First, many times we were bent on rebellion (34-43). The psalmist continues how they didn't obey God's command; they didn't destroy God's enemies in the Promised Land. They rather mingled themselves with the pagan nations. They sacrificed their children to worship their idols. They defiled themselves by what they did. They made God angry. Each time God dealt with them with necessary training by punishing them and even scattering them among the nations. Still he delivered them out of mercy. But they kept on being bent on rebellion. What should God have done with them? Second, God still remembered his covenant (44-48). With the sinful and rebellious Israelites alone there was no hope. But God still remembered his covenant. He took note of their distress when he heard their cry; out of his great love he relented. He caused all who held them captive to show them mercy. Though his people sinned repeatedly, God sent his son as he promised to save us.
Application: Lord, thank you for your enduring love for sinners and for sending a Savior according to your covenant. Praise the Lord!
One Word: Out of his great love!