Psalm 66:16

Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for me.

Study Bible

Come and listen
This phrase is an invitation, a call to gather and pay attention. The Hebrew word for "come" is "בּוֹאוּ" (bo'u), which is often used in the context of approaching or entering into a significant experience or presence. "Listen" in Hebrew is "שִׁמְעוּ" (shim'u), which implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. This call is not just to hear words but to engage with them deeply, suggesting an active participation in the testimony that follows. The psalmist is inviting others into a communal experience of witnessing God's work.

all you who fear God
The phrase "all you who fear God" identifies the audience as those who have a reverent awe and respect for the Almighty. The Hebrew word for "fear" is "יָרֵא" (yare'), which encompasses a sense of reverence, respect, and awe rather than terror. This fear is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10) and denotes a relationship with God characterized by trust and obedience. The psalmist is addressing those who are already in a covenant relationship with God, those who understand His power and majesty.

and I will declare
The word "declare" in Hebrew is "אֲסַפֵּרָה" (asapperah), which means to recount or to tell in detail. This is not a casual mention but a deliberate and detailed recounting of God's deeds. The psalmist is taking on the role of a witness, someone who has experienced something firsthand and is now sharing that experience with others. This declaration is an act of worship and testimony, meant to edify and encourage the listeners.

what He has done
This phrase points to the actions of God, emphasizing His active involvement in the life of the psalmist. The Hebrew root "עָשָׂה" (asah) means to do, make, or accomplish. It highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to intervene in human affairs. The psalmist is acknowledging that the events in his life are not random but are the result of God's purposeful actions.

for my soul
The term "soul" in Hebrew is "נַפְשִׁי" (nafshi), which refers to the whole being of a person, encompassing mind, will, emotions, and life itself. It is not just the spiritual aspect but the entirety of one's life and existence. The psalmist is testifying to God's work in the deepest, most personal aspects of his life. This indicates a transformation or deliverance that has affected him profoundly, suggesting a personal encounter with God's grace and power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Psalmist
The author of Psalm 66, traditionally attributed to David, who invites others to hear his testimony of God's work in his life.

2. God
The central figure in the Psalm, whose mighty deeds and faithfulness are being proclaimed.

3. The Fearers of God
The audience addressed by the Psalmist, those who have reverence and awe for God.

4. The Soul
Represents the innermost being of the Psalmist, indicating a personal and profound experience with God.

5. The Assembly
Implied gathering of believers who are invited to hear the testimony, suggesting a communal aspect of worship and witness.

Teaching Points

The Power of Testimony
Sharing personal experiences of God's work in our lives can strengthen the faith of others and glorify God.

Fear of the Lord
A reverent fear of God is foundational for understanding and appreciating His works in our lives.

Community of Believers
The invitation to "come and listen" underscores the importance of fellowship and communal worship in the Christian life.

Personal Reflection
Reflect on what God has done for your soul and be prepared to share it with others as a testimony of His goodness.

Encouragement in Trials
Remembering and declaring God's past faithfulness can provide encouragement and hope during difficult times.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "fear God," and how does this fear influence our willingness to listen and learn from others' testimonies?

2. How can sharing personal testimonies of God's work in our lives impact our community of believers?

3. In what ways can we cultivate a habit of reflecting on and declaring what God has done for our souls?

4. How does the concept of testimony in Psalm 66:16 relate to the Great Commission and our call to witness to others?

5. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our testimonies are shared in a way that glorifies God and edifies others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 34:11
This verse also invites those who fear the Lord to listen, emphasizing the importance of teaching and learning about God's ways.

Acts 4:20
The apostles declare that they cannot help but speak of what they have seen and heard, similar to the Psalmist's desire to testify.

1 Peter 3:15
Encourages believers to always be ready to give an answer for the hope within them, aligning with the Psalmist's declaration of God's deeds.

Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Highlights the importance of sharing God's works and commandments with others, especially within the community of believers.

Revelation 12:11
Speaks of overcoming by the word of testimony, which resonates with the Psalmist's proclamation of God's deeds.