Psalm 116

“I love the LORD, because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy” (v1). The psalms gave the Israelites examples of the Lord’s mercy, helping them learn to depend on Him and develop a prayerful intimacy. “When I was brought low, He saved me” (v6). The psalmist did not hide his emotions, but cried out to God: “I suffered distress and anguish ... I am greatly afflicted” (v3,10). God responded, leading to thanksgiving: “You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling” (v8).

“Return, O my soul, to your rest” (v7). Because God is merciful, we can cast our cares on Him and rest, trusting He will deal “bountifully” with us (v7).