Psalm 118 (2 of 31 notes)

2. God had made a covenant with their forefathers, a covenant of mercy and love, and to that covenant he was faithful evermore. Israel sinned in Egypt, provoked the Lord in the wilderness, went astray again and again under the judges, and transgressed at all times; and yet the Lord continued to regard them as his people, to favor them with his oracles, and to forgive their sins. He speedily ceased from the chastisements which they so richly deserved, because he had favor towards them. He put his rod away the moment they repented, because his heart was full of compassion. David’s success was mercy to Israel, as well as mercy to himself. If Israel does not sing when the Son of David ascends the throne, the very stones will cry out.