Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is now their God?
This psalm was written when God's people lay under heavy affliction, and they cry out to Him not for their own honor but for His name's sake, lest the heathen mock Him and say, Where is their God? From their distress they take courage and boast in the madness of idol-worship, magnifying their own blessedness in being chosen by God.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 115:1-18
Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is now their God? Or, more literally, "Where, pray, is their God?" Why should the nations be allowed with a sneer of contempt to question the existence, and mercy, and faithfulness of Jehovah? They are always ready to blaspheme; we may well pray that they may not derive a reason for so doing from the course of providence, or the decline of the church.
Let no man take credit for his own mercy or success, but ascribe all glory to God alone. Whatever good we do comes by His grace; whatever good we have comes by His mercy. All our crowns belong at the feet of Him on the throne. In prayer, seek His glory above your own benefit, and make that your highest end.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 115:1-8