04 MAY 2024 devotional

"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: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's." (Psalm 103:1-5)

This morning as I awoke this passage was running on repeat in my mind. What an awesome way to start the day! God is SO GOOD! He has reminded me recently that we really don't spend enough time saying "Thank you" - to Him or to each other. Thank you. Two simple words that mean so much, yet are uttered so infrequently.

Despite my recent post about taking time off, resting, and caring for ourselves, I overdid it yesterday myself. Like many of you, I suffer from the mindset that tells me I can still do stuff just like in my 30's - until I either get into the middle of it or when I'm done. That's when I pay the price. Oh well, I got done what needed to be done, but wow am I paying for it now. But you know what? God is still good and He is touching my body even now, healing the damage I did yesterday, strengthening those muscles I haven't used for some time, and renewing my spirit. He is a good, good Father.

Today I'm grateful for God's faithfulness. No matter what stage of my life I'm in, He remains the same. He is just and kind, He is gracious to me, He watches over me to protect me (mostly from myself), and He is always right there. He loves me with a never-ending love. And I am thankful.

My challenge to you today is just take some time to reflect. God has been good to you, too. He has pulled you through some things that looked like it was the end. Maybe He has watched as you totally screwed everything up, but He answered when you cried out to Him. Just as importantly, He has stood on the podium as life handed you great successes and victories. He has laughed with you, cried with you, celebrated with you, and loves spending time with you. You are precious in His eyes, my friend. Let Him know today how much you appreciate Him.

Be blessed.