Psalm 136 – His Mercy Endures Forever

In short

Is it OK to be repetitive sometimes? You better believe it! Every verse of this Psalm (26 of them) ends exactly the same: “for his steadfast love endures forever” (ESV).

Why it is important

We are told to NOT “use vain repetitions” (KJV) in Matthew 6:7. Does that mean this Psalm is hypocritical? I would certainly say not. There absolutely can be a purpose to repetition. But Jesus’ warning in Matt. 6 is not there for no reason.

What is in this poem

There are six distinct sections of this poem:

1. Give thanks to God (vs. 1-3)
2. Praise: God created the world (vs. 4-9)
3. Praise: God delivered Israel out of Egypt (vs. 10-16)
4. Praise: God defeated kings as we journeyed to Canaan (vs. 17-22)
5. Praise: God cares for us (vs. 23-25)
6. Give thanks to God (v. 26)

Theology and doctrine

We should always consider all that God has done for us and what blessings He bestows, and thank Him for that.

That’s it.