Bless the Lord (Part 2)

This week, in part 2 of our reflections from Psalm 103, we take some time to ponder some of the truths of who the Lord is. This passage has been so important to me in my years of walking with Christ. I come back to it over and over again. Take some time to read it slowly perhaps even out loud to yourself.

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. He will not always strive with us, Nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, So great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust.” (Psalm 103:8-14)

Here are a few questions to aide your reflection:

  • What truths bring you hope?
  • What truths bring you comfort?
  • How does this passage make you feel?
  • Take some time to thank the Lord for who He is and what He has done for you.

Maranatha (Come Lord!)

Bless the Lord (Part 1)

This week I want to begin a multi-week series on Psalm 103. This Psalm has so much heart and depth in it, that it needs a number of weeks to unpack it for our understanding and personal growth. Let’s start with the first five verses.

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.” (Psalm 103:1-5)

Here are a few questions to aid your reflection:

  • What are some of the benefits the Lord provides?
  • Why are these benefits important to you?
  • When reflecting on just these benefits, what emotions do you feel?
  • Take a few moments to bless the Lord.

Maranatha (Come Lord!)

Perspective?

So many dark things are happening in our world these days. These events, calamities, wars, famines and hardships strike our hearts at deep levels resulting in much sadness, fear and anger.

This morning I have been spending some time reflecting on Psalm 100. The perspective is entirely different. There is joy, gladness and joyful song. How can this be? The perspective is different – it is focused on the Lord. Here are the Psalmist’s words:

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” (Psalms 100:1-5)

Take some time to reflect on this Psalm. Here are some questions that may assist your reflection.

  • What is said about who the Lord is and what He has done or is doing?
  • Given your response from the above question, what emotions and actions does this bring out?
  • Take a few moments to share your heart responses with the Lord.

Maranatha (Come Lord!)

So Many Fish

After Jesus’ death and resurrection, the disciples seemed to be floundering. They decided to go fishing but caught nothing. Then Jesus showed up. Here’s the scene titled <So Many Fish> from the Life of Jesus series (formerly Gospel of John), <Walking With Jesus>.

Take a few minutes to watch the episode and reflect on the questions at the end.

Maranatha (Come Lord!)