“Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right.” Psalm 106:3

Lord Jesus, you love righteousness and justice. You who are pure and perfect, you call us to your high and holy standards, promising us blessing when we keep them.

But sadly, we do not do this consistently, for we are so self-centered, so self-willed, so self-serving. Just like the Israelites, “We have sinned, even as our fathers did; we have done wrong and acted wickedly…they gave no thought to your miracles; they did not remember your many kindnesses, and they rebelled by the sea, the Red Sea” (Ps 106:6,7).

In our crises, large and small, we, like the Israelites, forget your goodness, forget all the ways you have helped us in the past. Instead we get impatient and wallow in disappointment and self-pity. We look only at our own plans and lack of self-fulfillment, forgetting all that you have done in our lives: the protection, the provision, the prayers answered, the many positives.

But, Lord God, even when we don’t repent, you are patient and good to us, fulfilling your purpose for us, as you did with the children of Israel: “Yet he saved them for his name’s sake, to make his mighty power known” (Ps. 106:8).

You have higher plans, greater purposes, deeper reasons for acting than just dealing with our sins—you save us in spite of what we are and give us a significant part in your plans. You have mercy because of your great heart of love for all, because of your great and mighty plans for the future.

Help us to be able to see things from your perspective and walk with you in what you are doing!