PSALM 111:1-4

1 Praise the LORD!

I will praise the LORD with my whole heart,

In the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.

2 The works of the LORD are great,

Studied by all who have pleasure in them.

3 His work is honorable and glorious,

And His righteousness endures forever.

4 He has made His wonderful works to be remembered;

The LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

Why should I praise the Lord? I see division in our country. I see brokenness in people all around. I see heartache everywhere I go. Why should I praise Him?

Look at the works of His hands v2. When we study the work of God, we will quickly see that He has a desire to be in a relationship with us. The creator of heaven and earth wants to have an active growing relationship with me. God knows me inside and out. God knew before the foundation of the world that humanity would need a savior and He provided that in Jesus Christ.

God’s works are honorable v3. He hears those who cry out to Him. We mistakenly believe that if we suffer God must not care or worse, He must not exist. God never made a promise of no pain and suffering. He promised that He would not forsake us. He promised that He would be with us in the midst of the fire. He promised us that He would be there when this life ends. He promised a place with Him. Jesus said I go to prepare a place for you that where I am you may be also.

God is righteous v3. In all of God’s actions He is right. God is not like us. He does not make mistakes. God “works all things according to the counsel of His will.” (Ephesians 1:11) God has no greater authority to discuss His decisions with. He is just, caring compassionate and righteous

The works of God recorded in the Bible and those written upon our lives are there to cause us to remember God, to remember His goodness v4. When Israel crossed over Jordon heading into the promise land, they took stones out of the Jordon as a memorial of God’s work in the wilderness and in the crossing. This was so that later generations would know the goodness and work of God.

With this in mind I encourage you to praise the Lord!

Psalm 111:1 Praise the LORD! I will praise the LORD with my whole heart.