Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits…” – Psalm 103:1-2
In these verses David uses the phrase “Bless the Lord” three times. The words “Bless the Lord” mean to praise Him. It is a reminder to spend time praising and thanking God for all He has done for us.
The reference “all that is within me” is calling on us to praise God with all that is within us– our thoughts, emotions, words and physical being. Deuteronomy 6:5 comes to mind, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” We praise God with our whole soul as we thank and praise Him in our prayers and as we meditate on all the things He has done for us.
The end of verse 2 gives us a warning to “forget not all His benefits”. This is reiterated in Psalm 78:7 where it says, “That they should put their confidence in God and not forget the works of God.”
Below are a few of the blessings (i.e. “benefits”) we receive from God and things we can praise Him for:
Answered Prayer
If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. – John 14:14
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. – John 15:7
Provides for us Physically
Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. – Mat 10:29-31
Provides for us Spiritually
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. – Eph 6:10-12
Reveals Hidden Truths
Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known. – Jer 5:17
Trust & Care
I laid me down and slept; I awake; for the Lord sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about. – Ps 3:5-6
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. – Is 41:10
Casting all your care upon him; for He cares for you – 1 Peter 5:7
Sally Motley
What a blessing Forget Not His Benefits is! The following songs inspired me as well. Thank you!