As we delve into Psalm 136:20, we encounter the phrase that says, "And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever." On the surface, this verse recounts a historical fact about Og, who was known for his formidable stature and as one of the last of the giants in the land. But beneath this brief mention lies a profound admonition about God's enduring mercy, a theme repeated throughout the psalms and indeed the entire Bible.

To understand the significance of this verse, we must first consider who Og was. He ruled over Bashan, a region known for its rich soil and lush pastures, making it a land of abundance. Og is depicted as a giant (Deuteronomy 3:11), and his size was not just physical but also symbolic of the great challenges and formidable opposition that God’s people often faced. Here was a king whose very existence represented a threat to Israel as they were poised to enter the Promised Land. However, what this verse highlights is not Og’s might, but rather God’s mercy.

The word "mercy" in this context can also be translated as "steadfast love" or "lovingkindness." It is God’s unfailing commitment to His people, a love that does not waver based on circumstances or the giants we face in life. God's mercy is deeply rooted in His nature and is eternally reliable; it is not eroded by the fears of our hearts or the overwhelming challenges that seem insurmountable. In the face of Og's formidable presence, Israel could rest assured in the truth that God’s mercy was greater.

The reminder that “his mercy endureth for ever” beckons us to reflect on the victories that God has orchestrated in the lives of His people. In the historical context, Israel’s journey through the wilderness was fraught with trials, and their encounters with nations such as Og were meant to teach them reliance on God. Each battle they faced was accompanied by God's promise that His mercy and lovingkindness would guide and protect them through even the darkest valleys.

This verse is not just historical; it speaks to us today. Many of us encounter our own giants—fear, doubt, health issues, relational struggles, financial burdens, and more. In those moments, it can be easy to forget about God's mercy. Instead of retreating in fear, we are reminded to embrace His mercy that is everlasting. Our own life experiences reflect the truth of God's enduring mercy, which has seen us through our darkest days and and celebrated with us in our victories.

Additionally, Og’s defeat by the Israelites serves as a profound symbol of hope and resilience. Though he was royal and intimidating, the power of God through His people was evident. The battles we face aren’t merely physical; they are spiritual. Paul writes in Ephesians 6:12 that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers. In knowing this, we can turn our focus from the giants that loom large and instead sink our faith deeper into the enduring mercy of God, who has promised to help us triumph over adversity.

As we reflect on Og the king of Bashan, let us use it as a reminder not just of God’s past faithfulness in the lives of His people, but also of His enduring mercy in our own lives. When we feel overpowered by our giants, may we declare along with the psalmist that His mercy indeed endures forever. We can draw strength from the fact that God has never lost a battle, and He continues to offer His merciful hand to those who seek Him. Let us approach God’s throne with confidence, trusting in His unfailing love and mercy that sustains us now and forevermore.