Ps 116 is the 4^th of the 'Hallel' set – songs chosen for worship of the Lord upon deliverance from Egypt under Moses. This particular hymn expresses worship for personal deliverance, reminding us that salvation in the Kingdom of God has both corporate and individual implications. God saves a nation, a priesthood, a church, a multitude, one heart at a time. How ought the heart of the delivered respond? Ps 116 answers. He ought to join the throngs of the redeemed in offering his praise and performing his vows.
A 2^nd title for Ps 116 could be: “Grace & Vows”. The entire framework of this song clarifies the relationship between God's grace and our obedience. Which comes first? Time and again the grace of God's deliverance precedes, enables, and inspires the praise of the author and sincere singer of Ps 116. A 3^rd possible title historically may have been: “Postpartum Praise” as churches have relied on Ps 116 to provide the liturgy of thanksgiving after a mother had given birth in their congregation. The content of the praises and occasion lend themselves to accompany times like these. Nevertheless, our primary title is chosen from a moment in the Gospels where praise is offered to our Lord upon deliverance from a horrible affliction. Sadly, this heart of worship was demonstrated by just one of ten who were healed that day. I cannot think of a better song for a leper to sing as he returned to thank his Savior, Healer, and Lord. Read of this man's worship in Luke 17:11-19...