We live in a world where there are so many things that can trouble our hearts. We see conflicts between nations, difficulties in our families, and uncertainty about tomorrow. But today, I want to remind you of something very important. No matter what is happening around us, the greatness and goodness of our God never change.
Psalm 48 begins with this wonderful proclamation:
“Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised.”
Psalm 48:1 (NKJV)
Hallelujah! What a powerful reminder! Our God is great, He is wonderful, and He is worthy of our praise in every situation.
Sometimes, when we come before the Lord, we immediately begin speaking about our problems. And of course, God wants us to bring our needs before Him. But I believe there is something very powerful about beginning our prayers by remembering who He is and thanking Him for His goodness.
In verse 9, we read:
“We have thought, O God, on Your lovingkindness, in the midst of Your temple.”
Psalm 48:9 (NKJV)
There is a beautiful meaning in the original Hebrew. The word diminu (דִּמִּינוּ), translated as “we have thought,” carries the idea of reflecting, considering, and even imagining.
The people came together into the presence of the Lord, and they began to think about His lovingkindness. They remembered His goodness and considered how great His mercy really is.
And the Hebrew word for lovingkindness is chesed (חֶסֶד). It speaks about God’s faithful love, His mercy, and His goodness toward us.
Dear friends, this is something we all need to practice. Instead of allowing our difficulties to occupy all our thoughts, let us remember the chesed of God. Think about the times He has helped you, the prayers He has answered, and the ways He has shown His faithfulness.
Here in Israel, we are reminded every day how much our world needs God’s mercy. There are many divisions, many painful situations, and many people who desperately need hope. But God’s goodness is not limited by borders, nationalities, or conflicts.
He is worthy to be praised by all, by people from every nation, including those who may consider themselves enemies. God’s desire is for all people to turn to Him and discover His salvation through Jesus.
Psalm 48:10 declares:
“According to Your name, O God, so is Your praise to the ends of the earth.” (NKJV)
In Hebrew, katzvot eretz (קַצְווֹת אֶרֶץ) means the ends of the earth. What a wonderful promise that His name will be praised far beyond Jerusalem and Israel!
So I want to encourage you today. Whatever difficulties you may be facing, don’t allow them to take away your praise.
When you are worried, thank the Lord. When you feel uncertain, remember His faithfulness. And when troubles surround you, proclaim that your God is still great!
In Hebrew, we say, “Toda, Adonai!” Thank You, Lord!
Thank You for Your mercy. Thank You for Your goodness. Thank You because Your lovingkindness endures forever.
Our circumstances may change, dear friends, but our God remains the same. He is great, He is good, and He is always worthy of our praise.
May the Lord fill your heart with His peace and help you recognize His goodness in every season of your life.
Shabbat Shalom and blessings from Israel!
Pastor Israel Pochtar