Psalms 107:8
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
Psalms 107:8
This verse is a call to praise that arises from recognition of God’s goodness and his works among humanity. The hymn invites people to respond to God’s gracious acts with spoken praise. The phrase “Oh that men would praise the LORD” captures the psalmist’s desire for a universal response to God’s benevolence. “His goodness” reflects the same merciful character introduced in verse 1; “wonderful works” points to the miraculous interventions recounted in the psalm. The verse emphasizes that gratitude is not merely interior feeling but outward expression shared in community. In the broader scriptural arc, praise functions as both memory and proclamation—remembering God’s deeds so that others might witness and hope.
Praise is a theological hinge: it shapes perception of reality by acknowledging God’s sovereignty and mercy. It sustains faith amid persecution or hardship and reinforces the covenantal identity of God’s people. Theologically, praise is not incidental; it is the response God desires and deserves for who he is and what he has done. In Christian theology, this anticipates the ongoing worship of God in heaven, where the church continually blesses and magnifies God for his character and mighty acts.
Practically, cultivate a habit of expressive praise in everyday life: verbalize gratitude to God, retell stories of mercy to others, and sing or hum hymns or worship songs at appropriate moments. In family life, incorporate praise into daily routines—mealtimes, car rides, or bedtime. In community settings, create spaces where people can share testimonies of God’s goodness, fostering encouragement and faith. The aim is to shift attention from problems to the generosity of God, shaping a life marked by gratitude and trust.
Cross-References: Psalm 100:4; Psalm 103:1-2; Psalm 145:5-7; Revelation 5:11-13; Colossians 3:16