Psalm 103 – Our God is worthy of praise

Psalm 103 was written by David, to praise the Lord for HIs mercies. Of all the Psalms written to praise God, this is probably the greatest and the best. David states the reasons why he praised God in the first five verses. And they are the very reasons why we should also praise Him. There are six positive things God had done for him as well as for us. He not only forgives our sin but also heals all our diseases. He redeems us from the pit and crowns us with loving kindness. Most of all, He satisfies our life with good things, and renews us so that we will be youthful. Just like an eagle that would go about the process of morphing when it has become old, so also will the Lord renew us in life! He wants to ensure that we will remain strong and vibrant. The whole intention of David here is to tell us how privileged we are to receive the benefits of God’s goodness. The blessings include spiritual and physical health. And they are life, strength and vitality.    

In verses 6-13, David describes the wonderful attributes of God in eight verses. He is compassionate, gracious, patient and merciful. His patience is seen in His dealing with our waywardness. He demonstrates His tolerance toward us despite how we, His people, have continually tested Him with our wilfulness. However, we must remember never to take His kindness for weakness, and take Him for granted. David tells us how vast His mercy and compassion are. Even in His dealing with our waywardness, He is patiently compassionate. The phrase ‘as far as the east is from the west’, is to tell us how vast His mercy is. And like a compassionate Father who takes pity on His children, so also God is compassionate with us, even though we would provoke Him so often.

Verses 14-16 show us how understanding God is with HIs people. He knows exactly our personal make up. He understands that we are made of flesh and clay, and how frail and fragile we really are. We human beings are like the flowers and grass of the field that could succumb and wilt in the harsh environment and circumstances of life, in this fallen world.  So in verse 17, David reminds us that God’s mercy is everlasting to those who fear and reverence Him. He will deal righteously with all His children and their posterity. The remaining verses are exhortation to remain faithful to God. We are to remember that He, the Sovereign Lord, keeps His covenant with us. David rounds up by calling on all creation, including God’s angels, to bless the Lord and keep His will. Most of all we should praise Him personally.  

We must remember that we are God’s favored people. And it’s a privilege He has given to us. As with all privileges we must cultivate responsibility in living our life. So let us live responsibly for His glory and never take His grace for granted. We must never forget to give thanks to Him for everything and in very circumstance. And let us respond to His goodness by giving Him praise in our every living moment!