“Expressing Gratitude”


BIBLE READING: Psalms 132-138

            Gratitude is a popular idea these days. Recent reports tell us about significant health benefits for the thankful-hearted, but that should not be the primary reason we express appreciation to God. Instead, we should be inspired by the Lord’s worthiness. When we consider who He is, all He has done, and all He will do, our natural response ought to be deep, heartfelt appreciation.
             In Psalm 138, David expresses gratitude to God. We can read it whenever we need to meditate on specific aspects of the Lord’s goodness. In this psalm, David tells us that God:
  • Is good (v. 2).
  • Keeps His promises (v. 2).
  • Listens (v. 3).
  • Answered prayers (v. 3).
  • Strengthened us (v. 3).
  • Cares for the downtrodden (v. 6).
  • Saves (v.7).
  • Attends to our concerns (v. 8).
  • Is everlasting (v.8).
            We often struggle to be thankful when we’re disappointed or hurt. We hold God responsible for our troubles and easily forget all the ways in which He has blessed us. Psalm 138 reminds us of the many reasons we can be genuinely grateful, without a hint of resentment or bitterness, even in the midst of our hardships. Are you a thankful person? Don’t just keep your appreciation hidden in your heart. David expressed his praises for his heavenly Father “before the gods” (v.1), so give thanks to God publicly. Let others hear about God’s goodness and be blessed by it as well. Gratefulness is powerful. It feeds our faith and reminds us of why we can trust God for the future. So whenever doubt and disappointment test your ability to be thankful, turn to the word of God. Let it renew your worn-out spirit, encourage you to persevere in the faith, and shine a light on the hope-giving grace of God.                                                                                                                                            -Selected

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