Psalms 107:15 (KJV)

What does Psalms 107:15 mean?

Psalms 107:15 is a call for people to thank and praise the LORD for his kindness and the amazing things he does for humanity. The verse urges everyone to recognize and celebrate God's goodness and the wonderful acts he performs for people.

The psalmist is speaking to all people, encouraging them to respond to God's actions with gratitude. This verse comes in a section where the writer recounts different ways God has rescued and helped people in trouble. The focus is on acknowledging God's faithful love and the remarkable things he does for the "children of men," meaning all people.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 107:15

• "praise" (יָדָה, yadah): This word means to give thanks or confess, often with the sense of publicly acknowledging God's deeds. Here, it emphasizes not just private gratitude but open, communal praise.
• "goodness" (חֶסֶד, chesed): This word refers to steadfast love, kindness, or loyal mercy. It highlights God's faithful, covenant love that motivates his actions toward people.
• "works" (פָּלָא, pala): This word points to things that are wonderful or extraordinary, often miracles or acts that inspire awe. The verse is not just about everyday kindness but about God's remarkable interventions.
• "children" (בֵּן, ben) and "men" (אָדָם, adam): These words together mean "children of men," a phrase that refers broadly to all humanity, not just a specific group.

Why Psalms 107:15 matters

• This verse clarifies that God's goodness and wonderful works are not limited to a select group but are meant for all people, inviting everyone to respond with praise.
• The repeated call to praise in this psalm (see verses 8, 15, 21, and 31) highlights how central gratitude is to the relationship between people and God.
• By using the word "chesed," the verse connects God's actions to his loyal, covenant love, helping readers see that his kindness is dependable and not just occasional.