Psalms 118:2

Psalm 118:2 is a powerful declaration of God's unchanging character, specifically His eternal mercy. It serves as an invitation for God's people, Israel, to vocalize a foundational truth about their Lord, reinforcing the opening statement of the psalm.

Context

Psalm 118 is the last of the "Egyptian Hallel" psalms (Psalms 113-118), traditionally recited by Jewish people during major festivals like Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. These psalms often recount God's deliverance and faithfulness. Verse 2 is a direct call to the nation of Israel to affirm what has just been declared in Psalm 118:1: "O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever." This repetition emphasizes the central theme of God's steadfast love and faithfulness, a truth to be continually confessed and celebrated, especially in times of national deliverance or communal worship. It sets a pattern for collective praise and acknowledgment of divine grace.

Key Themes

• God's Enduring Mercy: The core message is the eternal nature of God's mercy. This isn't a temporary attribute but an everlasting aspect of His being. It underscores His faithfulness through all generations and circumstances.
• Call to Affirmation: The phrase "Let Israel now say" is an imperative, urging a collective, vocal acknowledgment of this truth. It's a reminder that faith is not just internal belief but also an outward confession. This communal declaration strengthens identity and trust in God, reinforcing the idea of God's faithfulness to His covenant.
• Divine Faithfulness: God's mercy is intrinsically linked to His covenant faithfulness. His steadfast love is the basis for His dealings with His people, assuring them of His continued support and salvation.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "mercy" here is chesed (חֶסֶד). This rich term encompasses more than just pity or compassion; it signifies God's loyal love, covenant faithfulness, steadfast kindness, and enduring grace. It describes a deep, relational commitment. The phrase "endureth for ever" (לְעוֹלָם, l'olam) emphasizes the eternal, unchanging nature of this chesed. It is not fleeting but constant, providing a secure foundation for faith and hope. This divine attribute is repeatedly celebrated throughout the Psalms and other Old Testament books.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalm 118:2 serves as a timeless reminder to continually acknowledge and declare God's unchanging mercy. In a world full of uncertainty and change, the steadfastness of God's love provides immense comfort and hope. We are called to embody this truth in our own lives, not only by believing it but by vocalizing it in worship, in testimony, and in our daily walk. Just as Israel was called to remember God's past deliverances, we too should reflect on how God's mercy has sustained us, building our confidence in His future provision and everlasting care. This verse encourages a spirit of gratitude and a posture of trust, knowing that God's faithful love will never fail, a truth echoed in the unfailing mercies of the Lord.