The psalmist calls us to consider the story of the house of Jacob. God performed mighty wonders to save Israel and establish them as his covenant people (4). He divided the Red Sea, led them with pillars of cloud and fire, and provided for all their needs in the wilderness (12-16).

Despite God’s faithful and miraculous provision, Israel continued to doubt his goodness. They grumbled against God, doubting his ability to provide water and food (20-22). Yet in his mercy, God continued to provide for them despite their unbelief. Even when God disciplined them with judgment, their repentance was short-lived and their hearts quickly turned away again (36).

Amid the repeating cycles of sin, unbelief, judgment, and temporary return to God, the Lord remained patient and faithful (38). As he promised Noah (Gen 8:21), he never poured out his full wrath to completely destroy humanity. Ultimately, he sent Jesus to bear the full weight of God’s wrath so that all of us could be reconciled to him and restored as his children. Praise God for his patience and mercy toward us through Jesus.
Application: Lord, thank you for saving us and being patient with us.
One Word: God’s mercy is greater than all our sins