The Steadfast Love of the Lord (pt. 7)

In coming to our last look at Psalm 107 I would like us to consider 2 truths found in verses 33-42 which nicely summarize the Psalmist’s teaching on the steadfast love of the Lord.

The first truth (v 33-38) is that the Sovereign Lord of steadfast love can and will do whatever it takes to save and sanctify His people. Current conditions are no problem to Almighty God. If His people are in sin and need awakening and repentance then He will “turn rivers into a desert, springs of water into thirsty ground…” If His people are in great need and cry out to Him then He will turn a “desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water.” Whatever the wisdom of God deems necessary for the progress and preservation of His people, He will do. God will have a holy, humble, and happy people for Himself.

The second truth (v 39-42) is that the Sovereign Lord of steadfast love opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. “He pours contempt on princes and makes them wander in trackless wastes; but he raises up the needy out of affliction and makes their families like flocks” (v 40-41). “All wickedness shuts it mouth” as it rejects and resents the steadfast love of the Lord; while all the upright receive it and rejoice in it (v 42). Therefore, let us “humble [ourselves] under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7)

As we reflect on these two truths in Psalm 107, we see the glory of the gospel. For, in and through Jesus we see that the Lord went to the furthest extent to save and sanctify a people for Himself. “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Rom 8:32) And, in the light of such incomparable glory and unimaginable grace there is no room for pride. We will either bow in faith and humility and be saved, or we will resist in pride and be eternally banished from the loving presence of God.

“Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the LORD.” (Ps 107:43)

“The LORD will fulfil his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.” (Ps 138:8)