God’s Renewing Word of Mercy and Forgiveness
Introduction
Psalm 107:23-43: Today’s reading concludes the psalm and describes the ways God has rescued his people. Twice more the psalm writer reminds people of God’s constant love.
Scripture Reading
23 Some sailed over the ocean in ships,
earning their living on the seas.
24 They saw what the Lord can do,
his wonderful acts on the seas.
25 He commanded, and a mighty wind began to blow
and stirred up the waves.
26 The ships were lifted high in the air
and plunged down into the depths.
In such danger the sailors lost their courage;
27 they stumbled and staggered like drunks—
all their skill was useless.
28 Then in their trouble they called to the Lord,
and he saved them from their distress.
29 He calmed the raging storm,
and the waves became quiet.
30 They were glad because of the calm,
and he brought them safe to the port they wanted.
31 They must thank the Lord for his constant love,
for the wonderful things he did for them.
32 They must proclaim his greatness in the assembly of the people
and praise him before the council of the leaders.
33 The Lord made rivers dry up completely
and stopped springs from flowing.
34 He made rich soil become a salty wasteland
because of the wickedness of those who lived there.
35 He changed deserts into pools of water
and dry land into flowing springs.
36 He let hungry people settle there,
and they built a city to live in.
37 They sowed the fields and planted grapevines
and reaped an abundant harvest.
38 He blessed his people, and they had many children;
he kept their herds of cattle from decreasing.
39 When God’s people were defeated and humiliated
by cruel oppression and suffering,
40 he showed contempt for their oppressors
and made them wander in trackless deserts.
41 But he rescued the needy from their misery
and made their families increase like flocks.
42 The righteous see this and are glad,
but all the wicked are put to silence.
43 May those who are wise think about these things;
may they consider the Lord’s constant love.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 107:43
May those who are wise think about these things; many they consider the LORD’s constant love.
Reflect
What acts of God are recounted in today’s reading? As in yesterday’s reading, verses 31 and 43 include a reminder of God’s constant love. In what ways do you experience God’s constant love?
Pray
Faithful and loving God, may I remember your constant love for me each day. I thank and praise you for all the wonderful things you have done. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Genesis 32:1-21: Jacob prepares to meet Esau.