Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 136

Exhortations to ThanksgivingThis psalm strongly encourages us to give thanks to God again and again. We are reminded that offering praise is one of the best things we can do—it is the fruit of our lips and the work of heaven itself (Hebrews 13:15 ). We should give thanks, not just for what God has done for us, but also for who He is and for His everlasting mercy. God’s greatness, power, and kindness are reasons for everyone to praise Him.v. 1: The psalm begins, O give thanks to the Lord

v. 2: We are told, O give thanks to the God of gods: for his mercy endures for ever . God is greater than all, even those whom people call gods. Every blessing comes from Him, and His mercy lasts forever.

v. 3: The psalmist adds, O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endures for ever . God is the highest ruler, above all powers on earth or in heaven. We thank Him because He is in control and His kindness never fails.

v. 4: We give thanks to God who alone does great wonders; for his mercy endures for ever . God’s works are amazing, planned by His wisdom and done by His power. He does these things by Himself, without anyone’s help.

v. 5: The psalmist thanks God who by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endures for ever . God’s wisdom is seen in the sky above us, which He created and still cares for.

v. 6: He also gives thanks to God who laid out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endures for ever . God made the earth a safe and good place for people to live, showing His care for us.

v. 7: Thanks are given to God who made great lights: for his mercy endures for ever . God created the sun, moon, and stars to give light and help the earth.

v. 8: The psalmist says, The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endures for ever . God made the sun to shine and control the day, blessing us with light and warmth.

v. 9: Finally, he thanks God for the moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endures for ever . The moon and stars light up the night and show God’s continued care, even in darkness. All these things remind us that God’s mercy is never-ending and we should always give Him thanks.

Divine Mercy CelebratedThis section remembers the great things God did for Israel when He made them His people and gave them a land of their own. Each act shows both God’s mighty power and His special kindness to Israel. These miracles were not only signs of God’s love for Israel, but also point to the even greater salvation we have through Jesus Christ. Every step of Israel’s journey was marked by God’s mercy, which lasts forever.v. 10: God struck down the firstborn of Egypt, both people and animals . This was the final plague that forced Pharaoh to let Israel go. God’s mercy to Israel was shown by protecting them while judging their enemies.

v. 11: He brought Israel out from among the Egyptians, showing His power and faithfulness . God’s mercy led His people out of slavery and into freedom.

v. 12: God did this with a strong hand and an outstretched arm . His strength was clear in every miracle, and His mercy never failed, even when His people were weak.

v. 13: He divided the Red Sea into two parts . God made a path through the sea so Israel could escape. This miracle showed His power over nature and His mercy to His people.

v. 14: He made Israel pass through the middle of the sea . God gave them courage to walk through the waters, proving His care and protection.

v. 15: But He overthrew Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea . The same sea that saved Israel destroyed their enemies. God’s mercy to His people meant judgment for those who opposed them.

v. 16: God led His people through the wilderness . For forty years, He provided food, water, and guidance, even when they complained. His mercy was constant, even when they did not deserve it.

v. 17: He struck down great kings to make room for Israel . God’s mercy gave them victory over powerful enemies.

v. 18: He killed famous kings who stood in Israel’s way . No matter how strong their enemies were, God’s mercy brought Israel success.

v. 19: Sihon, king of the Amorites, was defeated by God’s power and mercy .

v. 20: Og, king of Bashan, was also conquered . These victories showed that God’s mercy endures forever.

v. 21: God gave their land as a heritage to Israel . He kept His promise and gave His people a place to live and serve Him.

v. 22: This land became the inheritance of Israel, God’s servant . God’s mercy was not just for the past, but for every generation that followed. The land was a sign of His lasting love and faithfulness.

Divine Mercy CelebratedThese verses praise God’s never-ending mercy, especially in how He saves and cares for His people. The psalmist remembers how God rescued Israel many times when they were in trouble, and he also points to the even greater salvation God gives through Jesus Christ. God’s mercy is not only for His people, but for all creation, as He provides for every living thing. All of this should lead us to give thanks to God, who is the source of every good gift and whose mercy never runs out.v. 23: God remembered His people when they were in a low and helpless state . Even when they were oppressed or forgotten by others, God’s mercy reached down to help them.

v. 24: He rescued His people from their enemies . God sent saviors and leaders to deliver Israel, and in a greater way, He sent Jesus to save us from sin and death. This is a sign of His everlasting mercy.

v. 25: God gives food to all living creatures . His kindness is seen in how He provides for every need, caring for the whole world like a generous provider.

v. 26: The psalm ends with a call to give thanks to the God of heaven (Psalm 136:26 ). God is glorious and the source of every blessing. His mercy is the greatest treasure, and it will last forever. All praise and thanks belong to Him alone.