Focus

Pay attention to the tension in your body. Let go of it and any expectations to do anything other than God’s will today. Prepare yourself to hear God’s word.

Read

Psalm 117 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Praise the Lord, all you nations!
Extol him, all you peoples!

For great is his steadfast love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.
Praise the Lord!

Reflect

“To Infinity and Beyond”

At first glance, it would seem that Psalms 117’s claim to fame is being the shortest chapter of the Bible, along with the middle chapter. As a youngster that was my base knowledge because it was the answer to a specific question in the Bible trivia game, I played in Sunday School.

As I grew and studied, I began to realize how much is proclaimed in 33 words. Actually, these verses represent the linchpin of the book of Psalms. In chapter 117 two significant purposes for praising God are recorded: mercy and enduring truth. God’s mercy means He extends deliverance to those from judgement that deserve it. How can I place my hope in that? Numbers 23:19 and Hebrews 6:17-20, explains that God can not lie. His two uncompromising certainties, “immutable things”, are His nature and promises. God is holy. He is truth, therefore He can’t lie: “…and the truth of the Lord endureth forever.”

Even though I’ve received salvation, sometimes my mind will cause me to doubt. Maybe these words aren’t for me. Satan will bring condemnation and tell me I’m not worthy. And yet the Psalmist says, praise the Lord all nations, all people. Psalms 100:5 reiterates and expands this, “For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.” That’s me! That’s you.

If you’ve ever questioned what reason you would have to praise God, remember this: God’s mercy and truth endureth for all nations, all people, and all generations. Buzz Lightyear would say, “To infinity and beyond!” That’s a reason to praise God.

Pray

Dear Lord, I am not worthy, but You have made me worthy through the sacrificial work of Your Son, Jesus, on the cross. You have extended Your grace, mercy, and love to me, and I thank You and praise Your name. My desire is to serve You and by my life, glorify You all the days of my life. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

Go with God!