Are You Celebrating God Today?
July 31, 2023
Are You Celebrating God Today?
By Brooke Holt
“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the people! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice!” Psalm 105:1-3
One of my favorite memories as a child was my father’s 40th birthday party. It began when my three sisters, mother, and I picked my dad up from work in a horse-drawn carriage decorated with black flowers and a banner that read, “Lordy, Lordy, Charlie’s Forty!” As the carriage moved throughout downtown and towards our home, everyone on the road waved and seemed to celebrate with us. Then, the greatest celebration awaited – our home was filled with black balloons, black flowers, banners, family, and my dad’s closest friends. It was and remains my favorite celebration to this day!
Celebrations are not just for birthdays. Throughout the forty-six verses of Psalm 105, the psalmist celebrates the Lord as he recalls all the Lord has done on behalf of his people. He recounts Israel’s history with God while calling the Israelites to sing to the Lord and celebrate all God has done for them. By recounting these mighty deeds of the Lord, the psalmist conveys both God's goodness towards his people and how powerful he is. Only the Lord could lead, provide, make covenants, and even control nature. This God, the God of Israel, was and is the only God who did, would and could work miracles.
In response to all God has done, the psalmist would have God’s people join in the greatest celebration ever – the celebration of the Lord God Almighty. For forty-six verses, you read of God’s mighty works followed by the psalmist’s praise, wonder, and thanksgiving.
The Lord remains worthy of celebration as he still works wonders among us each day. He is still the God who guides his people, who maintains covenantal faithfulness, and who still controls nature. He is still the God of miracles! Do you see the work of God in your midst? Do you celebrate what he has done in your life? Do you testify to his work, his goodness, his love, and his grace then invite others to join in the great celebration of faith?
God gave you the gift of life. Each day he breathes his breath into your lungs. He is present with you. He loves you with a steadfast love, and his mercies never come to an end. He alone is worthy of your worship, adoration, and devotion. Sadly, many in this world have forgotten the source of life. They have turned from God’s truth to pursue their own will and way, and the purpose of life has shifted from glorifying God to glorifying self - the epitome of idolatry.
Psalm 105,man awakening psalm, reminds you that life is not about you; it is about the Lord God. The psalmist would have you remember God’s love and faithfulness, his work throughout the pages of Scripture, as well as his work in your life. Will you take time today to remember the Lord, recall his salvific work in your life, and praise him for all he has done?
Now is the time to change your focus from self to the Lord. Join the greatest celebration ever – the celebration of your Lord and King.
Reflection:
Spend some time remembering God’s faithfulness in your life and then thank him. Allow your heart to be moved to worship and adoration. We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Recommended Resource:
Follow the ancient way of the Psalms and find the life God has for you. A model for vibrant worship, the Psalms provide practical wisdom to traverse the circuitous path of life with trust and hope. Pilgrim’s Path: A Study of the Psalms traces our spiritual walk with God—from discovery and delight, through doubt and disappointment, into joyful confidence. Whether used for individual or group study, Pilgrim’s Path is for everyone who seeks to know and love God more and find life in him.
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