Bible Notes Online - Psalms 136 - ESV
Commentary

God's glory in creation and redemption, following from Ps 135. There is a poetic form, with verses in threes; v1-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12, 13-15, then 16-20, 23-25. Each line invites a response from the people. The refrain, "His love endures for ever," appears in Ps 106.1; 107.1; 118.1-4, 29. This Psalm was also used in the closing part of the annual Passover festival. The glory of God is seen in creation, but also in the salvation of His people; the Psalmist notes there two wonderful works of God.

v1-3: 'Oh, give thanks,' devotion of heart, and deep love for God, meditating on His excellence and greatness must bring such a response, see Deut 10.17.

v4-9: God's glory in creation, see Ps 135.5-7, the work of His fingers, Ps 8.3, and evidence of His character, Ps 19.1. He has created all things by His wisdom, Prov 8.27, and has made everything well. See also Gen 1.16; the Psalmist echoes the creation account, underlining its truth.

v10-22: God's glory in redemption, Ps 135.8-12, His out-stretched arm, Ex 6.6, in showing mercy to Israel; He brought Israel out from Egypt (v11), and brought Israel through the Red Sea (v14), He led His people through the desert (v16), and gave them the land of the Amorites (v21-22).

v23-25: God's work has continued, He did not stop once the people had reached the promised land. His eternal mercy is still eternal.

v26: The God of Heaven is at work on the earth; He is not just the God of Israel.