How easy it
is to read words in the Bible as so much “holy talk”, but not really think
about the meaning. Take this verse, for instance. We mostly pray, “God bless me,” but have you ever thought of what
it means to bless God? “Bless the Lord, O my soul…” – how can I “bless” God?
Isn’t He the source of all good things, of every blessing?
I began to
think about this and as I read further in the Psalm I realized this is
parent-child thing (“like a father…” verse 13), or I should say, a child-parent
thing. As a dad of three children, I can think of many times when my kids
blessed me. First, when they were born! I was at the event when each of them
drew their first breath, and I can’t think of a more holy moment or a greater
blessing I could receive than to witness the miracle of a new life. I was
blessed to tears of joy each and every time! And as they grew – the slightest
smile, their first words, their first wobbly steps with arms outstretched for daddy
to catch them should they fall. Blessings overflowing.
When they
grew into their own personalities and would give me a kiss good-night, or a
tight hug when I returned from a trip – the warmth of their love blessed my
soul over and over. And when they disobeyed and shed tears of remorse, I was
blessed by their repentant love. My kids have blessed me and continue to be a
blessing to me.
So when it
says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul,” I know now exactly what that means. Every
time I say “thank-you” to God or look up to Him for help to keep me from
falling, or smile when I think of His grace and salvation, or tell someone how
amazing and good He is – I am blessing Him because He loves the connection and
awareness and gratitude of His kids. And every time I come to Him to repent of
my sin and I ask forgiveness and I throw myself on His mercy – His heart
overflows with joy because even in my contrition He is blessed.
Bless God?
Yes! Today I will bless Him with every part of my being!
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