RE Verse reading–Psalm 116:12-19, Mark 8:34-37, 2 Timothy 1:8-12 (day two) “What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” (116:12) There is something very substantial here–a discipline frequently omitted by the blessed children of God. It is possible to sing “Count your many blessings” a thousand times and still never take the time to do what is being recommended. Psalm 116 is a song of praise from a person who has recovered from a serious illness (see vs 1-11) Rather than thank God for the lastest grace only, the writer wants to reckon ALL of God’s benefits, a whole lifetime of outpoured help. To do so requires some reflection–for him and for us. Will you start “this blessed arithmetic” (Spurgeon)? Has He given you health? Put it on your list! friends? family? opportunity? A new bride cannot be overwhelmed. Etiquette requires a thank you for every gift received. Should we be less careful? Will you begin your list today?
Have you ever received an etiquette “thank you?” I have. When so much more could have been said, receiving a cold note written out of obligation was honestly more painful than if I would not have received one at all. When I was a small child I would object to having to sign thank you notes to someone I did not know with “Love,”…. the whole thing just seemed wrong to me on so many levels…. (my poor mom)….I just would not do it.
As I meditated on this today, it reminded me of how God is treated sometimes. I was up at midnight or so last night and in a time of sweet communion with the Lord, He spoke to my heart about the fact that walking humbly with Him is enough. When I first believed, I was so free to love Him. Then…. gradually…. I began to listen to those who prefer rules/activity rather than relationship…. I would actually feel guilty at wasting time “just being with God.” Yet, God said,
“FOR THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS INTO THEIR MINDS, AND I WILL WRITE THEM ON THEIR HEARTS. AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. (Jeremiah 31/Heb 8)
I agree we should be an exceedingly thankful people, I just want to make sure that I guard my heart against being thankful for the sake of “what is considered right”…. but my heart be far from Him. What shall I render to the Lord? (render here seems to mean to turn back/return … in that case, the answer for me, is all my heart and hopefully the hearts of others!{through prayer and witness})
Father help us to know what it is like to walk humbly with You!
I am grateful that God’s love, grace and provisions are specific!