A woman commented that she noticed we are neglecting to place emphasis on thanksgiving in our churches. We certainly are quick to cry to the Lord in our troubles. Many days, no matter where we turn, we seem bombarded by a litany of constant woes. Our conversations and our prayers reflect that. Too often our prayers rush anxiously into supplication and often neglect adoration, confession and thanksgiving.
This psalm brings life into proper focus with its encouraging beginning. It reminds us that we are redeemed, that God is good and God’s steadfast love endures forever. Although we the redeemed do face trouble, sickness, sinfulness, iniquity, affliction, distress and death, God’s love for us is steadfast.
For a time, God may seem to do little more than share our suffering, just as Jesus shared our suffering on the cross; not so little a thing actually. Even then we are encouraged to remember that God redeems, gathers, saves and delivers us.
This is cause to offer thanksgiving and to tell of God’s deeds with songs of joy.
Steadfastly loving God, when I am burdened by a litany of woes, help me to remember your love, bring thanksgiving to my lips and teach me songs of joy. Amen. — KW