Gratitude begins by remembering what God has already done.
“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:”Psalm 103:2 (KJV)
What does “Gratitude” mean in Psalm 103:2?
The psalmist speaks to his own soul and tells it to bless the LORD. Benefits means the good things God has done, and the psalm goes on to list many of them, including forgiveness and love.
Going deeper
Psalm 103 is a song of David, and in verse two he does something unusual. He talks to himself. Bless the LORD, O my soul, he says, and forget not. Forgetfulness is one of the real dangers of a busy life, and thankfulness is the remedy. The verse tells us to remember on purpose, and the psalm that follows shows us what to remember.
The last day of the year is a natural time to look back. Before turning to new resolutions, consider spending a few minutes recalling what God has given you in the past twelve months. Write down as many benefits as you can, large and small: people, provision, protection, growth, answered prayers, even lessons learned through difficulty. Read the list aloud, and thank Him for each one. Gratitude prepares the heart for whatever comes next, because it reminds us that the God who was faithful yesterday will be faithful tomorrow.
Reflect
What benefits has God given you this year, and will you take a few minutes to write them down?
Pray
Bless the LORD, O my soul. Father, thank You for every good gift of this year, and for Your faithfulness through it all. In Jesus' name, amen.
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