Psalms 107:23
They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
Psalms 107:23
Verse 23 begins a new vignette within Psalm 107: a group who “go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters.” This portrays sailors and merchants journeying across dangerous seas, a common motif in ancient Near Eastern literature that highlighted human enterprise amid unpredictable, powerful forces of nature. The sea represents both opportunity and peril. The psalmist uses this image to show that across diverse vocations—merchants, sailors, travelers—God’s works and steadfast love extend to all spheres of life. The context also underlines the universality of God’s governance: whether on land or sea, God’s sovereignty remains. The verse sets up scenes of divine intervention in storms and marvels in creation as the sailors navigate the deep, highlighting human dependence on God even in skilled, confident professions.
Theologically, this verse deepens the theme of God as sovereign over chaos and nature. It invites readers to trust God not only in personal turmoil but in the tempestuous contexts of vocation and risk. It underscores divine providence in a world where commerce and travel depend on weather and sea-lanes—the risks that define early trade. The broader psalm celebrates God’s saving power across varied circumstances; here, a professional milieu becomes a stage for God’s acts, inviting practitioners to recognize divine involvement in their work. Theologically, it resonates with creation-mastery language: God governs waters, establishes order, and directs the paths of those who travel.
Today, this verse invites professionals and travelers to attribute success and protection to God, especially in risky ventures. If you commute through storms, sail on a challenging trip, or lead a project with high stakes, pause to acknowledge God’s sovereignty in the process. Practical steps: begin trips with a brief prayer for protection and wisdom; debrief with teammates about how God protected or guided you after a difficult journey; keep a journal of “storms survived” to remind yourself of God’s care. For students studying abroad or professionals relocating, create a gratitude routine focusing on God’s care in unfamiliar waters. The imagery also invites generosity: those who navigate volatile markets or seas of change can support others in similar journeys, sharing resources and prayers.
Cross-References: Psalm 29:3-5; Job 38:8-11; Isaiah 43:16-19; Mark 4:37-41; Jonah 1:4