Like the Eagle’s

The Story

Sometimes David’s psalms start with a cry for help. This one starts with David giving orders to himself.

“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.”

He says it again. “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

It’s as if David knows how easily he forgets. So he starts listing what God has done.

He “forgiveth all thine iniquities.” He “healeth all thy diseases.” He “redeemeth thy life from destruction.” He “crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.” He “satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

David keeps going. God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger. He doesn’t deal with us as our sins deserve. As high as the heavens are above the earth, that’s how great His mercy is. As far as the east is from the west, that’s how far He has removed our sins from us.

And as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. He knows we’re only dust.

Reflection