Old Testament
Psalms 116
Overview
Psalm 116 is a deeply personal thanksgiving from someone who was snared by death and despair and cried out to the LORD, who heard and delivered him. Overflowing with love and gratitude, the psalmist asks what he can render to God and resolves to lift the cup of salvation, pay his vows, and offer thanksgiving in the presence of all God's people. It is the testimony of a rescued soul finding rest because the LORD has dealt bountifully with him.
1I love Yahweh, because he listens to my voice, and my cries for mercy.
2Because he has turned his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
3The cords of death surrounded me, the pains of Sheol got a hold of me. I found trouble and sorrow.
4Then I called on Yahweh’s name: “Yahweh, I beg you, deliver my soul.”
5Yahweh is gracious and righteous. Yes, our God is merciful.
6Yahweh preserves the simple. I was brought low, and he saved me.
7Return to your rest, my soul, for Yahweh has dealt bountifully with you.
8For you have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling.
9I will walk before Yahweh in the land of the living.
10I believed, therefore I said, “I was greatly afflicted.”
11I said in my haste, “All people are liars.”
12What will I give to Yahweh for all his benefits toward me?
13I will take the cup of salvation, and call on Yahweh’s name.
14I will pay my vows to Yahweh, yes, in the presence of all his people.
15Precious in Yahweh’s sight is the death of his saints.
16Yahweh, truly I am your servant. I am your servant, the son of your servant girl. You have freed me from my chains.
17I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call on Yahweh’s name.
18I will pay my vows to Yahweh, yes, in the presence of all his people,
19in the courts of Yahweh’s house, in the middle of you, Jerusalem. Praise Yah!