Day 281

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God's Greatest Love—Thank you!

Weekly Devotional

October 7— Psalm 103: How to Bless God

Reflection

What was anticipated in the last book of the Old Testament (Malachi) now arrives in the first book of the New Testament (Matthew): the Messiah of God. As you read of his words and works in these chapters of Matthew's Gospel, no doubt you were impacted by the life of your Lord. To all who would accept his claims, he offers forgiveness and rest. But rejection grows among the religious leaders, causing Jesus to shift his attention from the masses to his men—the twelve disciples. Finally he enters the last week of his life on earth and walks a path that leads to the cross and then an empty tomb.

It's an exciting and meaningful story. And one that prompts us to thank our loving Father who sent his Son on our behalf. Let's renew our spirits by spending thoughtful moments reading and contemplating Psalm 103, and learn just what it means to "bless God."

Thank you, Lord!

If your prayer life is normal, you have probably prayed often for God to bless you. But when was the last time you blessed God? "Me? Bless God? But how? Doesn't he have everything already?"

There is something God desires from you, something he is incapable of providing for himself! But don't reach for your checkbook; it's not money. God is not lacking in power or possessions, either. He owns "all the animals of field and forest" (Psalm 50:10); he is "supreme above all rulers of the earth" (Psalm 99:2). Then what does God desire? How can you bless him today?

You can bless him by saying "Thank you!" Thanks is something God cannot give himself. It must come from outside of him, from another party responding to his goodness and blessing in their life. And that is the point of Psalm 103. You can bless God today by itemizing and thanking him for his benefits in your life.

David assembles an awesome list of the ways God's fingerprints can be seen on his life. Here are just a few of the benefits for which David thanks God: forgiveness of sins, healing, redemption, love, mercy, a satisfying life, renewed strength, righteousness, judgment, a clearly revealed will, patience, pity and gentleness.

Take inventory of yourself. Where has God invaded your life and given you a reason to bless him today? Compile a "grocery list of praise" to God, then spend a few minutes blessing his name. God loves it!

Prayer

We praise you, our King of heaven and earth, for the ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven life you have given us. You tend and spare us because you know what we are in need of all the time. You gently carry us and rescue us from all our enemies. We praise and adore you for your great love you have bestowed on us. Thank you, Lord, for loving us so much! In Jesus' name we thank and praise you! Amen! 

Praise Your Holy Name!





© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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