17 Fools, because of their way of transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted; 18 Their soul abhorreth all manner of food, and they draw near unto the gates of death: 19 Then they cry unto Jehovah in their trouble, [and] he saveth them out of their distresses; 20 He sendeth his word, and healeth them, and delivereth them from their destructions. 21 Let them give thanks unto Jehovah for his loving-kindness, and for his wondrous works to the children of men, 22 And let them offer the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works in joyful song.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Psalm 107:17-22
Commentary on Psalm 107:17-22
(Read Psalm 107:17-22)
If we knew no sin, we should know no sickness. Sinners are fools. They hurt their bodily health by intemperance, and endanger their lives by indulging their appetites. This their way is their folly. The weakness of the body is the effect of sickness. It is by the power and mercy of God that we are recovered from sickness, and it is our duty to be thankful. All Christ's miraculous cures were emblems of his healing diseases of the soul. It is also to be applied to the spiritual cures which the Spirit of grace works. He sends his word, and heals souls; convinces, converts them, makes them holy, and all by the word. Even in common cases of recovery from sickness, God in his providence speaks, and it is done; by his word and Spirit the soul is restored to health and holiness.