When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you. (Deuteronomy 8:6)
It’s easy to think that you’re responsible for what you have. After all, you’ve worked hard, you’ve been thrifty, you’ve been diligent. But there’s so much more to what you have, isn’t there?
Who gave you the ability to work? Where did your job come from? For what do you owe your able-bodiedness? Could it be that God has something to do with all of those things?
The Israelites were about to walk into a land full of bounty, and they would be tempted to claim that they were somehow responsible for the good things they were experiencing. In truth, the Lord, in His graciousness to them, provided the blessings; the satisfaction they were about to experience had little to do with them.
Truthfully, any satisfaction you experience in life probably has little to do with you and your efforts.
Remember to praise the Lord in those moments when you recognize how blessed you are. I pray before meals not because I have to or because it’s a routine but because I want to express my gratitude to the Lord for providing for me. All good things originate in Him, and I am thankful. Make sure you remember that it’s not you… it’s Him who provides.
Father, I’m so quick to take the credit for the good things I have. In truth, they originate in You. Help me to be grateful for all that You provide, and in doing so, allow me to ascribe glory to Your Name.
About Seth