Today’s Scripture: Psalm 136:26, NKJV- “Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven! For His mercy endures forever.”
Biblical scholars suggest that Psalm 136 was a song David gave to the Levites to sing every day. This song was created to provide the descendants of Israel, God’s chosen ones, to remember all that God has done for His people.
A cross reference for this Psalm was 1 Chronicles 15-16. After David had prepared a place for the ark of God, he reminded everyone that the Levites must carry the ark because the LORD had chosen them to carry His ark and to minister before Him forever.
Based on the gifts of the Levites with various musical instruments and singing, David gave them all responsibilities to be used to glorify God every day. According to Ephesians 4:11-13, Jesus Christ also appointed us to use the gifts we have been given to equip His people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up.
The praises of David began with God’s creation and reminded the Israelites of the many things the LORD had done to bring them through all their challenges. We may not sing before the ark of the LORD today, but we can sing our praises for all that God and Jesus Christ have done for us.
Ephesians 4:25 reminds us that we are all members of one another. Ephesians 4:29 encourages us to speak only about those things that build each other up. As we remember who the God of heaven is and remember what Jesus Christ has done for us, we can live out Ephesians 4:32 which reminds us to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (NIV)
The theme of these Old and New Testament verses is to be eternally thankful to our God. He has shown His love and mercy to us, and we can be thankful this will endure forever. As Ephesians 5:1 instructs us, “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.” (NLT)
We are children of the God of gods so therefore as we are to give thanks to Him. We are to remember and share His great wonders day after day. Our God made heaven and earth. He still protects us with the strong hand and outstretched arms of His love that endures forever.
Our God still divides the seas and obstacles in our ways. He continues to lead us through the wilderness. He is providing the lands of our inheritance. Our LORD remembers us in our low places and frees us from our enemies. He is always the source of our daily bread. In all things we can give thanks to our God that His love endures forever.
Are you thankful today? Can you share with others the source of your thanksgivings?
Today’s Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are thankful. Thank you for creating this world and us, Your children. Thank You for your love and mercy that endures forever. We sing Your praises for the wonders You have done for Your children of old and for us, Your Children, today. Help us to remember and praise You always and to share who You are with all others in the same love and forgiveness You have given us. In the name and love of Jesus Christ we do pray. Amen.
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