Psalms 107:2
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;
Psalms 107:2
This verse calls the redeemed to “say so”—to speak publicly and affirmatively about what God has done. In biblical culture, testimony mattered: it validated God’s work, strengthened the community, and reinforced faith across generations. “Redeemed of the LORD” refers to people God has ransomed or delivered from danger, oppression, or exile. The phrase “from the hand of the enemy” signals spiritual, political, and existential threats—plural, not singular. In Israel’s history, deliverance often arrived not merely through rescue, but through transformation of identity: exiles restored, captives freed, wandering nations reoriented by God’s mercy. The surrounding prayers and songs emphasize communal memory—recalling past rescues to fuel present praise and future hope. The imperative “say so” is a call to voice faith, not to remain silent about God’s saving acts. It also guards against a privatized faith; salvation is acknowledged in community.
God’s redeemed identity carries corporate implications. Testimony affirms God’s steadfastness and confirms communal memory: God acts decisively on behalf of those who trust him. The verse links salvation to proclamation—a dynamic partnership where God frees, and people declare. It also counters despair by anchoring identity in mercy rather than merit or circumstance. Theologically, it foregrounds God’s initiative in redemption and human response in worship and witness. In Christian tradition, this echoes salvation through Christ and the church’s mission to testify to grace in word and deed. The language also hints at eschatological hope: the ultimate and complete redemption that God brings is present in seed form in experienced deliverances.
How might today’s readers “say so”? Begin by sharing stories of God’s mercy with friends, family, and neighbors—especially times when rescue seemed unlikely. Keep a gratitude journal of answered prayers, so you can recount them when doubt arises. In churches or small groups, proclaim testimonies that name God’s deliverance clearly—this builds faith for others. If you’ve experienced liberation from fear, addiction, or despair, articulate how God’s mercy made the difference, not merely your willpower. For communities facing oppression or injustice, public testimony can be a form of witness, aligning with advocacy that honors God’s redeeming mercy. The practice moves faith from private comfort to public witness.
Cross-References: Psalm 40:1-3; Psalm 31:19-20; Isaiah 43:11-12; Luke 4:18-19; Revelation 12:11