Thursday, March 27, 2014

Bless the Lord (Psalm 103:1-5)


Today's scripture: Psalm 103:1-5

It would be quite enough if the only “benefit” we received from knowing God was the forgiveness of sins. It would be more than enough if, after we accepted the gift of salvation, He just took us to heaven.

But He—gracious and loving God that He is—chooses us to bless us abundantly here on earth.

He heals our diseases. Some might say, “Wait a minute. I’m not healed.” I don’t think healing always comes with the alleviation of the ailment—physical healing. In my case, healing is emotional and spiritual. Yes, I live in constant pain, but it’s through that pain my heart and soul are healed. What I mean is that my pain keeps me in contact with Christ—all the time. I sincerely believe that my pain has drawn me closer to Him, and I know I can’t handle life without Him.

He redeems our lives from destruction. Those of us who know Christ are often supernaturally protected. This doesn’t mean no Christians ever face disaster. Christians die in natural disasters and man-caused accidents just as non-Christians do. But if we do lose our earthly life, we gain so much more—being in the presence of our Lord and Savior!

He crowns us with lovingkindness and tender mercies. This one is so very true for me. He is so merciful to me. He covers me with His love and tenderness. When I just don’t think I can take another step, He’s there to pick me up. When even the simplest movement causes pain, He wraps His arms around me.

He satisfies our mouths with good things … and it’s not just food. Yes, most of us who live in the United States are blessed with plenty of food. Really good food. But we Christians are blessed with His word, and we can feast on it. We are renewed by it. We are encouraged by it. We are affirmed—and often convicted—by it. It is the very bread that sustains us.

Oh, yes! We are so very, very blessed. So how can we help but joining with the psalmist:

Bless the LORD, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!

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