Understanding Psalm 107:19

Bible Verse: Psalms 107:19 - "Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses."

This verse highlights a profound truth about human distress and divine intervention. It serves as a call to remembrance of God’s salvific power when one is in dire need. The significance of this verse can be unpacked through insights from various public domain commentaries, which emphasize themes of prayer, God's mercy, and deliverance.

Commentary Insights

1. Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes that this verse reflects the desperation of the soul and the means of relief through prayer. He notes that the act of crying out to the Lord signifies a sincere appeal for help and an acknowledgment of God's authority and power. God’s response to this cry manifests His mercy and readiness to save those who earnestly seek Him.

2. Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes draws attention to the cyclical nature of distress and deliverance described in this text. He explains that the emphasis on calling upon the Lord illustrates the relationship between human need and divine providence. Barnes indicates that this verse resonates with the larger context of Psalm 107, which revolves around God’s unfailing goodness and faithfulness in saving His people from various forms of trouble.

3. Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke elaborates on the historical context of this verse, noting that the psalm reflects Israel's collective experiences in history when they faced calamities. Clarke points out that calling upon the Lord was not merely an act of desperation but also a return to faith and righteousness, leading to restoration and peace as a result of God’s salvation.

Thematic Connections

This verse can be thematically connected to various other scriptures discussing prayer, distress, and salvation. The responses of God to human cries for help form a recurring motif in the Bible. Below are some significant cross-references that underscore these themes:

• Psalms 34:17: "The righteous cry, and the LORD hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles."
• Psalms 50:15: "And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me."
• Lamentations 3:55-56: "I called upon thy name, O Lord, out of the low dungeon. Thou hast heard my voice: hide not thine ear at my breathing, at my cry."
• Isaiah 58:9: "Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am."
• James 5:16: "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
• Matthew 7:7: "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."
• Romans 10:13: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

Applying Cross-Referencing

In studying Psalm 107:19, one can employ various tools for effective cross-referencing. Understanding the connections between different Bible verses enriches one’s study and spiritual practices.

• Bible Concordance: Use concordances to find related words and themes in Biblical texts.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: These guides provide extensive listings of verses that correspond with particular topics or phrases.
• How to Find Cross-References: Start with key words or themes in your verse and trace them through other parts of scripture.
• Cross-Referencing Bible Study Methods: Employ methods like thematic studies to explore broad concepts across the Bible.

Conclusion

Psalm 107:19 serves not only as a reminder of God's readiness to save those who call upon Him but also as an invitation to explore and study the vast connections woven throughout the Scriptures. The interconnectedness of Biblical texts enriches our understanding and deepens our faith as we discover the depth of God's character and His unwavering presence in times of trouble.

Through comprehensive study and cross-referencing, one can gain enhanced insights into the message of salvation and deliverance permeated in the pages of the Bible.