Psalm 103 - 6.3.26
Scripture
Psalm 103:1-2
Praise the Lord, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—
Observation
When people follow God’s instructions, they reap the blessings that come with those directives. I believe that God’s promises and principles are true and they apply to everyone. And I have observed that even if people don’t know Him, when they follow His principles (giving to the poor, serving others, placing others above themselves, honoring their father and mother, and many more), they receive blessings.
Application
Practicing gratitude is popular in our culture right now. And there is scientific evidence of the physiological benefits of setting aside time to focus on the things you are grateful for, including reduced anxiety, stress, blood pressure and heart rate, better immunity, and improved sleep. (I love when science supports God’s word!)
Practicing gratitude is not a new idea. It is a principle that God designed for us from the beginning of time – to give thanks to our Father. Throughout scripture we are encouraged to bring our praise and worship to God. We are instructed to start our day and end our day with thanksgiving, and to worship in all we do. When we pray, we are taking our needs and wants to God, but ultimately, we are acknowledging His lordship and aligning our hearts with His will. Likewise, when we worship God and thank Him for everything He has done for us, we are refocusing our hearts and minds, aligning our hearts with Him, bolstering our faith by remembering and naming the things He has done and the promises He has made, and accepting His lordship. And in response we come away changed - He fills us with joy, peace, and love.
Prayer
Lord, may I not forget your benefits. May I start and end each day with a song of praise. Thank you for forgiving my sins, for not repaying me as I deserve, thank you for your healing power, thank you for your love and compassion, thank you for giving me good things.
The Lord has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.
Praise the Lord, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.
Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.
Praise the Lord, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.
Praise the Lord, my soul.
- Debbie Dunn
