Psalm 107:6

Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress.

Study Bible

Then they cried out
This phrase captures a moment of desperation and earnest appeal. The Hebrew root for "cried out" is "זָעַק" (za'aq), which conveys a sense of a loud call or a cry for help. In the biblical context, this cry is not just a vocal expression but a deep, heartfelt plea to God. Historically, the Israelites often found themselves in situations where their only recourse was to call upon the Lord. This act of crying out signifies a recognition of human limitation and a turning towards divine intervention. It is a reminder that in times of distress, God hears the cries of His people.

to the LORD
The term "LORD" in this context is derived from the Hebrew "יהוה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God revealed to Moses. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenantal faithfulness. By crying out to the LORD, the psalmist emphasizes a personal relationship with God, who is not distant but intimately involved in the lives of His people. The use of "LORD" underscores the belief in a God who is both powerful and compassionate, ready to respond to the needs of His covenant people.

in their trouble
The word "trouble" here is translated from the Hebrew "צָרָה" (tsarah), which refers to distress, adversity, or affliction. This term is often used in the Old Testament to describe situations of extreme difficulty or danger. The historical context of Israel is replete with instances of such troubles, whether due to external enemies, natural disasters, or internal strife. This phrase acknowledges the reality of suffering in the human experience and the need for divine assistance. It serves as a reminder that God is a refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.

and He delivered them
The verb "delivered" comes from the Hebrew "נָצַל" (natsal), meaning to rescue, save, or snatch away. This action is a testament to God's power and willingness to intervene on behalf of His people. Throughout the Bible, God is portrayed as a deliverer, from the Exodus narrative to the deliverance of individuals like David. This phrase assures believers of God's ability to rescue them from their dire circumstances. It is a promise of hope and redemption, illustrating that no situation is beyond God's saving power.

from their distress
The word "distress" is similar to "trouble" and is translated from the Hebrew "מְצוּקָה" (metsuqah), which also denotes anguish or hardship. This repetition emphasizes the severity of the situation from which God delivers His people. The historical and scriptural context shows that God's deliverance often leads to a transformation of circumstances, turning mourning into joy and despair into hope. This phrase encourages believers to trust in God's deliverance, knowing that He is faithful to bring them out of their distress and into a place of peace and security.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The primary audience of the Psalm, representing God's chosen people who often found themselves in distress due to disobedience but were delivered by God when they cried out to Him.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is faithful to deliver His people when they call upon Him in times of trouble.

3. Distress
The various situations of hardship and suffering faced by the Israelites, which could include physical danger, captivity, or spiritual desolation.

4. Deliverance
The act of God rescuing His people from their troubles, demonstrating His power and faithfulness.

5. Crying Out
The act of prayer and supplication, where the Israelites turn to God in their time of need, acknowledging their dependence on Him.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool for believers. When we cry out to God, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and invite His intervention in our lives.

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to deliver His people. Just as He delivered the Israelites, He is willing and able to deliver us from our troubles today.

Repentance and Humility
True deliverance often begins with a heart of repentance and humility. We must recognize our need for God and turn to Him sincerely.

God's Compassion
God is compassionate and attentive to the cries of His people. He is not distant or indifferent but is actively involved in our lives.

Trust in God's Timing
Deliverance may not always come immediately, but we can trust in God's perfect timing and His plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some specific situations in your life where you have cried out to God in distress? How did He respond?

2. How does the concept of deliverance in Psalm 107:6 relate to the deliverance offered through Jesus Christ in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we cultivate a heart of humility and repentance in our daily walk with God?

4. How can the accounts of deliverance in the Bible, such as those in Psalm 107, encourage us in our current struggles?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that prayer becomes our first response in times of trouble rather than our last resort?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:7-8
God hears the cries of the Israelites in Egypt and delivers them, showing His compassion and power.

2 Chronicles 7:14
The promise that if God's people humble themselves and pray, He will hear from heaven and heal their land, emphasizing the importance of turning to God in repentance and prayer.

Jonah 2:2
Jonah's prayer from the belly of the fish, where he cries out to God in distress and is delivered, illustrating God's readiness to save those who call on Him.

James 5:13
Encourages believers to pray when in trouble, reinforcing the idea that God listens to and acts on behalf of those who seek Him.