April 20, 2018 Friday

“There are many who say, “Who will show us any good?” LORD, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us. You have put gladness in my heart, More than in the season that their grain and wine increased. I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:6-8 NKJV)

           

            After the conversation of preparation in the first verses David recognizes many see coming to God as not doing any good then declares the goodness of God as an answer.  David gives an account of all of God’s goodness and that they are worth more than any worldly blessing.

            Indeed every blessing in this world David acknowledges as not only coming from God but they are a reminder of the spiritual blessings from God.

            After David’s remembrance that he does not deserve to come to God comes the thanksgiving which leads to praise!

            Thanksgiving is a remembrance of all the good God has done for us and given to us.  Thanksgiving is an acknowledgement of our need for God which is only found through the grace of God in Jesus.

            In thanksgiving we celebrate all God has done and this leads us beyond the gates to praise which brings us into the court of God!  Praise is a recognition of Who God is and a declaration that we give thanks of the good we receive is because God is good!

            Praise is recognition that even if God did nothing for us God still is worthy and deserving of our praise for Who He is!

            David is still giving thanks to God but we see praise forming from giving thanks and the humility of recognizing need.

            Do you prepare yourself before coming to God?  Do you count your blessings and humbly acknowledge your need for God?  Are you preparing for a conversation with God or are you just “preparing” a shopping list? 

            Was a better day and I got the cards done, organized my areas getting ready for Sarah and Levi’s arrival, read in I Kings, walked, sat outside, got the bird feeders filled and Bonnie and I had our devotion.  Thanks be to God for all I was able to do.  Bonnie and Rebecca got our home spruced up and ready for the visit.  I really celebrate today since lately the terrible days have grown to terrible weeks and are more frequent than the better days.  But with God every day is a good day!