What is the meaning of Psalm 136:20? and Og king of Bashan Psalm 136:20: “and Og king of Bashan—His loving devotion endures forever.” • Og ruled the fertile, fortified region east of the Jordan (Deuteronomy 3:1-5). • He represented the last of the giant Rephaim, a figure who seemed unbeatable to Israel (Numbers 21:33-35). • By singling out Og, the psalmist reminds worshipers that God crushed even the most intimidating enemy (Psalm 135:10-12), ensuring His people’s safety and fulfilling His covenant promise (Genesis 15:18-21; Joshua 12:4-6). His loving devotion endures forever • The refrain appears in every verse of Psalm 136, tying each historical act to God’s steadfast covenant love (Exodus 34:6-7). • God’s victory over Og displays love that protects, provides, and keeps promises (Deuteronomy 7:7-9). • By repeating the refrain after naming Og, the psalm invites worshipers to celebrate not merely the defeat of an enemy but the enduring character of the One who fought for them (2 Chronicles 20:21-22). what this means for believers today • God’s past faithfulness assures present confidence; He remains the same (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). • Seemingly invincible obstacles—spiritual, cultural, personal—stand no chance against the Lord who once toppled Og (Romans 8:31-39). • Gratitude is the proper response; recounting God’s specific acts fuels worship and trust (Psalm 103:1-5; Revelation 12:11). summary Psalm 136:20 recalls God’s decisive victory over a fearsome, towering king to spotlight His unwavering covenant love. The verse assures believers that the Lord who overthrew Og still defends, delivers, and keeps His promises—because “His loving devotion endures forever.” |
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