Psalms 136:4

Psalms 136:4 is part of a magnificent psalm of thanksgiving, often referred to as the "Great Hallel," which recounts God's mighty acts from creation to the Exodus and beyond. Each verse is punctuated by the enduring refrain, "for his mercy endureth for ever," highlighting the steadfast nature of God's love and faithfulness.

Context

Psalm 136 is unique for its antiphonal structure, likely used in temple worship where a leader would recite the first part of the verse, and the congregation would respond with the refrain. This psalm functions as a historical hymn, calling the people to remember God's past interventions and mighty deeds. Verse 4 specifically transitions from the general call to praise the "God of gods" and "Lord of lords" (verses 2-3) to focusing on a specific attribute: His unparalleled ability to perform miracles and signs. It sets the stage for the subsequent enumeration of God's specific wonders in creation and salvation history.

Key Themes

• God's Exclusive Power: The phrase "who alone doeth great wonders" profoundly emphasizes God's singularity. He is the sole source of truly miraculous, awe-inspiring acts that transcend human capability. This points to His omnipotence and unique divine nature. No other god or power can compare to His ability to perform such wonders. This declaration underscores His sovereignty over all creation.
• Divine Mercy and Faithfulness: The consistent refrain, "for his mercy endureth for ever," reveals that God's immense power is always exercised through the lens of His unchanging compassion and steadfast love. The Hebrew word for "mercy" here is hesed, which signifies a loyal, covenantal love that is both deep and enduring. It assures believers that God's mighty acts are rooted in His eternal commitment to His people. This enduring mercy is celebrated throughout Scripture, as seen in Psalms 100:5.
• Call to Worship and Remembrance: The psalm encourages a remembrance of God's past acts, fostering a spirit of gratitude and worship. By recalling His wonders, the worshipper is reminded of His trustworthiness and the unwavering nature of His character, prompting a responsive praise.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "wonders" is nifla'ot (נִפְלָאוֹת), which denotes extraordinary, miraculous, or astonishing deeds. These are not mere coincidences but acts of divine intervention that reveal God's supernatural power, often evoking awe and reverence. The word "alone" (לְבַדּוֹ - levaddoh) strongly underscores the idea that this capacity is unique to God, setting Him apart from all creation and any false deities. The central word "mercy" (חֶסֶד - hesed) is pivotal, signifying God's covenant loyalty, steadfast love, and unfailing kindness, which is truly eternal ("endureth for ever").

Practical Application

Psalms 136:4 invites us to reflect on God's incredible power and His unchanging character. In a world full of uncertainty, this verse offers immense comfort: the God who performs "great wonders" is also the God whose mercy never fails. It encourages us to:

• Recognize God's Hand: Look for the "great wonders" in our own lives and in the world around us – from the complexity of creation (as further explored in Psalms 136:5) to personal deliverances and the ongoing work of salvation.
• Trust in His Steadfastness: Rest in the assurance that God's mercy is eternal. Even when circumstances change, His love and faithfulness remain constant, providing a secure foundation for our hope.
• Offer Continuous Praise: Be quick to praise God for His unique power and His unending compassion, echoing the spirit of this psalm in our daily lives and worship.