Baskets of praises

One of my neighbors has created a whimsical basket by training a forsythia bush. When it blooms in spring, we’re treated to a golden basket that makes me smile every time I pass by it.
            The other day while studying Psalm 103 I thought about how all of us have been given a golden basket that we can fill—with praises. Outlined as an acrostic for “praise,” the psalm reminds us of some of the extraordinary blessings God has poured into our lives.
            P—Provision for life (vv. 1-3). The word “all” is prominent in these verses.  We praise God “with all that is within me” and are to “forget not all his benefits.”  The greatest is forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ. He is also our physical healer, whether through medicine, miracles, or the perfect healing of heaven. Spiritual healing (like forsaking a bitter attitude) can also yield physical benefits.
            R—Renewing presence (vv. 4-5). Re-read Isaiah 40:31 and consider how God renews you like an eagle, enabling you to keep going even in tough times. Remember the “good things” in your life, as they are His gifts.
            A—Almighty plan (vv. 6-9). Underline in your Bible the words that describe His power and works in history. Praise Him that He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
            I—Immeasurable mercy (vv. 10-12). This is the section of superlatives: “as high as the heavens are above the earth” for His love, and “as far as the east is from the west” (they never meet) for His forgiveness. If you haven’t already, memorize this verse. One night it enabled me to comfort a friend who thought she’d committed an unforgiveable sin. (The only “unforgiveable sin” is utterly rejecting Jesus.)
            S—Sympathetic care (vv. 13-18). The psalmist used father-love to try to explain the depth of compassion God has for us. Earth is temporary and full of woe. But His love is the immeasurable “from everlasting to everlasting.” Praise Him for His incomprehensible, eternal, wonderful presence and workings.
            E—Eternal dominion (vv. 19-22). “Praise the Lord” is no cheap phrase. Call it out with the excitement and awe of all the choruses of Heaven praising God “everywhere in His dominion.” Someday, those who believe in God will be part of that celestial chorus. Earth is the rehearsal hall for the Real Thing.
            Finish out with a simple praise for scriptures like Psalm 103 that remind us how to thank Him with whole and holy hearts. Truly, our baskets overflow.