What Shall I Render to the LORD?

Daily Devotional – Saturday, November 20, 2021

What shall I render to the LORD For all His benefits toward me?

Psalms 116:12 (NKJV)

Psalm 103 is a song of praise David wrote to remind himself and us some powerful reasons for being grateful towards God. The palmist writes, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me; bless His holy name!” (Psalm 103:1).

How can we trigger praise in our hearts? David continues, “Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all His benefits.” (Psalm 103:2). We must make a deliberate effort to remember God’s blessings upon our lives.

The Benefits We Must Not Forget

1. Forgiveness: “Who forgives all your iniquities…” (Psalm 103:3a). How thankful are you for the countless times God has forgiven you in the past and His assurance of forgiveness today?
2. Healing: “Who heals all your diseases…” (Psalm 103:3b). Think of the innumerable times God has healed you and give honour to Him. If you have not been sick, you have an even more powerful reason to be grateful.
3. Life: “Who redeems your life from destruction…” (Psalm 103:4a). How many accidents have you survived? God even saves you from destructive circumstances you create for yourself.
4. Love: “Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies…”  (Psalm 103:4b). God loves you unconditionally and treats you with compassion. You are His most precious possession.
5. Providence: “Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” (Psalms 103:5). God gives you nutritious and delicious food and fruits. You enjoy fresh air and rejuvenating nature. Because of His providence, every day is a pleasant experience for you. You don’t even look as old as your age.

What shall I render to the LORD For all His benefits toward me?

In light of these and other blessings that David does not mention, ask yourself, “What shall I render to the LORD, for all His benefits toward me?” (Psalms 116:12).

The answer: “I will take up the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows to the LORD, now in the presence of all His people.” (Psalms 116:13-14).

All God requires from you is to praise and honour His name in words and actions to the extent that other people will praise God, too.

Father, whenever I am tempted to complain about my situation, remind me to enumerate my blessings to the extent that I will praise You instead.