Psalm 107:13-14

Psalm 107:13-14

He brought them out of darkness

This is becoming a familiar scenario. God blesses Israel. Israel lapses into idolatry and rebellion. God punishes His people. Israel cries out in the midst of their suffering. God hears and relents and remembers His covenant. Israel is restored to the land and to prosperity once again. 

This seems to be a relentless process in which God’s chosen people, for all their ingenuity and ability never seem to learn the lessons of the past. We see it happening right before our very eyes, restoration of the land and its people was granted in 1948, the Jews returned and quickly became prosperous, and they overcame insurmountable odds when the surrounding nations attacked them in the War of Independence, in the Six Day War in 1967 and during Yom Kippur in 1973. But now, decades later, the people do not acknowledge YAHWEH, they are secular and rebellious, despite His unprecedented blessings. We all know what happens next, the nations turn against the Jews, and they are forced to cry out to God for deliverance. And yes, He will still hear them and answer them. In fact, the prophets confirm that there will be a time of national repentance and on this occasion, Messiah Himself will come back to the land and reign over His people! This will happen soon!

God’s actions are not dissimilar with us, He brings us out of darkness, blind eyes are given sight, and the prison chains are smashed aside! Captives are freed, they come blinking into the light and dance with joy in the presence of their Saviour. This is always God’s way, and this Psalm is written to help us to see that our God never reneges on His covenant promises, He always hears the cries of His people, and it is His delight to set them free. Hallelujah! 

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