What can we learn about God's mercy from Psalm 106:23?

◄ Insights on God's mercy in Psalm 106:23? ►

“So He said He would destroy them—had not Moses His chosen one stood in the breach before Him to turn away His wrath from destroying them.”

What This Reveals About God’s Mercy

• God’s justice demanded judgment, yet His heart was not locked into destruction.

• Mercy is not indifferent to sin; it triumphs over judgment when a mediator steps in.

• The Lord’s willingness to “turn away His wrath” shows that mercy is a deliberate choice, not a reluctant concession.

Mercy Flowing Through Intercession

• “Stood in the breach” pictures Moses placing himself between the people and God’s righteous anger (cf. Exodus 32:9-14).

• God allows, even invites, intercession—highlighting His relational nature.

• The pattern continues: Abraham for Sodom (Genesis 18:22-33), Samuel for Israel (1 Samuel 12:19-25), Paul for Israel (Romans 10:1).

Mercy Consistent with Covenant Faithfulness

• The Lord had sworn to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 32:13); His mercy safeguards His promises.

• He does not ignore sin (Numbers 14:18) but shows “faithful love” (ḥesed) by providing a path to forgiveness.

• Lamentations 3:22 echoes the same truth: “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed.”

Mercy Foreshadowing Christ

• Moses points ahead to the greater Mediator: “There is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5)

• Jesus “always lives to intercede” (Hebrews 7:25), eternally standing “in the breach.”

• On the cross, wrath and mercy meet; judgment falls on the Substitute so mercy can flow to sinners.

Living in Light of This Mercy

• Confidence: God remains ready to forgive when we come through the appointed Mediator (1 John 1:9).

• Humility: Remember we are recipients, not earners, of mercy (Titus 3:5).

• Intercession: Follow Moses’ example by praying for others, trusting God delights to show mercy (Ezekiel 22:30).

• Worship: Celebrate the Lord “who redeems your life from the pit…who crowns you with loving devotion and compassion.” (Psalm 103:4)

Supporting Passages