Psalm 103
Scripture
Psalm 103:6-9
The Lord performs righteous deeds and judgments for all who are oppressed. He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the sons of Israel. The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever.
Observation-What does it say?
The title indicates this is a Psalm of David, who was a man after God’s heart. It also states that this is a song of praise for God’s mercies. “A psalm of humble, heartfelt gratitude to God for all his goodness, but above all for his mercy and his unchanging, unchangeable love. What he has done for one (1-5), he has done for all (6-18): so let everyone, everywhere praise him” (Alexander, P. & Alexander, D., 1999). We must also remember God’s righteousness, his anger, will not be held off forever. There will be a judgement day and a time when we will have to reconcile with our decision to follow Jesus or not. For those who follow Jesus, his grace extends forever, but not to those who chose the way of the world.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Every once in a while, a video will surface from the dashboard of a police officer’s vehicle that shows an irate person in a vehicle, screaming at the officer about how they won’t sign the ticket they are receiving for driving well over the speed limit. Oftentimes in these videos, the officer is calmly addressing the irate driver asking them to sign the ticket, or explaining the circumstances to the driver. Most people will agree the officer in these situations is displaying a lot of patience and grace toward the driver, who is acting like a two year old having a temper tantrum.
This picture of a calm police officer is what I imagine when thinking of the patient grace of God. As we sit down here on earth asking why God is allowing so many bad things to happen to us, he is holding back the wrath we deserve for our sins. Romans 6:23 tells us the wages of sin is death. However, God is patient with the consequences of our actions, in 2 Peter 3:9 we learn, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” God’s grace is sufficient for us and he is waiting for us to turn to him. Just don’t wait too long.
Life Application
Jesus help me to come to you in praise for your patience with me. Remind me of your grace so that I can praise you all of my waking hours. Let that praise be evident in my life as a testimony to those who need to experience that same love and grace.
-Tyler Galloway