◄ Psalm 136 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
His Loving Devotion Endures Forever (2 Chronicles 7:1–3) 1Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His loving devotion endures forever. 2Give thanks to the God of gods. His loving devotion endures forever. 3Give thanks to the Lord of lords. His loving devotion endures forever. 4He alone does great wonders. His loving devotion endures forever. 5By His insight He made the heavens. His loving devotion endures forever. 6He spread out the earth upon the waters. His loving devotion endures forever. 7He made the great lights— His loving devotion endures forever. 8the sun to rule the day, His loving devotion endures forever. 9the moon and stars to govern the night. His loving devotion endures forever. 10He struck down the firstborn of Egypt His loving devotion endures forever. 11and brought Israel out from among them His loving devotion endures forever. 12with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. His loving devotion endures forever. 13He divided the Red Seaa in two His loving devotion endures forever. 14and led Israel through the midst, His loving devotion endures forever. 15but sweptb Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea. His loving devotion endures forever. 16He led His people through the wilderness. His loving devotion endures forever. 17He struck down great kings His loving devotion endures forever. 18and slaughtered mighty kings— His loving devotion endures forever. 19Sihon king of the Amorites His loving devotion endures forever. 20and Og king of Bashan— His loving devotion endures forever. 21and He gave their land as an inheritance, His loving devotion endures forever. 22a heritage to His servant Israel. His loving devotion endures forever. 23He remembered us in our low estate His loving devotion endures forever. 24and freed us from our enemies. His loving devotion endures forever. 25He gives food to every creature. His loving devotion endures forever. 26Give thanks to the God of heaven! His loving devotion endures forever. Footnotes: 13 a Or the Sea of Reeds; also in verse 15 15 b Hebrew shook off Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 136 Summary His Loving Devotion Endures Forever Verses 1–3 – Call to Give Thanks A triple summons rings out to thank “the LORD,” “the God of gods,” and “the Lord of lords,” anchoring all worship in God’s supreme goodness and constant, loyal love. Verses 4–9 – Wonders in Creation The psalmist looks up and around: the heavens, the earth, the sun, moon, and stars. Each marvel is traced directly to God’s wise power, and every line ends with the same heartbeat, “His loving devotion endures forever.” Verses 10–15 – Deliverance from Egypt From the Passover night to the parting of the Red Sea and the drowning of Pharaoh’s army, Israel’s defining rescue is retold. The refrain makes clear that love, not luck, split the waters. Verses 16–22 – Guidance to the Promised Land Across wilderness wastes and against towering kings—Sihon and Og—God shepherds His people, then hands them land as their own inheritance. Verses 23–24 – Care for His People The psalm zooms in on personal memory: “He remembered us in our low estate” and “freed us from our enemies.” Collective history becomes individual testimony. Verses 25–26 – Universal Provision and Final Praise Bread for “every creature” and a closing call to thank “the God of heaven” widen the frame to include all life on earth, then lift every gaze upward one last time. Psalm 136, part of the fifth book of the Psalter, serves as a hymn of thanksgiving, continually reminding its readers of God's steadfast love. The psalm chronicles God's mighty acts—from the act of creation to the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt—through a series of historic and creation events. It is unique in its repetitive structure, each verse being followed by the refrain: "For His mercy endures forever." Structure and Repetition Psalm 136 is built around a refrain: “His loving devotion endures forever” (repeated 26 times). This pattern turns the psalm into a responsive litany, likely sung antiphonally at the temple (Ezra 3:11). The rhythm teaches truth through repetition, letting worshipers embed theology in memory. Historical Setting Although anonymous, the psalm reflects the post-exilic community’s need to recall God’s past acts to strengthen present faith (compare Nehemiah 9). The references to kings Sihon and Og (Numbers 21:21-35) and the Red Sea deliverance (Exodus 14) highlight a national account every Israelite child would know. Archaeological Glimpses • The “Red Sea” (v. 13): Egyptian records speak of the “Yam Suph”—marshy regions near the Gulf of Suez—supporting the biblical route. • Sihon and Og’s domains: Basalt ruins in the Hauran and Golan still feature massive Iron-Age walls, matching Deuteronomy 3:11’s note that Og’s bed was made of iron, suggesting formidable opponents. • Temple worship: Ostraca from Kuntillet ‘Ajrud (8th century BC) include inscriptions invoking “Yahweh of Samaria,” indicating sing-song refrains were a normal feature of Hebrew devotion long before the exile. The Refrain: God’s Loyal Love The Hebrew word behind “loving devotion” (ḥesed) blends steadfast affection, promise-keeping, and mercy. Other verses where