Ready:
“My mouth will declare the LORD’s praise; let every living thing bless his holy name forever and ever.” —Psalm 145:21
Set:
There is a trophy in my high school trophy case with my name on it. I know exactly where it is because every time I am in the building I visit “my trophy”. In those moments, standing before that trophy I recall the adversity that was overcome. The hours of practice and the nerves I felt before it was awarded to my team. Recalling all of that sometimes brings a swell of emotion. All that from standing in front of a golden trophy.
If a trophy can have such an effect on a competitor, how much more should remembering the mighty acts of God (v. 4)? Do you spend much time speaking of His splendor and glorious majesty (v. 5)? Have you praised His name today (v. 2)?
It’s easy to be self-focused in today’s culture. Maybe even easier in today's sport culture. We craft posts of our greatest moments with the perfect lighting and perfect caption. The call of Psalm 145 is to take a step back from the me-centered world and look around.
David spends 21 verses shifting to focus onto God. When he does notices that God’s record speaks for itself (v. 5-7). He repeats the truth about God. “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and great in faithful love” (v. 8). A truth first recorded in Moses’ interaction with God in Exodus 34:6. David can’t stop himself and for three verses he gushes about God’s might, glory, grace, faithfulness, splendor and everlastingness.
When is the last time you gushed about God and what He has done for you? It is easy to focus on ourselves – our culture even encourages it. It also isn’t hard to focus on God. Simply look around at all you have and have accomplished.
The trophy in the trophy case with my name on it would not have happened without a million blessings. For each of them I am grateful. Today, take some time to acknowledge His greatness and declare His works from one generation to the next (v. 4).
Go:
Make a gratitude list. Then turn it into a prayer of praise.
What daily habits can you build to help you speak of His wondrous works?
Read Psalm 145, pausing to thank God for His work in your life.
Workout:
Overtime:
“Lord, all I can say is thank You. You have given me more than I even know or understand. Thank You for creating me and giving me the ability to compete. Thank You for guarding me and helping me when I fall. Thank You for being who You are; for Your grace, compassion, patience and faithful love. Thank You! In Jesus’ name, amen.”