Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. (Ps. 106:48)
EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY. A snapshot refreshes our memory of when it was taken, and we recall long-forgotten details surrounding the event. We remember those who were involved and perhaps how we felt at the time. Looking at old pictures, we muse over how children have grown and lament the loss of those who are no longer with us. Something is stirred within us when we look through old photos.
Psalm 106 is like an album of the past. In it, we follow the story of the repeated sinfulness and rebellion of God’s people. We observe their bad choices and the consequences God allowed them to suffer. Although it’s a story of their cyclic disobedience, there is also beauty in each snapshot: God’s mercy and faithfulness. On the last page of the album, the psalmist stirred God’s people to praise with these words: “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, ‘Amen!’ Praise the Lord” (Ps. 106:48).
Everyone has a photo album of the past. Some see happiness, blessings, and good times on each page. Others are reminded of past failures, sins, and their consequences. In either case, there is something very beautiful: God’s mercy and faithfulness. Whatever your story, browse through the pages of your album, looking for that beauty. When you find it, praise Him.
Thank God for your past and praise Him for your present.
Kathern Nemec enjoys digging into God’s Word and loves to encourage others with the truth she finds in it.
