Praising God for His Goodness

 Read Psalm 106.

The song recounts a few of the nation's turning points of faith.  God's character and commitment to those who belong to Him are evident.  Though the people rebelled, the LORD was faithful.  When they saw God's goodness, they sang His praise.

1. The Red Sea (vv.7-12)
For 400 years, the Jews were slaves in Egypt.  Even after witnessing God's power in the ten plagues, they rebelled in fear when cornered.  "Yet he saved them for his name's sake." It was His name and His reputation that was being questioned.  Moses had intervened.  The destruction of the Egyptian army was all about God, His plans, and His promises.  "Then they believed his words; they sang his praise."

2. The Wilderness (vv.13-23)
During the 40 years in the desert, God provided for them every day.  But His provision was not good enough for them.  They rebelled and wanted more.  "He gave them what they asked, but sent a wasting disease among them."  They paid a high price for their discontent.  Next, the Person of the LORD was not enough for them.  They wanted more.  So, they rebelled and made up their own so-called gods.  Had it not been for the intercession of Moses, the nation was doomed.  God spared them in answer to prayer.

3. The Promised Land (vv.24-46)
God kept His promises to them, but it was not enough.  They complained, disobeyed and turned from the LORD to demonic worship.  God sent a plague.  "Phinehas stood up and intervened, and the plague was stayed."  But the cycle continued.  "Many times he delivered them" (v.43).  "For their sake he remembered his covenant" (v.45).

In spite of our many failures, God does not change.  His mercy and forgiveness are available to all.
"Praise the LORD!  Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!"