"But I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress." Psalm 59:16 ESV
There is an introductory text saying David wrote this Psalm after God saved his life when Saul had sent men to kill him. This event so moves David; he desires to sing God's praises. "God, you give my strength, endless love, and protection. I love you so much. I'm going to write you a song and sing so all can hear."
While our deliverance stories may not as dramatic as David’s, we have all experienced God bringing us through difficult times. We can hear the enthusiasm in David’s reaction, and I compare it to my responses. When I look back on those stormy times when God has delivered me, have I given God the thanks and praise he so rightly deserves? Or, more often than not, when I remember, have I simply muttered a thank you, not expressing my gratitude fully. Had I just taken it for granted, God would help me and not offered David like thanks? God will help us; he wants to! As his children, he loves us and cares for us. But shouldn't we respond with a heartfelt and enthusiastic expression of joy in our deliverance?
Precious loving, compassionate, and delivering God, we want to give you thanks. While we may not be able to write you a song and sing like David, we can offer you our wholehearted and genuine thanks for your steadfast love. Forgive us for those times we have failed to express our gratitude for all your gifts. In the name of your Son and our Savior, Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
