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1 Hallelujah! O my soul, praise God! 2 All my life long I'll praise God, singing songs to my God as long as I live. 3 Don't put your life in the hands of experts who know nothing of life, of salvation life. 4 Mere humans don't have what it takes; when they die, their projects die with them. 5 Instead, get help from the God of Jacob, put your hope in God and know real blessing! 6 God made sky and soil, sea and all the fish in it. He always does what he says - 7 he defends the wronged, he feeds the hungry. God frees prisoners - 8 he gives sight to the blind, he lifts up the fallen. 9 protects strangers, takes the side of orphans and widows, but makes short work of the wicked. 10 God's in charge - always. Zion's God is God for good! Hallelujah! (Psalm 146 The Message Bible)
Most of my days in active ministry I would at the end of the day, pause, reflect and say, "I can't believe I get paid for doing this!" And yes, some days, I would say, "They're not paying me enough!" But I praise God that I had more of the getting paid for doing what I did. How about you? Do you have both of those kind of days? Which type of day usually wins out?
In Psalm 146, we are invited into a profound and joyous declaration of trust in God. Regardless of the day we have, we should turn to praising God! Notice how the psalmist begins with an emphatic call to praise, reminding us that our lives should be filled with gratitude and worship. This call is not just for a moment but for a lifetime. Our souls are called to celebrate the goodness and faithfulness of God in all circumstances.
The psalmist warns us against placing our trust in mere humans or worldly systems. While it is easy to rely on experts, institutions, or wealth for security and hope, the reality is that these can ultimately fail us. They are transient, and their efforts cannot compare to the eternal and unchanging nature of God.
Instead, we are encouraged to seek help from the God of Jacob, who is depicted as a protector and provider. This God is not distant or indifferent; He actively defends the wronged, feeds the hungry, and sets captives free. The imagery in this psalm reminds us of God's heart for justice and compassion. He opens the eyes of the blind and lifts up those who are bowed down. In a world that can often feel chaotic and uncertain, we find reassurance in the steadfast nature of God.
Moreover, the psalm closes with the profound truth that God is always in charge. In a world where we often feel helpless, it is comforting to know that God reigns supreme. Our hope and security are found in Him alone.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we praise You with our whole hearts for Your faithfulness and goodness. Thank You for being our refuge and strength, the one who lifts us when we fall and defends the vulnerable. Help us to trust You more fully and to seek You in all aspects of our lives. May our faith shine brightly as we navigate challenges, and may we bring Your hope to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Take a moment to evaluate where you are placing your trust. Are there areas in your life where you have relied too heavily on human wisdom or resources? Make a conscious effort to shift your focus back to God. Identify one specific way to express your trust in Him, whether through prayer, service, or an act of kindness.
I love you and I thank God for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
