Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you. Psalm 116:7 NIV
I am no different from any other Christian; at least I don’t think I am. There are days when I allow the world to get me into a "slump" frame of mind. I think life is never going to get any better. I am certain the “forces” of life are against me. Foolish thinking I know, and I hope that doesn’t disappoint you in me, but I want you to know the truth.
The Psalmist felt that way. He had to remind himself of God’s goodness to him. Apparently there had been a time when everything was okay. He said, "Be at rest once more." He was looking for that kind of feeling again. I wonder if he made a list? Let’s see...
- I woke up this morning.
- My family is still healthy.
- I have food to eat.
- I have a place to lay my head at night.
- As far as I know my life is not in danger.
- I can still read my Bible freely.
- My prayers are still being heard.
- God is still on His Throne.
- God has never let me down yet.
- I’m going to be okay.
My lists all sort of go like that. At first they focus on the physical, then I realize the spiritual elements of my life are really the most important. I realize the LORD has been good to me. It’s so easy to complain but so refreshing to reflect on the goodness of the Lord.
Are you going through a trial right now? It makes life more difficult, doesn’t it? It sometimes even makes it hard to pray. God understands. He knows your heart. Why not make a list!? Why not jot down the things for which you have to be thankful. Remember the goodness of the Lord. It may not make your troubles go away, but it will change your perspective on the troubles.
Everything looks brighter when put into the proper perspective!
