The Expository Files

 


 

 

Psalm 107:23-32

 

Some went down to the sea in ships,
    doing business on the great waters;
24 they saw the deeds of the LORD,
    his wondrous works in the deep.
25 For he commanded and raised the stormy wind,
    which lifted up the waves of the sea.
26 They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths;
    their courage melted away in their evil plight;
27 they reeled and staggered like drunken men
    and were at their wits' end.
28 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
    and he delivered them from their distress.
29 He made the storm be still,
    and the waves of the sea were hushed.
30 Then they were glad that the waters[b] were quiet,
    and he brought them to their desired haven.
31 Let them thank the LORD for his steadfast love,
    for his wondrous works to the children of man!
32 Let them extol him in the congregation of the people,
    and praise him in the assembly of the elders.


The 107th Psalm is a piece that centers on praise to the Lord, containing examples of deliverance: cases where men failed; men could provide no redemption. Only God could help. Now, I am not certain of any specific historical context for this. It is generally taken as great promise, for believers who suffer perils of the sea. The ancient mariner faced a high measure of risk and uncertainty and mystery, navigating the sea.

Of course, this was before the navigational technology we enjoy. Yet still today, with all our navigational tools and instruments and radar, we often hear of tragedies on the sea or in the air. (MH370, still not found!)

Think of life as a voyage, that involves the business of danger and risk and unforeseen trouble. Like the ancient mariners – we who follow Christ – have this benefit, this discipline; something God has given, we can do, based on our trust in Him. We are able to talk to the Creator of the seas. We are able to state our case to the One who can still the storm. He can quiet the waters. He can provide the navigational providence – to get us to safe harbor.

Prayer is an effort of will on our part – connecting us to the will of One with infinite power, whose mercy can calm us and steady us. The last verse in this chapter says: “Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.”

 

By Warren E. Berkley
The Final Page
From Expository Files 22.10; October 2015
 

 

 

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