God loves to bless us. But when we’re overwhelmed with a tricky situation like a challenging relationship or health problem, it can be easy to overlook the blessings. Sometimes the problems seem to make us forget God’s goodness and all the good things we’ve been given. We can even become ungrateful, always wanting the next thing and not thanking God for the blessings He’s already given us. The psalmist shows us how to overcome an ungrateful attitude by cultivating a spirit of thanksgiving. ‘O my soul, bless God, don’t forget a single blessing!’ Thinking and thanking go hand-in-hand. When we remember what God’s done for us, we can’t help but worship Him. The psalmist encourages us to do three things: first, think about what God’s given us – His forgiveness, healing, protection, redemption, love, and compassion (see vv. 1-5). Second, think about what God hasn’t given us – the punishment our sins deserve (see vv. 8-12). Third, think about what God is going to give us. ‘From everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him’ (v. 17 NIV). And even when we don’t think we’ve got anything to be thankful for, we can still praise Him for who He is. ‘Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever’ (Psalm 136:1 NIV). Thankfulness is a choice. Even when we’ve got a whole load of problems to deal with, we can’t forget the blessings and good things that God gives us and promises us in the future. Whatever we’re facing, we’re called to ‘give thanks in all circumstances’ (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV). So each morning let’s choose to say: ‘O my soul, bless God, don’t forget a single blessing!’

What now?

Every morning for a week, start the day by thanking God for one thing. Try and think of a different thing each day.