it shines: • Exodus 34:6 – “abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness” • Lamentations 3:22 – “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed” The psalmist insists that every historical fact is framed by this love. Creation and Covenant Linked Verses 4–9 echo Genesis 1. The same God who formed light (Genesis 1:3) later formed Israel (Deuteronomy 32:6). Scripture repeatedly ties creation power to covenant faithfulness (Isaiah 40:26-31; Jeremiah 31:35-37). If God keeps the sun on schedule, He will keep His promises. Exodus Motifs Key action verbs—“struck,” “brought out,” “divided,” “led”—mirror Exodus 6:6-8. Psalm 136 condenses the ten plagues into the decisive blow: the death of the firstborn. By spotlighting the climax, it underscores redemption rather than judgment. Conquest and Inheritance Numbers 21 and Deuteronomy 2–3 recount Israel bypassing Edom and Moab, then defeating Sihon and Og. Psalm 136 strings these battles together to show seamless divine strategy. Joshua 13:12-33 completes the inheritance theme, fulfilling God’s word to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). God’s Care for “Low Estate” The phrase in v. 23 reappears in Mary’s song, Luke 1:48 – “He has looked with favor on the humble state of His servant.” The psalm anticipates how God notices the small and the struggling, ultimately expressed in Christ’s ministry to the poor (Matthew 11:5). Universal Provision Verse 25 states, “He gives food to every creature.” This resonates with Psalm 145:15-16 and Matthew 6:26. The psalmist’s world is not separated into sacred and secular; every meal is a witness to enduring love. Worship Through the Ages • Second Temple liturgy: Jewish tradition calls Psalm 136 the “Great Hallel,” sung at Passover and major feasts. • Early Church: Eusebius notes that believers adapted the refrain into Eucharistic prayers. • Modern hymns: The chorus “Forever God is faithful” (Chris Tomlin) echoes the psalm word-for-word. Practical Application 1. Repetition anchors truth—use Scripture refrains to train your heart. 2. Link personal gratitude to God’s big acts in history; the God of the Exodus is the God of today’s rescue. 3. Say grace with Psalm 136:25 in mind, turning everyday meals into moments of praise. 4. Let creation spark worship; sunrise is not a routine event but a daily reminder that “His loving devotion endures forever.” Connections to Other Scriptures • Thanksgiving: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – “Give thanks in all circumstances.” • Covenant Memory: Psalm 105 and 106 parallel Psalm 136, forming a trilogy of historical praise. • Eternal Love: Romans 8:38-39 confirms the refrain on the far side of the cross—nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God.” Messianic Echoes While the psalm never names the Messiah, its themes—deliverance, covenant love, kingship—find their climax in Jesus. Just as verse 23 speaks of remembering “us,” Luke 22:19 shows Christ remembering His own in the bread and cup. The “God of heaven” thanked in verse 26 is the Father who sends the Son (John 3:16). Closing Thought Every line of Psalm 136 rises and falls on one unbreakable truth: “His loving devotion endures forever.” History, nature, and personal accounts all agree—God’s love does not run out; it runs after us. Connections to Additional Scriptures Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! 1 Chronicles 16:34 Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever. Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Teaching Points God's Enduring Love Each verse of Psalm 136 ends with the refrain, His loving devotion endures forever, emphasizing the eternal and unchanging nature of God's love. Creation and Sovereignty Verses 4-9 highlight God's power in creation, reminding us that His love is evident in the world He has made. Deliverance and Protection Verses 10-16 recount God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, showcasing His protective love and faithfulness to His people. Provision and Guidance Verses 17-22 describe God's provision and guidance as He led Israel to the Promised Land, illustrating His care and commitment. Universal Call to Praise The psalm begins and ends with a call to give thanks to the Lord, inviting all believers to recognize and respond to His enduring love. Practical Applications Cultivate Gratitude Regularly reflect on God's enduring love and faithfulness in your life, fostering a heart of gratitude. Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, remember God's power in creation and His past deliverance, trusting in His sovereign plan. Seek God's Guidance Just as God guided Israel, seek His direction in your life, trusting in His provision and care. Share God's Love Use the refrain His loving devotion endures forever as a reminder to share God's love with others, demonstrating His faithfulness through your actions. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) Referred to as "the LORD" in the opening verse, Yahweh is the covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness. The psalm repeatedly acknowledges His enduring love and mighty acts. 2. God of gods This title highlights the supremacy of Yahweh over all other deities, affirming monotheism and the belief that He is the ultimate authority above any other so-called gods. 3. Lord of lords This title further emphasizes God's supreme authority, indicating that He is the highest ruler over all earthly and heavenly powers. 