Psalms 107:32

Context

Psalm 107 is a powerful psalm of thanksgiving, often described as a communal hymn of praise. It recounts God's steadfast love and deliverance for various groups of people who cried out to Him in distress: wanderers in the wilderness (verses 4-9), prisoners (verses 10-16), the sick (verses 17-22), and sailors facing storms (verses 23-32). Each section culminates in a refrain (e.g., "Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!"), emphasizing the appropriate response to God's saving acts. Verse 32 specifically calls for this praise to be offered publicly, within the community.

Key Themes

• Public Worship and Exaltation: The verse stresses the importance of corporate praise. It's not enough to praise God privately; His goodness and wonderful works should be proclaimed openly. This public declaration serves as a testimony to others and strengthens the faith of the community.
• Community Participation: The mention of "the congregation of the people" and "the assembly of the elders" highlights that worship is a collective activity involving all members of the community, from the general populace to its respected leaders. This inclusive call emphasizes unity in praise.
• Gratitude for Deliverance: Flowing from the preceding narratives of rescue, this verse is a direct command to express profound gratitude for God's intervention and salvation. It's an affirmation of His active presence and care in the lives of His people.
• Leadership in Worship: The specific inclusion of "the assembly of the elders" suggests that spiritual leaders and those with wisdom have a particular role in leading or setting an example in public worship and thanksgiving.

Linguistic Insights

• "Exalt" (רוּם - rum): This Hebrew word means to lift up, raise high, or elevate. It implies giving God a place of honor and prominence, acknowledging His supreme authority and worthiness of praise.
• "Praise" (הָלַל - halal): The root of "Hallelujah," this word means to shine, boast, celebrate, or rave about. It denotes an active, joyful, and often boisterous expression of adoration and commendation.
• "Congregation" (קָהָל - qahal): This term refers to a formal assembly or gathering, often for religious or civic purposes. It is the Hebrew equivalent of the Greek word ekklesia, from which we get "church," emphasizing the idea of a called-out assembly.
• "Assembly of the elders" (מוֹשַׁב זְקֵנִים - moshav zeqenim): This phrase literally means "the sitting place of the elders." It refers to the council or gathering of respected, wise, and often leading individuals within the community. Their participation validates and strengthens the communal praise.

Practical Application

Psalms 107:32 serves as a timeless reminder of the vital role of corporate worship in the life of believers. It calls us to:

• Actively Participate in Public Worship: Just as the Israelites were to gather, believers today are encouraged to participate in communal services, not forsaking the assembling of themselves together. This collective expression of faith strengthens individual resolve and provides mutual encouragement.
• Give Public Testimony: When God delivers or blesses us, we are called to share that testimony within the community. This glorifies God and builds the faith of others, reminding everyone of His enduring goodness and wonderful works, as highlighted repeatedly in this very Psalm.
• Value Leadership in Worship: The inclusion of elders underscores the importance of spiritual leadership in fostering an environment of genuine praise and thanksgiving within the church. Leaders are called to exemplify and facilitate the public exaltation of God.
• Recognize the Power of Unity: When an entire congregation, from the youngest to the most senior, unites in exalting God, it creates a powerful witness and a vibrant atmosphere of spiritual growth and divine presence.