Here the psalmist highlights for us a recurring pattern of stubbornness which usually begins with God's children launching out on their own to do their own thing: "some wandered the desert" (v. 4), "some sat in darkness" (v. 10), "some became foolish" (v. 17), "some went out on the sea" (v. 17). And each time, the world around them eventually spirals out of their control ... UNTIL, as a last resort, they "cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he [delivered / saved / brought] them out of their distress" (Ps 107: 6, 13, 19, 28)
God intervenes, making their way straight (v. 7), bringing them out of darkness (v. 14), healing them (v. 20), stilling the storm (v. 29).
Each time, the cry of despair is transformed into an expression of thanksgiving: "Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind," (Ps 107: 8, 15, 21, 31).
However some of us are too stubborn to recognize this painful recurring pattern in our own lives (by "us" I mean "me"). We keep launching out on our own without God thinking we have everything under control. It is only when we find ourselves broken and desperate, that we cry out for God to rescue us. And as promised, God's unfailing love reaches into the depth of our despair and transforms it into on outpouring of gratitude.
"Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the LORD" (Ps 107:42)
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