Psalms 136:1

O giue thankes vnto the Lord, for hee is good: for his mercy endureth for euer. Psalms 136:1 (KJV)

O give thanks unto the LORD; for

he is good: for his mercy

endureth for ever. Psalms 136:1 (KJV)

“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” This opening verse crowns Psalm 136, often called the “Great Hallel” or the “Hallelujah Psalm.” It is a psalm of thanksgiving, likely used in public worship or private devotion, and is attributed to the sons of Korah.

The book of Psalms is a collection of poetic prayers and songs that voice the full range of human emotion and experience. Within that anthology, Psalm 136 stands out as a liturgical hymn that repeatedly declares God’s steadfast love and mercy.

Gratitude and Thanksgiving: The verse begins with an exhortation to “give thanks unto the LORD.” Gratitude is a central biblical theme, and here the psalmist invites believers to acknowledge God’s goodness and grace in their lives. Thanksgiving is presented as an act of recognizing divine benevolence.

God’s Goodness: The psalmist affirms that “God is good,” a statement that speaks of His moral excellence, kindness, and benevolence. Throughout Scripture God’s goodness is displayed in His character, in the created order, and in His redemptive work.

Enduring Mercy: The psalmist emphasizes that “His mercy endureth for ever.” Mercy here denotes God’s compassionate kindness toward those who are undeserving. This attribute is not temporary but everlasting, reminding us that divine mercy is always available, regardless of circumstance or failure.

Application: This verse calls believers to cultivate an attitude of gratitude. It urges us to recognize and acknowledge God’s unchanging character, His goodness, and His enduring mercy, and to express thanks both in times of joy and in moments of difficulty. By doing so, we align our hearts with the spirit of the Great Hallel, continually praising the Lord for His everlasting love.