THE SMALL THINGS

THE SMALL THINGS

READ:  Psalm 116:1-9

Every good and perfect gift is

from above.  (James 1:17)

My friend Gloria called with excitement in her voice.  She had not been able to leave her home except for doctor’s appointments.  So I understood why she was so happy to tell me, “My son just attached new speakers to my computer, so now I can go to my church!” Now she could hear the live broadcast of her church’s worship service.  She raved about God’s goodness and the “best gift my son could have given me!”

Gloria teaches me about having a thankful heart.  Despite her many limitations, she’s thankful for the smallest of things-sunsets, helpful family and neighbors, quiet moments with God, the ability to remain in her own apartment.  She’s had a lifetime of seeing God provide for her, and she talks about Him to anyone who visits or calls.

We don’t know what difficulties the author of Psalm 116 was encountering.  Some Bible commentaries say it was probably sickness because he said, “the cords of death entangled me” (v.3).  But he gave thanks to the Lord for being gracious and full of compassion when he was “brought low” (vv.5-6).

When we’re low, it can be hard to look up.  Yet if we do, we see that God is the giver of all good gifts in our life-great and small-and we learn to give Him thanks.  ANNE CETAS

What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me?

…I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving.

PSALM 116:12, 17 ESV

Praise to God comes naturally when you found your blessings.

INSIGHT

This marvelous psalm celebrates the miraculous deliverance we receive from the God who comes to our rescue.  Verses 1-9 recognize the call for help, the gracious response of God, and the praise and rest that come to us after a stressful time.  Verses 8-9 also give us an eloquent summary of God’s deliverance:  “For you, LORD, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the LORD in the land of the living.”  These two verses are worth memorizing as a means of strengthening our faith, giving thanks for past help from God, and in preparation for future trials.  Fear of death, tears of sorrow, and even stumbling feet find their comfort and restoration in the God of grace.

All of these offer reasons to count our blessings. For what can you praise God today?  DENNIS FISHER

Have a bless night.

God Our Creator’s Love Always

Peace