Head: Know God's Word | Heart: Love God | Hands: Follow God's Way

Read Psalms 105:1-5, 106:1-6

Head

Psalms 105 and 106 are historical psalms summarizing the story of Israel from Abraham to the Babylonian exile. We are reminded of God's covenant with Abraham to make him a great nation and give him the land of Canaan. Psalm 105 describes the stories of Joseph, the plagues in Egypt, and Israel wandering in the wilderness. God's people, Israel, knew God's promises and still fell to temptation to doubt God; however, God continued to show mercy. Psalm 106 has a national confession of sin. In verse 6, the author says, "Both we and our ancestors have sinned. We have done wrong! We have acted wickedly!" God shows mercy again. Israel believes God for a while, then falls back into unfaithfulness. There seems to be a rhythm of God's mercy, Israel's rebellion, someone begging God for mercy, God's mercy, Israel's rebellion, someone begging God for mercy, etc.

Both psalms start with praise to the Lord's greatness and goodness. Both authors acknowledge the Lord as supreme and call for others to worship him. Both chapters reveal the extreme goodness of God and the rebellion of God's people.

Heart

I can relate to the Israelites way more than I'd like to admit. It is easy for me to get caught up in the comforts or circumstances of life and neglect spending time with God. It's easy for me to trust what I can see or do rather than simply trust God for what he says. I may not be making a golden calf and bowing down to it like the Israelites did, but I've had idols in my life. Idols of comfort, popularity, or achievement are just as dangerous to our souls.

What is so amazing about our Lord is that he is always faithful to forgive and show mercy when we confess our sins. When we turn back to him, he is ready to receive us! Every time! He is such a good, good Father!

Hands

I encourage you to write down your story of faith. What was your life like before you had a relationship with Jesus? How has he shown you mercy? How has he protected you? How has he kept his promises to you? Is there a sin or rebellion you need to confess to God?

Prayer

Dear God, You are so good. Your faithful love continues forever. You were faithful to Israel, and you are faithful to me. I confess my sins to You and ask You to help me trust You in all things. I want to love You with all my heart, soul, and mind. I need Your help. I need Your mercy. I need Your grace. I love You, Father. In Jesus's name, Amen.