Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness – Lamentations 3:22-23
INTRODUCTION
Psalm 103 expresses thanksgiving and praise to the Lord for the benefits and blessings He gives those who accept His commands and promises and who maintained a faithful relationship with Him. David’s praise focused on the good things God was doing for him. It is easy to complain about life, but David’s list gives us plenty for which to praise God: He forgives our sins, heals our diseases, redeems us from death, crowns us with love and compassion, satisfies our desires, and gives righteousness and justice. We receive all of these without deserving any of them.
We must never forget God’s goodness to us or fail to thank Him for the blessings He generously gives us through the Holy Spirit.
LIFE LESSONS
- Psalm 103:1 – Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name.In these opening verses, the psalmist begins by expressing his heartfelt praise and gratitude to the Lord. He urges his soul to remember and acknowledge the numerous blessings and benefits that God provides, including forgiveness, healing, redemption, and abundant goodness.God wants every part of us – body, soul and spirit – to grow close to Him and to enter into a joyful relationship with Him. He seeks worshipers who will gladly give everything they are to Him.
- Psalm 103:13 – As a Father has compassion on His children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. How does a father have compassion on His children? He considers their weaknesses, immaturity and ignorance, and so does not require of them more than they can handle. He also teaches them with patience and mercy. Our Father does the same with us.
- Psalm 103:19 – The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.The Lord is omniscient (knows all things), omnipotent (all-powerful), omnipresent (with you) and He loves us perfectly that He can and will arrange every circle of our lives to work out for our good.
- Psalm 103:20 – Praise the LORD, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His word.The angels of God are not the cute, harmless little cherubs often pictured in popular culture. They are messengers of enormous power, sent to do God’s will. The Lord in His mercy sends them to help us.
Psalm 103 outlines several benefits and blessings that are attributed to God and can be obtained through a relationship with Him. These benefits are highlighted in various verses of the psalm:
- Forgiveness of Iniquities (Psalm 103:3): The psalmist acknowledges that God forgives all our iniquities, offering a fresh start and cleansing from our sins.
- Healing (Psalm 103:3): The psalmist mentions that God heals all our diseases, suggesting a connection between faith and physical well-being.
- Redemption from Destruction (Psalm 103:4): God is described as a redeemer who saves us from destruction, implying protection and deliverance from harm.
- Crowning with Lovingkindness and Mercy (Psalm 103:4): The imagery of being crowned with lovingkindness and mercy portrays God’s grace and compassion enveloping us.
- Satisfaction with Good Things (Psalm 103:5): God satisfies us with good things, which can be interpreted as a promise of provision and blessings in life.
- Removal of Transgressions (Psalm 103:12): The psalmist uses the metaphor of God removing our transgressions as far as the east is from the west, indicating complete forgiveness and separation from our sins.
- God’s Mercy and Graciousness (Psalm 103:8): God’s merciful and gracious nature is emphasized, revealing His willingness to show compassion rather than harsh judgment.
- Slow to Anger (Psalm 103:8): God’s patience and slowness to anger are highlighted, portraying His willingness to give people time for repentance and change.
- Eternal Mercy and Righteousness (Psalm 103:17-18): God’s mercy and righteousness are described as lasting from generation to generation, indicating a consistent and enduring source of grace.
- Heavenly Authority and Sovereignty (Psalm 103:19): The psalm acknowledges God’s rule over the heavens and the earth, underscoring His supreme authority and control.
- Angelic Obedience (Psalm 103:20): The psalmist acknowledges the angels’ role in heeding God’s word and doing His will, suggesting divine protection and guidance.
- Covenant Faithfulness (Psalm 103:18): God’s benefits are promised to those who keep His covenant and remember His commandments, implying a reciprocal relationship of trust and obedience.
Conclusion
Overall, Psalm 103 is a profound expression of praise, gratitude, and awe toward God’s character, attributes, and deeds. It emphasizes God’s mercy, forgiveness, and love, while also acknowledging His sovereignty and eternal nature. This psalm has been cherished by believers as a source of comfort, inspiration, and spiritual reflection.
Remain Blessed!
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