Listening & Learning — A Devotional

Psalm 117

UNIVERSAL PRAISE OF GOD

v.1. A call for universal praise. “O praise ye the Lord. All ye nations.” v.2. Reasons for praise. “His merciful kindness… the truth of the Lord…”

Psalm 117. “O praise the Lord, all nations: praise him all ye people. For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord.”

MERCIFUL KINDNESS AND TRUTH. Kindness may be shown to others in many different ways. Sometimes it’s a silent gesture, other times it's verbal praise. It can be shown to animals, even insects like a spider – Human kindness is a virtue, making life a whole lot nicer.

Contrast that with God’s great kindness shown to every man. His kindness with great mercy is seen on every hand. There are those who curse Him and use His name in vain – With merciful kindness, He spares them, showing kindness just the same.

We breathe God’s air and daily live from the bounty of His earth. And still, His kindness continues to be linked with grace and His truth. There is no way I can compare His characteristics with those of mine, But I can count my blessings and His kindness, I still find.

His truth remains unchanged, and His kindness is on display. In a little measure, I can respond to what I do and say. My speech should always be with grace, and truth I must always tell. So, the merciful kindness and truth of God will show out from me as well.

“Lord God, I do want to show others the kindness of God. David did that toward Mephibosheth when he was in great need. May I, too, be willing to give evidence of Thy merciful kindness and truth. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”