Year in the Bible Daily Reading:
Leviticus 12-14; Psalm 111; Hebrews 5 Listen to Today's Reading
Psalm 111:1–10
Praise to God for His Faithfulness and Justice
Praise the Lord! I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, In the assembly of the upright and in the congregation. The works of the Lord are great, Studied by all who have pleasure in them. His work is honorable and glorious, And His righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonderful works to be remembered; The Lord is gracious and full of compassion. He has given food to those who fear Him; He will ever be mindful of His covenant. He has declared to His people the power of His works, In giving them the heritage of the nations. The works of His hands are verity and justice; All His precepts are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, And are done in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever: Holy and awesome is His name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever. Psalm 111:1–10 (NKJV)
It's easy to praise God and others when things are going well. This psalm is a beautiful sonnet to the Lord, thanking Him for his many blessings. Is it one you would sing right after you stubbed your toe or got that hefty, unexpected bill in the mail? Probably not. But we should. The Lord is with us in the good times, the blah, every day times and the times that scare us or challenge us most. Do we thank him for the tragedies in our lives? Not a chance. At least not until we feel Jesus walking by our side through the difficult times.
Gratefulness has to be a daily practice. My sisters and niece and I do a Zoom Bible study each week. We are reading Choosing Gratitude by Joni Eareckson Tada. She encourages us to keep a gratitude journal, writing down a new thing to be grateful for each day. It becomes a habit that helps us to see and praise God for His righteousness, power, compassion, truth and love. Try it and see how it changes your life!
Questions for Reflection:
- What does "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" mean to you?
- How does a grateful heart create a living prayer to Jesus?
Prayer:
We praise you for your presence in our lives, dear God. When things are going well, help us to appreciate all the gifts you have given. When things aren't going well, help us to see you walking by our side. We love you and praise you for all you are and do for us. In your name we pray. Amen
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