Psalm 40: A Grateful Heart for Salvation

Psalm 40
A Grateful Heart for Salvation

5. Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.

The Chuseok holiday is approaching. Our church has decided to hold the Thanksgiving Sunday service on the Sunday following Chuseok, which is on the 22nd.

On Thanksgiving Sunday, we typically decorate the pulpit abundantly with various grains, fruits, and vegetables from the harvest. It's a way of offering thanks to the Lord for the blessings received throughout the year. Our church doesn't have any members who farm. So this year, we've decided to reflect on what we're thankful to God for and bring an item symbolizing that gratitude in a box to place in front of the pulpit. If there's no specific item, we can write it on paper and put it in the box. It's an opportunity to look back on 2024 and find traces of God's companionship. While life may not always be as peaceful as green pastures and quiet waters, we aim to find and be grateful for God's presence amidst the world's turbulence.

The psalmist expresses that God's grace and miracles are too numerous to count, and he wishes to give thanks for the blessings received.

6. Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—but my ears you have opened—burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require.

8. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.

9. I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord, as you know.

The poor psalmist's chosen method of thanksgiving wasn't through sacrifices or offerings. Instead, it was to carry out God's will in his heart. It's about living out the Lord's law. It's about practicing and proclaiming God's righteousness to many people. The gratitude of the saved is living a life that pleases God, the Savior. Rather than offering a fattened calf, it's about not hiding God's justice in one's heart, but proclaiming his faithfulness and salvation, and declaring his love and truth (10).

Prayer: Gracious God, help us always to consider what would please you. Enable us to speak and proclaim the things that bring you joy. Holy Spirit, guide us in truth. Amen.