4. Him who alone does great wonders This refers to God as the sole performer of miraculous deeds, underscoring His unique power and ability to perform acts beyond human capability. 5. Him who made the heavens This acknowledges God as the Creator, the one who fashioned the heavens with wisdom, reflecting His role as the architect of the universe. 6. Him who spread out the earth upon the waters This description points to God's creative act of forming the earth, highlighting His control over the natural world. 7. Him who made the great lights This refers to God's creation of the celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars, which serve as signs and seasons for the earth. 8. The sun to rule the day The sun is personified as a ruler of the day, created by God to govern the daylight hours. 9. The moon and stars to govern the night Similarly, the moon and stars are described as governing the night, created by God to provide light and order during the nighttime. Places 1. Egypt Referred to in verse 10, Egypt is the land from which God delivered the Israelites. The Hebrew term "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim) is used, symbolizing the place of bondage and oppression from which God rescued His people. 2. Red Sea Mentioned in verses 13 and 15, the Red Sea is where God parted the waters to allow the Israelites to escape from the pursuing Egyptian army. The Hebrew "יַם-סוּף" (Yam Suph) is used, highlighting this miraculous event. 3. Wilderness Found in verse 16, the wilderness refers to the desert through which the Israelites journeyed for 40 years. The Hebrew word "מִדְבָּר" (midbar) is used, representing a place of testing and reliance on God's provision. 4. Sihon, king of the Amorites In verse 19, Sihon is mentioned as a king defeated by the Israelites. The land of the Amorites was east of the Jordan River, and this victory is a testament to God's power and faithfulness. 5. Og, king of Bashan Mentioned in verse 20, Og was another king defeated by the Israelites. Bashan was a region known for its strong warriors and fortified cities, and its defeat further demonstrated God's might. Events 1. Thanksgiving to God The psalm begins with a call to give thanks to the LORD, emphasizing His goodness and eternal loving devotion (Psalm 136:1). 2. God as the God of gods The psalm acknowledges God as the supreme deity above all other gods (Psalm 136:2). 3. God as the Lord of lords It further recognizes God as the ultimate authority over all lords (Psalm 136:3). 4. Creation of the Heavens The psalm praises God for creating the heavens with wisdom (Psalm 136:5). 5. Establishment of the Earth It acknowledges God's creation of the earth upon the waters (Psalm 136:6). 6. Creation of the Great Lights The psalm celebrates God's creation of the great lights, including the sun, moon, and stars (Psalm 136:7-9). 7. Deliverance from Egypt The psalm recounts God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, highlighting the striking down of the firstborn of Egypt (Psalm 136:10). 8. Exodus from Egypt It describes the bringing out of Israel from among the Egyptians with a mighty hand and outstretched arm (Psalm 136:11-12). 9. Parting of the Red Sea The psalm recalls the parting of the Red Sea, allowing Israel to pass through (Psalm 136:13-14). 10. Destruction of Pharaoh's Army It mentions the overthrow of Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea (Psalm 136:15). 11. Guidance through the Wilderness The psalm notes God's guidance of His people through the wilderness (Psalm 136:16). 12. Defeat of Great Kings It recounts the defeat of great kings, including Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan (Psalm 136:17-20). 13. Inheritance of the Promised Land The psalm celebrates the giving of the land as an inheritance to Israel, His servant (Psalm 136:21-22). 14. Remembrance in Low Estate It acknowledges God's remembrance of His people in their low estate (Psalm 136:23). 15. Rescue from Enemies The psalm praises God for rescuing His people from their foes (Psalm 136:24). 16. Provision of Food It recognizes God's provision of food for all living creatures (Psalm 136:25). 17. Final Call to Give Thanks The psalm concludes with a final call to give thanks to the God of heaven, reiterating His eternal loving devotion (Psalm 136:26). Throughout the psalm, the Hebrew word "חֶסֶד" (chesed) is used, often translated as "loving devotion" or "steadfast love," emphasizing God's enduring faithfulness and mercy. Lessons from Psalm 136 1. God's Love Endures Forever Psalm 136 is a beautiful reminder that God's love is eternal. Each verse in this psalm ends with the phrase, "His loving devotion endures forever" (Psalm 136:1). This repetition emphasizes the unchanging and everlasting nature of God's love. No matter the circumstances, His love remains constant, providing a foundation of hope and assurance in our lives. 