What is the first word that pops into your head to describe the present condition of our world? I’m sure you came up with a very fitting word. Mine was ominous. The dictionary says that means foretelling evil; threatening. I would add - steadily creeping darkness, slow and sure and savage. It is very easy to get our eyes off the Lord like Peter walking on the waves to Jesus until he looked around and went - “Uhh, Ohh!” Sink!
The 103rd Psalm is a good remedy for our easily diverted attentions. David writes: “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” (vs. 1-2) And what are His benefits?
He forgives our iniquities.
He heals our diseases.
He redeems our lives from destruction.
He crowns us with lovingkindness.
He crowns us with tender mercies.
He satisfies our mouth with good things.
He renews our youth.
He executes righteousness for us.
He gives us justice when we’re oppressed.
He has made known His ways to us.
He has made known His acts to us.
He is merciful to us.
He is gracious to us.
He is patient with us.
He has not punished us as we deserve.
He has removed our transgressions.
He pities us because we fear Him.
He knows us.
He knows we are but dust.
He has included us in His foreverness.
All these benefits and many more have been given to us in the fullness of Jesus Christ. Yes, bless the Lord, O my soul, “For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.” (Psalm 103:13-14)
Many words can describe the ominous world around us; and oh don’t our eyes get drawn to the waves? But remember, He is Lord over all - the ominous included. Therefore, let us forget not all His benefits.