REFLECT: What emotions grew within the psalmist as he interacted with God? Look for at least five areas of life where the psalmist recognized receiving God’s blessing. As you seek to trust God daily, how can you see God’s blessing in your life?  Where do you need his help to live out the values found in the Bible?

RESPOND: Hidden in verses 1 & 4 is the concept that Jesus described as the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:36-40) and that we have distilled into our purpose: Love God. Love Others.  Ask God to show you how you can share the blessings he has given you with those around you, for your good and for God’s glory.

1 Praise the Lord.
Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands.

2 Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.

3 Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.

4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.

5 Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely,
who conduct their affairs with justice.

6 Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever.

7 They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.

 8 Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear;
in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.

9 They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor,
their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor.

10 The wicked will see and be vexed, they will gnash their teeth and waste away;
the longings of the wicked will come to nothing.