2. Creation as a Testament to His Power The psalm begins by acknowledging God as the Creator of the universe. "He alone does great wonders" (Psalm 136:4). The vastness of the heavens and the earth is a testament to His power and creativity. Reflecting on creation can inspire awe and remind us of the greatness of God, encouraging us to trust in His ability to handle the challenges we face. 3. Deliverance from Adversity Psalm 136 recounts the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, highlighting God's intervention in times of trouble. "He brought Israel out from among them" (Psalm 136:11). This serves as a reminder that God is our deliverer, capable of rescuing us from any adversity. When we face difficulties, we can rely on His strength and faithfulness to see us through. 4. Guidance Through Life's Journey The psalm speaks of God leading His people through the wilderness. "He led His people through the wilderness" (Psalm 136:16). This illustrates God's guidance in our lives, even when the path seems uncertain. Trusting in His direction ensures that we are never alone, as He walks with us every step of the way. 5. Victory Over Challenges God's victories over powerful kings and nations are recounted in this psalm. "He struck down great kings" (Psalm 136:17). These victories remind us that no challenge is too great for God. With Him on our side, we can overcome obstacles and achieve victories in our own lives, knowing that His power is unmatched. 6. Provision in Times of Need The psalm highlights God's provision for His people. "He gives food to every creature" (Psalm 136:25). This assurance of provision encourages us to trust in God's ability to meet our needs. Whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, He is faithful to provide for us in every situation. 7. Gratitude as a Response to His Goodness Throughout Psalm 136, the call to give thanks is repeated. "Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good" (Psalm 136:1). Gratitude is a natural response to God's goodness and faithfulness. Cultivating a heart of thankfulness helps us focus on His blessings and fosters a positive outlook on life. 8. The Importance of Remembrance The psalm serves as a reminder to remember God's past deeds. "He remembered us in our low estate" (Psalm 136:23). Reflecting on His past faithfulness strengthens our faith and encourages us to trust Him with our future. Remembering His works helps us remain steadfast in our walk with Him. 9. The Universality of His Mercy God's mercy is extended to all creation. "His loving devotion endures forever" (Psalm 136:26). This universality of His mercy reminds us that His love is not limited by boundaries or conditions. It is available to everyone, inviting us to share His love and mercy with others. 10. Worship as a Lifestyle Psalm 136 is a call to worship, inviting us to praise God for His enduring love and mighty works. Worship is not just an activity but a lifestyle that acknowledges God's sovereignty and goodness. By incorporating worship into our daily lives, we align our hearts with His purposes and experience the fullness of His presence. Topics 1. Praise for God's Goodness and Mercy The psalm opens with a call to give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and enduring mercy. The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, ^chesed^) is central, emphasizing God's steadfast love. ^"Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:1) 2. Acknowledgment of God's Supremacy The psalm acknowledges God as the God of gods and Lord of lords, highlighting His supreme authority over all. ^"Give thanks to the God of gods. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:2) ^"Give thanks to the Lord of lords. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:3) 3. Creation as a Testament to God's Power The psalm recounts God's creation of the heavens, earth, and celestial bodies, demonstrating His power and wisdom. ^"He alone does great wonders. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:4) ^"By His insight He made the heavens. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:5) 4. Deliverance from Egypt The psalm reflects on God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, showcasing His mighty acts and faithfulness to His covenant people. ^"He brought Israel out from among them. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:11) 5. Miracles in the Wilderness The psalm recounts the miracles God performed in the wilderness, such as parting the Red Sea and leading His people safely through. ^"He divided the Red Sea in two. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:13) 6. Conquest of Canaan The psalm celebrates God's victories over powerful kings and nations, granting Israel the Promised Land. ^"He struck down great kings. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:17) 7. God's Provision and Remembrance The psalm concludes with a reminder of God's provision and His remembrance of His people in their low estate. ^"He remembered us in our low estate. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:23) 8. Universal Call to Praise The psalm ends with a universal call to give thanks to the God of heaven, emphasizing His eternal loving devotion. ^"Give thanks to the God of heaven. His loving devotion endures forever."