Psalms 136:1
O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Psalms 136:1: "O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever."
Psalm 136 is a long halal—a call-and-response praise to recount God’s steadfast love. This first line introduces a refrain that repeats after every clause: “for his mercy endureth for ever.” The verse asserts two core attributes of God: his goodness and his steadfast mercy. The historical context is liturgical; the psalmist wants to train the community to reframe memory through gratitude, recounting God’s faithful acts—from creation to deliverance. The refrain’s repetition serves as a theological rhythm—memory as a means of faith formation. By naming God’s goodness and enduring mercy, the psalmist counters despair and forgetfulness with confident praise. The structure models worship that moves from recognition to gratitude to proclamation.
Theologically, God’s goodness and mercy are the backbone of biblical soteriology and ethics. Goodness describes God’s benevolent nature and steadfast commitment to what is right. Mercy signals his compassionate disposition toward sinners and weak. The refrain “mercy endureth for ever” is a constant reminder of covenant faithfulness across generations. The Psalm invites a theocentric memory that shapes identity: praise becomes a spiritual discipline to remember who God is and what he has done. The repetition reinforces the trustworthiness of God against changing circumstances.
Practically, develop a habit of gratitude that mirrors Psalm 136:1. Start a simple gratitude journal—each day list one way God showed goodness and mercy—and read it aloud in group settings. In moments of stress or disappointment, rehearse the refrain “the Lord is good; his mercy endures forever” to reframe your perspective. Consider acts of mercy you can extend to others as a response to God’s mercy toward you: forgiveness, generosity, listening, and service. Let gratitude shape decisions rather than fear or cynicism.
Cross-References: Psalm 100:5; Lamentations 3:22-23; James 1:17; Psalm 106:1; Psalm 107:1.