“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” Psalm 103:1-5 (ESV)
We live and earn our living in changing environments. Some of them are more drastically changed than others. New circumstances demand new arrangements, new purposes, new goals, and new lifestyles. Sometimes these changes are scary, even if they allow for greater freedom and personal benefit. At times, the change leaves a family with almost no income and drastic adjustments to lifestyle. What does one do?
When the way forward is suddenly veiled by fog, wisdom is required. How does one proceed? It is very easy to fall into the deserving merit trap. “But Lord, I have been faithful. God, I have done such and such in your name. I’ve paid my tithe. I’ve given to your work. I don’t deserve this.” This “merit trap” produces an attitude that we have benefited God in some way. God owes us because of the benefits we have given him. The Psalmist suggested a different method to follow. Consider our foundation first. Recall to mind the truly important stuff. Begin by blessing the Lord with all your soul. Call to mind all the benefits he has provided to us. Forgiveness! Health and healing of disease! Saved out of the pit of sorrow, misery, and eternal punishment! Constant, firmly committed love and mercy! A satisfied soul, full of good! The renewed spirit of an eagle that soars high above the circumstances! The renewed spirit of a youth who cannot be defeated!
“Bless the LORD, O my soul!”
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Thank you, O God, for all the benefits you give to us. Be merciful to all our friends and family who are struggling under great stress at this time. Enable us to recall all your benefits and bless your Holy Name. Provide wisdom and direction as we acknowledge you in all our ways. Empower us to encourage others by example. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for his benefits and bless him with all our mind, body, and soul,
Pastor Smith