Psalms 100:5
For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Psalms 100:5
Verse 5 proclaims essential attributes of God: goodness, enduring mercy, and steadfast truth across generations. “For the LORD is good” presents God’s benevolent character; “his mercy is everlasting” highlights an unending compassion that meets human need; “his truth endureth to all generations” grounds God’s reliability in history and time. The verse serves as a theological hinge for the entire psalm—praising a God who is consistently good, merciful, and faithful. In Israel’s memory, God’s steadfastness stood against the fickleness of human experience. The generational scope is crucial: God’s faithfulness spans fathers and children, providing a basis for hope and trust even in uncertain political or national circumstances. This verse functions as a lyric of confidence, inviting worshippers to anchor their hopes in God’s character rather than changing fortunes.
God’s goodness, mercy, and truth are core biblical attributes (often summarized as compassionate character, steadfast love, and faithfulness). The verse weaves these together to present a coherent portrait of who God is and how He acts toward His people. The claim that mercy endures forever counters despair and cynicism. Enduring truth implies reliability, integrity, and a standard by which life is measured—God’s word stands through time. Together, these themes form the basis for trust, hope, and ethical living. The verse also invites believers to imitate God’s goodness and to rely on His mercy as the motive and energy for faithfulness across generations.
When facing trials, this verse encourages confidence in God’s unchanging nature. Let God’s goodness shape your generosity; reflect His mercy in how you treat others, especially when they fail you. In parenting, model steadfast truth and patient mercy for the next generation. In times of cultural drift, anchor your beliefs in God’s enduring truth rather than trends. Hdevote time to study Scripture and observe how God proves His goodness through blessings, protection, and growth. Celebrate God’s faithfulness by recounting stories of His mercy in your community and family.
Cross-References: Psalm 31:19; Psalm 86:15; Lamentations 3:22-23; James 1:17; Hebrews 13:8