S3E323 – Psalms 134-136: Forever Is A Long Time

Transcript

Executive Producer

John.

Podcast Introduction

Today is Psalms Wednesday. We’ll read chapters 134-136.  I’ll have a brief introduction to the chapter before we begin reading.  I’m calling today’s episode “Forever Is A Long Time”

Design: Steve Webb | Photo: Gerhard Kupfer on Unsplash

Comments on Psalm 136

You might remember that I’ve said more than once, “When the Bible repeats something, it’s usually because God wants us to remember it,” or words to that effect. See if you can pick up the important thought in this psalm.

I have no doubt that it didn’t take long for you to figure out the important thought in Psalm 136. “…his steadfast love endures forever.” Our translation today was the ESV. Here’s how the NASB says it, “…His lovingkindness is everlasting.” The NIV says, “His love endures forever.” Many other translations say, “His mercy endures forever. That’s my favorite one.

But however you say it, the phrase is repeated 26 times in this psalm. Twenty-six times! Do you think God has a message for us? God’s mercy is eternal. It will never cease. Forever is a long time, beloved.

The original Hebrew word used here is “hesed”. It’s a beautiful word. Listen to what Michael Card said about it.

Oh, to think that this God of hesed would take notice of you and me. How sad it is that some people reject this kind of love. I can’t help but believe that they just don’t know. Oh beloved, that we would be the kind of people who would be motivated to tell them.