Benefits Worth Remembering

Maria I. MorganBlog Archive, Understanding God's Character

Benefits Worth Remembering

Today I have the privilege of contributing to A Call to Praise Blog Hop. A number of writers are journeying through Psalm 103, mining gems that are sure to encourage you! Won’t you join me today as I unpack today’s jewel: Psalm 103:2?

There’s an old hymn that encourages us to count our many blessings and see what God has done. Are you familiar with it? God has been so gracious to us. His very nature loads us with treasures: forgiveness, mercy, patience, and loving-kindness on a daily basis. Not to mention all the physical needs and wants He provides.

But I’ve found it’s easy to forget all of those “benefits” when challenges come calling. When things are going well, I take it for granted. But let the kids miss the school bus, the washer break down, or the car refuse to start, and thoughts of being blessed head right out the window; along with my attitude.

Forgetful people

We are a forgetful people, aren’t we? In reality, we’re not so very different from the children of Israel who wandered in the wilderness for 40 years. They had witnessed the miracles God performed in Egypt, which culminated in their release from over 400 years of slavery. Truly incredible.

You would think the people would be humbled and amazed by all God had done for them. And as icing on the cake, He even caused the Egyptians to look on them favorably and give them gold, silver, and clothing as they hustled out of the land (Exodus 12:35-36).

Between a sea & an army

But praising the Lord is often short-lived when adversity strikes. Picture it: the Israelites are camped at the Red Sea when they notice dust on the horizon. No storm could create a haze like that. It’s the Egyptian army chasing them down. They’re advancing at an alarming rate – ready to reclaim their slaves.

I imagine the Israelites’ blood pressure was rising. They had a choice. Trust that God would deliver them since He had brought them this far. Or imagine the worst scenario possible and begin complaining.

And they said unto Moses, Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness?Exodus 14:11a
It’s tough not to shake my head in dismay, chiding these people for their foolishness. But I know the end of the story. I know God will part the Red Sea and everything will be fine.

The test of trials

In my everyday life, I’m not faced with the Red Sea or an enemy pursuing me, but sadly, my response to tough circumstances often mirrors that of the Israelites. Instead of remembering how God has brought me through in the past, I worry and fret about how I’m going to get through the trial that’s ahead.

His provision

My response doesn’t take God by surprise. His Word meets me right where I am, and gives me exactly what I need:

Be careful (full of care, anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.Philippians 4:6-7; words in parentheses mine
Notice the progression in these verses. I can shed anxious thoughts when I bring my concerns to the One who has the power to grant my request. Don’t miss the fact that I’m to bring my prayers to the Lord “with thanksgiving.” Praising Him for His perfect answer to my prayer sets the stage for what follows: peace.

When I link my prayer request with praise, God’s peace will keep my heart and mind focused on Him. And staying focused on Him will flood my soul with remembrance of all His benefits.

Your turn

Do anxious thoughts cause you to forget God’s goodness? What step will you take today to remember all God’s benefits to you?

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me of Your goodness. I believe You daily load me with benefits (Psalm 68:19). During stressful moments, help me lay my concerns at Your feet and praise You for answering my prayers in advance. Let me experience Your peace and point others to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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