Benefits

“[A Psalm of David.] 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:”Psalm 103:1-2 NKJV 

Everyone is talking about the economy today.  We see our country and our world spinning out of control in spending, debt rising, values on homes dropping. . . . it goes on and on. 

 As our young people graduate High School and University, they are wondering where they will find a job and what benefit packages they will have.  It seems the cushy perks of the past generation may be gone; the 401K's, the generous salaries, the health insurance and retirements being cut to the bone or disappearing altogether.

 I found this as the 'verse of the day' on Biblegateway, and it was so appropriate.

In this day many find the words of Jesus difficult to follow. I see some who think  his teaching is about making life here on earth easy and trouble-free, they look for the benefits of following Him like they do their job search.  So, it is encouraging to find this verse that states:  ". . . .forget not all His benefits:"  One benefit is the peace He gives in the midst of storms.  He does not promise we will have no storms, just His peace, comfort, and mercy as we pass through them.  I hope you will think of these words today, as you continue on this uncertain journey towards your everlasting home.

Morning Song

 My soul still remembers



And sinks within me.


 This I recall to my mind,


Therefore I have hope.


 Through the LORD’s mercies we are not consumed,


Because His compassions fail not.


 They are new every morning;


Great is Your faithfulness.


 “ The LORD is my portion,” says my soul,


“ Therefore I hope in Him!”   Lamentations 3:20-24

This passage is such a comfort to me this morning!  I have been feeling overwhelmed by the events unfolding in my life.  Many things have simply thrown me on my knees, imploring God for relief and comfort.  What a joy to rediscover this beautiful passage.  I am reminded that my faith in God is not hopeless.  He will have compassion on me.  In His mercy He will not let me be overtaken by the circumstances not within my control.  There is hope that in His merciful compassion I will find the sweet relief.

It occurs to me that others have faced as much and far worse.  Paul and Silas were able to sing through the night while in chains.  Surely I can remember and sing a song of praise and joy to my Maker?

Psalm 77:5-6 says it well (they are God's words, after all!):

I have considered the days of old,



The years of ancient times.


I call to remembrance my song in the night;


I meditate within my heart,


And my spirit makes diligent search.


This 'remembrance of things past is what we should do in times of trouble;  look to God's word for wisdom and guidance.  Diligently search where we know to find the best advice! 
 
May you be guided to His counsel and wisdom.  Often I have found just the words and tender comfort I needed.  Thank you dear Lord, for your inexpressable gift of salvation, and of gift of the Spirit who dwells within each believer!

Fruit of Good Works

Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.  ~  Philippians 4:17-18

Paul was thankful for the Philippian's help, time and again.  But it wasn't simply the monetary help they gave him that he wanted.  He was thankful for their growth and maturity in their faith.  He knew that *they* were benefiting from sharing with him.  It is in serving others that we find our true path as we travel towards home.  God isn't interested in making us rich, or famous, or successful in business.  He wants us to learn to put others first, for the sake of the gospel.  In sharing, once and again, the Philippian Christians were learning obedience and trust.  They were learning to look upward and seek benefits for their eternal home.

Sacrifice for the sake of the kingdom yields spiritual fruit that cannot be bought or borrowed.  Christian virtues are patiently learned (not earned) by living a life that seeks the good for others.  It is not self-centered.  

May God bless you today with eyes that look outward.  Do something small, unnoticed for someone else today.  And be thankful.  

Hugs!