Psalms 66:1-20
In the happy days of which Psalms 65:1-13 speaks prophetically, Israel’s role will be to invite the nations to joy and praise – first of all because of His terrible works (vv. 3, 5), then for His goodness towards His people. The departure from Egypt and entry into Canaan (v. 6) are the first great acts of power which will always be the subject of exaltation. Christians, let us not cease to exalt the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has delivered us from the yoke of the prince of this world (Egypt) and has caused us to enter into heavenly blessings.
Then the long drawn out sufferings of Israel will also be remembered (vv. 10-12). The Jews have been (and still are) tested in all sorts of ways, overpowered, trodden under foot (v. 12) by the nations in the midst of whom they have been scattered. But soon they will be able to bless God who has preserved their soul alive, and has refined them in the crucible of trial. Let us too never forget this precious divine purpose. V. 18 reminds us of a most important truth. God can not listen to our prayers so long as we have unjudged sin on our conscience. Let us quickly confess it so that we may once again enjoy fellowship with Him! (Isaiah 1:15; Psalms 32:5-6).