present, and He can turn the hearts of others to show kindness to His people.

to all who held them captive
This phrase refers to the foreign nations or individuals who had taken Israel into captivity. The historical context here is likely the Babylonian or Assyrian exiles, where Israelites were taken from their homeland. The phrase highlights God's ability to influence even those who do not know Him, turning their hearts to favor His people. It is a testament to God's omnipotence and His ability to work through any situation for the good of His people, as echoed in Romans 8:28. This serves as an encouragement that no matter the circumstances, God can bring about favor and compassion from unexpected sources.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
God's chosen people who often found themselves in captivity due to their disobedience and idolatry.

2. Captors
Various nations and peoples who held the Israelites in captivity, such as the Egyptians, Babylonians, and Assyrians.

3. God's Compassion
The divine intervention where God stirred the hearts of the captors to show mercy to the Israelites.

4. Exile
The period when the Israelites were taken from their homeland and lived under foreign rule.

5. Return from Exile
The eventual restoration and return of the Israelites to their land, facilitated by God's compassion.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Hearts
God has the power to influence the hearts of even those who do not know Him, as seen in His ability to make captors show compassion.

The Role of Repentance
The Israelites' return to God often preceded His acts of compassion, highlighting the importance of repentance in our relationship with Him.

Hope in Captivity
Even in dire circumstances, believers can trust that God is working behind the scenes to bring about His purposes and show mercy.

Intercessory Prayer
Like Nehemiah, believers should pray for God's favor and compassion in difficult situations, trusting in His ability to change hearts.

God's Faithfulness
Despite Israel's repeated disobedience, God remained faithful to His covenant, reminding us of His unwavering commitment to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Psalm 106:46 demonstrate God's sovereignty over the hearts of people, even those who do not follow Him?

2. In what ways can we see the importance of repentance in the lives of the Israelites, and how can this be applied to our own lives?

3. How can the concept of God's compassion in captivity provide hope and encouragement in our current struggles?

4. What role does intercessory prayer play in seeking God's compassion and favor, and how can we incorporate this into our daily lives?

5. How does God's faithfulness to the Israelites, despite their disobedience, encourage us in our walk with Him today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:7-10
God's compassion is evident when He hears the cries of the Israelites in Egypt and decides to deliver them.

Nehemiah 1:11
Nehemiah prays for compassion in the sight of the king, showing reliance on God's ability to influence the hearts of rulers.

Daniel 1:9
God grants Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the Babylonian officials, illustrating His control over the hearts of captors.

Isaiah 49:13
The prophet Isaiah speaks of God's compassion and comfort for His people, reinforcing the theme of divine mercy.