^ (Psalm 136:26) Each topic in Psalm 136 is tied together by the refrain, underscoring the central theme of God's enduring mercy and faithfulness throughout history. Themes 1. God’s Enduring Love The central theme of Psalm 136 is the steadfast and enduring love of God, emphasized by the repeated refrain, "His loving devotion endures forever" (Psalm 136:1). The Hebrew word used here is "חֶסֶד" (chesed), which conveys a sense of loyal love, kindness, and mercy. 2. Creation The psalm highlights God's role as Creator, acknowledging His power and wisdom in forming the heavens and the earth. Verses 5-9 recount the creation of the heavens, the earth, the great lights, the sun, moon, and stars, each followed by the affirmation of His enduring love. 3. Deliverance from Egypt Psalm 136 recounts the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, celebrating God's mighty acts in freeing His people from slavery. Verses 10-15 describe the plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and the destruction of Pharaoh's army, underscoring God's protective and redemptive love. 4. Guidance and Provision in the Wilderness The psalm reflects on God's guidance and provision for Israel during their wilderness journey. Verses 16-22 mention God's leadership and the defeat of powerful kings, such as Sihon and Og, as He led His people to the Promised Land. 5. God’s Sovereignty and Kingship The theme of God's sovereignty is evident as the psalm acknowledges Him as the supreme ruler over all creation and history. His acts of deliverance and provision demonstrate His authority and kingship, affirming that His loving devotion endures forever. 6. Remembrance of God’s Faithfulness The psalm serves as a call to remember and recount God's faithfulness throughout history. By repeating the refrain, the psalmist encourages the faithful to continually acknowledge and celebrate God's unchanging love and mercy. 7. Thanksgiving and Praise The psalm is a hymn of thanksgiving, urging believers to give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and enduring love. The opening and closing verses (Psalm 136:1, 26) bookend the psalm with calls to praise, emphasizing gratitude as a response to God's faithful love. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Love Thank God for His enduring love and faithfulness in your life. Trust in Difficult Times Pray for the strength to trust in God's sovereignty and provision during challenging circumstances. Guidance and Wisdom Ask for God's guidance and wisdom in your daily decisions and life direction. Heart for Others Pray for a heart that reflects God's love, seeking opportunities to share His love with those around you. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 136:5–6 mentions God creating the heavens and earth; how does this align with scientific theories of cosmology and evolution? 2. Psalm 136:10 refers to striking down Egypt’s firstborn; how can a merciful God justify the death of innocent children? 3. Psalm 136:13–15 describes parting the Red Sea; is there credible historical or archaeological evidence supporting such an event? 4. Psalm 136:19–20 records the defeat of Sihon and Og; do nonbiblical sources confirm these conquests, or could they be mythological exaggerations? 5. Throughout Psalm 136, God’s mercy is repeatedly emphasized; how does this reconcile with other biblical passages depicting divine wrath and judgment? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the repetitive phrase "His mercy endures forever" enhance the impact of this Psalm? 2. Reflect on a situation where you experienced God's mercy enduring in your life. How did it change your perspective or actions? 3. What connection can you draw between the creation narrative in this Psalm and the creation story in Genesis? 4. How does the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt resonate with the concept of spiritual freedom in the New Testament? 5. Why do you think the psalmist chose to mention specific kings—Sihon and Og? 6. How does this Psalm encourage a sense of thankfulness in your daily life? 7. How does the historical recounting in the Psalm relate to your understanding of God’s love and mercy? 8. What does the phrase "God remembered us in our low estate" mean to you personally? 9. How can you apply the theme of God's sovereignty and mercy in your day-to-day life? 10. How can the lessons from this Psalm guide your actions in dealing with injustice or oppression? 11. How does the narrative of this Psalm shape your understanding of God’s character? 12. In what ways can you incorporate the Psalm's spirit of gratitude into your interactions with others? 13. How does the imagery of the heavens and the earth in this Psalm reflect the omnipresence of God's mercy? 14. What can you learn about the nature of God from His dealings with the Israelites as depicted in this Psalm? 15. How would your perspective on life change if you truly embraced the concept that God's mercy is everlasting? 16. How does the story of the Israelites' journey resonate with your personal spiritual journey? 17. In the face of adversity, how can you draw strength from the message of God's unchanging mercy in this Psalm? 18. How can this Psalm inspire a deeper sense of awe for God's creation? 19. How can the themes in this Psalm guide you in making ethical decisions? 20. What practical steps can you take to remember and express gratitude for God's enduring mercy? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions