Psalms 106 Life Application

Psalm 106:1

While Psalm 105 is a summary of God's faithfulness, Psalm 106 is a summary of humanity's sinfulness. Psalm 105 covers events up to the exodus from Egypt (Exodus 5-14), and Psalm 106 covers events from the Exodus up to what appears to be the Babylonian captivity (2 Kings 25).

Psalms 106:2

If we ever stopped to list all the mighty acts or miracles in the Bible, we would be astounded. They cover every aspect of life. The more we think about what God has done, the more we can appreciate the miracles he has done for us individually—birth, personal development, salvation, specific guidance, healing, loving friends and family—the list goes on and on. If you think you have never seen a miracle, look closer. You will see God's power and loving intervention on your behalf. God still performs great miracles!

Psalms 106:13-15

In the wilderness, the Israelites were so intent on getting the food and water they wanted that they became blind to what God wanted. They were more concerned about immediate physical gratification than lasting spiritual satisfaction. They did not want what was best for them, and they refused to trust in God's care and provision (Num 11:18-33). If you complain enough, God may give you what you ask for, even if it is not the best for you. If you're not getting what you want, perhaps God knows it is not in your best interest. Trust in his care and provision.

Psalms 106:23

Moses served as the people's intercessor. This refers to the time when the Lord wanted to destroy the people for worshiping the gold calf (Exo 32:7-14).

Psalms 106:34-39

Israel constantly turned away from God. How could they turn from God and worship the idols of the land after the great miracles they saw? We also have seen God's great miracles but sometimes find ourselves enticed by the world's gods: power, money, convenience, fame, sex, and pleasure. As Israel forgot God, so we are susceptible to forgetting him and giving in to the pressures of an evil world. Remember all that God has done for you so that you won't be drawn away from him by the world's pleasures.

Psalms 106:40-42

God allowed trouble to come to the Israelites in order to help them. Our troubles can be helpful because they;
(1) humble us,
(2) wean us from the allurements of the world and drive us back to God,
(3) vitalize our prayers,
(4) allow us to experience more of God's faithfulness,
(5) make us more dependent upon God,
(6) encourage us to submit to God's purpose for our lives, and
(7) make us more compassionate toward others in trouble.

Psalms 106:44-46

This is a beautiful picture of God's great love for his people who deserved only judgment. Fortunately, God's compassion and mercy toward us are not limited by our faithfulness to him. God was merciful to us in sending his Son to die for our sins. If he did this while we were captive to sin, how much more merciful will he be now that we are his children?