I’ve been trying to read Scripture by asking questions, like: “What does that phrase mean in my life?” “How does that include me?” “Why does that say about my heart?” I know most people probably already do that. But, I’ve been reading Psalm 103, trying to apply the words to my heart in the most honest sense… and I thought I’d share a few verses of it with you this morning.
( Just to be clear, I’m not writing a paraphrase, or translating anything, only making it real for me.)
Psalm 103: 1-5
Today, I will remind myself to praise you Lord, with my whole body – inside and out – I will bless You in Your holiness and for your goodness, quietly and out loud.
I won’t forget all of the good things that come with belonging to You.
My sin, my shortcomings, my failures – my anger, my impatience with my children, my gossiping, my inability to follow You well – You have forgiven it all!
My lymphoma, can I bless you enough that I don’t need treatment right now? I don’t know exactly where it all stands right now, but I know You have helped me overcome my disease, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally!
And, let’s talk about all of the havoc I’ve brought on my own life – making poor choices, continuing in them when I know better, and still you didn’t allow it – you turned my life upside-down in order to redeem the mess I made. I truly don’t deserve the life I live now!
To top it all off, you love me with great patience and mercy through all of my waywardness ; graciously You’ve given me a loving husband and beautiful children, with a home where we can rest and live well.
By Your Spirit I’m empowered with strength and health and all that I need to live the life You ordained for me.
I will shout Your name from the mountaintops so that all know who You are and what You’ve done!
daily portion 