Psalms 106:47
Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise.
Psalms 106:47
Verse 47 is a revival plea: “Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy name, and to triumph in thy praise.” The structure of the verse echoes communal liturgy: salvation, restoration to worship, and triumph in praise. The act of gathering from among the nations signals a return from dispersion to worship in covenant faithfulness. The call to praise emphasizes that deliverance is not only about relief from danger but about renewed worship and recognition of God’s holiness. The verse expresses both longing and hope—an expectation that God will intervene not only to liberate but to restore the people to their primary vocation: to glorify God.
Historically, this aligns with post-exilic hopes and the ongoing longing for a pure, worshiping community.
Theologically, the verse ties deliverance to mission: salvation leads to renewed worship and witness. It foregrounds God’s holiness as the ultimate lure of worship—“to give thanks unto thy holy name” shows that true triumph is measured by reverence and praise. It also presumes that God’s people are a light among nations, called to reflect God’s character in every sphere. The call to deliverance remains a testimony to God’s faithfulness and faith, inviting both communal and individual participants to live as rescued people who praise Him.
Practically, this verse invites believers to view salvation as a redirection toward worship and mission. In everyday life, when God rescues or provides, respond with grateful worship and public proclamation of God’s faithfulness. Steps: maintain a gratitude practice (daily list of thanksgivings), participate in communal worship that centers on God’s saving acts, and engage in acts of service that demonstrate God’s care to others. The “gathering” motif can inspire reconciliation with estranged family or friends and involvement in community building that honors God. Ultimately, let deliverance propel you into praise that shapes your days and invites others to witness God’s saving power.
Cross-References: Psalm 105:1-2; Isaiah 12:4-6; Revelation 7:9-12; Colossians 3:16