Day 25 May 18, 2006
Read: Psalm 103
Reflection: What a list! David starts out blessing the Lord, and then breaks out in an account of all His benefits:
pardons all iniquities
heals all diseases
redeems life from the pit
crowns with lovingkindness and compassion
satisfies years with good things
renews youth like the eagle
Any one of these is mind-boggling - and necessary. He knows what we need, and has promised it.
I have written in the margin of my Bible that “bless” comes from “kneel,” as the camel. It is put into a position to receive.
God has more than amply given so that we have received, been blessed. And as David says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name,” we need to put God in a position to receive - our praise, adoration and thanksgiving.
Adoration: For His compassion and lovingkindness.
Confession: It is so easy to just ask and receive and to withhold blessing God, who is so worthy.
Thanksgiving: For forgiveness.
Supplication: That I may not merely receive, but share my testimony of His goodness with others so they’ll bless Him, too.
I want to bless You, Lord; and to realize what pleases You and then to DO it.
Carmen Edwards
First Christian Church