Psalms 107:6 states: "Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses."

This verse encapsulates the essence of divine deliverance in times of trouble and distress. The psalmist reflects on the theme of God's responsiveness to human cries. The progression from trouble to deliverance is a common motif in the Scriptures, emphasizing the power of prayer and faith in God's saving grace.

Meaning and Interpretation

Matthew Henry notes that this verse highlights the merciful nature of God, who listens to the prayers of those in distress. It serves to remind the believers that God is ever-present in their adversities and is willing to help those who sincerely call upon Him. Henry emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging our troubles and turning to God for assistance.

Albert Barnes elaborates on the psychological state of the individuals in distress. He points out that the act of crying out signifies a deep sense of need and helplessness, which is often the precursor to divine intervention. The assurance of deliverance from distresses is a source of comfort, reminding the faithful of God's promises and capabilities.

According to Adam Clarke, the term "delivered" indicates a sense of rescue from perilous situations. He reflects on the experiences of the Israelites in various historical contexts, signifying that God's deliverance is not only a personal experience but also a collective memory for His people. Clarke suggests that this verse encourages believers to remember their past deliverances and trust in God's future interventions.

Cross References

• Psalms 34:17 - "The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles."
• Isaiah 65:24 - "And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear."
• Philippians 4:6-7 - "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
• 2 Samuel 22:7 - "In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry did enter into his ears."
• 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."
• Jeremiah 33:3 - "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

Connections and Themes

The connections between Bible verses like this resonate with the broader theme of divine assistance and the importance of reaching out to God in times of need. The inter-Biblical dialogue between these verses creates a tapestry of hope, encouraging believers to engage actively in their faith.

This verse in Psalms serves as a poignant reminder of the power and significance of prayer, linking it with various scriptures that emphasize God's readiness to respond. It illustrates that within the Christian experience, there is a dynamic relationship involving calling upon God and experiencing His gracious response.

Practical Application

For those who seek to deepen their understanding of Scripture, employing tools for Bible cross-referencing can illuminate the connections between verses, enhancing the study experience. By delving into comparative Bible verse analysis, one can uncover the intricate relationships that exist between passages, enriching both personal faith and communal teaching.